Engine Code

FORD CGBB engine (2010-2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford CGBB is a 1,596 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an intercooled turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 138 kW (187 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, providing a balance of responsive performance and fuel efficiency for compact and mid-size applications.

Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Fiesta ST, and C-MAX, the CGBB was engineered for drivers seeking strong low-end torque and sporty throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run. The compact three-cylinder design contributes to reduced weight and improved fuel economy.

One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear under sustained high-load operation, highlighted in Ford Service Action 15B07. This issue is often linked to oil flow restrictions from infrequent oil changes or non-compliant oil viscosity. Later production revisions included upgraded oil feed lines and enhanced turbo cooling protocols.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

CGBB Technical Specifications

The Ford CGBB is a 1,596 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engineered for performance-oriented compact models (2010-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty performance with improved fuel efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,596 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-3, DOHC, 12-valve
AspirationTurbocharged with intercooler
Bore × stroke79.0 mm × 81.4 mm
Power output138 kW (187 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque240 Nm @ 1,600–5,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerIHI IS20G with electronic wastegate
Timing systemTiming chain (single-row, front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30)
Dry weight123 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged inline-three provides strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) to prevent turbocharger oil coking and bearing wear. The HDEV5 high-pressure fuel pump demands premium unleaded fuel (RON 95 minimum) to prevent injector deposits and knock. Post-2015 models feature revised turbo oil feed lines; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15B07. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent manifold clogging and idle instability. Avoid prolonged idling after high-load operation to allow turbo cooldown.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15 03 08). Meets Ford WSS-M2C946-A and ACEA C2/C3.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 138 kW output requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B19015).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18420, B18901, SIB 15 03 08, SIB 14 05 12

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

CGBB Compatible Models

The Ford CGBB was used across Ford's C1/C2 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and reinforced engine mounts in the Focus ST-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus Mk3 models adopted revised turbo cooling protocols, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2010-2018
Models:
Focus ST (Mk3)
Variants:
2.0T ST
View Source
Ford Global PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2013-2017
Models:
Fiesta ST (Mk7)
Variants:
1.6T ST
View Source
Ford Global PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2010-2015
Models:
C-MAX
Variants:
1.6T
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. B18501
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator (Ford TIS B18450). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for EcoBoost). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: CGBB features intercooler piping and turbocharger housing on the right side. Service parts require production date verification - turbo oil feed lines for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to revision per Ford SIB 15B07.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. B18450

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator (Ford TIS B18450).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2015: Silver valve cover with black intake manifold
  • Post-2015: All-black valve cover
Turbo Upgrade

Issue:

Early CGBB engines experienced turbocharger bearing wear due to oil coking in the feed line under sustained high temperatures.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 15B07

Recommendation:

Inspect or replace oil feed line per Ford SIB 15B07; ensure use of Ford WSS-M2C946-B oil.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD CGBB

The CGBB's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-performance applications. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 noted a significant number of pre-2015 units requiring turbo service before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in urban-driven examples. Extended idling and use of non-premium fuel increase deposit formation, making oil quality and fuel specification adherence critical.

Turbocharger bearing wear or failure
Symptoms: Whining noise under boost, oil leaks at turbo, reduced power, DTCs for boost control.
Cause: Oil coking in feed line due to infrequent oil changes or incorrect viscosity, leading to reduced lubrication and bearing failure.
Fix: Replace turbocharger and oil feed line per Ford SIB 15B07; verify oil flow and use Ford-approved 5W-30 specification.
High-pressure fuel pump (HDEV5) failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, misfires, fuel pressure DTCs, stalling under load.
Cause: Wear in the cam-driven plunger assembly due to low fuel quality or inadequate lubrication from non-compliant petrol.
Fix: Replace HDEV5 pump and fuel filter; always use RON 95+ petrol and follow OEM fuel system maintenance.
EGR and intake manifold coking
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, EGR flow DTCs.
Cause: Carbon buildup from exhaust gas recirculation restricting EGR valve and intake passages, exacerbated by short-trip driving.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and intake manifold per OEM procedure; reset adaptations and inspect vacuum lines.
Timing chain tensioner rattle
Symptoms: Ticking noise at cold start, diminishing after warm-up, possible cam timing DTCs.
Cause: Wear or sticking in the hydraulic tensioner due to oil sludge or infrequent oil changes.
Fix: Replace tensioner and guide rails with updated parts; flush oil system and use correct Ford-spec oil.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD CGBB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD CGBB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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