The Ford CHBA is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). Delivering 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, it was engineered for light vehicle applications requiring reliability and fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk3 (2011–2018), C-Max (2010–2015), and EcoSport (2013–2018), the CHBA was designed for urban and suburban driving with an emphasis on smooth power delivery and low maintenance costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds and closed-loop three-way catalytic converters, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in stop-start urban driving cycles. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 14B14, is attributed to oil flow restrictions under frequent cold starts. From 2014, revised tensioner designs and updated oil specifications (Ford WSS-M2C946-B) were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford CHBA is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2010–2018). It combines Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) with a high-pressure fuel injection system to deliver responsive, everyday performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel economy and low maintenance demands.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, tensioner-prone) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The CHBA provides linear power delivery suitable for city and highway use but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and cold starts increase stress on the tensioner, so engine warm-up under light load is recommended. The MPI system is tolerant of lower fuel grades but performs best with 95 RON (Euro 5). Post-2014 models feature revised tensioners; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14B14. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent operating temperature and avoidance of prolonged short trips.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 14B14). Replaces ACEA A1/B1-04.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CHBA models (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across markets with 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. S16000).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S15600, S15812, S16000, SIB 14B14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power
The Ford CHBA was used across Ford's C1 and B3 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust manifold in the Focus and compact ancillary layout in the EcoSport-and from 2014 the facelifted Focus Mk3.5 adopted revised intake and tensioner components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS S15600). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.6L Sigma). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbo variants: CHBA has no intercooler or boost piping. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 14B14).
The CHBA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2015 noted a significant share of pre-2014 engines exhibiting rattle before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a portion of emissions failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage units. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD CHBA.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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