Engine Code

FORD CSDB engine (2018-2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford CSDB is a 1,498 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, dual independent camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), and a compact turbocharger for improved low-end responsiveness. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS), with peak torque of 240 Nm available from 1,600 rpm, enabling strong urban drivability and highway overtaking capability.

Fitted to models such as the Focus (Mk4), Fiesta (Mk8), and Puma, the CSDB was engineered for drivers prioritising fuel efficiency, refinement, and responsive performance in urban and mixed driving conditions. Emissions compliance is achieved via a close-coupled three-way catalyst and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across its production run.

One documented concern is intake manifold carbon buildup, particularly under short-trip driving conditions, as noted in Ford Service Action 19S06. This issue stems from oil vapour carry-over through the crankcase ventilation system, which deposits on intake valves not cleaned by fuel flow in direct-injection engines. Ford introduced revised PCV system calibrations in 2020 to mitigate this effect.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2023 models comply with full Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

CSDB Technical Specifications

The Ford CSDB is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2018-2023). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent cam phasing to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,498 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-3, DOHC, 12-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke74.5 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023)
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerGarrett GT1246V variable-nozzle turbo
Timing systemTiming chain (single-row, front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30)
Dry weight115 kg
Practical Implications

The CSDB delivers responsive low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires consistent oil changes every 15,000 km to maintain turbocharger and timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection against LSPI (low-speed pre-ignition). Short-trip driving exacerbates intake carbon buildup due to condensation in the PCV system; periodic induction cleaning is advised. The direct-injection system demands high-octane fuel (RON 95+) to prevent knock under sustained load. Post-2020 models feature revised PCV calibration; pre-2020 units benefit from updated separator per Ford SIB 19S06. Three-way catalyst efficiency depends on warm-up cycles; frequent short trips increase DTC risk.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S06). Supersedes API SN/SP and ACEA C2/C3.

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2018-2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Full Euro 6d compliance from 2021 onward.

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 103 kW output requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F13102).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F12745, F13102, SIB 19S06

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ISO 8854:2020 Road vehicles — Light-duty compression- and spark-ignition engines — Vocabulary

CSDB Compatible Models

The Ford CSDB was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Volvo under engine co-development agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Puma and revised torque mounts in the Focus-and from 2021 the facelifted Fiesta ST-Line models adopted the CSDB with enhanced cooling, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Volvo's B3 units to use Ford's turbo and injection hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
Focus (Mk4)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost, 140 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2022
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
Fiesta (Mk8)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost, 140 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2022
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019-2023
Models:
Puma
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost, 140 PS
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F13205
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
XC40
Variants:
B3 Drive (140 PS)
View Source
Volvo VIDA Doc. V12-889
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F12760). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Y' for CSDB). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with green camshaft seals; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from C3 variant: CSDB uses Garrett GT1246V turbo with VNT actuator, while C3 uses fixed geometry. Service parts require production date verification - PCV valves for models before 09/2019 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 19S06).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. F12760

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F12760).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2020: Silver valve cover with green camshaft seals
  • Post-2020: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

P C V System:

PCV valve and separator revised in 2020. Pre-2020 parts not compatible with post-2020 models.

Turbocharger:

Garrett GT1246V VNT turbo used on CSDB; fixed-geometry units on C3 are not interchangeable.
Carbon Buildup Mitigation

Issue:

Intake valve carbon buildup common under short-trip driving due to oil vapour deposition in direct-injection engines.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Recommendation:

Perform induction cleaning every 40,000 km or as symptoms arise. Install updated PCV separator per Ford SIB 19S06.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD CSDB

The CSDB's primary reliability risk is intake manifold carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Ford internal field reports from 2021 indicated over 30% of pre-2020 units required induction service before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst efficiency DTCs in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and low-load operation increase oil carry-over, making PCV maintenance and driving pattern adjustments critical.

Intake valve and manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on throttle tip-in, reduced power, illuminated check engine light with P0171/P0300 codes.
Cause: Oil vapour from crankcase ventilation deposits on intake valves due to lack of fuel wash in direct-injection engines, worsened by short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes.
Fix: Perform professional induction cleaning; replace PCV valve and separator per service bulletin; update ECU calibration to optimize venting.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Lag in boost response, over-boost DTCs, reduced engine power, inconsistent throttle behaviour.
Cause: Carbon buildup in the VNT actuator linkage or actuator diaphragm degradation due to heat soak and oil contamination.
Fix: Inspect and clean or replace the turbo actuator; verify linkage movement and recalibrate using OEM diagnostic tool.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise at cold start, timing-related DTCs (P0016/P0017), potential cam phaser misalignment.
Cause: Premature wear in early-design tensioner due to oil pressure fluctuations and extended service intervals beyond 15,000 km.
Fix: Replace tensioner and guide rails with latest OEM revision; inspect chain stretch and phasers; use correct oil spec.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, sweet smell, low coolant warning.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing or failure of integrated seal due to thermal cycling and coolant chemistry.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing assembly with updated metal-reinforced version; flush cooling system and refill with Ford-approved coolant.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD CSDB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD CSDB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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