The Ford DHB is a 1,498 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, it features direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, positioning it as a compact, efficient unit for subcompact and compact vehicle applications.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta ST (2018–2023), Focus (2019–2023), and Puma (2019–2023), the DHB was engineered for responsive urban driving and improved thermal efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly under frequent cold-start cycles. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19G18, is attributed to fuel quality sensitivity and extended oil service intervals. From 2020, revised pump calibration and updated maintenance schedules were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8766).
The Ford DHB is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2018–2023). It combines turbocharging with direct injection and Ti-VCT to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive throttle delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances efficiency with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDi) with high-pressure fuel pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo with integrated exhaust manifold | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, revised guide design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent HPFP and turbo wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-D (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the direct injection system. Extended high-load operation without cooldown increases turbo bearing stress, so post-drive idling is recommended. The GDi system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves; periodic walnut blasting may be needed. Post-2020 models feature recalibrated fuel pumps; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19G18. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent operating temperature and avoidance of short-trip cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19G18). Replaces ACEA A5/B5-04.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all DHB models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8766).
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 S15700, S15825, S16000, SIB 19G18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8766)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power
The Ford DHB was used across Ford's B3 and C2 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated charge piping in the Fiesta ST and revised EGR routing in the Puma-and from 2020 the facelifted Focus adopted updated fuel pump calibration, 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 S15700). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 1.5L EcoBoost). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with ribbed timing covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: DHB has visible turbocharger and intercooler piping. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for engines before 05/2020 are incompatible with later units due to calibration changes (Ford SIB 19G18).
The DHB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 noted a significant share of pre-2020 engines exhibiting fuel pressure faults before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a portion of emissions failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage units. Frequent short trips and use of lower-octane fuel increase stress on the GDi system, making fuel quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD DHB.
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