The Ford DRFA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2023. It belongs to the EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a low-inertia turbocharger. In standard tune, it delivers 147 kW (200 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range performance and improved efficiency over naturally aspirated predecessors.
Fitted to models including the Focus ST (Mk4), Puma ST, and Kuga ST-Line, the DRFA engine was engineered for sporty responsiveness and urban drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and dual lambda sensors, enabling Euro 6.2 standards across its production run. The compact turbo layout supports transverse front-wheel-drive packaging with limited all-wheel-drive applications.
One documented concern is premature intercooler pipe detachment under sustained boost, which can lead to air leaks and limp mode activation. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 19B22, is attributed to inadequate clamp retention on early-production composite ducts. From 2021, revised intercooler assemblies with reinforced clamping and heat-resistant polymer blends were implemented across all builds.
Production years 2019–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790).
The Ford DRFA is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented compact and crossover vehicles (2019–2023). It combines high-pressure direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger and Ti-VCT to deliver strong mid-range pull. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 emissions, it balances sporty character with regulated efficiency in transverse powertrain layouts.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 250 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Honeywell GT2048V variable-vane turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated oiling) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-C2 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-to-mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C946-C2 (5W-30) to prevent carbon buildup in the direct injectors and turbo bearing wear. The close-coupled catalytic converter is sensitive to prolonged rich running; misfires must be addressed promptly to avoid thermal damage. Intercooler duct integrity is critical—verify for micro-cracks during service, especially on pre-2021 units (Ford SIB 19B22). Turbocharger wastegate operation should be verified during diagnostics if boost faults occur. Engine longevity is highly dependent on fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards and consistent maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-C2 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19B22). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all DRFA models (2019–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full torque curve requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F14034).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F13561, F13989, SIB 19B22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6790)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford DRFA was used across Ford's C2 and CD535 platforms with transverse mounting and performance tuning. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the Puma ST and revised exhaust manifolds in the Kuga-and from 2021 the facelifted Focus ST Mk4.5 adopted upgraded intercooler housings, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F13603). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.0L EcoBoost). Pre-2021 models have grey composite intercooler ducts with single clamps; post-2021 units use black heat-resistant polymer ducts with dual clamps. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: DRFA features a turbocharger mounted to the exhaust manifold and high-pressure fuel pump on the cam cover. Service parts require production date verification—intercooler ducts for pre-2021 models are superseded by updated part numbers per Ford SIB 19B22.
The DRFA's primary reliability risk is intercooler duct cracking under sustained boost, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Ford field reports from 2022 indicated a significant number of pre-2021 units required duct replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to undetected boost leaks. Frequent short trips and aggressive driving amplify thermal cycling stress, making periodic duct inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD DRFA.
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