The Ford E5SA is a 2,499 cc, inline-five petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It belongs to the EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). In standard tune, it delivers 213 kW (290 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, offering strong mid-range performance and improved efficiency over naturally aspirated predecessors.
Fitted to models such as the Focus RS (Mk3), the E5SA engine was engineered for high-performance driving and track capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and dual lambda sensors, enabling Euro 6 standards across its production run. The longitudinal mounting supports all-wheel-drive applications with optimized weight distribution.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger oil feed line degradation under sustained high boost, which can lead to oil starvation and turbo failure. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 17B19, is attributed to heat soak and inadequate hose material resilience in early production units. From 2017, revised oil feed lines with reinforced silicone construction were implemented across all builds.
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
The Ford E5SA is a 2,499 cc inline-five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2015–2020). 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 emissions, it balances sporty character with regulated efficiency in longitudinal AWD layouts.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 82.8 mm | |
| Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 250 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT3544V variable-vane turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated oiling) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-C2 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The turbocharged inline-five design provides strong low-to-mid-range torque ideal for performance 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. Turbo oil feed line integrity is critical—inspect for swelling or cracking during service, especially on pre-2017 units (Ford SIB 17B19). 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 17B19). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all E5SA models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full torque curve requires 98 RON premium fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F15122).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F14670, F15099, SIB 17B19
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8765)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford E5SA was used exclusively in the Ford C1 platform with longitudinal mounting and high-performance tuning. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced oil pan in the Focus RS and revised exhaust manifolds-and from 2017 the facelifted Focus RS Mk3.5 adopted upgraded turbo oil feed lines, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS F14710). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for 2.5L EcoBoost). Pre-2017 models have black rubber turbo oil feed lines; post-2017 units use reinforced silicone hoses with upgraded clamps. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: E5SA features a large turbocharger mounted to the exhaust manifold and high-pressure fuel pump on the cam cover. Service parts require production date verification—oil feed lines for pre-2017 models are superseded by updated part numbers per Ford SIB 17B19.
The E5SA's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil feed line degradation under sustained high boost, with elevated incidence in track-driven environments. Internal Ford field reports from 2018 indicated a significant number of pre-2017 units required oil line replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased turbo failures linked to oil starvation. Frequent aggressive driving and poor maintenance amplify thermal stress, making periodic oil line inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD E5SA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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