Engine Code

FORD F37B engine (2018–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford F37B is a 1,999 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing, delivering strong mid-range power for mainstream applications. In standard tune, it produces 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, making it suitable for both urban and highway driving.

Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Kuga, and Edge, the F37B was engineered for responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency over previous naturally aspirated units. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalyst and petrol particulate filter (GPF), allowing Euro 6d compliance across all production years. Its character balances drivability with emissions control.

One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19S06. This issue arises from carbon buildup on the actuator rod under frequent short-trip driving, leading to boost control faults. From 2021, revised actuator hardware and updated ECU calibration were implemented to mitigate the problem.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

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

F37B Technical Specifications

The Ford F37B is a 1,999 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances everyday driving dynamics with stringent emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,999 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke87.5 mm × 83.1 mm
Power output140 kW (190 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque320 Nm @ 1,750–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d (WLTP)
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerMitsubishi MHK2 twin-scroll turbo with vacuum-actuated wastegate
Timing systemTiming chain (front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30)
Dry weight145 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability protecting the turbo and chain. Short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on the wastegate actuator, leading to boost faults. The petrol particulate filter (GPF) requires regular highway runs for passive regeneration. Post-2021 models feature revised actuator design and ECU logic; pre-2021 units benefit from the updated actuator per Ford SIB 19S06.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S06). Meets ACEA C2/C3 standards.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to 2021–2023 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2018–2020 models meet Euro 6c.

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output maintained on 95 RON fuel; 98 RON allows slight torque optimization (Ford TIS Doc. G37210).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G37210, G37211, SIB 19S06, SIB 20-014

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power

F37B Compatible Models

The Ford F37B was used across Ford's C2 and CD4 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised cooling routing in the Kuga-and from 2021 the facelifted Edge adopted a revised turbo actuator and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Focus ST (Mk4)
Variants:
2.0T ST
View Source
Ford Global PT-2020
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Kuga (Mk3)
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Global PT-2020
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Edge (Mk2)
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. G37211
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS G37210). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Y' for 2.0L EcoBoost). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2021 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from earlier 2.0L units: F37B features Bosch HDEV5 injectors and GPF; pre-2018 2.0L units lack GPF. Service parts require production date verification—turbo actuators before 09/2020 are incompatible with later ECU calibrations (Ford SIB 19S06).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. G37210

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS G37210).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2021: Silver valve cover with black intake manifold
  • Post-2021: All-black valve cover and revised intake
Compatibility Notes

Turbo:

Turbocharger actuators for pre-2021 F37B models are not compatible with post-facelift units due to ECU calibration changes per Ford SIB 19S06.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Timing Components:

Timing chain kits are platform-specific; Kuga and Focus use different tensioner designs.
Actuator Upgrade

Issue:

Early F37B engines experienced wastegate actuator sticking due to carbon buildup on the rod during short-trip driving cycles.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Recommendation:

Install updated actuator hardware per Ford SIB 19S06 and update ECU calibration to latest revision.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD F37B

The F37B's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 noted a significant number of pre-2021 units requiring actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related failures in GPF-equipped models. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon buildup, making regular highway driving and service interval adherence critical.

Turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost, over-boost DTCs, limp mode, erratic throttle response, black smoke under load.
Cause: Carbon buildup on actuator rod due to frequent short-trip driving and oil coking; early design lacks protective boot.
Fix: Replace with updated actuator per Ford SIB 19S06; clean linkage and update ECU calibration to latest version.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, MAF sensor faults, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Oil vapour from PCV system mixing with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) deposits carbon on intake runners and valves.
Fix: Clean intake manifold and valves; replace PCV valve and inspect EGR system per service manual procedures.
Petrol particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Increased fuel consumption, reduced power, DPF regeneration faults, engine warning light.
Cause: Insufficient passive regeneration due to frequent short journeys; low exhaust temperatures prevent soot burn-off.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; ensure regular highway driving; verify backpressure sensors.
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on front of engine, burning smell, low oil level, potential misfires.
Cause: Age-related degradation of valve cover gasket; PCV system overpressure can accelerate leakage.
Fix: Replace valve cover gasket with OEM part; inspect and renew PCV system components if necessary.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD F37B

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F37B.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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