The Ford F38B is a 1,596 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection (EcoBoost), twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block for strength and weight savings. In standard tune, it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and efficiency in Ford’s C/D-segment lineup.
Fitted to models such as the C-MAX, Focus, and Mondeo, the F38B was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient motorway cruising. Its driving character emphasizes low-end torque and smooth throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Ford Service Action 16S08. This issue is linked to oil starvation at the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2016, revised tensioner design and updated oil specifications were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2013–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford F38B is a 1,596 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2013–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5, up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell GT1246V) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The turbocharged inline-three provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its specific anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane petrol (RON 95+) to prevent knock and injector coking. Post-2016 models feature updated tensioner design; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 16S08. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain flow and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 16S08). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all F38B models (2013–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B38F15).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B38F01, B38F02, B38F03, SIB 16S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford F38B was used across Ford's C1/C2 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised EGR routing in the Mondeo-and from 2016 the facelifted C-MAX adopted revised oil control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS B38F04). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('F' for F38 series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from F38C: Original F38B uses Bosch HDEV5 injectors with grey connectors, while F38C uses HDEV6 with black connectors. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 09/2015 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 16S08).
The F38B's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2017 noted a significant share of pre-2016 engines requiring chain repair before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F38B.
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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