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,…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The F38B delivers strong torque and good efficiency, but early models (2013–2015) had reliability concerns, especially timing chain failures. Later revisions (post-2016) improved chain durability, so well-maintained examples can be quite robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-30 Ford WSS-M2C947-A1) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are timing-chain wear (leading to rattling or breakage), turbo actuator sticking, and intake carbon buildup affecting EGR and throttle response. Other complaints include oil leaks from gaskets and occasional injector faults. These are well-documented in Ford service bulletins.
This 1.6L turbo petrol was used in several Ford models during the 2013–2018 period. It appeared in the Focus (1.6 EcoBoost), C-MAX (1.6 EcoBoost), and Mondeo (1.6 EcoBoost). It was phased out in favour of the newer Dragon engine family.
Yes. The F38B is tunable via ECU remap. Stage 1 tunes typically add +20–30 kW safely, as the stock internals handle increased torque. Aftermarket intercoolers and exhausts can support higher gains. However, tuning increases stress on the turbo and timing system, so supporting modifications and maintenance are essential.
Good for a turbo petrol. In a Focus 1.6 EcoBoost (150 PS), combined consumption is ~6.5 L/100km (~43 mpg UK). Highway figures can reach ~5.0 L/100km (~57 mpg UK). Real-world economy depends on driving style, but expect 40–50 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy F38B.
Yes. The F38B is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons can contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. That's why chain maintenance is critical—any rattle or warning light should be investigated immediately.
Ford specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 spec. Always use a quality oil designed for turbocharged direct-injection engines and change it every 15,000 km or as per manual to ensure proper chain lubrication and reduce carbon formation.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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