The Ford GSF is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It belongs to Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and low-inertia turbocharging. In standard tune, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at balancing strong mid-range performance with regulated emissions compliance in compact and mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST-Line, Kuga, and Escape, the GSF was engineered for responsive driving dynamics and everyday efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6.2 compliance across all production years, verified under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), highlighted in Ford Service Action 20S03. This issue arises from inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load operation, particularly when lower-octane fuels are used. From 2021, Ford introduced revised HPFP components and updated fuel system calibration to improve durability and reduce failure incidence.
Production years 2019–2024 meet Euro 6.2 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Amended by (EU) 2018/858). VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/GSF/8856.
The Ford GSF is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size platforms (2019–2024). It combines direct injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range power and regulated emissions performance. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances drivability with efficiency in high-utilisation environments.
| 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 | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2018/858) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi ML50 with electronic wastegate actuator | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The GSF's turbocharged design provides strong mid-RPM pull ideal for spirited driving but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Direct injection contributes to intake valve carbon buildup; Ford recommends induction cleaning every 60,000 km per TIS F19920. Extended idling and low-octane fuel increase risk of HPFP wear. Post-2021 models benefit from revised pump design and ECU mapping that improves fuel rail pressure stability. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 20S03). Supersedes ACEA C2 and API SN.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all GSF models (2019–2024) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/GSF/8856).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full torque output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F19650).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F19650, F19920, SIB 20S03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/GSF/8856)
European Commission: Regulation (EU) 2018/858
The Ford GSF 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 enhanced cooling in the Kuga-and from 2021 the facelifted Escape models adopted revised ECU calibration for improved emissions control, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS F19800). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('S' for GSF series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from GSE: GSF uses Mitsubishi ML50 turbo with electronic actuator (round connector), while GSE uses Garrett GT22 with vacuum actuator (square connector). Service parts require VIN verification - fuel pumps before 07/2021 are incompatible with later units due to ECU calibration changes (Ford SIB 20S03).
The GSF's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in mixed and highway use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2022 indicated a notable share of pre-2021 engines required pump service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR and turbo faults in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and low-load operation increase carbon buildup, making oil quality and driving pattern awareness critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD GSF.
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