The Ford GSH is a 1,498 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a compact turbocharger, delivering 96 kW (130 PS) and 200 Nm of torque in standard tune. This engine was engineered for responsive low-end performance and high fuel efficiency in Ford’s compact vehicle lineup.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta (Mk7.5), Focus (Mk4), and Puma (Mk1), the GSH 1.5L EcoBoost was designed to prioritise urban drivability, emissions compliance, and packaging efficiency. Emissions control is achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6d-Full compliance across its production run. The engine's compact size allows transverse mounting in small front-wheel-drive platforms.
One documented concern is premature timing chain tensioner wear under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 20M04, is attributed to restricted oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2021, revised tensioner and guide components were introduced to improve durability and reduce field failures.
Production years 2019–2023 meet Euro 6d-Full standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Ford GSH is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2019–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with Ti-VCT variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and strong fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Full emissions standards, it serves as a modern, downsized powertrain for city and suburban driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 81.6 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV6) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Full | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The turbocharged inline-three provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires consistent maintenance to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-D (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the turbocharger and chain system. Extended idling or short-trip driving can accelerate tensioner wear. The close-coupled catalytic converter requires high-quality unleaded petrol (RON 95 minimum) to prevent degradation. Post-2021 models feature upgraded tensioner and guide rails; pre-2021 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 20M04. Regular EGR and intake cleaning helps maintain throttle response and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 20M04). Supersedes ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Full certification applies to all 2019–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly with ambient temperature and fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F18010).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F17910, F17330, SIB 20M04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford GSH 1.5L EcoBoost was used across Ford's Mk7.5 Fiesta/Mk4 Focus and Mk1 Puma platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and enhanced torque mounts in the Puma-and from 2021 the facelifted models adopted revised timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS F18040). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for 1.5L EcoBoost). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2021 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation: Original GSH has Bosch HDEV6 injectors and round diagnostic port; post-2021 revisions use updated tensioner design and revised ECU mapping. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 05/2021 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 20M04).
The GSH's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a significant number of pre-2021 engines required tensioner replacement before 110,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst efficiency failures in poorly maintained units. Cold-start cycles and short trips increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD GSH.
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