Engine Code

FORD H9FA engine (2022–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford H9FA is a 1,498 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2022 and 2023. It belongs to Ford's Dragon engine family and features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), and port fuel injection. In standard tune, it produces 63 kW (85 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, offering reliable and efficient performance for urban and light-duty applications.

Fitted to models such as the Fiesta (Mk8) and Tourneo Courier, the H9FA was engineered for durability, low maintenance, and ease of ownership. Emissions compliance is achieved via a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), closed-loop lambda control, and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 6d standards across its production run.

One documented concern is intake manifold runner flap sticking due to carbon buildup from oil carry-over. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Action 22S13, arises under frequent short-trip driving conditions. From 2023, revised PCV system calibration and updated intake port coatings were introduced to reduce deposit formation.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All H9FA engines comply with full Euro 6d (WLTP/RDE) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8903).

H9FA Technical Specifications

The Ford H9FA is a 1,498 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for entry-level applications (2022–2023). It combines port fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances simplicity with durability for high-mileage urban use.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,498 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke74.5 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output63 kW (85 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque125 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemPort fuel injection (up to 4 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d (WLTP/RDE)
Compression ratio12.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemChain-driven (front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30)
Dry weight110 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent PCV system clogging and intake valve deposits. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of timing components. Short-trip driving increases GPF loading, necessitating periodic highway runs to trigger regeneration. The absence of direct injection reduces carbon buildup on intake valves compared to GDI engines, though oil carry-over from the PCV system can still cause fouling. Post-2023 models feature revised PCV calibration; pre-2023 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 22S13 if hesitation or rough idle is reported.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 22S13). Replaces prior WSS-M2C913-C and ACEA C2.

Emissions: All H9FA units comply with full Euro 6d (WLTP/RDE) standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8903). No Euro 6d-TEMP variant exists.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained on regular unleaded (RON 95); premium fuel (RON 98) does not increase power.

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information Portal (TIP): Docs A37010, SIB 22S13

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8903)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

H9FA Compatible Models

The Ford H9FA was used across Ford's B3 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised torque mounts in the Fiesta and enhanced cooling in the Tourneo Courier-and from 2023 the facelifted Fiesta Trend adopted the H9FA with updated intake manifold and revised PCV system, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2022–2023
Models:
Fiesta (Mk8)
Variants:
1.5L Ti-VCT 85 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2023
Make:
Ford
Years:
2022–2023
Models:
Tourneo Courier
Variants:
1.5L Ti-VCT 85 PS
View Source
Ford TIP Doc. A37225
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the starter motor (Ford TIP A37010). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Y' for 1.5L naturally aspirated). All H9FA engines have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: H9FA lacks a turbocharger and intercooler, and features a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require build date verification - PCV valves before 07/2022 are incompatible with later units due to revised flow characteristics per Ford SIB 22S13.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIP Doc. A37010

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIP A37010).

Visual Cues:

  • Silver valve cover with black cam cover
  • No turbocharger or intercooler present
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 22S13

P C V System:

PCV valves for pre-2023 H9FA engines are not compatible with post-facelift models due to revised calibration and flow rate per Ford SIB 22S13.

Intake Manifold:

Intake manifolds for 2023+ Fiesta Trend models feature revised port geometry to reduce carbon accumulation.
Intake Valve Maintenance

Issue:

Early H9FA engines experienced intake valve fouling due to oil carry-over from the PCV system during frequent short trips.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 22S13

Recommendation:

Inspect and clean intake ports per Ford SIB 22S13; ensure PCV system is functioning correctly and ECU is updated to latest calibration.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD H9FA

The H9FA's primary reliability risk is intake manifold port fouling, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2023 indicated a notable share of pre-2023 units required intake cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions failures linked to GPF saturation in stop-start conditions. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon buildup, making regular highway driving and timely servicing critical.

Intake manifold port fouling
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under light load, reduced throttle response, stored DTCs for airflow inconsistency.
Cause: Oil carry-over from crankcase ventilation system leading to carbon deposits on intake valves, particularly under frequent short-trip operation.
Fix: Clean intake ports using approved solvent or walnut blasting; replace PCV valve with revised part per Ford SIB 22S13 and update ECU calibration.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Increased fuel consumption, reduced power, GPF warning light, frequent regeneration cycles.
Cause: Incomplete regeneration due to predominantly urban driving; low exhaust temperatures prevent soot burn-off.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; advise owner to conduct periodic highway drives; replace if pressure differential indicates blockage.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattle at cold start, timing chain slack codes, metallic debris in oil.
Cause: Hydraulic tensioner susceptible to oil pressure fluctuations and debris, leading to chain stretch under high-RPM use.
Fix: Install updated tensioner and chain guide kit per latest Ford specification; flush oil passages and verify oil pressure.
Engine oil consumption
Symptoms: Low oil level between services, blue-tinted exhaust smoke, fouled spark plugs.
Cause: Wear in valve stem seals or piston rings due to extended oil change intervals or poor-quality oil.
Fix: Verify oil consumption rate per Ford procedure; replace valve stem seals or consider short-block rebuild if excessive wear is confirmed.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2022–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD H9FA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD H9FA.

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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