The Ford H9FB is a 1,498 cc, inline-three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2021. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Ti-VCT variable cam timing, and multi-port fuel injection, delivering 63 kW (86 PS) and 125 Nm of torque in standard tune. This engine was engineered for lightweight efficiency and low-cost ownership in Ford’s entry-level vehicle lineup.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta (Mk7), B-MAX, and EcoSport, the H9FB was designed for urban commuting and fleet applications, prioritising fuel economy, serviceability, and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6b compliance across its production run. The engine's compact design allows transverse mounting in small front-wheel-drive platforms.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 16M05, is attributed to restricted oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2018, revised tensioner and guide components were introduced to improve durability and reduce field failures.
Production years 2015–2021 meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Ford H9FB is a 1,498 cc inline-three petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2015–2021). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with sequential multi-port fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6b emissions standards, it serves as a reliable, cost-effective option for city and fleet use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-three provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but demands consistent oil maintenance to protect the timing chain system. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and flow characteristics under cold start. 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 catalyst degradation. Post-2018 models feature upgraded tensioner and guide rails; pre-2018 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 16M05. Lambda sensor health is critical for maintaining emissions compliance and fuel trim accuracy.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 16M05). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all 2015–2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly with ambient temperature and fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F19020).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F18920, F18340, SIB 16M05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9123)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford H9FB was used across Ford's Mk7 Fiesta/B-MAX and EcoSport platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and enhanced torque mounts in the EcoSport-and from 2018 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 F19050). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 1.5L inline-three). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation: Original H9FB has Denso ignition coils and round diagnostic port; post-2018 revisions use updated coil connectors. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2018 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 16M05).
The H9FB's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2017 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 engines required tensioner replacement before 110,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter 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 (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD H9FB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
