Engine Code

FORD HCPC engine (2018-2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford HCPC is a 1,498 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Part of the Ford EcoBoost Gen-3 family, it features direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, it was engineered for responsive urban performance and improved fuel efficiency across compact and subcompact platforms, particularly under mixed driving conditions.

Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST, Focus, and EcoSport, the HCPC was designed to balance sporty driving dynamics with emissions compliance. It utilises a high-pressure Bosch HDEV6 fuel system and a Garrett GT1246V variable-vane turbocharger, with emissions control achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6d standards across its production run.

One documented concern is early carbon buildup on intake valves due to port and direct injection design limitations. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19S05, can lead to rough idle and reduced airflow if not addressed. From 2020, revised intake port geometry and updated engine management calibration were introduced to mitigate deposit accumulation.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6124).

HCPC Technical Specifications

The Ford HCPC is a 1,498 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and performance subcompact models (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver strong low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulated efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,498 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke77.0 mm × 80.4 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerGarrett GT1246V variable-vane turbo
Timing systemTiming chain (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20)
Dry weight120 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged HCPC delivers strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation supporting fuel economy and chain lubrication. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The Bosch HDEV6 fuel pump demands high-octane petrol (95 RON minimum) to prevent knock and injector coking. Post-2020 models feature revised intake ports; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19S05. Cooled EGR system requires periodic inspection to prevent carbon clogging and DTC generation.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 19S05). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all HCPC production models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6124).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F16015).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F15680, F16230, SIB 19S05

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6124)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

HCPC Compatible Models

The Ford HCPC was used across Ford's C2/B3 platforms with transverse mounting and remained exclusive to Ford. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta ST and revised cooling paths in the Focus-and from 2020 the facelifted Fiesta Mk7.5 adopted revised intake components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2020
Models:
Fiesta ST (Mk7)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
Fiesta ST (Mk7.5)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2022
Models:
Focus (Mk4)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F15901
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
EcoSport
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F15901
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F15890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for 1.5L EcoBoost). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from later units: Original HCPC uses Bosch HDEV6 injectors with square electrical connectors, while post-2020 variants use trapezoidal connectors. Service parts require production date verification - intake manifolds for engines before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units due to revised port design (Ford SIB 19S05).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. F15890

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F15890).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2020: Silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover
  • Post-2020: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S05

Intake Manifold:

Intake manifolds for pre-2020 HCPC models are not compatible with post-facelift units due to revised port geometry per OEM documentation.

Timing Components:

Timing components revised in 2020 Fiesta Mk7.5 models. Pre-2020 kits fit only pre-facelift engines.
Carbon Buildup Mitigation

Issue:

Early HCPC engines experienced intake valve carbon buildup due to oil vapour and combustion byproducts accumulating in direct-injection engines.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S05

Recommendation:

Clean intake valves periodically and use OEM-approved fuel additives per Ford SIB 19S05.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD HCPC

The HCPC's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 indicated a notable share of pre-2020 engines requiring intake cleaning before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and short trips increase deposit formation, making fuel quality and driving pattern critical.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light.
Cause: Oil vapour and combustion byproducts accumulating on intake valves due to direct injection design and PCV system operation.
Fix: Clean intake manifold and valves using OEM-approved procedures; renew PCV valve and hoses as required and perform adaptation resets.
Turbocharger control faults (actuator/wastegate)
Symptoms: Loss of boost, limp-home under load, over/under-boost DTCs, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Wear or sticking in the turbo actuator mechanism; early return-spring/lever designs can bind under heat/soot exposure.
Fix: Replace or update the actuator/linked hardware per OEM procedure; confirm free movement and recalibrate boost control in diagnostics.
Timing chain wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at idle or light load (especially on cold start), cam/crank correlation faults, metallic debris in oil.
Cause: Front-mounted chain with early-design guides/tensioner susceptible to accelerated wear, exacerbated by cold-start lubrication demands and extended oil intervals.
Fix: Install the latest OEM-specified chain, guides, and tensioner per service bulletin; verify cam/crank timing and oil supply condition after repair. Severe cases may require cylinder-head or short-block work.
Oil leaks from valve cover and gaskets
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at bellhousing/undertray, residue around valve cover and timing cover.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover and front timing cover gaskets/seals; crankcase ventilation ageing can raise case pressure.
Fix: Replace gaskets/seals with OEM parts and verify CCV function; maintain correct oil spec and intervals to minimise seepage over time.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD HCPC

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD HCPC.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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