The Ford HXDB is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a low-inertia turbocharger, delivering 184 kW (250 PS) and 373 Nm of torque. This EcoBoost unit enables strong mid-range performance ideal for performance-oriented driving and highway overtaking.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Puma ST, and Kuga ST-Line, the HXDB was engineered for drivers seeking enhanced power delivery and dynamic responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6d compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is early intake manifold runner flap actuator degradation, highlighted in Ford Service Action 20M09. This issue arises from exposure to heat cycling and oil vapour, causing flap misalignment and airflow restriction. From 2022, revised actuator materials and updated ECU calibration were implemented to improve durability.

All production years (2019–2024) meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford HXDB is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance compact and subcompact vehicles (2019–2024). It combines direct injection with Ti-VCT and a compact turbocharger to deliver aggressive throttle response and strong torque output. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances sporty character with regulated emissions performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 1,750–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo with electronic wastegate (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong mid-range pull ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the turbo and timing chain. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and compatibility with the piston-cooling jets. Extended idling after hard driving should be avoided to prevent turbo coking. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; use only E5 petrol meeting EN 228 standards. Post-2022 models include updated intake actuator hardware; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 20M09. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to maintain throttle response and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 20G05). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d compliance confirmed for all 2019–2024 models under RDE testing (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B37015).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B36205, B36108, SIB 20M09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 8178 Emissions Test Cycles for Compression-Ignition Engines
The Ford HXDB was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with performance variants of the CD6 platform. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus ST and revised cooling routing in the Puma ST-and from 2022 the facelifted Kuga adopted the HXDB with updated ECU mapping and actuator hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS B36210). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for HXDB series). Pre-2022 models have a black plastic intake manifold with silver turbo housing; post-2022 units feature revised actuator labeling. Critical differentiation from HXDA: HXDB has Bosch MED 17.8.8 ECU with 80-pin connector, while HXDA uses MED 17.8.2 with 68-pin. Service parts require production date verification—intake actuators before 06/2022 are incompatible with later models due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 20M09).
The HXDB's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner flap actuator degradation, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip driving. Ford's internal field reports from 2021 indicated a significant number of pre-2022 units requiring actuator service before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in vehicles with clogged EGR systems. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon accumulation, making regular highway runs and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD HXDB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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