The Ford IQDA is a 1,498 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, designed to deliver responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency. Featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a compact turbocharger, it produces 103 kW (140 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, enabling strong mid-range acceleration for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST-3, Focus Active, and Puma ST, the IQDA engine was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of sporty responsiveness and everyday efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing all variants to meet Euro 6.2 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19S06. This issue, often caused by carbon buildup in the actuator linkage under frequent short-trip driving, can trigger limp mode. From 2021, revised actuator hardware and updated ECU calibration were implemented to improve long-term reliability.

Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford IQDA is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbo-petrol engineered for compact and subcompact models (2018-2023). It combines direct injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances driving engagement with urban fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (LEDS) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1246V variable-billet turbo with electronic wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, service-free) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The compact turbo delivers strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the direct injection system. Short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on intake valves and wastegate mechanisms; periodic highway runs are advised. The HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane (RON 98) fuel for optimal performance and longevity. Post-2021 models feature revised wastegate actuators; pre-2020 units should be checked per Ford SIB 19S06. EGR system maintenance prevents idle instability and DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18 07 22). Meets ACEA C2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all 2018-2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B19210).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18205, B18743, SIB 18 07 22, SA 19S06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford IQDA was used across Ford's CD4 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Puma and enhanced cooling in the Focus ST-and from 2021 the facelifted Fiesta models adopted the IQDA-TU variant with revised turbo actuator control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS B18250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for IQDA series). Pre-2021 models have silver turbo housings with black intake manifolds; post-2021 units use dark grey turbo housings. Critical differentiation from IQDA-TU: Original IQDA uses Bosch MD1CP07 ECU with square diagnostic connector, while IQDA-TU uses MD1CP10 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SA 19S06).
The IQDA's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a significant number of pre-2021 engines required actuator service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures linked to EGR valve clogging. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon buildup, making driving pattern and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD IQDA.
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