The Ford IQDB is a 1,498 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a compact turbocharger for improved low-end response. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, offering a balance of urban drivability and highway efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST-Line, Puma ST, and Fiesta ST-3, the IQDB was engineered for responsive, agile performance in Ford's compact vehicle lineup. Its driving character emphasizes immediate throttle response and strong mid-range pull, ideal for spirited driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 6.2 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear observed in early-build units, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19M03. The issue is linked to extended oil change intervals and sustained high-load operation. From 2020, Ford revised the oil cooler mounting and upgraded the turbocharger oil feed line to improve lubrication reliability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford IQDB is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance applications (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances spirited driving dynamics with regulated emissions performance.
| 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 | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2017/1151) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1246V variable-nozzle turbo | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, non-serviceable) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The compact turbo delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for urban performance but requires adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing degradation and carbon buildup on injectors. Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection of the direct injection system. Short-trip driving increases intake carbon accumulation, necessitating periodic decarbonisation. The HDEV5 fuel pump is sensitive to low-octane fuel; use of 95 RON minimum is required to maintain performance and prevent knock. Post-2020 models feature improved oil feed lines; pre-2020 units should verify cooler integrity per Ford SIB 19 05 02. The three-way catalyst requires full operating temperature for efficiency—frequent cold starts increase emissions risk.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19 05 02). Replaces ACEA C2/B4.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all IQDB models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 103 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F12618).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F12450, F12618, SIB 19 05 02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power
The Ford IQDB was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Volvo under engine supply agreements. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-shorter intake runners in the Fiesta and revised torque curves in the Puma-and from 2020 the facelifted Focus adopted the IQDB-T variant with enhanced cooling, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing surface of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS F12450). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for EcoBoost 1.5L). Pre-2020 models have silver turbo housings with black intake manifolds; post-2020 units use dark grey turbo covers. Critical differentiation from IQDB-T: Original IQDB uses Bosch EDC17CP55 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port, while IQDB-T uses EDC17CP72 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification—oil coolers for engines before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units due to revised mounting (Ford SIB 19 05 02).
The IQDB's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2020 engines requiring turbo inspection before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst efficiency faults in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase thermal stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD IQDB.
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