The Ford L1F is a 1,497 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). Designed for compact and subcompact applications, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, balancing responsive performance with urban efficiency.
Fitted to models including the Fiesta ST-3, Focus (C519), and Puma (P459), the L1F was engineered to offer strong low-end torque and sporty throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across its production run. Its compact size and modular design support transverse front-wheel-drive architectures.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, identified in Ford Service Action 19S14. This issue arises from carbon buildup on the actuator lever mechanism under frequent short-trip driving conditions. From 2021, revised actuator hardware and updated ECU calibration were implemented to improve durability and reduce fault incidence.
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2023 models comply with full Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford L1F is a 1,497 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance applications (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with improved fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,497 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 | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI VF34 variable-vane turbo with internal wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, non-interference) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The IHI VF34 turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent wastegate actuator and bearing wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the direct injection system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on the EGR and intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane (RON 95+) petrol meeting EN 228 standards to prevent knock and maintain performance. Post-2021 models feature updated actuator hardware; pre-2021 units should be checked per Ford SIB 19S14. The three-way catalytic converter requires regular highway runs to maintain efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S14). Meets ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models (VCA #VCA/EMS/5678). Full Euro 6d compliance confirmed for 2021–2023 units.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 103 kW output requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. ENG-L1F-002).
Ford Technical Information Service (TIS): Docs ENG-L1F-001, FUEL-L1F-05, SIB 19S14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 8854:2021 Road vehicles — Light-duty compression- and spark-ignition engines — Gaseous emissions measurement
The Ford L1F was used across Ford's C2 and CV platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the Puma-and from 2021 the facelifted Focus adopted updated ECU calibration and turbo actuator hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS ENG-L1F-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Y' for L1F series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from L1E: L1F uses Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump with three fuel rail sensors, while L1E uses Denso unit. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators for models before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 19S14).
The L1F's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2021 engines requiring actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon accumulation, making oil quality and driving pattern awareness critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD L1F.
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