The Ford L1T 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, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and an integrated exhaust manifold for improved thermal efficiency. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) with peak torque of 230 Nm available from 1,600 rpm, enabling responsive urban and highway performance.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST-Line, Fiesta ST, and Puma ST, the L1T was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of spirited performance and everyday efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, noted in Ford Service Action 19S14. This issue arises from carbon buildup on the actuator rod under frequent short-trip driving. From 2021, Ford revised the actuator design and updated engine calibration to reduce low-load sooting, improving long-term reliability in revised units.
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 L1T is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance compact models (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and agile throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with regulated efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 85.8 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 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1246V variable-nozzle turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The low-inertia turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup on the direct injectors and turbo actuator. Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its detergency formulation protecting the high-pressure fuel system. Short-trip driving increases intake and EGR carbon accumulation, necessitating periodic cleaning. The HDEV5 fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; use of premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended for sustained performance. Post-2021 models feature revised wastegate actuator design; pre-2021 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19S14. EGR and catalytic converter longevity depend on complete regeneration cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S14). Replaces ACEA C2 in Ford applications.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Full Euro 6d compliance from 2021 onward.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained with RON 95 fuel; RON 98 recommended for optimal throttle response (Ford TIS Doc. B19800).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18750, B19102, SIB 19S14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford L1T was used across Ford's C2 and B3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and enhanced cooling in the Puma ST-and from 2021 the facelifted Focus ST adopted revised engine mapping and actuator hardware, 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 B18750). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('S' for L1T series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from base 1.0L EcoBoost: L1T features larger turbocharger housing and revised intake plenum. Service parts require production date verification - wastegate actuators for engines before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 19S14).
The L1T's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2021 engines requiring actuator service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and low-load operation increase carbon buildup, making fuel quality and driving pattern considerations critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD L1T.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
