The Ford LPBA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 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 147 kW (200 PS) with peak torque of 320 Nm available from 1,500 rpm, enabling strong performance in mid-size SUVs and performance variants.
Fitted to models such as the Kuga ST-Line, Edge, and Escape Titanium, the LPBA was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of responsive power and regulated efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing full Euro 6d compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump wear under frequent short-trip driving, noted in Ford Service Action 21S09. This issue arises from prolonged low-temperature operation increasing fuel system stress. From 2022, Ford revised the pump internal components and updated engine calibration to reduce cold-start fueling demand, improving durability in later production units.
All production years (2020–2023) meet full Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford LPBA is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented applications (2020–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and agile throttle response. Designed to meet full Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with regulated efficiency.
| 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 | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1544V variable-nozzle turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B2 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The low-inertia turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and highway performance but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent fuel pump and turbo bearing wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-B2 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and detergency formulation protecting the high-pressure fuel system. Extended short-trip operation increases thermal stress on the EGR and intake system, necessitating periodic inspection. The HDEV6 fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; use of premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended for sustained performance. Post-2022 models feature revised fuel pump internals; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 21S09. EGR and catalytic converter longevity depend on complete regeneration cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B2 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21S09). Replaces ACEA C2 in Ford applications.
Emissions: All LPBA engines (2020–2023) comply with full Euro 6d standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained with RON 95 fuel; RON 98 recommended for optimal throttle response and thermal management (Ford TIS Doc. B21200).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B20500, B20801, SIB 21S09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LPBA was used across Ford's C520 and CD535 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced cooling in the Edge and revised torque delivery in the Kuga ST-Line-and from 2022 the updated Escape adopted the revised fuel pump and calibration, 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 B20500). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('T' for LPBA series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2022 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from base 1.5L EcoBoost: LPBA features larger turbocharger housing, revised intake plenum, and higher compression ratio. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure fuel pumps for engines before 04/2022 are incompatible with later units due to internal component redesign (Ford SIB 21S09).
The LPBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2023 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 engines requiring pump replacement 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 stress on the fuel system, making fuel quality and driving pattern considerations critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LPBA.
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