The Ford MEBA is a 1,498 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an integrated exhaust manifold for improved thermal efficiency. Delivering 103–140 kW (140–190 PS) and peak torque of 250–320 Nm, it offers responsive performance with strong low-end pull for everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Puma ST, and Fiesta ST-Line, the MEBA engine was engineered for a balance of spirited performance and urban fuel economy. Its compact design and turbocharging enable brisk acceleration while maintaining compatibility with Euro 6d emissions standards through precise combustion control and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF). The engine supports mild hybrid integration in select variants to reduce CO₂ output.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear under sustained high-load conditions, noted in Ford Service Action 19M04. This issue is linked to oil coking in the turbocharger’s center housing under rapid cooldown cycles. From 2021, revised oil cooler routing and updated turbo hardware were introduced to improve lubrication and thermal management.
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6c standards; 2021–2023 models comply with Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford MEBA is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance applications (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with Ti-VCT and an integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances sporty character with real-world economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103–140 kW (140–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 250–320 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c (pre-2021); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The turbocharged inline-3 provides strong mid-range pull ideal for performance hatchbacks but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C947-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the integrated exhaust manifold and turbocharger. Avoid immediate engine shutdown after high-load operation to reduce oil coking risk. The GPF-equipped variants require regular highway runs to maintain regeneration efficiency. Post-2021 models feature improved oil cooling; pre-2021 units benefit from the revised oil cooler upgrade per Ford SIB 19 08 03. Direct injectors are sensitive to low-quality fuel; use only premium unleaded (RON 95+) to prevent deposit formation.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19 08 03). Supersedes ACEA C2 and meets Ford-specific thermal requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to pre-2021 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6d compliance verified for 2021–2023 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 140 kW output requires RON 98 fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F22001).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F21450, F21875, SIB 19 08 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford MEBA was used across Ford's CD/C2 platforms with transverse mounting and integrated mild hybrid variants in select markets. 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 MEBA-T variant with revised turbo mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Ford TIS F21500). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for MEBA series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2021 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from MEBA-T: Original MEBA uses Bosch MD1CS028 ECU with 84-pin connector, while MEBA-T uses MD1CS032 with 104-pin. Service parts require production date verification - turbochargers for engines before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to internal vane actuator redesign (Ford SIB 20 05 12).
The MEBA'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-2021 engines requiring turbo service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to GPF saturation in city-driven vehicles. Rapid cooldown cycles and extended idling increase turbo and GPF stress, making driving pattern and oil interval adherence 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 MEBA.
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