The Ford MHA 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 an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, providing a balance of responsiveness and efficiency for compact and subcompact applications.
Fitted to models including the Focus (Mk4), Fiesta (Mk8), and Puma, the MHA engine was engineered for urban agility and highway efficiency in small Ford vehicles. Its driving character emphasizes low-to-mid range torque delivery for city driving, while maintaining refinement at higher speeds. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and lambda control, allowing Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19S06. This issue arises from carbon buildup on the actuator lever mechanism, particularly in vehicles with frequent short trips and low engine temperatures. From 2021, Ford revised the actuator design and updated calibration to mitigate the issue.
All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford MHA is a 1,498 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with Ti-VCT and a compact turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance with urban fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| 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 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1246V variable-bullet turbo | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The MHA's turbocharging provides strong low-RPM pull ideal for city driving, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent turbo actuator and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for the turbo and direct injectors. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on the wastegate actuator. Using fuel meeting Ford's FS-75 specification helps minimize injector deposits. Post-2021 models feature revised actuator hardware; earlier units should be inspected per Ford Service Action 19S06. The integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up time but requires careful thermal management during high-load operation.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S06). Meets Ford's low-SAPS requirements for turbo protection.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2018–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 83. Output requires 95 RON fuel; 98 RON may improve throttle response (Ford TIS Doc. WSD-MHA-2018).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs WSD-MHA-2018, SIB 19S06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
UN ECE Regulation 83: Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to the emission of pollutants.
The Ford MHA was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the Fiesta and revised torque mounts in the Puma-and from 2021 the facelifted Focus ST-Line models adopted updated engine calibration, creating minor software 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 WSD-MHA-2018). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Y' for MHA series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units retain similar appearance but feature revised ECU calibration. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: MHA engines have a turbocharger mounted on the right side and an intercooler in the front bumper. Service parts require production date verification—turbo actuators before 06/2020 are subject to Service Action 19S06 and should be upgraded.
The MHA's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip driving. Ford internal field reports from 2020 indicated a significant number of pre-2021 units required actuator service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in high-mileage examples. Frequent cold starts and low operating temperatures exacerbate carbon buildup, making oil quality and driving pattern awareness 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 MHA.
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