The Ford NEK is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard applications it delivers 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) with peak torque of 240–270 Nm, enabling brisk low‑rpm response and efficient motorway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Mk8 Fiesta, Puma, and Focus Mk4—including ST-Line and mild-hybrid EcoBoost variants—the NEK was engineered for responsive urban performance and relaxed highway refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and precise lambda control, allowing all variants to meet Euro 6d TEMP (and later Euro 6d) standards.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions, noted in Ford Service Bulletin 19M02. This is attributed to thermal stress and fuel lubricity variations, particularly with low-quality petrol. From 2021, Ford implemented a revised HPFP design with enhanced internal coatings and updated cam follower geometry.
All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d TEMP or Euro 6d standards depending on registration date (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/F2389).
The Ford NEK is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and subcompact models (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and smooth high‑rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 6d TEMP/Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with urban efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 240–270 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll turbo (Honeywell/Mitsubishi) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for city and A-road driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) oil to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. The Bosch HDP5 system requires high-quality EN 228-compliant petrol with adequate lubricity; ethanol blends above E10 may accelerate HPFP wear. GPF regeneration cycles are frequent in urban use—avoid short trips to prevent soot accumulation. Post-2021 engines include an updated HPFP cam follower per Ford SIB 19M02; pre-2021 units should be inspected if experiencing misfires or hard starts.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 19M02). Not interchangeable with older WSS-M2C945-A.
Emissions: Euro 6d TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models; Euro 6d certification for 2021–2023 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/F2389).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 140 kW variant requires 98 RON fuel for optimal performance (Ford TIS NEK-ENG-2020).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs NEK-ENG-2020, NEK-TURBO-2020, SIB 19M02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/F2389)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford NEK was used across Ford's B299/C2 platforms with transverse mounting and mild-hybrid integration in select variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Puma and hybrid belt-integrated starter in the Focus EcoBoost Hybrid—and from 2021 the Fiesta ST-Line adopted revised engine mounts and exhaust manifolds, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Ford TIS NEK-ID-2019). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('5' for 1.5L EcoBoost). All NEK engines feature a black plastic intake manifold with “1.5 ECOBOOST” embossed on the side. Critical differentiation from older 1.5L Sigma: NEK uses direct injection (visible high-pressure fuel rail) and a twin-scroll turbo; Sigma uses port injection and single-scroll turbo. Pre-2021 HPFP units have silver cam follower; post-2021 use black-coated follower per Ford SIB 19M02.
The NEK's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or low-quality fuel usage. Ford internal field data from 2021 indicated a measurable increase in HPFP-related warranty claims for 2018–2020 models before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show minimal emissions failures due to robust GPF/EGR calibration. Frequent short trips and E10+ ethanol blends exacerbate fuel system stress, making fuel quality and oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NEK.
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