The Ford NGDB is a 999 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), and a lightweight aluminium block with an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard form it delivers 74 kW (100 PS) and 170 Nm of torque, with higher-output versions reaching 103 kW (140 PS) for performance applications.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta, Focus, EcoSport, and B-Max, the NGDB was engineered for drivers seeking maximum efficiency without sacrificing drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced direct injection and a low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation system, allowing most units to meet Euro 5 standards with later models achieving Euro 6 compliance.
One documented concern is cylinder head coolant leaks, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin 19-2134. This issue stems from porosity in early cylinder head castings, leading to gradual coolant loss and potential overheating. Ford addressed this in later production runs with revised casting processes and improved gasket designs.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Ford NGDB is a 999 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact models (2012-2019). It combines direct fuel injection with twin independent variable camshaft timing to deliver strong low-rpm torque and exceptional efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5/6 standards, it balances everyday performance with class-leading fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.9 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74–103 kW (100–140 PS) | |
| Torque | 170–200 Nm @ 1,400–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single BorgWarner K03 turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B (SAE 5W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The small displacement turbo provides excellent fuel economy but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo carbon buildup. Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-20) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the direct injection system. Aggressive driving during cold starts should be minimized to reduce oil starvation. The direct injection system demands minimum 95 RON unleaded fuel to prevent knocking and maintain optimal performance. Post-2015 models feature revised cylinder head castings; pre-2015 units should have coolant system inspected per Ford TSB 19-2134. Emissions systems require periodic inspection to maintain compliance and prevent check engine lights.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 19 2134). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). Some 2015-2019 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires 98 RON fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F26016).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F24681, F25143, F25632, SIB 19 2134
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford NGDB was used across Ford's B-platform/C-platform platforms with transverse mounting and exclusive to Ford applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Fiesta ST and modified exhaust routing in the EcoSport-and from 2015 the facelifted Fiesta models adopted the NGDB-R variant with improved cooling systems, creating interchange limits. No partnerships were established for this engine family. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Ford TIS F24891). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for NGDB series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with blue Ford lettering; post-2015 units use black valve covers with red accent stripes. Critical differentiation from NGDB-R: Original NGDB has Delphi MT75 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while NGDB-R uses Continental EMS2.2 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder heads for engines before 03/2015 are incompatible with later units due to revised coolant passages (Ford SIB 19 2134).
The NGDB's primary reliability risk is cylinder head coolant leaks, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Internal Ford data from 2018 reported a notable share of pre-2015 engines requiring head replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to carbon-fouled intake systems in urban-driven vehicles. Frequent short trips and extended idling increase carbon deposits, making regular maintenance and occasional high-load driving critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NGDB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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