The Ford NRD is a 1,499 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct injection, variable valve timing, and twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), delivering enhanced efficiency and performance. The lightweight aluminium construction with low-friction piston rings provides optimal balance between power output and fuel economy.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST-Line, Fiesta ST, and Puma ST, the NRD was engineered for drivers seeking responsive performance with reduced emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management and gasoline particulate filter (GPF) technology, allowing most models to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards with selective catalytic reduction.
One documented concern is timing chain tensioner failure, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-21-2256. This issue is attributed to premature wear of the tensioner mechanism, potentially leading to chain slack and engine damage. In 2021, Ford introduced revised tensioner components to mitigate this issue in later production models.
Production years 2018-2020 meet Euro 6.2 standards; 2021-2023 models achieve Euro 6d-TEMP compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Ford NRD is a 1,499 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and mid-size models (2018-2023). It combines direct fuel injection with Ti-VCT technology to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances performance with reduced emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110-150 kW (150-204 PS) | |
| Torque | 240-320 Nm @ 1,600-4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (pre-2021); Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides responsive low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo degradation. Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the Ti-VCT system. Aggressive driving styles should be minimized during cold starts to reduce premature component wear. The direct injection system demands minimum 95 RON unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent pre-ignition and carbon deposits. Post-2021 models feature revised timing chain tensioners; pre-2021 units should have tensioner inspected per Ford TSB 21-2256. The gasoline particulate filter requires periodic high-speed driving to maintain regeneration efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21-2256). Supersedes ACEA C5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to pre-2021 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456). Some 2021-2023 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 150 kW output requires 98 RON fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F-2790).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F-2678, F-2712, F-2789, SIB 21-2256
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford NRD was used across Ford's C2-platform and B-platform with transverse mounting and exclusive to Ford models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Focus and modified intake systems in the Puma-and from 2021 the facelifted models adopted revised timing chain tensioners, creating service variations. No licensing partnerships were established for this engine. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Ford TIS F-2720). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for NRD series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2021 units use black valve covers with revised timing covers. Critical differentiation from earlier engines: NRD has integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head while earlier 1.5 EcoBoost has external manifold. Service parts require production date verification - timing chain tensioners for engines before 03/2021 are incompatible with later units due to revised design (Ford TSB 21-2256).
The NRD's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal Ford data from 2022 reported a notable share of pre-2021 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to gasoline particulate filter blockages in urban-driven examples. Frequent short trips and low-speed operation increase carbon accumulation, making periodic high-speed driving critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NRD.
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