The Ford NSD is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbo‑petrol engine introduced in 2018 as part of Ford’s EcoBoost family. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune it produces 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) with peak torque of 240–270 Nm, offering brisk response and strong mid-range pull.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST, Puma ST, and select Focus variants, the NSD was engineered for sporty yet efficient urban and highway driving. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6d compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions, noted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-21-2345. This issue stems from fuel lubricity limitations in certain low-sulfur markets and may lead to lean misfire codes. Ford addressed this in 2022 with an updated HPFP design featuring hardened internal components.

All production years (2018–present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Ford NSD is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for compact performance models (2018–present). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive power and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.5 mm | |
| Power output | 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 240–270 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (with GPF) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Garrett Motion) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front‑mounted, low‑wear design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A1 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response and strong mid-range torque, ideal for spirited driving. However, the high-pressure fuel pump requires consistent use of 95 RON (or higher) unleaded petrol to maintain lubricity and prevent premature wear. Oil changes must follow Ford’s 16,000 km or 12-month interval using WSS-M2C949-A1 spec oil to protect turbo bearings and timing chain. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration; frequent short trips may trigger active regen cycles or warning lights. Post-2022 engines include the revised HPFP per TSB-21-2345.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A1 (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual). Equivalent to ACEA C2/C3 with Ford-specific additives.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all NSD engines (2018–present) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 140 kW output requires 98 RON fuel for optimal performance (Ford PT‑2023).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS‑NSD‑01, TIS‑NSD‑02, TIS‑NSD‑03
Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-21-2345
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Ford NSD was used across Ford's B‑Car and C‑Car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta ST and reinforced mounts in the Puma ST-and from 2022 the updated high-pressure fuel pump became standard, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code 'NSD' is stamped on the rear of the cylinder block near the transmission flange (Ford TIS TIS‑NSD‑01). The 7th VIN digit is 'G' for 1.5L EcoBoost variants. Visually, the NSD features a black plastic cam cover with 'EcoBoost' branding and a single twin-scroll turbo mounted low on the exhaust side. Differentiate from earlier 1.5L Sigma (non-turbo): NSD has direct injection rails, GPF in exhaust, and three cylinders. HPFP part number changes in 2022 (pre: 1894567; post: 1894567A) per TSB-21-2345.
The NSD's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear under sustained high-load or low-fuel-lubricity conditions. Ford TSB-21-2345 reports elevated HPFP failure rates in pre-2022 builds, while UK DVSA data shows minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust GPF calibration. Frequent short-trip driving and use of sub-95 RON fuel increase HPFP and GPF stress, making fuel quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NSD.
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