Engine Code

FORD NSD engine (2018–present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

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.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2018–present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

NSD Technical Specifications

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.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,499 cc
Fuel typePetrol (ULP 95 RON min)
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged (twin‑scroll)
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 94.5 mm
Power output118–140 kW (160–190 PS)
Torque240–270 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d (with GPF)
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout
TurbochargerSingle twin‑scroll (Garrett Motion)
Timing systemChain-driven (front‑mounted, low‑wear design)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-A1 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight112 kg
Practical Implications

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.

Data Verification Notes

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).

Primary Sources

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

NSD Compatible Models

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.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Fiesta ST (Mk8)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost ST (140 kW)
View Source
Ford EPC Doc. F15‑4421
Make:
Ford
Years:
2020–present
Models:
Puma ST
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost ST (140 kW)
View Source
Ford PT‑2023 Powertrain Datasheet
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019–2022
Models:
Focus (Mk4)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost (118 kW, 134 kW)
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. TIS‑NSD‑01
Identification Guidance

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.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. TIS‑NSD‑01

Location:

Stamped on rear cylinder block near transmission flange (Ford TIS TIS‑NSD‑01).

Visual Cues:

  • Black cam cover with 'EcoBoost' logo
  • Three-cylinder layout with compact turbo on exhaust manifold
Fuel System Update

Issue:

Early HPFP units (pre-2022) prone to wear in low-lubricity fuel environments.

Evidence:

Ford TSB-21-2345

Recommendation:

Replace with updated HPFP (P/N 1894567A) if lean misfire codes (P0171/P0174) persist after injector cleaning.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD NSD

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.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Lean misfire codes (P0171/P0174), rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, fuel rail pressure faults.
Cause: Insufficient lubrication in HPFP due to low-sulfur petrol with poor lubricity; exacerbated by high-temperature operation in performance models.
Fix: Install updated HPFP (P/N 1894567A) per Ford TSB-21-2345; verify fuel quality and inspect injectors for coking.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Reduced power, increased fuel consumption, regeneration warning light, exhaust backpressure DTCs.
Cause: Accumulation of ash and soot from frequent short trips preventing passive regeneration; oil ash from non-spec oil contributes.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostics; if ineffective, replace GPF per OEM procedure and review oil/fuel specs.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle
Symptoms: Ticking or fluttering noise under deceleration, boost control instability.
Cause: Wear in wastegate actuator linkage or return spring; heat cycling accelerates fatigue in early units.
Fix: Inspect and replace wastegate assembly with latest OEM part; recalibrate boost map after installation.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible residue near front engine cover, low coolant level without external drip.
Cause: Plastic thermostat housing prone to micro-cracking under thermal stress; O-ring hardening over time.
Fix: Replace housing and O-rings with updated OEM kit; bleed cooling system thoroughly post-repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD NSD

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NSD.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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