The Ford P8FB is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a DOHC 12‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and a single twin‑scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm response enabled by its compact three‑cylinder architecture.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST (Mk7), Focus (Mk3), and EcoSport, the P8FB was engineered for sporty urban driving with everyday efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) in later builds and precise injection control, meeting Euro 5 standards initially and Euro 6 from 2015 onward in certain markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, potentially causing belt slippage or failure. This issue is referenced in Ford Service Bulletin TSB‑15‑2288, which attributes the wear to suboptimal bearing lubrication under high thermal cycles. From 2016, Ford revised the tensioner assembly and updated service intervals accordingly.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford P8FB is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2012–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and agile urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (tensioner‑prone) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides brisk throttle response ideal for city driving but demands precise oil quality and timing belt maintenance. Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30) oil is essential to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. Timing belt replacement is required every 160,000 km or 10 years—whichever comes first—with tensioner inspection critical per TSB‑15‑2288. Post-2015 models include a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), requiring consistent highway driving to prevent clogging. Cold starts should be followed by gentle driving to allow oil pressure to stabilize.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner Manual – Focus Mk3). Meets ACEA C2/C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2015–2018 builds in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output validated at 6,000 rpm (Ford TIS Doc. M12678).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M12345, M12456, M12678
Ford Service Information Bulletins: TSB-14-1122, TSB-15-2288
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford P8FB was used across Ford's B299/C346 platforms with transverse mounting and no third-party licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Focus and compact exhaust manifolds in the Fiesta ST—and from 2015 the introduction of a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) in Euro 6 markets, creating service and tuning distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Ford TIS M12390). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('P' for P8FB series). Pre-2015 models lack a gasoline particulate filter and use a simpler exhaust manifold; post-2015 Euro 6 units feature a GPF and updated ECU calibration. Critical differentiation from earlier 1.6L EcoBoost: P8FB has three cylinders, cast-iron block with integrated exhaust manifold, and unique oil filter housing orientation. Service parts for timing systems differ before and after 06/2016 due to tensioner redesign (Ford TSB‑15‑2288).
The P8FB's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner degradation, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently driven vehicles. Ford internal field data from 2016 indicated a notable rate of tensioner pulley seizure before 150,000 km in early builds, while UK DVSA records show increased MOT advisories for exhaust emissions linked to GPF saturation in short-trip usage. Extended oil change intervals and stop-start urban cycles accelerate wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD P8FB.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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