The Ford PNBA is a 1,497 cc, inline‑three turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features a DOHC 12‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and a single twin‑scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 118 kW (160 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm response enabled by its compact three‑cylinder architecture.
Fitted primarily to the Mk8 Fiesta ST, the PNBA was engineered for agile performance and everyday usability. Emissions compliance wa…
All production years (2018–2023) meet Euro 6d TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford PNBA is a 1,497 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for hot‑hatch applications (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and compact packaging. Designed to meet Euro 6d TEMP, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,497 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.3 mm | |
Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Garrett twin‑scroll (GT1549V) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C948‑B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 108 kg |
The Ford PNBA was used exclusively in Ford's Mk8 Fiesta platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts and a unique exhaust manifold for the Fiesta ST—and from mid-2020 incorporated HPFP revisions per SSM 49321, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The PNBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation in early builds, with elevated incidence in track or aggressive driving. Ford SSM 49321 notes a measurable increase in warranty claims for pre-mid-2020 units before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows low overall failure rates when maintained correctly. Sustained high-load operation without adequate cooldown makes OEM-specified oil and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The PNBA is generally robust when maintained properly. Early units (2018–mid-2020) had HPFP concerns, but post-revision engines are more durable. Using correct 0W-20 oil, RON 95+ fuel, and avoiding constant high-load use greatly improves longevity. Most well-cared-for examples exceed 150,000 km without major issues.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump wear (pre-2020), GPF clogging from short trips, turbo wastegate rattle, and minor oil consumption. These are documented in Ford SSM 49321 and TIS diagnostics. Regular maintenance and proper driving habits mitigate most risks.
The PNBA is exclusive to the Ford Fiesta ST (Mk8) from 2018 to 2023. It was not used in any other Ford or partner-brand vehicles. All units are transverse-mounted and paired with a 6-speed manual or optional 7-speed automatic (from 2022).
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps safely yield +20–30 kW (185–195 PS) on stock hardware. The turbo and internals handle moderate increases well. However, aggressive tuning accelerates HPFP and turbo wear—especially on pre-2020 engines. Always pair tuning with upgraded cooling and high-quality fuel.
In the Fiesta ST, real-world consumption is ~7.5 L/100km (city) and ~5.2 L/100km (highway), or about 38 mpg UK combined. Aggressive driving can push this to 9–10 L/100km. Highway cruising yields up to 45 mpg UK. GPF regeneration cycles may temporarily increase usage.
Yes. The PNBA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is front-mounted and generally reliable—no widespread failures reported in service data.
Ford specifies SAE 0W‑20 oil meeting WSS‑M2C948‑B1. This low-viscosity oil is critical for GPF protection and HPFP lubrication. Never use older Ford specs (e.g., 5W‑30). Change every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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