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 was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing conformity with Euro 6d TEMP standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high‑load conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin SSM 49321. This is attributed to thermal stress and marginal lubrication in early‑production units. From mid‑2020, Ford implemented revised pump internals and updated calibration to mitigate premature failure.
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 twin‑scroll turbo delivers immediate throttle response ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using Ford‑approved 0W‑20 to protect the high‑pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration; frequent short trips may trigger active regen cycles or warning lights. Early PNBA units (pre‑06/2020) are susceptible to HPFP wear—owners should monitor for misfires or hard starts. Revised pumps per SSM 49321 are recommended during replacement. Use only EN 228‑compliant premium unleaded (RON 95+).
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS‑M2C948‑B1 (0W‑20) specification (Fiesta ST Owner’s Manual 2018). Not interchangeable with older Ford specs.
Emissions: Euro 6d TEMP certification applies to all 2018–2023 PNBA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F39102).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F38921, F39015, F39102
Ford Service Shop Manual (SSM) 49321
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Ford TIS F38950). The 7th VIN digit for Fiesta ST is 'J', and the full engine code 'PNBA' appears on the compliance plate under the bonnet. Pre-06/2020 engines use HPFP part number CV6Z‑9350‑AA; post-revision units use CV6Z‑9350‑AB. The ECU is Bosch MED17.5.10 with a rectangular OBD port. Do not interchange fuel pumps between production phases—calibration and mechanical tolerances differ per SSM 49321.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD PNBA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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