The Ford RHBA is a 1,497 cc, inline‑three turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2024. It features gasoline direct injection, a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivered 118 kW (160 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, offering brisk low‑end response and compact packaging for urban efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Puma, Fiesta ST, and Focus (Mk4 facelift), the RHBA was engineered for sporty yet efficient driving, combining punchy torque with reduced emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and precise injection control, meeting Euro 6d standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the camshaft, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑21‑2105. This issue arises from marginal surface hardening in early‑batch camshafts under sustained high load. From early 2022, Ford implemented a revised camshaft with improved case hardening to address the failure mode.
All production years (2018–2024) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9215).
The Ford RHBA is a 1,497 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for compact performance hatchbacks and crossovers (2018–2024). It combines gasoline direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑rpm torque and spirited acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,497 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Honeywell GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C946‑B1 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The three-cylinder layout delivers strong low-end torque ideal for spirited city driving but requires consistent use of 95 RON (or higher) unleaded petrol to protect the high-pressure fuel system. Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) oil must be used to ensure proper camshaft and turbo protection. Extended high-load operation (e.g., track days) without cooldown can accelerate HPFP drive lobe wear. The camshaft upgrade per TSB-21-2105 is recommended for pre-2022 engines showing misfire under boost or excessive HPFP noise.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford TSB-21-2105). Equivalent to ACEA C5 but with Ford-specific additive limits.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all RHBA engines (2018–2024) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9215). No earlier emissions variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F42200).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F42105, F42118, F42200
Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-21-2105
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9215)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford RHBA was used across Ford's B2E/C2 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Fiesta ST and revised cooling ducting in the Puma—and from 2020 the mild-hybrid (MHEV) variant introduced a belt-integrated starter generator (BISG), creating mechanical and electrical interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Ford TIS F42150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('H' for 1.5L EcoBoost). RHBA units feature a black plastic intake manifold with “1.5L EcoBoost” branding and a Honeywell GT1544V turbo with twin-scroll housing. Differentiate from QYBA (140 PS) by higher power rating and revised camshaft profile. MHEV Puma variants include a 48V belt-integrated starter generator and revised alternator bracket.
The RHBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe wear on the camshaft in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or track use. Ford internal field data from 2022 indicated a notable failure rate before 80,000 km in pre-TSB engines, while DVSA records show minimal emissions-related recalls. Extended boost cycles without fuel quality control increase camshaft degradation, making 95+ RON petrol and timely upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD RHBA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
