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 drivi…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The RHBA offers strong performance but early units (2018–2021) had camshaft HPFP lobe wear concerns. Post-TSB engines (2022+) are significantly more robust. With proper maintenance—95+ RON fuel, correct oil, and cooldown after hard use—it can deliver reliable service beyond 200,000 km.
Top issues include camshaft HPFP lobe wear (pre-2022), GPF clogging from short trips, intake valve carbon buildup (due to direct injection), and turbo wastegate sticking. All are documented in Ford TSBs and service manuals.
The RHBA powered the 2018–2023 Fiesta ST, 2019–2024 Puma (including MHEV), and 2022–2024 Focus Mk4 facelift 1.5 EcoBoost. It replaced the QYBA in performance applications.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps safely yield +20–30 kW on stock hardware. Supporting mods (intake, intercooler, exhaust) allow 200–210 PS reliably. However, HPFP and camshaft upgrades are essential beyond stage 1 to avoid mechanical failure.
In a Fiesta ST, expect ~7.2 L/100km (city), ~5.1 L/100km (highway), or ~45 mpg UK combined. Puma MHEV variants achieve ~4.7 L/100km due to regenerative braking and electric assist.
Yes. The RHBA is an interference engine. Timing chain failure—though rare due to robust front-mounted design—can cause piston-to-valve contact and catastrophic damage. No timing belt service is required.
Ford specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting WSS-M2C946-B1 standard. This low-SAPS formulation protects the turbo, camshaft, and GPF. Change every 16,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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