The Ford SNJA 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 110 kW (150 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, offering responsive urban performance with compact packaging.
Fitted to models such as the Puma, Fiesta, and Focus (Mk4 facelift), the SNJA was engineered for efficiency-focused drivers seeking punchy low-end torque and 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‑21‑2103. 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/9212).
The Ford SNJA is a 1,497 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for compact 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 | 110 kW (150 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-21-2103 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-21-2103). Equivalent to ACEA C5 but with Ford-specific additive limits.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all SNJA engines (2018–2024) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9212). No earlier emissions variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F42195).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F42100, F42115, F42195
Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-21-2103
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9212)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford SNJA was used across Ford's B2E/C2 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised cooling ducting in the Focus and reinforced mounts 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 F42145). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('N' for 1.5L EcoBoost). SNJA units feature a black plastic intake manifold with “1.5L EcoBoost” branding and a Honeywell GT1544V turbo with twin-scroll housing. Differentiate from RHBA (160 PS) by lower power rating and ECU calibration. MHEV Puma variants include a 48V belt-integrated starter generator and revised alternator bracket.
The SNJA'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 SNJA.
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