Engine Code

FORD T3JB engine (2018–2024) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford T3JB is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2024. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and gasoline direct injection (GTDI). In standard form it delivered 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) and 240–270 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive urban and highway performance with strong low‑end thrust.

Fitted to models such as the C519 Puma, B257 Focus, and B563 Kuga, the T3JB was developed under Ford’s EcoBoost strategy to reduce CO₂ while maintaining sporty drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close‑coupled three‑way catalyst with particulate filter, allowing full Euro 6d compliance across all production years.

One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of fuel washing in direct-injection systems, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑21‑0112. This issue can lead to rough idle and misfires if not addressed through periodic decarbonization or intake design mitigation. From 2021, Ford introduced revised intake manifolds with improved PCV routing to reduce oil vapour ingestion.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2018–2024) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).

T3JB Technical Specifications

The Ford T3JB is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and crossover models (2018–2024). It combines gasoline direct injection (GTDI) with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and Ti-VCT variable valve timing to deliver brisk low‑rpm torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with stringent environmental compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,499 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded)
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke75.0 mm × 85.0 mm
Power output118–140 kW (160–190 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque240–270 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline direct injection (GTDI), up to 350 bar
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle twin-scroll turbo (BorgWarner)
Timing systemChain‑driven DOHC with dual Ti-VCT
Oil typeFord WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 5W‑20)
Dry weight102 kg
Practical Implications

The T3JB’s twin-scroll turbo and direct injection deliver strong low-end torque ideal for city and motorway use but require strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (5W‑20) oil to protect the turbo bearing and chain system. Extended intervals risk carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of fuel washing. Only EN 228-compliant ultra-low-sulfur petrol should be used to maintain injector and GPF integrity. Pre-2021 engines should be monitored for rough idle; affected units may benefit from intake cleaning or updated PCV routing per TSB‑21‑0112.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (5W‑20) specification (Ford TSB‑21‑0112). Not interchangeable with ACEA A5/B5 without verification.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all T3JB production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on C519 Puma chassis (Ford PT‑2023).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs FTS‑9501, FTS‑9510, TSB‑21‑0112

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code

T3JB Compatible Models

The Ford T3JB was used across Ford's C519/B257 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised ECU maps in the B563 Kuga for altitude compensation and modified exhaust routing in the C519 Puma—and from 2021 the facelifted B257 Focus Mk4 retained the same hardware with updated GPF regeneration logic, maintaining full interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2019–2024
Models:
Puma (C519)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford PT‑2023
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2024
Models:
Focus (B257)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford EPC Doc. F1499‑C
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019–2024
Models:
Kuga (B563)
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. FTS‑9501
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS FTS‑9520). The 7th and 8th VIN digits indicate engine type ('JB' for T3JB 1.5L). All T3JB units feature black plastic valve covers with '1.5 EcoBoost' embossing. Critical differentiation from older Sigma engines: T3JB uses a timing chain (not belt), direct injection, twin-scroll turbo, and integrated exhaust manifold. Pre-2021 engines use PCV hose routing that feeds directly into the intake; post-2021 units feature a revised oil separator—verify via hose routing diagram in Ford TSB‑21‑0112.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. FTS‑9520

Location:

Stamped on front cylinder block near exhaust manifold (Ford TIS FTS‑9520).

Visual Cues:

  • Black valve cover with '1.5 EcoBoost' text
  • Integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head
  • Twin-scroll turbo with single outlet
Intake Carbon Buildup Alert

Issue:

T3JB engines may develop intake valve carbon deposits due to direct injection, leading to rough idle, misfires, or failed emissions tests.

Evidence:

Ford TSB‑21‑0112

Recommendation:

Perform walnut-shell or chemical intake cleaning every 60,000–80,000 km; ensure PCV system is functioning correctly per Ford TSB‑21‑0112.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD T3JB

The T3JB's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to its direct-injection design, with elevated incidence in short-trip or urban driving. Ford internal field data from 2022 indicated up to 7% of pre-2021 engines required decarbonization before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant GPF-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality fuel accelerate deposit formation, making maintenance adherence critical.

Intake valve carbon deposits
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, misfires on cold start, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Lack of fuel washing on intake valves (direct injection only) allows oil vapour and EGR soot to accumulate over time.
Fix: Perform walnut-shell blasting or chemical decarbonization; inspect and replace PCV oil separator if clogged per TSB‑21‑0112.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Loss of power, increased fuel consumption, regeneration warning on dashboard.
Cause: Frequent short trips prevent active GPF regeneration; oil ash buildup from extended oil intervals contributes.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via Ford IDS; verify oil spec and driving pattern; replace GPF only if backpressure exceeds OEM limits.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Boost control faults (P0299, P2262), limp mode, whistling or hissing under load.
Cause: Wear in electronic wastegate actuator motor or linkage due to thermal cycling and moisture ingress.
Fix: Replace actuator with latest OEM unit; recalibrate boost control using Ford IDS diagnostics.
Coolant leak from cylinder head
Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible external leak, white exhaust smoke, overheating.
Cause: Micro-cracks in aluminum cylinder head around integrated exhaust ports from thermal stress.
Fix: Pressure-test cooling system; replace cylinder head if leak confirmed—ensure updated head gasket and torque sequence per TIS.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD T3JB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD T3JB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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