The Ford UFBB is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2012 as part of Ford’s EcoBoost family. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it produces 132 kW (180 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm of torque from 1,750–4,500 rpm, offering brisk performance with improved fuel economy over larger naturally aspirated units.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus ST Mk3, Focus RS (early development mules), and select Mondeo variants, the UFBB was engineered for sporty driving dynamics and responsive mid-range thrust. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise engine management and exhaust after-treatment, enabling Euro 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure under sustained high-load conditions, noted in Ford Engineering Bulletin FEB‑14‑06. This issue stems from premature wear of the pump’s cam follower, leading to fuel pressure drop, misfires, and limp-mode activation. Ford addressed this in later service kits with revised metallurgy.
All UFBB engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/FORD/UFBB).
The Ford UFBB is a 1,596 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented compact vehicles (2012–2018). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and agile throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance and real-world efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 minimum; RON 98 recommended for sustained performance) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,750–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC (lifetime design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C945-A (SAE 5W‑30 full synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 126 kg |
The DOHC chain-driven valvetrain offers long-life reliability but requires precise oil quality to protect high-pressure fuel pump components. Use of Ford-specified 5W‑30 oil is essential to prevent HPFP cam follower wear. Direct injection leads to carbon buildup on intake valves over time, though less critical than in port-injected turbo engines. Regular oil changes (every 15,000 km or annually) and avoidance of low-quality fuel reduce HPFP failure risk per FEB‑14‑06. The engine’s high specific output demands adequate warm-up before aggressive driving.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W‑30) specification (Ford Lubricants Guide 2012). Not interchangeable with ACEA A3/B4 without validation.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification confirmed under VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/FORD/UFBB for all production years (2012–2018).
Power Ratings: Measured under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and SAE J1349. Figures reflect net output with accessories.
Ford Workshop Manual (2012), Sections 1B–3D
Ford Engineering Drawings: UFBB‑01, UFBB‑05
Ford Service Bulletins: FEB‑14‑06, SIB 04‑13‑09
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Type Approval Database
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Ford UFBB was used across Ford's C1 and CD4 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Focus ST for track use and unique exhaust manifolds in the Mondeo—and from 2015 minor ECU updates were introduced for emissions stability, creating minor calibration interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford Workshop Manual 2012, Fig. 1B‑2). The code 'UFBB' appears as raised casting. VIN 8th digit is 'B' for this EcoBoost family. Early units (2012–2014) feature silver intake manifolds; Focus ST prototypes used black manifolds with ST-specific charge piping. Differentiate from the similar 2.0L Duratec by turbo presence and direct injection rails—UFBB has high-pressure fuel lines and twin-scroll turbo housing.
The UFBB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure under sustained high-load use, with elevated incidence in early 2012–2014 builds. Ford Engineering Bulletin FEB‑14‑06 documented cam follower wear in <2% of high-mileage performance units, while UK DVSA data shows turbo wastegate faults as a secondary concern in modified vehicles. Aggressive driving without proper warm-up and incorrect oil use increase HPFP wear, making oil specification and operational discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD UFBB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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