The Ford UNCA is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, optimized for responsive urban driving with strong low‑end pull and everyday refinement.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk4), Puma, and EcoSport, the UNCA was engineered for mainstream compact applications emphasizing fuel efficiency, drivability, and emissions compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 6d‑TEMP standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high‑load conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 06S08. This issue stems from thermal stress on the cam-driven HPFP actuator. In 2021, Ford introduced revised pump internals and updated calibration to mitigate premature failure.
All production years (2018–2023) meet Euro 6d-TEMP or Euro 6d standards depending on registration date (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7893).
The Ford UNCA is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for compact and subcompact models (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP (and later Euro 6d) standards, it balances efficiency with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.3 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; low wear design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C948‑B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 109 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for city driving but demands high-quality fuel (RON 95 minimum) to prevent knock under load. Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) oil is essential for turbo bearing longevity and GPF protection. Extended high-RPM use without adequate warm-up may accelerate HPFP wear—addressed in 2021 via revised pump internals per Ford SIB 06S08. GPF regeneration occurs passively during normal driving; avoid excessive short trips to prevent soot accumulation. The front-mounted timing chain shows minimal wear in service and requires no scheduled replacement.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 06S08). Not interchangeable with older 5W-30 specs.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models; Euro 6d certification for 2021–2023 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7893).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 fuel (Ford TIS Doc. T2021‑037).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T2021‑037, ES‑1499‑D, SIB 06S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7893)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Ford UNCA was used across Ford's B‑Car and C‑Car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling in the Puma and updated fuel mapping in the Focus—and from 2021 the updated HPFP and calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the rear of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS T2021‑037). The 7th VIN digit is 'B' for 1.5L EcoBoost variants. All UNCA units feature a black plastic cam cover with '1.5 ECOBOOST' embossed. Critical differentiation from higher-output variants: UNCA produces 140 PS (vs. 150/160 PS), uses a detuned turbo actuator, and has distinct PCM calibration. Post-2021 engines include HPFP part number ending in '-21' or '-22' per Ford SIB 06S08.
The UNCA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in track or aggressive driving. Ford internal data from 2021 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP-related warranty claims for 2018–2020 models, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF management. Sustained high-load operation without proper warm-up increases pump stress, making fuel quality and driving style 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 UNCA.
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