Engine Code

FORD UNCE engine (2022–2025) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford UNCE is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2022 and 2025. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 260 Nm of torque, with responsive mid-range delivery ideal for compact SUVs and performance hatchbacks.

Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Puma ST, and Kuga ST-Line, the UNCE was engineered to balance sporty performance with urban refinement and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), ensuring full Euro 6d compliance from launch.

One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load or marginal fuel lubricity conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 23M04. This issue stems from early-design pump internals susceptible to thermal stress. From early 2023, Ford implemented an updated HPFP and revised PCM calibration to mitigate premature wear.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2022–2025 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9134).

UNCE Technical Specifications

The Ford UNCE is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact performance models (2022–2025). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk mid-range torque and agile urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions, it balances sporty response with regulatory compliance and fuel efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,499 cc
Fuel typePetrol (ULP 95 RON min)
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke75.0 mm × 84.8 mm
Power output125 kW (170 PS)
Torque260 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle twin-scroll (Honeywell GT1549L)
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C945-B1 (SAE 0W‑20)
Dry weight110 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo provides strong mid-range torque ideal for responsive driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 (0W-20) to protect the timing chain and turbo bearings. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration; frequent short trips may trigger active regen cycles or warning lights. High-pressure fuel pump longevity depends on consistent use of EN 228-compliant fuel with adequate lubricity. Post-early-2023 engines feature revised HPFP internals per Ford SIB 23M04.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 23M04). Not interchangeable with ACEA C2/C3 oils.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2022–2025 UNCE engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9134).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. T94600).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T94560, T94561, SIB 23M04

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9134)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

UNCE Compatible Models

The Ford UNCE was used across Ford's C2/B6 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Kuga ST-Line and revised intake routing in the Focus ST-and from early 2023 the Puma ST adopted updated HPFP hardware, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2022–2025
Models:
Focus ST
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost 170
View Source
Ford Group PT-2024
Make:
Ford
Years:
2022–2025
Models:
Puma ST
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost 170
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. T94570
Make:
Ford
Years:
2023–2025
Models:
Kuga ST-Line
Variants:
1.5 EcoBoost 170
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. T94575
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS T94580). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('C' for 1.5L EcoBoost). All UNCE units have black valve covers with integrated cam cover and a visible GPF canister in the exhaust. Critical differentiation from earlier 1.5L EcoBoost (e.g., UGJE): UNCE uses updated Bosch HDP6 HPFP with revised internals and updated PCM calibration. Service parts for HPFP require production date verification—units before 03/2023 use part #CV9Z‑9350‑AA, later use #CV9Z‑9350‑AB (Ford SIB 23M04).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. T94580

Location:

Stamped on front cylinder block near exhaust manifold (Ford TIS T94580).

Visual Cues:

  • Black valve cover with integrated cam cover
  • Twin-scroll turbo housing with dual exhaust inlets
HPFP Upgrade

Issue:

Early UNCE engines experienced premature high-pressure fuel pump wear under high-load or low-lubricity fuel conditions.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 23M04

Recommendation:

Install updated HPFP (part #CV9Z‑9350‑AB) and recalibrate fuel system per Ford SIB 23M04.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD UNCE

The UNCE's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear under sustained high-load or marginal fuel conditions. Ford internal quality data from 2023 indicated elevated HPFP replacement rates in performance variants operating in hot climates, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF control. Extended short-trip driving and fuel quality variance make adherence to OEM oil and fuel specs critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starts, misfire under load, fuel rail pressure DTCs (e.g., P0087), rough idle after hot soak.
Cause: Marginal lubricity in certain fuel batches interacting with early-design pump internals under thermal stress.
Fix: Install latest OEM-specified HPFP (part #CV9Z‑9350‑AB) and update PCM calibration per service bulletin.
GPF regeneration issues
Symptoms: Reduced power, increased fuel consumption, 'Check Engine' light with P2002 or P2003 codes.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperature from frequent short trips preventing passive regeneration.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostics; advise driver to include 20+ minute highway drives weekly.
Turbo actuator sticking
Symptoms: Limp mode under boost, overboost/underboost codes, delayed throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup or thermal fatigue in the electronic wastegate actuator linkage.
Fix: Replace turbo actuator assembly with updated part; verify boost control adaptation post-repair.
Oil leaks from cam cover
Symptoms: Oil residue on timing cover, smell from engine bay, minor drips on undertray.
Cause: Age-related gasket shrinkage in the integrated cam/timing cover assembly.
Fix: Replace entire cam cover with OEM gasket set; torque to specification to prevent re-leak.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2022–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD UNCE

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD UNCE.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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