The Ford RFA is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin — scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune it delivers 118 kW (160 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm responsiveness for urban and motorway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST, Puma ST, and select Focus variants, the RFA was engineered for sporty yet efficient performance…
All production years (2018–2023) meet at least Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2020–2023 models comply with full Euro 6d .
The Ford RFA is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance models (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk acceleration and responsive torque. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.3 mm | |
Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2019); Euro 6d (2020–2023) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
Turbocharger | Garrett twin‑scroll (MGT2252V) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 0W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Ford RFA was used across Ford's B‑Car and C‑Car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Fiesta ST and revised cooling in the Puma ST—and from 2020 the Focus ST adopted a higher-flow intercooler, creating minor ECU calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The RFA is generally reliable when maintained properly. Early engines (2018–mid-2020) had HPFP cam follower concerns, resolved in later builds. Using 95 RON fuel and correct 0W-20 oil greatly reduces wear risks. With proper care, these engines can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The main issues are HPFP cam follower wear (pre-2020), GPF clogging from short trips, turbo wastegate rattle, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Ford service bulletins and are manageable with timely maintenance.
The RFA powers the Fiesta ST (2018–2023), Puma ST (2020–2023), and select Focus ST markets (2019–2023) as a 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo petrol. It replaced the older 1.6L EcoBoost in performance applications and is exclusive to Ford—no cross-manufacturer use.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the RFA platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
In a Fiesta ST, expect ~7.2 L/100km (city) and ~5.1 L/100km (highway), or ~40 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 38–45 mpg (UK), depending on driving style and GPF regeneration cycles.
Yes. The RFA is an interference engine. Timing chain failure—though rare due to its front-mounted, maintenance-free design—could cause piston-to-valve contact. No timing belt is used; the chain is designed for engine life under proper oil maintenance.
Ford mandates WSS-M2C945-A (0W-20) synthetic oil. This low-viscosity spec ensures proper lubrication of the turbo, timing chain, and HPFP system. Using incorrect oil may void warranty and accelerate GPF/HPFP wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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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.
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