The 1.5-liter 16-valve BFD engine was produced in South Korea from 1992 to 2001 and was installed on the first two generations of the popular Sephia model and similar to it. This unit is an almost complete copy of the well-known Mazda B5-DE motor.
Kia family: A3E, A5D, BFD, S5D, A6D, S6D, T8D, FED, FEE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-2001 |
| Displacement, cc | 1498 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 88 – 107 |
| Torque output, Nm | 135 – 147 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 78.4 |
| Compression ratio | 9.3 – 9.4 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.4 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Kia Sephia 1999) — city — highway — combined |
10.9 6.1 8.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~240 000 |
| Weight, kg | 125.5 |
The engine was installed on:
- Kia Sephia 1 (FA) in 1992 – 1997, Sephia 2 (FB) in 1997 – 2001;
- Kia Shuma 1 (FB) in 1997 – 2001.
Disadvantages of the Kia BFD engine
- This is a completely reliable engine and most of its problems are from natural wear and tear;
- The timing belt runs here for a relatively short time, but when it breaks, the valves do not bend;
- After 200,000 km, oil consumption usually appears due to the wear of rings and caps;
- Hydraulic lifters do not tolerate cheap lubricants and can knock already by 100,000 km;
- The weak points of the engine include the ignition system, fuel pump and unreliable wiring.
Frequently asked questions about the Kia BFD
How much power does the Kia BFD make?
The Kia BFD develops 88 - 107 hp and 135 - 147 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Kia BFD take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.4 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Kia BFD have a timing belt or chain?
The Kia BFD uses a timing belt.
Is the Kia BFD turbocharged?
No, the Kia BFD is naturally aspirated.
Does the Kia BFD need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Kia BFD has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Kia BFD last?
The typical lifespan of the Kia BFD is ~240 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Kia BFD?
Kia Sephia 1999: city 10.9, highway 6.1, combined 8.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Kia BFD installed on?
Kia Sephia 1 (FA) in 1992 - 1997, Sephia 2 (FB) in 1997 - 2001; Kia Shuma 1 (FB) in 1997 - 2001.
What are the common problems of the Kia BFD?
This is a completely reliable engine and most of its problems are from natural wear and tear. The timing belt runs here for a relatively short time, but when it breaks, the valves do not bend. All known problems.





