The Ford 4CA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's Dynamic Force engine family, designed for durability and smooth operation without turbocharging. In standard tune it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), and a high compression ratio of 12.5:1 to maximize thermal efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk4), Ford Kuga (Mk3), and Ford Edge (Mk2), the 4CA was engineered for drivers seeking linear throttle response, low maintenance, and long-term reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise port fuel injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing the engine to meet Euro 6d-Final standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner in early production units, particularly under aggressive driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S12, is attributed to insufficient oil pressure delivery to the upper guide during cold starts. From 2020, Ford implemented a revised tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration to improve lubrication and reduce wear risk.
All production years (2018–2023) comply with Euro 6d-Final emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford 4CA is a 1,998 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size and crossover applications (2018–2023). It combines port fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, predictable power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final standards, it balances reliability and everyday drivability with strong fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.8 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (Denso PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Final | |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, dual guides) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low viscosity and high-temperature stability, ensuring consistent oil pressure to the chain tensioner. Extended idling and cold starts increase stress on the upper chain guide, making warm-up procedures important. The Denso PFI system is less prone to carbon buildup than direct injection but still benefits from periodic fuel system cleaning. Post-2020 models feature revised tensioners; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19S12. EGR and catalytic converter systems require periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 19S12). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 and API SN.
Emissions: All 4CA engines (2018–2023) meet Euro 6d-Final standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets with regular unleaded (RON 95).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B42100, B42101, B42115, SIB 19S12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4CA was used across Ford's Mk4 Focus/Mk3 Kuga platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised cooling layouts in the Kuga-and from 2020 the facelifted Kuga ST-Line models adopted the 4CA with sport-tuned engine mounts and revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B42100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.0L naturally aspirated). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 4CB: Original 4CA uses Denso PFI with cast aluminum intake, while 4CB uses direct injection with composite manifold. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners before 08/2020 are incompatible with later units due to revised internal design and oil flow (Ford SIB 19S12).
The 4CA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and short-trip usage. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 noted increased chain guide wear in units operating below 0°C, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR clogging in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and delayed oil changes increase chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4CA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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