The Ford 4CC is a 1,388 cc, inline — three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable cam timing (Ti — VCT), and port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 70 kW (95 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and urban drivability for compact applications.
Fitted to models including the B292 Fiesta and B513 Focus, the 4CC was eng…
Production years 2009–2014 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford 4CC is a 1,388 cc inline-three petrol engine engineered for compact platforms (2009–2014). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with port fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with modern drivability for budget-conscious buyers.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,388 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 71.4 mm | |
Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 125 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, wear-prone tensioner) | |
Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 108 kg |
The Ford 4CC was used across Ford's B292/B513 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover for micro-SUV applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised cooling paths in the Focus-and from 2012 the facelifted Focus models adopted updated tensioner hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 4CC's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Ford quality reports from 2013 indicated a significant share of pre-2012 engines required tensioner replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show intake-related faults contribute to a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes increase guide and tensioner stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2011-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2022). 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 4CC offers solid fuel efficiency and smooth operation, but pre-2012 models are prone to timing chain tensioner wear if oil changes are delayed. Later revisions (post-2012) feature improved tensioner durability. When maintained with timely oil changes using Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30), these engines can reliably exceed 160,000 km.
Key issues include timing chain tensioner wear (causing rattle and fault codes), intake valve carbon buildup, ignition coil failures, and valve cover oil leaks. These are well-documented in Ford service bulletins, particularly SIB 15B04 for the timing system.
The 4CC was used in the Ford Fiesta (B292) and Focus (B513) from 2009 to 2014. It also powered the Land Rover Freelander 2 (Si3 1.4L) from 2010 to 2012. All applications meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps yield modest gains (+8–12 kW) due to the naturally aspirated design and compression ratio. Aftermarket headers or intake systems offer minor improvements. Significant power increases require forced induction, which is complex and not widely supported.
In a Fiesta 1.4 Ti-VCT (2011), typical consumption is ~7.8 L/100km (city) and ~5.2 L/100km (highway), or about 44 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures range from 38–48 mpg (UK) depending on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The 4CC is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in bent valves or damaged pistons. Immediate attention to any timing rattle is essential to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
Ford specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A (or newer) specification. Change oil every 15,000 km or 12 months to ensure proper lubrication of the timing chain system and prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.