The Ford 4EB is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features a compact, lightweight design with twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and sequential multi-port fuel injection. Delivering 85 kW (115 PS) at 6,300 rpm and 155 Nm at 4,250 rpm, the 4EB was engineered for fuel efficiency and smooth operation in small-to-mid-sized vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the MK3 Focus, MK8 Fiesta, and C-MAX, the 4EB engine was designed for urban and mixed driving conditions, prioritizing low maintenance and emissions compliance. It meets Euro 5 standards through integrated exhaust manifolding, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, making it suitable for fleet and high-mileage applications in regulated markets.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 15S02, is linked to reduced oil pressure at cold start and early-design tensioner materials. In 2015, Ford introduced a revised tensioner and updated oilway design to improve longevity and reduce field failures.
All production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford 4EB is a 1,596 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact platforms (2011–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with port fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it serves as a durable, low-cost powertrain option for high-volume Ford models.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 123 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) to protect the front-mounted timing chain and tensioner. Premature chain wear has been reported in vehicles with extended service intervals or non-compliant oil. Use of unleaded petrol (RON 95) is sufficient for reliable operation. The 2015-up revised tensioner and oil feed design significantly reduce failure risk—VIN and build date verification is recommended before replacement. EGR and throttle body cleaning should be performed every 80,000 km to maintain idle quality.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15S02). Meets ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2011–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variants of this engine.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all model years and applications (Ford TIS Doc. A38210).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A38210, SIB 15S02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4EB was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific tuning and ancillary layouts—higher idle calibration in stop-start variants—and from 2015 the introduction of the revised tensioner created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS A38210). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('F' for 1.6L Ti-VCT). Pre-2015 units have a silver timing cover and early-design tensioner; post-2015 models feature a revised black tensioner housing and updated oil feed. Critical differentiation: 4EB is naturally aspirated with a single intake plenum; do not confuse with EcoBoost variants. Service parts require VIN verification—timing kits before 08/2015 are not compatible with later units (Ford SIB 15S02).
The 4EB's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Ford internal field data from 2016 noted over 25% of pre-2015 units required tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show chain-related faults contributing to a notable share of mechanical MOT failures. Cold starts and low-speed operation increase wear, making oil quality and timely maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4EB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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