The Ford 4EC is a 1,388 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It was developed as a compact, fuel-efficient powerplant for entry-level models in Ford's European lineup. Featuring a SOHC 8-valve configuration and sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-MPI), it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 110 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, optimized for urban driving and economy.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Fiesta Mark V (Mk5) and Ford Ka, the 4EC engine was engineered for low running costs, ease of maintenance, and emissions compliance. It met Euro 3 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, making it suitable for urban environments with minimal aftertreatment complexity.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain early production batches. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 04S07, was linked to inadequate surface hardening of the cam lobes during manufacturing. In 2005, Ford implemented a revised camshaft heat-treatment process to improve durability and reduce wear-related failures.
All 4EC engines comply with Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford 4EC is a 1,388 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact urban vehicles (2002–2008). It combines simplicity with reliability, using SOHC valvetrain and sequential multi-point injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes low maintenance and emissions compliance for city-focused applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,388 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.9 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens Simos 7.2 S-MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 8 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 8-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal camshaft protection, particularly in early engines with known wear tendencies. The Siemens Simos 7.2 ECU is robust but sensitive to poor grounding; intermittent faults may stem from corroded chassis connections. Post-2005 engines with revised camshafts show improved longevity; pre-2005 units should be inspected for cam lobe wear during major service. No gasoline particulate filter (GPF) or complex emissions hardware reduces maintenance needs but requires lambda sensor monitoring for emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) specification (Ford SIB 04 07 12). Compatible with ACEA A1/A5 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). No Euro 4 conversion or update was issued.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades (RON 95 minimum).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F14680, F14712, SIB 04 07 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Ford 4EC was used across Ford's B3 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Volvo in limited applications via component commonality. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations and was phased out in 2008 with the introduction of the 1.4L Duratec Ti-VCT. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front lower block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F14890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.4L SOHC). All 4EC engines have a black plastic valve cover with "1.4L" marking. Critical differentiation: The 4EC uses a rubber timing belt with a 120,000 km service interval, while the later 1.4L Duratec (2008+) uses a timing chain. Service parts require build date verification—camshafts for pre-2005 engines are not interchangeable with post-2005 revisions due to surface treatment differences (Ford SIB 04 07 12).
The 4EC's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Internal Ford quality reports from 2005 indicated a measurable number of pre-2005 engines showing lobe degradation before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine failure. Extended service intervals and use of non-approved oil increase cam and belt stress, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2004-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2014). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4EC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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