The Ford 4ED is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018 as part of the Ford Sigma family. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque. Designed for compact applications, it balances fuel efficiency with urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta (Mk7) and B-MAX, the 4ED engine was engineered for economical city driving and low-cost ownership. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 5 compliance across European markets. Its compact design allows transverse front-wheel drive integration with minimal packaging requirements.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of direct injection, particularly in stop-start urban driving. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Information Bulletin 14M01, can lead to rough idle and reduced airflow. From 2015, revised ECU calibrations and improved PCV system routing helped mitigate deposit accumulation in later production units.
All 4ED engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Ford 4ED is a 1,596 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact Ford models (2012–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable cam timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and cost-effective ownership.
| 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 | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Timing system | Roller chain (single stage) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 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-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil to prevent sludge and PCV system clogging. The absence of direct injection leads to intake valve carbon buildup, necessitating periodic walnut blasting or chemical cleaning. Fuel quality is important—RON 95 unleaded is sufficient, but higher-octane fuel may improve throttle response. Post-2015 models feature revised PCV routing and ECU calibrations reducing carbon accumulation. Cooling system maintenance is straightforward, with conventional thermostat and water pump layouts.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 13 05 07). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5 classifications.
Emissions: All 4ED units comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power achieved at 6,300 rpm with standard exhaust and intake configurations.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B28750, B29120, SIB 13 05 07, SIB 14M01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4ED was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly revised intake manifolds in the B-MAX and enhanced NVH damping in the Fiesta—and from 2015 the updated PCV system and ECU calibration in facelifted models created minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification tag on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B28901). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine code ('H' for 4ED). Pre-2015 units have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2015 models use black valve covers. Critical differentiation: 4ED lacks turbocharging and direct injection, unlike the 1.6L EcoBoost. Service parts require model-year verification—PCV valves and intake manifolds for 2012–2014 models are not interchangeable with 2015+ due to routing revisions (Ford SIB 14M01).
The 4ED's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban driving and frequent short trips. Internal Ford field reports from 2016 noted a measurable share of 2012–2014 engines exhibiting airflow restriction before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures linked to idle instability in city-driven vehicles. Stop-start usage and low-quality fuel amplify carbon risks, making ECU calibration and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4ED.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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