The Ford 4FA is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved efficiency and throttle response. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 188 Nm of torque, primarily used in Ford’s European C- and D-segment vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk4), Kuga (Mk3), and Mondeo (Mk5), the 4FA engine was engineered for mixed driving conditions, prioritising smooth power delivery and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission depending on model variant.
One documented concern is intermittent misfires under high-load conditions, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 18B12, is associated with carbon buildup on intake valves due to port fuel injection in a high-specific-output application. From 2020, revised ECU calibrations and enhanced PCV system design were implemented to reduce deposit formation and improve combustion stability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford 4FA is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size and compact SUV applications (2018–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with port fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance in urban and highway driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; low wear incidence) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 126 kg |
The Ti-VCT system provides responsive throttle characteristics but is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of direct injection. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain optimal cam phaser and timing chain lubrication. Oil changes should not exceed 20,000 km or 18 months to prevent sludge formation. The engine benefits from periodic highway runs to mitigate intake valve deposits. Early 2018–2019 units may experience misfires under sustained load; updated ECU calibrations from 2020 improve combustion stability. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor function and avoidance of extended idling.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18B12). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all 4FA models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95) (Ford TIS Doc. C21010).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C20250, C20788, SIB 18B12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4FA was used across Ford's Mk4 Focus/Mk3 Kuga platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the Kuga and revised ECU mappings in the Focus ST-Line-and from 2020 the facelifted Kuga Mk3.5 adopted enhanced PCV routing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS C20250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for 2.0L Ti-VCT). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 4FB: 4FA has no direct injection and uses a conventional port fuel rail. Service parts require production date verification - PCV systems for engines before 08/2019 are incompatible with later units due to revised hose routing (Ford SIB 18B12).
The 4FA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 indicated a notable share of pre-2020 engines exhibiting misfires before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst efficiency DTCs in city-driven examples. Frequent short trips and extended idling increase deposit formation, making periodic high-load operation and adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4FA.
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