The Ford 4GD is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018 as part of the Ford EcoBoost family. It features turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), delivering responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency. Its compact design and strong low-end torque make it suitable for everyday urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the C346 Focus, C519 Mondeo, and C421 Kuga, the 4GD engine was engineered for balanced drivability and refinement in mainstream Ford applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Ford Service Action 15M06. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication during cold starts and increased chain tensioner stress. From 2015, revised chain guides and tensioner designs were implemented to improve durability in later production units.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models maintain Euro 5 compliance with enhanced EGR calibration (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford 4GD is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2012–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with everyday efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 132–147 kW (180–200 PS) | |
| Torque | 240–300 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI variable-nozzle turbo (VNT) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The IHI VNT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves due to port omission in direct injection. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane petrol (95 RON minimum) to prevent pre-ignition under load. Post-2015 models feature upgraded chain guides; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15M06. EGR and catalytic converter systems require periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-A1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15M06). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 4GD models (2012–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 147 kW output requires 98 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B36022).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B35021, B35104, B36022, SIB 15M06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4GD was used across Ford's C3xx/C5xx platforms with transverse mounting and shared design elements with Volvo for global scalability. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Kuga and revised cooling in the Mondeo-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus ST-Line adopted the 4GD with recalibrated throttle response, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Volvo's Drive-E T5 petrol engines to share core turbo and injection technology. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front cylinder block near the alternator mounting (Ford TIS B35090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('U' for 4GD series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 4GDI: Original 4GD has Bosch ME17.8.8 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while 4GDI uses MD17.8.8 with circular port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Ford SIB 15M06).
The 4GD's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring chain repair before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and short-trip driving increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4GD.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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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