The Ford 4GE is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It featured a SOHC 8-valve configuration with sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-MPI), delivering 60 kW (82 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. Designed for compact applications, it offered smooth operation and low fuel consumption, making it ideal for urban and entry-level use.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Fiesta Mark IV (Mk4) and Ford Escort Van, the 4GE engine was engineered for durability and ease of service in high-mileage applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain 1995–1997 production batches. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 97S03, was linked to insufficient surface hardening of the cam lobes during initial manufacturing runs. In 1998, Ford implemented a revised heat treatment process to improve lobe durability and reduce failure rates.
All 4GE engines comply with Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
The Ford 4GE is a 1,596 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact vehicles (1995–2002). It combines simplicity with reliability, using SOHC valvetrain and sequential multi-point injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes low maintenance and emissions compliance for city-focused applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens Simos 5.1 S-MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 100,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 100,000 km or 6-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 5.1 ECU is robust but sensitive to poor grounding; intermittent faults may stem from corroded chassis connections. Post-1998 engines with revised camshafts show improved longevity; pre-1998 units should be inspected for cam lobe wear during major service. No 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 97 03 11). Compatible with ACEA A1/A5 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210). No Euro 3 conversion was issued.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades (RON 95 minimum).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F15680, F15710, SIB 97 03 11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3210)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Ford 4GE 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 2002 with the introduction of the 1.6L Duratec. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front lower block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F15890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 1.6L SOHC). All 4GE engines have a black plastic valve cover with "1.6L" marking. Critical differentiation: The 4GE uses a rubber timing belt with a 100,000 km service interval, while the later 1.6L Duratec (2002+) uses a timing chain. Service parts require build date verification—camshafts for pre-1998 engines are not interchangeable with post-1998 revisions due to surface treatment differences (Ford SIB 97 03 11).
The 4GE'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 1998 indicated a measurable number of pre-1998 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 (1997-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4GE.
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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