The Ford 4GF is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2018 as part of the EcoBoost family, specifically designed for transverse front-wheel-drive applications. It features direct fuel injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with Ti-VCT. In standard tune it produces 147 kW (200 PS), with torque output of 320 Nm, supporting a broad torque curve ideal for everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST-Line, Kuga, and Escape, the 4GF engine was engineered for responsive performance and urban efficiency. Emissions compliance is achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), enabling Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across European markets. Its compact design allows integration into C2 and C5 platforms with minimal packaging changes.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to reliance on port fuel injection in combination with direct injection, particularly under frequent short-trip conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Information Bulletin 19M03, can lead to reduced airflow and idle instability. From 2020, revised ECU calibrations and optimized intake port geometry helped mitigate deposit accumulation in later production units.
All 4GF engines meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford 4GF is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size Ford models (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance with real-world drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 250 bar) with multi-point backup | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Honeywell single-scroll turbo with air-to-air intercooler | |
| Timing system | Dual roller chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil to prevent turbo bearing wear and chain degradation. The GPF system necessitates regular highway runs to maintain regeneration cycles and prevent clogging. Fuel quality is important—RON 95 unleaded is sufficient, but higher-octane fuel may improve throttle response. Post-2020 models feature revised intake port design and ECU strategies reducing carbon buildup. Cooling system integrity must be maintained, as sustained high loads can increase thermal stress on hoses and the radiator.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18 06 11). Compatible with ACEA C2/C3 classifications.
Emissions: All 4GF units comply with Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6d variants exist for this engine code.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power achieved at 5,500 rpm with standard exhaust and intake configurations.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B34580, B34920, SIB 18 06 11, SIB 19M03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4GF was used across Ford's C2/C5 platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly revised intake manifolds in the Kuga and enhanced NVH damping in the Focus—and from 2020 the updated intake port geometry 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 left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS B34701). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine code ('G' for 4GF). Pre-2020 units have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2020 models use black valve covers. Critical differentiation: 4GF features direct injection with GPF, unlike naturally aspirated units. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for 2018–2019 models are not interchangeable with 2020+ due to port revisions (Ford SIB 19M03).
The 4GF's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban driving and frequent short trips. Internal Ford field reports from 2021 noted a measurable share of 2018–2019 engines exhibiting airflow restriction before 100,000 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 (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4GF.
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