The Ford 4RC is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2025. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, designed for durability and smooth operation in mainstream applications. In standard tune it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), port fuel injection (PFI), and a high compression ratio of 12.0:1 to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk4), Ford Kuga (Mk3), and Ford EcoSport (Mk2), the 4RC was engineered for drivers seeking predictable performance, low maintenance, and long-term reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a close-coupled catalytic converter, and a secondary air injection system, enabling the engine to meet Euro 6d-Final standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner in early production units, particularly under aggressive driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 22S03, is attributed to insufficient oil flow to the upper guide rail during cold starts. From 2023, Ford implemented a revised tensioner design with improved oil passage geometry and updated ECU logic to reduce cold-start valve train load, significantly lowering wear incidence.
All production years (2021–2025) comply with Euro 6d-Final emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).
The Ford 4RC is a 1,998 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and crossover applications (2021–2025). It combines port fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final standards, it balances reliability and everyday drivability with strong fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.8 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (Denso PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Final | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, dual guide rails) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 136 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low viscosity and high-temperature stability, ensuring consistent oil pressure to the chain tensioner. Extended idling and cold starts increase stress on the upper chain guide, making warm-up procedures important. The Denso PFI system is less prone to carbon buildup than direct injection but still benefits from periodic fuel system cleaning. Post-2023 models feature revised tensioners; pre-2023 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 22S03. EGR and catalytic converter systems require periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 22S03). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 and API SN.
Emissions: All 4RC engines (2021–2025) meet Euro 6d-Final standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets with regular unleaded (RON 95).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D42100, D42101, D42115, SIB 22S03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7891)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 4RC was used across Ford's Mk4 Focus/Mk3 Kuga platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised cooling layouts in the Kuga-and from 2023 the facelifted Kuga ST-Line models adopted the 4RC with sport-tuned engine mounts and revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D42100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.0L naturally aspirated). Pre-2023 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2023 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 4RD: Original 4RC uses Denso PFI with cast aluminum intake, while 4RD uses direct injection with composite manifold. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners before 06/2023 are incompatible with later units due to revised internal design and oil flow (Ford SIB 22S03).
The 4RC's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and short-trip usage. Internal Ford quality reports from 2024 noted increased chain guide wear in units operating below 0°C, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR clogging in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and delayed oil changes increase chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021-2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4RC.
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