Engine Code

FORD BRC engine (2016–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford BRC is a 1,995 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) for improved low-end torque and emissions control. In standard tune, it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 360 Nm of torque, primarily used in Ford’s European C- and D-segment vehicles.

Fitted to models such as the Ford Mondeo (Mk5), S-MAX, and Galaxy, the BRC engine was engineered for long-distance driving and load-carrying applications, prioritising smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 6 compliance across its production run.

One documented concern is EGR cooler failure under high-load conditions, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 16B10, is associated with thermal stress cracking in the aluminium core due to repeated thermal cycling. From 2018, a revised EGR cooler with enhanced cooling channels and upgraded material composition was implemented to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543).

BRC Technical Specifications

The Ford BRC is a 1,995 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for mid-size and large passenger vehicles (2016–2020). It combines VGT turbocharging with common-rail direct injection to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances towing capability with real-world emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,995 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 94.6 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,500 rpm
Torque360 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio16.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V)
Timing systemChain (front-mounted; low wear incidence)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30)
Dry weight168 kg
Practical Implications

The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and motorway cruising but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km or 2-year oil change intervals to prevent EGR and turbo degradation. Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation protecting the SCR system and DPF. Long periods of idling or short trips increase soot loading and DPF regeneration frequency. The EGR system must be kept clean to avoid cooler failure; coolant condition should be monitored as internal leaks can lead to hydrolock. Post-2018 models feature revised EGR coolers; pre-2018 units should be inspected for cracking per Ford SIB 16B10.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 16B10). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all BRC models (2016–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU diesel grades (EN 590) (Ford TIS Doc. D21000).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D20200, D20500, D20750, SIB 16B10

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6543)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

BRC Compatible Models

The Ford BRC was used across Ford's Mk5 Mondeo/S-MAX platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo SPA derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized EGR tuning in the Galaxy and revised SCR dosing in the S-MAX-and from 2018 the facelifted Mondeo Mk5.5 adopted the updated EGR cooler, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Mondeo (Mk5)
Variants:
2.0 TDCi 150 Zetec, 2.0 TDCi 150 Titanium
View Source
Ford Group PT-2016
Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
S-MAX
Variants:
2.0 TDCi 150 Zetec
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. D21100
Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Galaxy
Variants:
2.0 TDCi 150 Zetec
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. D21200
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2017–2019
Models:
XC60
Variants:
D4 190 (based on BRC)
View Source
Volvo ETM #XC60-654
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS D20200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 2.0L TDCi). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from BRD: BRC has no cylinder deactivation and uses a conventional VGT turbo. Service parts require production date verification - EGR coolers for engines before 05/2018 are incompatible with later units due to core redesign (Ford SIB 16B10).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. D20200

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS D20200).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2018: Silver valve cover with black intake manifold
  • Post-2018: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 16B10

Flywheel:

Flywheel assemblies for pre-2018 BRC models are not compatible with post-facelift Mondeo Mk5.5 due to dual-mass flywheel revisions.

Timing Components:

Timing components unchanged during production; kits are fully interchangeable across all BRC units.
EGR Cooler Upgrade

Issue:

Early BRC engines experienced EGR cooler cracking due to thermal stress under repeated high-load operation.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 16B10

Recommendation:

Install updated EGR cooler with reinforced core per Ford SIB 16B10.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD BRC

The BRC's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in towing and high-mileage applications. Internal Ford quality reports from 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2018 engines exhibiting coolant leaks before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased NOx DTCs in fleet-operated examples. Frequent high-load cycles and extended service intervals increase thermal stress, making coolant maintenance and adherence to service intervals critical.

EGR cooler failure
Symptoms: White smoke at startup, coolant loss, overheating, engine misfires, P0401/P0489 codes.
Cause: Thermal stress cracking in aluminium EGR cooler core due to repeated heating/cooling cycles; exacerbated by poor coolant condition and extended service intervals.
Fix: Replace EGR cooler with updated unit per service bulletin; flush cooling system and verify thermostat function after repair.
DPF clogging and regeneration failure
Symptoms: Limp mode, excessive soot loading, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light.
Cause: Frequent short trips or low-speed driving prevent passive regeneration; oil consumption or fuel dilution increases soot load.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; clean or replace DPF if saturated; inspect EGR and PCV systems for contributing faults.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost, poor throttle response, over/under-boost DTCs, black smoke under load.
Cause: Carbon buildup or wear in VGT actuator mechanism; exacerbated by oil contamination and infrequent high-load operation.
Fix: Clean or replace actuator per OEM procedure; recalibrate via diagnostic system after replacement.
AdBlue system faults
Symptoms: SCR warning light, reduced power, difficulty starting, error codes (P20EE, P20EA).
Cause: Crystallization in dosing valve or injector nozzle; faulty level/concentration sensor; contaminated or expired AdBlue.
Fix: Flush dosing lines and replace injector per OEM guidance; use ISO 22241-compliant fluid and reset system calibration.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD BRC

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD BRC.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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