The Ford CSDA is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, designed for compact vehicle applications with emphasis on fuel efficiency and low maintenance. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve layout, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), it delivers responsive mid-range performance suitable for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the B-MAX, Fiesta Mk7, and Focus Mk3, the CSDA was engineered for economical daily commuting and light-load operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds and closed-loop three-way catalytic conversion, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run. The engine's compact design supports transverse front-wheel-drive layouts with minimal service complexity.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 14S04, is linked to inadequate lubrication flow in early-production tensioner assemblies. From 2015, Ford implemented a revised tensioner design and updated oil specification to mitigate risk, improving long-term reliability.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford CSDA is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2012–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with a high-pressure fuel injection system to deliver responsive everyday performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel economy in urban and mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The Ti-VCT system provides smooth throttle response but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and cam phaser clogging. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and detergent formulation protecting the chain tensioner. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate sludge formation in the valve train. The MPI fuel system is tolerant of variable fuel quality but performs optimally with 95 RON (Premium Unleaded). Post-2015 models feature upgraded tensioner assemblies; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14S04. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent closed-loop lambda control and avoidance of oil/fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 14S04). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2012–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting 95 RON minimum (Ford TIS Doc. F13201).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F12876, F13102, SIB 14S04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford CSDA was used across Ford's B399/C346 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the B-MAX and revised engine mounts in the Focus Mk3-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus Mk3.5 adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS F12890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.6L Sigma). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged variants: CSDA has no intercooler or boost piping, and uses MPI instead of GDi. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 14S04).
The CSDA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2014 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable increase in emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes increase chain and phaser stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD CSDA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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