The Ford D4FA is a 1,388 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It forms part of Ford's Dragon engine family, designed for compact vehicle applications with a focus on fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership. Featuring dual independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), port fuel injection, and a lightweight aluminium block, it delivers smooth, predictable power delivery suitable for urban and commuter driving.
Fitted to models such as the B298 Fiesta, C519 Focus, and C346 Puma, the D4FA was engineered for affordability and reliability in high-volume segments. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and EGR system, enabling Euro 6b compliance across all production years. Its design prioritises serviceability with widely available parts and standard tooling requirements.
One documented update is the revised intake manifold introduced in Q3 2018 to reduce intake resonance noise, highlighted in Ford Service Action 18M03. Early-build engines exhibited audible induction drone under partial load, particularly between 2,000–2,500 rpm. The update includes a resonator chamber within the manifold and revised airbox sealing, improving cabin refinement without affecting performance or efficiency.
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford D4FA is a 1,388 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact vehicles (2015–2020). It combines port fuel injection with dual Ti-VCT to deliver smooth power delivery and strong low-end response. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances fuel economy with emissions compliance and everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,388 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.4 mm × 84.3 mm | |
| Power output | 63–74 kW (86–100 PS) | |
| Torque | 125–132 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (Siemens SIMOS 8.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (DOHC, dual Ti-VCT) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires higher engine speeds for overtaking, making frequent gear changes necessary. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection of the timing chain and camshafts under sustained load. Oil changes every 15,000 km or annually are sufficient for normal use, but shorter intervals are advised for stop-start urban cycles. The Siemens SIMOS 8.4 fuel system is robust but sensitive to low-octane fuel (below RON 95), which can trigger knock sensor intervention and reduce performance. Post-2018 models feature improved intake manifold design; pre-2018 units may benefit from retrofitting the updated manifold to reduce induction drone per Ford SIB 18M03. The three-way catalyst requires full operating temperature for optimal efficiency, so frequent short trips may accelerate aging.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18M03). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 and API SN+.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all 2015–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 74 kW output requires RON 95 fuel and standard calibration.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D40100, D40105, SIB 18M03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford D4FA was used across Ford's B298, C519, and C346 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly revised torque curve in the Puma and cold-start calibration in the Focus—and from 2018, the updated Fiesta adopted a revised intake manifold, 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 D40110). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for D4FA series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from D4FB: Original D4FA uses Siemens SIMOS 8.4 ECU with 80-pin connector, while D4FB uses Bosch EDC17 with 100-pin connector. Service parts require production date verification—intake manifolds for engines before 07/2018 are incompatible with later units due to resonator design changes (Ford SIB 18M03).
The D4FA's primary reliability risk is intake resonance noise in early builds, with increased incidence in vehicles used for urban commuting. Internal Ford quality reports from 2018 indicated a notable share of pre-2018 engines receiving customer complaints about induction drone, while UK DVSA records show a moderate increase in emissions-related faults linked to catalyst efficiency in short-trip vehicles. Frequent cold starts and use of non-recommended fuel increase knock sensor activity, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD D4FA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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