The Ford F27A is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2018. It belongs to Ford's Sigma engine family, designed for compact and subcompact applications requiring reliability and ease of maintenance. Equipped with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and port fuel injection, the F27A generates 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, offering balanced performance for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Fiesta (Mk7) and B-Max, the F27A was engineered for cost-effective ownership and smooth daily operation. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run. Its simple port-injected fuel system enhances long-term durability under varied fuel qualities.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in high-temperature operating conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 15S03, is attributed to material degradation in early tensioner designs. From 2016, Ford introduced an updated tensioner with improved heat resistance to mitigate risk.
All F27A engines comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford F27A is a 1,596 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (2014–2018). It combines port fuel injection with a dual overhead camshaft layout to deliver predictable performance and low maintenance demands. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritizes durability and ease of service over high specific output.
| 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) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (Bosch B3.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is specified to ensure valve train longevity and thermal stability. The port fuel injection system is less prone to carbon buildup than direct-injected units, though injector cleaning may be needed after 100,000 km. The 2016 tensioner update per Ford SIB 15S03 resolves heat-related belt slippage; pre-2016 units should have the revised part installed. Catalytic converter longevity depends on regular full-load operation to prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15S03). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1.
Emissions: All F27A engines meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (RON 95+) (Ford TIS Doc. F14567).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F14567, SIB 15S03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford F27A was used across Ford's Mk7 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Mazda for global applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the B-Max and revised cooling paths in the Fiesta-and from 2016 the facelifted Fiesta ST-Line adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Mazda's 1.6L MZI units to leverage Ford's valve train design. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F14780). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for 1.6L Sigma). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from later units: Original F27A has Bosch ME7.9.10 ECU with round diagnostic port under hood, while post-2016 variants use ME7.9.12 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 04/2016 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 15S03).
The F27A's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in hot climates and extended service intervals. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring belt replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Extended idling and short trips increase thermal stress on the tensioner, making timely replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F27A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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