The Ford F38A is a 1,596 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Dragon EcoBoost family, featuring Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) and direct fuel injection. Designed for compact vehicle applications, it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, balancing responsiveness with fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk3), C-Max, and S-Max, the F38A was engineered for urban and mixed driving conditions, emphasising smooth power delivery and low maintenance costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and EGR system, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run. The engine's compact design supports transverse front-wheel-drive layouts.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in Ford Service Action 15B07. This issue, linked to oil flow restrictions in early production units, could lead to timing misalignment if not addressed. In 2015, Ford implemented a revised tensioner design and updated oil change intervals to mitigate risk, improving long-term reliability.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford F38A is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and family vehicles (2012–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with direct fuel injection to deliver responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with serviceability.
| 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 | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear reported) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and flow characteristics critical for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or short trips may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. Direct injection demands premium unleaded fuel (RON 95+) to prevent pre-ignition and maintain efficiency. Post-2015 models feature revised tensioners; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15B07. EGR system cleaning is recommended every 60,000 km to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15B07). Meets ACEA A1/B1 standards.
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 RON 95–98 (Ford TIS Doc. D3850).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D3801, D3802, SIB 15B07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford F38A was used across Ford's C1/CD4 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened accessory drives in the C-Max and revised engine mounts in the S-Max-and from 2015 the updated tensioner design was introduced, creating service part 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 D3820). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for F38A series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: F38A lacks turbocharger and intercooler, with simpler intake manifold. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 09/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 15B07).
The F38A's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to oil contamination in high-mileage units. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F38A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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