The Ford F39A is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It forms part of the Ford Sigma engine family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). Delivering 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, it was engineered for compact vehicle applications with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and low maintenance.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk3, C-Max, and EcoSport, the F39A was designed for economical urban and suburban driving. Its character is defined by smooth power delivery and low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for daily commuting. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in stop-start driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 14S04, can lead to chain slapping and, in severe cases, valve-to-piston contact. From 2015, revised tensioner materials and updated oil specifications (Ford WSS-M2C946-B) were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford F39A is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2011-2018). It combines Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing) with sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy and low CO₂ 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 | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear documented) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Ti-VCT system provides balanced valve timing for smooth low-RPM operation but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and anti-wear additives protecting the chain system. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, as the engine uses port fuel injection without direct injection cleaning effect. Post-2015 models feature updated tensioner design; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14S04. The three-way catalytic converter requires unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent poisoning and ensure emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 14S04). Replaces ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2011–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228 (Ford TIS Doc. S15670).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S15670, S15821, SIB 14S04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power
The Ford F39A was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the EcoSport and revised intake manifolds in the Focus-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus Mk3.5 adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover below the valve cover (Ford TIS S15890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.6L Sigma). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with green gaskets; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Duratec variants: F39A uses a single VCT phaser on the intake cam only. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal spring revision (Ford SIB 14S04).
The F39A's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2015 noted a significant number of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to oil consumption in high-mileage units. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes accelerate wear, making fluid specification and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2011-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F39A.
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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