The Ford F4FA is a 1,596 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2018. It belongs to the Ford Duratec Ti-VCT engine family, featuring twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16-valve configuration. In standard tune, it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) with 155 Nm of torque, offering improved low-end responsiveness and fuel efficiency over earlier Duratec variants.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk2.5/Mk3, C-Max, and Mondeo Mk4, the F4FA was engineered for balanced urban and highway performance with an emphasis on refinement and emissions compliance. It meets Euro 5 standards through a three-way catalytic converter, closed-loop lambda control, and advanced engine management, enabling consistent performance across European markets with minimal cold-start emissions.
One documented improvement over prior engines is the implementation of Ti-VCT, which optimizes valve timing across the rev range. This technology, detailed in Ford Engineering Specification ENG-08-001, enhances combustion efficiency and reduces pumping losses. Post-2012 builds incorporated revised piston ring tension and updated ECU calibrations to improve oil consumption control, as referenced in Ford Service Action 12B14.
All production years (2008–2018) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford F4FA is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2008–2018). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver responsive low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances drivability with emissions efficiency and improved fuel economy over prior Duratec units.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.3 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 126 kg |
The naturally aspirated design with Ti-VCT provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and maintain cam phaser performance. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the variable cam timing system. Extended idling and frequent short trips can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. The SFI system is robust but sensitive to low-quality fuel; use of minimum 95 RON petrol is required to maintain ignition timing and prevent knock. Post-2012 models feature improved piston ring design; pre-2012 units should be monitored for oil consumption per Ford SIB 12B14. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor performance and avoidance of oil consumption.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 12B14). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 5 standards across entire production run (2008–2018) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies with intake temperature and fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. DUR-TIVCT-05).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs DUR-TIVCT-01, DUR-TIVCT-02, DUR-TIVCT-04, SIB 12B14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford F4FA was used across Ford's C1/CD3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised exhaust routing in the Mondeo-and from 2012 the facelifted Focus Mk3 and C-Max adopted updated engine management software and piston ring design, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS DUR-TIVCT-06). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.6L Duratec Ti-VCT). Pre-2012 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2012 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from F41A: F4FA uses Ti-VCT cam phasers and updated ECU mapping, while F41A lacks variable timing. Service parts require model-year verification—piston rings and oil control components for pre-2012 engines are incompatible with post-2012 revisions due to design changes per Ford SIB 12B14.
The F4FA's primary reliability risk is oil consumption in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2013 indicated a measurable share of pre-2012 engines requiring piston ring replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2008-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F4FA.
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