The Ford FAA is a 1,597 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1993. It was designed as a durable, low-maintenance powerplant for compact and family vehicles. Featuring a cast-iron block, aluminium head, and belt-driven SOHC valvetrain, it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) in standard tune with robust low-end torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models including the Ford Escort MkIII (Erika), Ford Sierra, and Ford Transit Connect, the FAA engine was engineered for economical operation and long service life. Its emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converter integration and lambda feedback control, meeting early European emissions standards (Euro 0 to pre-Euro 1) depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is cylinder head warping under sustained high load or coolant neglect, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin 87/5/12. This issue stems from the thin-deck head design and inadequate cooling system maintenance. Later production revisions included improved thermostat response and reinforced head bolts to mitigate thermal stress.
Production years 1983–1987 meet Euro 0 standards; 1988–1993 models may have pre-Euro 1 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford FAA is a 1,597 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1983–1993). It combines a robust SOHC valvetrain with carburettor or early fuel injection to deliver reliable daily performance. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it balances durability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–60 kW (75–82 PS) | |
| Torque | 125–135 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or single-point fuel injection (SPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1988); pre-Euro 1 (1988–1993) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber toothed belt (SOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/SG | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The SOHC design provides predictable performance and ease of maintenance but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SF/SG standards is essential for camshaft and lifter longevity. Coolant system integrity is critical—low levels or old coolant can lead to head warping due to thermal hotspots. Carburettor-equipped models benefit from annual jet cleaning, while SPI versions require periodic throttle body and idle air control valve servicing. Valve clearances should be checked every 30,000 km as shim-under-bucket adjustment is non-self-compensating. Pre-1988 models lack catalytic converters and may not meet current urban emissions requirements.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SF/SG specification (Ford SIB 87/5/12). Compatible with mineral or semi-synthetic oils.
Emissions: Euro 0 applies to pre-1988 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 1988–1993 models meet pre-Euro 1 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 60 kW output applies to SPI-equipped variants (Ford TIS Doc. B19234).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18450, B18677, B19234, SIB 87/5/12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Ford FAA was used across Ford's MkIII/Sierra platforms with transverse mounting in hatchbacks and longitudinal in vans. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Escort and reinforced mounts in the Transit Connect-and from 1988 the introduction of single-point injection created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B18450). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for FAA series). Carburettor models have a chrome air cleaner cover; SPI versions feature a black plastic intake plenum. Critical differentiation from CVH: FAA has distributor at the front of the engine, while CVH places it at the rear. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1985 Escorts are incompatible with post-1985 units due to pulley redesign (Ford SIB 87/5/12).
The FAA's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping on high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in urban-operated vehicles. Internal Ford quality reports from 1990 indicated a notable share of pre-1988 engines requiring head resurfacing before 150,000 km, while VCA field data links a significant portion of emissions failures to carburettor imbalance in older models. Extended oil intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase thermal stress, making cooling system diligence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1985-1993) and UK VCA failure statistics (1988-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD FAA.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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