The Ford FHE is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI), delivering 103 kW (140 PS) at 6,500 rpm and 189 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. Developed under Ford's Sigma engine family, it was engineered for smooth operation and fuel efficiency in compact and mid-size passenger vehicles.
Fitted to key models including the Focus, C-MAX, and Mondeo, the FHE engine was designed for everyday driving comfort and low running costs. It complies with Euro 5 emissions standards, achieved through integrated exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter (TWC), without requiring complex forced induction or direct injection systems. This simplified design supports lower service costs and improved long-term reliability under regular maintenance.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain 2011–2013 production batches, as noted in Ford Service Action 12M08. Insufficient lubrication at the camshaft lobes, linked to early oil pump design and extended service intervals, contributed to accelerated wear. From 2014 onward, Ford introduced an updated oil pump and revised maintenance schedule, reducing reported incidence in later units.
All FHE engines comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variants were produced.
The Ford FHE is a 1,999 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size passenger vehicles (2011–2018). It utilises DOHC valvetrain and sequential fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and efficiency. Engineered to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritises drivability and serviceability over high specific output, making it suitable for urban and mixed-use applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port 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-M2C913-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The FHE delivers linear power delivery ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil to protect the camshafts and timing chain. Use of low-ash petrol meeting EN 228 standards is recommended to prevent combustion chamber deposits. The naturally aspirated design avoids turbo-related complexity but limits high-RPM efficiency. Early 2011–2013 units are susceptible to camshaft wear; owners should verify if SIB 12M08 updates (revised oil pump and priming procedure) were applied. EGR and throttle body require periodic cleaning to maintain idle stability and throttle response.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C specification (Ford SIB 12M08). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5; not compatible with C-rated or high-Zinc oils.
Emissions: All FHE engines meet Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variant exists.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across all model years and markets (Ford TIS Doc. SIGMA-FHE-PERF-01).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs SIGMA-FHE-ENG-01, SIGMA-FHE-TIMING-01, SIB 12M08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Committee for Standardization: EN 228:2012 Automotive Petrol
The Ford FHE was used across Ford's C1 and CD3 platforms with transverse mounting and shared design principles within the Sigma engine family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer accessory drives in the Mondeo and enhanced NVH tuning in C-MAX applications-and from 2014 the facelifted Focus Mk3 adopted revised intake manifolding, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-hand side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS SIGMA-FHE-ID-01). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('H' for 1.6L Ti-VCT). All FHE engines feature a black plastic valve cover with "1.6 Ti-VCT" branding. Critical differentiation from turbocharged units: FHE lacks intercooler piping and has a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—camshafts and oil pumps for 2011–2013 models differ from post-2014 revisions due to SIB 12M08 updates (Ford SIB 12M08).
The FHE's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear on early 2011–2013 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short-trip driving. Ford internal field reports from 2013 indicated measurable wear in pre-2014 units before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows throttle body and EGR faults rising in later models used in urban cycles. Extended service intervals and poor fuel quality amplify wear, making oil adherence and fuel system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2011–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD FHE.
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