Engine Code

FORD FKD engine (2012-2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford FKD is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved fuel efficiency and throttle response. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 186 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at mid-size passenger car applications requiring balanced performance.

Fitted to models including the Ford Mondeo (Mk4), Ford S-MAX, and Ford Galaxy, the FKD engine was engineered for refined highway cruising and sustained load operation with predictable maintenance intervals. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 5 certification across its production run.

One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent cold starts and short-trip driving. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 15M08, is attributed to oil flow restrictions under low-temperature conditions. From 2015, revised tensioner and guide components were implemented to improve durability and reduce field failures.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

FKD Technical Specifications

The Ford FKD is a 1,999 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size passenger vehicles (2012–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with port fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritises reliability and serviceability in high-utilisation environments.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,999 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 93.2 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque186 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio11.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemChain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear concern)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30)
Dry weight142 kg
Practical Implications

The FKD provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for motorway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain timing chain system integrity. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its specific shear stability and flow characteristics critical for the front-mounted chain tensioner. Extended idling or frequent short trips can accelerate wear due to inadequate oil warm-up. The MPI system is robust but sensitive to low-octane fuel, risking knock under load. Post-2015 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15M08. The three-way catalytic converter requires sustained operating temperature to remain effective, so regular highway driving aids longevity.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15M08). Replaces ACEA A1/B1 standards.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all FKD models (2012–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B19240).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B19240, B19013, SIB 15M08

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

FKD Compatible Models

The Ford FKD was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared design elements with Volvo P-Series engines under the Ford Premier Automotive Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake manifolds in the Mondeo and revised engine mounts in the S-MAX-and from 2015 the facelifted Mondeo Mk4.5 adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating minor compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2012-2018
Models:
Mondeo (Mk4)
Variants:
2.0 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford Group PT-2016
Make:
Ford
Years:
2012-2015
Models:
S-MAX
Variants:
2.0 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford Group PT-2016
Make:
Ford
Years:
2012-2015
Models:
Galaxy
Variants:
2.0 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. B19241
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B19240). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for FKD series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Duratec HE: FKD has Ti-VCT labels on valve cover and uses a front-mounted timing chain, while HE variants may use belts. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 15M08).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. B19240

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B19240).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2015: Silver valve cover with black intake manifold
  • Post-2015: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 15M08

Timing Components:

Timing tensioners for pre-2015 FKD engines are not compatible with post-2015 revisions due to internal spring and plunger redesign.
Tensioner Upgrade

Issue:

Early FKD engines experienced timing chain rattle due to oil starvation at the tensioner during cold starts.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 15M08

Recommendation:

Inspect or replace tensioner per Ford SIB 15M08, especially on vehicles with irregular service history.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD FKD

The FKD's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start conditions. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 indicated a significant number of pre-2015 engines exhibiting chain noise before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased catalytic converter failures in short-trip vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling reduce oil flow to the front chain system, making service interval adherence critical.

Timing chain tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at cold start, timing chain noise under light load, stored camshaft timing codes.
Cause: Front-mounted chain with early-design tensioner susceptible to oil flow restriction and spring fatigue during cold starts.
Fix: Install the updated OEM-specified tensioner and guide per service bulletin; verify oil passages and cam timing after repair.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced throttle response, stored MAF or throttle body codes.
Cause: Oil vapour from PCV system mixing with intake air, leading to deposit accumulation on throttle body and intake runners.
Fix: Clean throttle body and intake manifold per OEM procedure; renew PCV valve and hoses if degraded.
Engine misfires under load
Symptoms: Loss of power, flashing MIL, vibration, stored cylinder-specific misfire codes.
Cause: Ignition coil degradation or spark plug fouling, often accelerated by extended oil change intervals or low-quality fuel.
Fix: Replace ignition coils and spark plugs with OEM-specified parts; verify fuel pressure and injector function.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible leaks near timing cover, temperature fluctuations, low coolant warning.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing or failure of integrated seal due to thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing as a unit with updated OEM part; flush cooling system and bleed air properly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD FKD

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD FKD.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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