The Ford FL2A is a 1,596 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2018. It belongs to Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and port fuel injection. Designed for compact vehicle applications, it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, prioritising fuel efficiency and low-end drivability in urban environments.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Fiesta (B292) and Focus (C346) hatchbacks, the FL2A petrol engine was engineered for entry-level performance and cost-effective ownership. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6 standards across all production years without requiring a gasoline particulate filter (GPF).
One documented service concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short-trip driving. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Information Bulletin 17S08, is attributed to delayed oil pressure build-up during cold starts. From 2017, revised tensioner materials and updated oil change intervals were implemented to improve durability.
All production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford FL2A petrol is a 1,596 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2015–2018). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with port fuel injection to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and consistent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances simplicity with emissions compliance for high-volume urban applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,350 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 121 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) oil is critical due to its low viscosity ensuring rapid oil pressure build-up at cold start, protecting the chain system. Short-trip driving increases risk of sludge formation and delayed lubrication, accelerating wear. The PFI system is less prone to intake coking than GDI but still benefits from periodic fuel system cleaning. Post-2017 models feature upgraded tensioners; pre-2017 units should be monitored for chain rattle per Ford SIB 17S08. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda control and use of minimum 95 RON fuel.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 17S08). Compatible with API SN and ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2015–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). No GPF required.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford Group PT-2015).
Ford Technical Information Service (XTIS): Docs SIG-5620, SIG-5625, SIG-5630, SIB 17S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford FL2A Petrol was used across Ford's B292/C346 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the Focus-and from 2017, updated tensioner profiles and oil specifications were introduced to address early wear concerns, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford XTIS SIG-5620). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.6L naturally aspirated). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2017 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from GDI variants: FL2A has no high-pressure fuel pump on the cam cover and uses a traditional throttle body. Service parts require build date verification—tensioners and guides for pre-2017 engines are not interchangeable with post-update units due to material revisions (Ford SIB 17S08).
The FL2A petrol's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on pre-2017 units, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Ford's internal field reports from 2016–2019 indicated a measurable rate of tensioner replacement before 90,000 km in affected batches, while UK DVSA data shows increased catalytic converter failures linked to lean conditions from degraded lambda sensors. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase wear and emissions system stress, making oil quality and timely maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD FL2A.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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