The Ford FXFA is a 1,499 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved efficiency and throttle response. In standard tune, it delivers 63 kW (85 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at entry-level compact and city car applications.
Fitted to models including the Ford Fiesta (Mk7), Ford B-MAX, and Ford EcoSport, the FXFA engine was engineered for economical urban driving with low maintenance demands. 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 16M12, is attributed to oil flow restrictions under low-temperature conditions. From 2016, revised tensioner and guide components were implemented to improve durability and reduce field failures.
Production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Ford FXFA is a 1,499 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact passenger vehicles (2014–2020). 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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 80.4 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (85 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The FXFA provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for city 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-2016 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 16M12. The three-way catalytic converter requires sustained operating temperature to remain effective, so regular highway driving aids longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 16M12). Replaces ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all FXFA models (2014–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B21260).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B21260, B19015, SIB 16M12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford FXFA was used across Ford's C1 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-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the EcoSport-and from 2016 the facelifted Fiesta Mk7.5 adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating minor compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B21260). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for FXFA series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Duratec HE: FXFA 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 08/2016 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 16M12).
The FXFA'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 2017 indicated a significant number of pre-2016 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.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD FXFA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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