The Ford G1 is a 1,388 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. Part of the Ford Sigma engine family, it was designed for compact, fuel-efficient applications in entry-level vehicles. Featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and 8-valve configuration, it delivered 60 kW (82 PS) and 118 Nm of torque, providing adequate performance for urban commuting and light-duty use.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Fiesta (Mark VI), the G1 engine was engineered for cost-effective ownership and ease of servicing. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), a three-way catalytic converter (TWC), and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 4 compliance across its production run. Its design prioritised reliability under high-mileage, stop-start conditions typical of city driving.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which in rare cases led to belt slippage and valve train damage. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 08B04, is attributed to early tensioner spring design limitations under prolonged thermal cycling. From 2008, revised tensioner assemblies with improved spring preload were introduced to enhance belt retention.
Production years 2005–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford G1 is a 1,388 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2005–2011). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver predictable throttle response and low running costs. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with serviceability for high-mileage applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,388 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 71.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (front-mounted, service interval 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-B (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides modest performance but excellent fuel economy and low maintenance costs. The timing belt requires replacement every 120,000 km or 6 years; failure to adhere to this interval increases risk of interference-type engine damage. Ford WSS-M2C913-B (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal valve train lubrication and thermal stability. The MPFI system is resistant to carbon buildup but benefits from periodic injector cleaning. Post-2008 models feature upgraded tensioner assemblies; pre-2008 engines should have the tensioner inspected during belt service.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-B (10W-40) specification (Ford SIB 08B04). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all G1 production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (RON 95 minimum).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D15420, D16103, SIB 08B04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford G1 was used across Ford's B2 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Mazda in early 2000s derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised exhaust routing in the B-MAX-and from 2008 received internal timing belt upgrades to address early tensioner wear, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS D15420). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.4L SOHC). Pre-2008 units have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2008 models use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 16-valve variants: G1 uses an 8-valve SOHC head with visible rocker cover and no variable valve timing. Service parts require production date verification—timing belt kits for pre-2008 engines are not interchangeable with later units due to revised tensioner design (Ford SIB 08B04).
The G1's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short journeys. Internal Ford quality reports from 2009 indicated a small but notable proportion of pre-2008 engines showing tensioner spring failure before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased misfire-related failures linked to valve timing drift. Frequent cold starts and delayed belt changes increase wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2006-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G1.
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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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