Engine Code

FORD G6DG engine (2011-2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford G6DG is a 1,596 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. Part of the Ford Sigma EcoBoost family, it features turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). Delivering 138 kW (188 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, it was engineered for responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency over naturally aspirated equivalents, particularly in urban and mixed driving conditions.

Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Kuga, and Mondeo, the G6DG was designed to deliver sporty driving dynamics while meeting Euro 5 emissions standards. It utilises a high-pressure Bosch HDEV5 fuel system and a Garrett GT1544V variable-vane turbocharger, with emissions control achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda monitoring.

One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Ford Service Action 14S06. Inadequate lubrication due to delayed servicing can accelerate guide and tensioner wear. From 2014, revised chain components were introduced to improve durability, reducing failure incidence in later production units.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

G6DG Technical Specifications

The Ford G6DG is a 1,596 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented compact and mid-size models (2011–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver strong low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulated efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,596 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke79.0 mm × 81.4 mm
Power output138 kW (188 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerGarrett GT1544V variable-vane turbo
Timing systemTiming chain (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20)
Dry weight125 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged G6DG delivers strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation supporting fuel economy and chain lubrication. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane petrol (95 RON minimum) to prevent knock and injector coking. Post-2014 models feature upgraded chain guides; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14S06. Turbocharger wastegate operation requires periodic verification to maintain boost consistency.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 14S06). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all G6DG production models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F16015).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F15680, F16230, SIB 14S06

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

G6DG Compatible Models

The Ford G6DG was used across Ford's C1/CD4 platforms with transverse mounting and remained exclusive to Ford. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus ST and revised cooling paths in the Mondeo-and from 2014 the facelifted Focus Mk3.5 adopted revised timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2011-2014
Models:
Focus ST (Mk3)
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Group PT-2015
Make:
Ford
Years:
2014-2018
Models:
Focus ST (Mk3.5)
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Group PT-2015
Make:
Ford
Years:
2012-2018
Models:
Kuga (Mk2)
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F15901
Make:
Ford
Years:
2011-2014
Models:
Mondeo (Mk4)
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F15901
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F15890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for 2.0L EcoBoost). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from later units: Original G6DG uses Bosch HDEV5 injectors with square electrical connectors, while post-2014 variants use trapezoidal connectors. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 09/2013 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Ford SIB 15 04 18).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. F15890

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F15890).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2014: Silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover
  • Post-2014: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 15 04 18

Flywheel:

Timing kits and flywheel assemblies for pre-2014 G6DG models are not compatible with post-facelift units due to revised chain tensioner design per OEM documentation.

Timing Components:

Timing components revised in 2014 Focus Mk3.5 models. Pre-2014 kits fit only pre-facelift engines.
Tensioner Upgrade

Issue:

Early G6DG engines experienced timing chain wear due to insufficient lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 14S06

Recommendation:

Install updated tensioner and guide rail per Ford SIB 14S06.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD G6DG

The G6DG's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring chain repair before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Timing chain wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at idle or light load (especially on cold start), cam/crank correlation faults, metallic debris in oil.
Cause: Front-mounted chain with early-design guides/tensioner susceptible to accelerated wear, exacerbated by cold-start lubrication demands and extended oil intervals.
Fix: Install the latest OEM-specified chain, guides, and tensioner per service bulletin; verify cam/crank timing and oil supply condition after repair. Severe cases may require cylinder-head or short-block work.
Turbocharger control faults (actuator/wastegate)
Symptoms: Loss of boost, limp-home under load, over/under-boost DTCs, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Wear or sticking in the turbo actuator mechanism; early return-spring/lever designs can bind under heat/soot exposure.
Fix: Replace or update the actuator/linked hardware per OEM procedure; confirm free movement and recalibrate boost control in diagnostics.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light.
Cause: Oil vapour and combustion byproducts accumulating on intake valves and swirl flaps due to direct injection design and PCV system operation.
Fix: Clean intake manifold and valves using OEM-approved procedures; renew PCV valve and hoses as required and perform adaptation resets.
Oil leaks from valve cover and gaskets
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at bellhousing/undertray, residue around valve cover and timing cover.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover and front timing cover gaskets/seals; crankcase ventilation ageing can raise case pressure.
Fix: Replace gaskets/seals with OEM parts and verify CCV function; maintain correct oil spec and intervals to minimise seepage over time.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD G6DG

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G6DG.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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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