The Ford G8DC is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2020. It was developed as a durable and service-friendly powertrain for Ford’s compact and mid-size vehicle platforms. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Ti-VCT variable cam timing, and multi-port fuel injection, it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 188 Nm of torque, offering responsive urban performance and smooth highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk3), C-MAX (Mk2), and Mondeo (Mk4), the G8DC was engineered for everyday driving efficiency and long-term reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 5 and later Euro 6b certification across its production run. The engine’s design prioritised serviceability, with simplified intake and ignition systems.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 15M02, is attributed to restricted oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2016, revised tensioner and guide components were introduced to improve durability and reduce field failures.
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2020 models meet Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford G8DC is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size passenger vehicles (2013–2020). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with sequential multi-port fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6b emissions standards, it serves as a reliable, service-friendly option for fleet and private users.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2013–2015); Euro 6b (2016–2020) | |
| 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-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-four provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but demands consistent oil maintenance to protect the timing chain system. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and flow characteristics under cold start. Extended idling or short-trip driving can accelerate tensioner wear. The three-way catalytic converter requires high-quality unleaded petrol (RON 95 minimum) to prevent catalyst degradation. Post-2016 models feature upgraded tensioner and guide rails; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15M02. Lambda sensor health is critical for maintaining emissions compliance and fuel trim accuracy.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15M02). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2013–2015 models; Euro 6b applies to 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly with ambient temperature and fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F15900).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F15790, F15210, SIB 15M02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford G8DC was used across Ford's Mk3 Focus/C-MAX and Mk4 Mondeo platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and enhanced torque mounts in the Mondeo-and from 2016 the facelifted models adopted revised timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F15910). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 1.6L inline-four). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation: Original G8DC has Denso ignition coils and round diagnostic port; post-2016 revisions use updated coil connectors. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 08/2016 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 15M02).
The G8DC's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 indicated a significant number of pre-2016 engines required tensioner replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in poorly maintained units. Cold-start cycles and short trips increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G8DC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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