The Ford GLW is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It belongs to Ford's Duratec engine family and features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), and port fuel injection. In standard tune, it produces 110 kW (150 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, offering smooth and reliable performance for everyday driving applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus (Mk4) and Kuga (Mk3), the GLW was engineered for fuel efficiency, refinement, and long-term reliability. Emissions compliance is achieved via a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), closed-loop lambda control, and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 6d standards across its production run.
One documented concern is intake manifold port fouling due to oil carry-over from the crankcase ventilation system. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Action 21S10, arises from carbon buildup on intake valves under frequent short-trip driving. From 2022, revised PCV system calibration and updated intake port coatings were introduced to reduce deposit formation.

All GLW engines comply with full Euro 6d (WLTP/RDE) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Ford GLW is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for mainstream applications (2021–2023). It combines port fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances refinement with durability for high-mileage use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (up to 4 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (WLTP/RDE) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent PCV system clogging and intake valve deposits. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of timing components. Short-trip driving increases GPF loading, necessitating periodic highway runs to trigger regeneration. The absence of direct injection reduces carbon buildup on intake valves compared to GDI engines, though oil carry-over from the PCV system can still cause fouling. Post-2022 models feature revised PCV calibration; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 21S10 if hesitation or rough idle is reported.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21S10). Replaces prior WSS-M2C913-C and ACEA C2.
Emissions: All GLW units comply with full Euro 6d (WLTP/RDE) standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901). No Euro 6d-TEMP variant exists.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained on regular unleaded (RON 95); premium fuel (RON 98) does not increase power.
Ford Technical Information Portal (TIP): Docs A35010, SIB 21S10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford GLW was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised torque mounts in the Focus and enhanced cooling in the Kuga-and from 2022 the facelifted Focus ST-Line adopted the GLW with updated intake manifold and revised PCV system, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the starter motor (Ford TIP A35010). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 2.0L naturally aspirated). All GLW engines have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: GLW lacks a turbocharger and intercooler, and features a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require build date verification - PCV valves before 07/2021 are incompatible with later units due to revised flow characteristics per Ford SIB 21S10.
The GLW's primary reliability risk is intake manifold port fouling, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2022 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 units required intake cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions failures linked to GPF saturation in stop-start conditions. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon buildup, making regular highway driving and timely servicing critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD GLW.
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