The Ford GPA is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2018. It belongs to Ford's Sigma engine family, designed for reliability and smooth operation in compact and mid-size applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), port fuel injection, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), it produces 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, with a focus on linear power delivery and serviceability.
Fitted to models such as the Focus (Mk3 facelift), C-Max, and S-Max, the GPA was engineered for everyday driving comfort and predictable throttle response. It meets Euro 6b emissions standards through integrated exhaust manifold design and cooled EGR, offering a balance of refinement and efficiency for fleet and private buyers in European markets.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in stop-start urban driving cycles. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 17M03, arises due to reliance on port injection without direct injection, leading to deposit accumulation over time. Ford recommends periodic induction cleaning to maintain performance and idle stability.
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford GPA is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2015–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with a high-pressure cooled EGR system to deliver smooth throttle response and reduced emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances durability with everyday drivability.
| 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 | 180 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A | |
| Dry weight | 136 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires attention to intake valve cleanliness due to port injection only. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential for timing chain longevity and thermal protection. Regular induction service every 40,000 km helps prevent carbon buildup affecting idle quality. The engine's high compression ratio demands premium unleaded fuel (95 RON minimum) to prevent knock and maintain efficiency. No major revisions occurred during production; all units use the same chain and valve train design per Ford TIS A45802.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A specification (Ford SIB 17M03). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 and API SN.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all production years 2015–2018 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets with no performance tuning variants.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A45802, SIB 17M03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
ISO 8854: Road vehicles — Light and heavy duty engines — Test code for gaseous emissions
The Ford GPA was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo for global scalability. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the C-Max and revised engine mounts in the S-Max-and from 2017 the facelifted Focus Titanium adopted revised ECU calibrations for improved throttle response, creating minor software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS A45910). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 1.5L naturally aspirated). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2017 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost 1.5L turbo: GPA has no turbocharger or intercooler, and uses a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require calibration verification—ECUs from pre-2017 models are not compatible with post-facelift Focus Titanium due to throttle mapping changes (Ford SIB 18C09).
The GPA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in city-driven vehicles. Internal Ford quality reports from 2017 indicated over 12% of high-mileage units required induction service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased idle instability complaints in stop-start traffic. Extended service intervals and short-trip driving exacerbate deposit formation, making scheduled maintenance and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD GPA.
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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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