The Ford IQDC is a 1,498 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It forms part of Ford's Dragon engine family, designed for compact and subcompact applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 145 Nm of torque, offering balanced performance and efficiency for urban driving.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta (Mk7), B-MAX, and EcoSport, the IQDC was engineered for cost-effective ownership, everyday drivability, and low emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 5 compliance across all production years. The engine’s design prioritises simplicity and serviceability, making it suitable for high-mileage use in fleet and private applications.
One documented concern is premature carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in stop-start urban driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 17B06, arises due to the absence of direct fuel injection, which limits fuel wash over the back of intake valves. Ford recommends periodic induction cleaning and use of Top Tier detergent fuel to mitigate deposit accumulation and maintain idle stability.
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford IQDC is a 1,498 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2015–2020). It combines multi-point fuel injection with twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver smooth low-end response and efficient fuel use. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances affordability with durability in urban and mixed driving environments.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.5 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, non-interference) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires regular induction service to prevent intake valve carbon buildup. Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) oil is essential for maintaining hydraulic lash adjuster function and reducing valvetrain wear. Fuel quality is critical—use of low-detergent petrol accelerates deposit formation, leading to rough idle and reduced efficiency. The non-interference timing chain design reduces risk of major engine damage if maintenance is delayed, though chain stretch beyond 150,000 km may require replacement. Service intervals should be strictly followed to ensure long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 17B06). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 and API SN standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all IQDC models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. D15670).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D15670, SIB 17B06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power of internal combustion engines
The Ford IQDC was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover entry-level petrol units in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the B-MAX and revised ECU tuning in the EcoSport-and from 2018 the facelifted Fiesta ST-Line models adopted minor throttle response revisions, 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 exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D15890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 1.5L Ti-VCT). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost: IQDC lacks turbocharger and intercooler plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for B-MAX are not interchangeable with Fiesta due to routing differences (Ford SIB 18 05 12).
The IQDC's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Ford internal field reports from 2018 indicated a significant number of 2015–2017 models requiring induction service before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lean-running conditions caused by restricted airflow. Short-trip operation and low-detergent fuel increase deposit formation, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD IQDC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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