The Ford KL 13 H is a 1,388 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It belongs to Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). Delivering 60 kW (82 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 115 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, it was engineered for lightweight urban vehicles with strong fuel efficiency and low emissions.
Fitted to the Ford Fiesta Mk6 (B250) and Ka (T250), the KL 13 H was designed for city driving and cost-effective ownership. It meets Euro 4 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control. Its compact dimensions and low weight made it ideal for subcompact applications, with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout.
One documented service concern involves throttle body carbon buildup, particularly in high-mileage urban-driven units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 10S02, can lead to idle instability and reduced throttle response. From 2010 onward, revised maintenance intervals and improved ECU adaptations were introduced to mitigate airflow inconsistencies.
Production years 2008–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Ford KL 13 H is a 1,388 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for subcompact vehicles (2008–2012). It combines DOHC valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive city driving performance and excellent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances simplicity, durability, and emissions compliance for urban applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,388 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.9 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (Directive 98/69/EC) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for urban commuting but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C913-B (5W-30) oil is recommended due to its compatibility with the chain-driven system. Extended idling and short trips can accelerate carbon buildup on throttle bodies and intake ports. The electronic throttle control (Drive-by-Wire) requires periodic adaptation resets after battery disconnection or cleaning. From 2010, updated ECU calibrations improved idle stability under accessory load.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 10S02). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2008–2012 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). No Euro 5 variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. D16200).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D16200, D16210, SIB 10S02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
European Commission: Directive 98/69/EC on emissions
The Ford KL 13 H was used across Ford's B250/T250 platforms with transverse mounting and optimized for lightweight urban applications. This engine received platform-specific tuning—higher idle stability in the Fiesta and reduced accessory load in the Ka—and from 2010 the facelifted Fiesta Mk6 adopted revised ECU mappings, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head (Ford TIS D16205). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('1' for 1.4L Sigma series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.25L Sigma: KL 13 H has larger intake manifold and distinct exhaust manifold casting. Service parts require model-year verification—throttle bodies before 03/2010 are not interchangeable with later ECU-matched units per Ford SIB 10S02.
The KL 13 H's primary reliability risk is throttle body carbon buildup on high-mileage units, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Ford's internal field reports from 2011 indicated a measurable share of pre-2010 engines exhibiting idle instability before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased electronic throttle faults in city-driven vehicles. Short trips and infrequent servicing accelerate deposit accumulation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2013). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD KL-13-H.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
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.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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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VCA Certification Portal
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