The Ford KL13L is a 1,298 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It belongs to Ford's "Valencia" engine family, designed for compact front-wheel-drive platforms. This naturally aspirated, SOHC 8-valve unit features a cast-iron block and aluminium cylinder head, delivering 40 kW (55 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 95 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, providing adequate performance for urban commuting.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Fiesta Mark III (MK3) and Ford Escort XR3 variants, the KL13L was engineered for fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs in entry-level applications. It utilises a carburetted fuel system (Weber 32/34 ICT) and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Emissions compliance was achieved through an air injection system and catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards in later production years.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear due to inadequate lubrication in high-mileage units, highlighted in Ford Service Action 91/44. The root cause was traced to oil passage blockage in early cylinder heads, which reduced flow to the camshaft bearings. In 1990, Ford revised the cylinder head casting (Part No. 1131250-KA) to improve oil feed geometry, significantly reducing failure incidence across European markets.
Production years 1990–1993 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford KL13L is a 1,298 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (1987–1993). It combines the proven Valencia architecture with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver economical urban performance. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances simplicity with everyday reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,298 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.9 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 40 kW (55 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 32/34 ICT carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1990–1993) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row) with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30, API SG | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The carburetted design provides predictable performance ideal for city driving but requires periodic adjustment and air filter maintenance to sustain fuel economy. SAE 10W-30 oil meeting API SG standards is recommended for optimal bearing protection. The revised cylinder head (post-1990) significantly reduces camshaft wear risk; pre-1990 units should be inspected for oil passage integrity. Carburettor cleaning every 60,000 km and exhaust system checks are advised to maintain emissions compliance. Cold-start performance may degrade if choke mechanism is not maintained.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30, API SG specification (Ford SIB 91/44). Compatible with ACEA A1.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to models from 1990 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (Ford TIS Doc. B29102).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B28765, B29102, SIB 91/44
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Test Code
The Ford KL13L was used across Ford's BD platform with transverse mounting and derived from the long-running Valencia engine family. This engine received model-specific tuning-and from 1990 the revised cylinder head casting (1131250-KA) improved oil flow to the camshaft, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-hand side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B28765). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for KL13L). Pre-1990 models have ribbed cast-iron valve covers; post-1990 units use smooth black valve covers. Critical differentiation from CVH engines: KL13L has chain-driven camshaft with hydraulic tensioner, while 1.3 CVH uses belt drive with manual adjuster. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder heads before 08/1990 are not compatible with later revisions due to oil passage redesign (Ford SIB 91/44).
The KL13L's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced engines. Internal Ford field reports from 1992 indicated over 12% of pre-1990 engines required camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable share of MOT failures involved oil leaks from degraded valve cover gaskets. Extended service intervals and poor oil quality increase wear risk, making proactive head inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1987-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD KL-13-L.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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