The Ford KL is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved efficiency. Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, it provides responsive urban performance with smooth mid-range delivery.
Fitted to models such as the Focus Mk3 (C346), EcoSport, and B-MAX, the KL was engineered for cost-effective ownership and everyday reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and EGR system, enabling Euro 6.1 compliance across all production years. Its design prioritises low maintenance costs and cold-start cleanliness.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in Ford Service Action 16S09. This issue affects early-build units (2015–2016) and is linked to oil flow restriction under prolonged low-RPM operation. From 2017, Ford introduced an updated tensioner design and revised oil pump calibration to mitigate the risk.
Ford
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6.1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Ford KL is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2015–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with multi-point fuel injection to deliver balanced urban responsiveness and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.1 emissions standards, it supports low-cost ownership with simplified service intervals.
| 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 | 190 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.1 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design ensures predictable throttle response but requires regular oil changes to protect the front-mounted timing chain system. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives for the tensioner mechanism. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The MPFI system is less sensitive to fuel quality than GDI but still benefits from detergent-rich petrol. Post-2017 models feature revised tensioner geometry; pre-2017 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 16S09. Emissions systems require full operating temperature for optimal function, so long warm-up cycles should be avoided.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 16S09). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6.1 certification applies to all KL models (2015–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. A17450).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A17450, SIB 16S09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford KL was used across Ford's C346/M286 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Volvo under engine co-development agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the B-MAX and revised exhaust routing in the Focus-and from 2017 the facelifted Focus ST-Line adopted the KL with recalibrated throttle response, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Volvo's B4194S petrol units to share valve train components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS A17450). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for KL series). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2017 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from KL GDI: Original KL MPFI has Delphi fuel injectors with grey connectors, while GDI variants use black Bosch units. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 05/2016 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 16S09).
The KL's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in city driving with frequent short trips. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2017 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR clogging in urban-driven vehicles. Low-speed operation and extended idling increase tensioner and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD KL.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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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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