The Ford L1W is a 1,596 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It forms part of the Ford Dragon family, designed for compact and subcompact applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), and multi-point fuel injection, it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, balancing responsiveness with fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus (Mk3), C-Max, and EcoSport, the L1W was engineered for urban and mixed driving with a focus on low-end torque and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Ford Service Action 15B06. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication to the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2015, revised oil pump and tensioner components were introduced to improve oil flow and reduce wear.
Production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford L1W is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2011–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and smooth refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is critical due to its shear stability and anti-wear additives protecting the chain tensioner. Short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. Post-2015 models feature revised oil pump and tensioner assemblies; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford Service Action 15B06. The three-way catalytic converter requires fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent poisoning and emissions failures.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford WSS-M2C913-D). Meets ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228 (Ford WSM Doc. 307-01-01).
Ford Workshop Manual (WSM): Docs 307-01-01, 307-02-01, 307-03-01, Service Action 15B06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Ford L1W was used across Ford's C1 and B3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the EcoSport and revised engine mounts in the Focus-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus Mk3.5 adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating 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 exhaust manifold (Ford WSM 307-01-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for L1W series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Duratec: L1W uses Ti-VCT on both intake and exhaust cams, while older Duratec variants use intake-only VCT. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to oil pump redesign (Ford Service Action 15B06).
The L1W's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring chain inspection before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage units. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD L1W.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
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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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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