The Ford LAD is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to the Ford Sigma engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved efficiency and responsiveness. In standard tune, it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 188 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance for everyday driving conditions.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus Mk4 (2018–2023), Puma, and EcoSport, the LAD engine was engineered for fuel economy and driver comfort in compact and subcompact vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter and precise air-fuel ratio control, allowing it to meet Euro 6d-Final standards throughout its production run. Its design prioritised durability under mixed driving conditions and compatibility with start-stop systems.
One documented concern involves intermittent misfires linked to ignition coil degradation, particularly in high-heat environments such as engine bays with restricted airflow. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S03, can trigger fault codes P0351–P0354 and lead to catalytic converter overheating. From 2020 onward, Ford introduced revised coil pack materials and updated ECU calibration to reduce thermal stress and improve spark consistency.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-Final emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford LAD is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2018–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with port fuel injection to deliver responsive mid-range torque and smooth operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final standards, it balances fuel economy with everyday drivability in front-wheel-drive platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| 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 | 188 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Final | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, single-row) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The LAD's Ti-VCT system enhances throttle response and fuel efficiency but requires consistent oil pressure and timely changes to prevent cam phaser wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil must be used every 15,000–20,000 km to maintain chain and phaser lubrication. Extended idling or short trips can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. Early models (pre-2020) should be inspected for ignition coil degradation per Ford SIB 19S03; updated coils are available. The three-way catalytic converter is sensitive to misfires—prompt diagnosis of ignition faults is essential to prevent costly damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S03). Compatible with ACEA A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Final certification applies to all production years (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes 95 RON fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. A42601).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A42150, A42477, SIB 19S03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LAD was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover Discovery Sport (early units). This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds in the EcoSport and revised ECU tuning in the Focus—and from 2020 the facelifted Focus Mk4.5 adopted updated ignition coils and cam phasers, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS A42200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for 1.5L Ti-VCT). Pre-2020 units have silver valve covers with '1.5L' embossed; post-2020 models use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged Sigma engines: LAD has no intercooler or boost piping. Service parts require build date verification—ignition coils for engines before 04/2020 are incompatible with post-update units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 19S03).
The LAD's primary reliability risk is ignition coil degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a measurable number of pre-2020 engines required coil replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to undiagnosed misfires. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase thermal stress on ignition components, making timely inspection and part updates critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LAD.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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