The Ford LAT is a 2,499 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Cyclone engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 129 kW (175 PS) with peak torque of 240 Nm available from 4,000 rpm, providing linear power delivery suitable for mid-size SUVs and commercial applications.
Fitted to models such as the Transit Custom, Ranger, and Everest, the LAT was engineered for durability in mixed-use environments, balancing fuel efficiency with load-carrying capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control, enabling Euro 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature timing chain tensioner wear under high-load operation, noted in Ford Service Action 14S10. This issue arises from oil flow restriction to the tensioner rail during sustained high-RPM use. From 2015, Ford revised the oil gallery design and updated the tensioner assembly, improving hydraulic stability and reducing failure incidence in later units.
All production years (2012–2018) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford LAT is a 2,499 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for light commercial and off-road applications (2012–2018). It combines variable cam timing with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth throttle response and consistent mid-range power. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical durability and serviceability in rugged operating conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 102.0 mm | |
| Power output | 129 kW (175 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, rear-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for towing and load-carrying but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) oil is essential due to its low-viscosity formulation ensuring proper tensioner rail flow. High-load operation increases thermal stress on the cylinder head, necessitating regular coolant inspections. The sequential fuel injection system is tolerant of lower-octane fuel but operates more efficiently with RON 95. Post-2015 models feature revised oil gallery design; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14S10. Catalytic converter longevity depends on complete warm-up cycles, particularly in short-trip applications.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 14S10). Replaces ACEA A5/B5 in Ford applications.
Emissions: All LAT engines (2012–2018) comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained with RON 91 fuel; RON 95 recommended for optimal throttle response (Ford TIS Doc. C22800).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C22100, C22501, SIB 14S10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LAT was used across Ford's UC and T6 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-heavier-duty cooling in the Ranger and revised intake tuning in the Transit Custom-and from 2015 the updated Everest adopted the revised oil gallery and tensioner assembly, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS C22100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for LAT series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from 2.3L Cyclone: LAT features longer stroke, different intake plenum, and rear-mounted timing chain. Service parts require production date verification - tensioner assemblies for engines before 04/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal oil gallery redesign (Ford SIB 14S10).
The LAT's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-load commercial use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 indicated a notable share of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in short-trip driven vehicles. Frequent towing and high-RPM operation increase thermal stress, making oil quality and change interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2019). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LAT.
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)
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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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