The Ford LE is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an aluminium block and head for reduced weight. In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) with peak torque of 188 Nm, positioned as a mid-range powertrain for compact and family-oriented applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus (MK3), C-MAX, and Mondeo (MK4), the LE was engineered for balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Its design emphasizes smooth power delivery and emissions compliance through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. With a focus on durability and serviceability, it served as a core naturally aspirated engine in Ford’s European lineup during its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 15S07. This issue arises from inadequate hydraulic pressure regulation in early tensioner assemblies, particularly under sustained high-load conditions. From 2016, Ford introduced a revised tensioner with improved oil flow dynamics and updated ECU calibration to reduce thermal stress, enhancing long-term reliability in later production units.
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models comply with Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Ford LE is a 1,999 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size models (2013–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances everyday drivability with emissions compliance.
| 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 | 188 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME7.9.11 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2016); Euro 6b (2016–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (service interval: 150,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 116 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 150,000 km or 10-year timing chain inspection intervals to prevent interference engine damage. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) oil is essential due to its low viscosity formulation protecting the Ti-VCT actuators and reducing internal friction. Extended idling and short trips accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves and MAF sensor. The Bosch ME7.9.11 system requires minimum 95 RON petrol to maintain injector cleanliness. Post-2016 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15S07. Three-way catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent warm-up cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 15 06 09). Compatible with ACEA A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2016 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). 2016–2018 units meet Euro 6b with enhanced on-board diagnostics.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B17011).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B17260, SIB 15S07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LE was used across Ford's C2/C520 platforms with transverse mounting and shared design elements with Mazda for global compact applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised exhaust routing in the Mondeo-and from 2016 the facelifted C-MAX adopted the LE with enhanced ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B17310). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 1.6L Sigma). Pre-2016 models have black intake manifolds with silver valve covers; post-2016 variants use all-black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbo variants: LE lacks turbocharger and uses port injection; EcoBoost versions feature turbo and direct injection. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners before 03/2016 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 15S07).
The LE's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring tensioner service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in frequently cold-driven vehicles. Short warm-up cycles and infrequent servicing increase chain and sensor stress, making interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
