The Ford LEC is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Part of the Ford Dragon family, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Ti-VCT variable valve timing, and multi-point fuel injection. It delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, offering balanced performance and refinement for everyday driving.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus (Mk4), Fiesta, and Puma, the LEC was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is potential intake manifold runner flap failure, highlighted in Ford Service Action 20B04. This issue stems from plastic fatigue in the flap linkage mechanism due to thermal cycling. From 2021, revised nylon-reinforced flaps and upgraded actuator arms were introduced to improve durability and reduce failure rates.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford LEC is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2018–2023). 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 6.2 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 | 180 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 130 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 and valve train wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is critical due to its shear stability and protection for variable valve timing components. Short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. Post-2021 models feature upgraded intake manifold flaps; pre-2021 units should be inspected per Ford Service Action 20B04. The three-way catalytic converter requires fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent poisoning and emissions failures.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford WSS-M2C949-A). Meets ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228 (Ford WSM Doc. 307-01-03).
Ford Workshop Manual (WSM): Docs 307-01-03, 307-02-03, 307-03-03, Service Action 20B04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Ford LEC was used across Ford's C2 and B3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the Focus-and from 2021 the facelifted Puma 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 307-01-03). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for LEC series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: LEC uses port injection and no turbocharger, while EcoBoost units use direct injection and forced induction. Service parts require production date verification - intake manifold flaps for engines before 04/2021 are incompatible with later units due to linkage redesign (Ford Service Action 20B04).
The LEC's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner flap failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 2022 indicated a significant share of pre-2021 engines requiring flap inspection before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor faults triggered by erratic airflow. Thermal cycling and extended service intervals increase flap and actuator stress, making timely inspection and correct oil usage critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LEC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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