The Ford LUA is a 1,596 cc, inline-three, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It was developed as part of Ford's Dragon family for compact and subcompact vehicles, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing). In standard tune, it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, balancing urban drivability with fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta (Mk7), Ford B-Max, and Ford EcoSport, the LUA engine was engineered for economical city driving and reliable daily use. Its design prioritises low maintenance costs and emissions compliance, meeting Euro 5 standards through precise fuel metering and exhaust tuning. The compact three-cylinder layout contributes to reduced engine bay packaging and improved cabin space.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 14B06, is linked to inadequate oil flow during cold starts and extended service intervals. In 2015, Ford issued revised tensioner components and updated oil change recommendations to mitigate risk.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford LUA is a 1,596 cc inline-three petrol engine engineered for subcompact and compact applications (2012–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards, it balances everyday usability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-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 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is essential due to its specific anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short-trip driving increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The MPI fuel system is less sensitive to fuel quality than direct injection but still benefits from EN 228-compliant petrol. Post-2015 models feature revised tensioner components; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14B06. Emissions systems require regular DTC checks to prevent non-compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 14B06). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. D18621).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D18470, D18621, SIB 14B06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LUA was used across Ford's B399 and B299 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo for global compact applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the B-Max and revised exhaust routing in the EcoSport-and from 2015 the updated Fiesta Mk7 models adopted Euro 6-compliant variants with revised ECU calibrations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS D18470). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for 1.6L Ti-VCT). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from direct-injection variants: LUA uses multi-point fuel injection with visible injector rails; direct-injection engines have high-pressure fuel lines and different intake manifolds. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 14B06).
The LUA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LUA.
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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