The Ford LUB is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2007. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with 16 valves and sequential multi-port fuel injection. Designed for refinement and reliability, it delivered 100 kW (136 PS) and 185 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance for everyday driving conditions.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus Mk2 (BK), C-MAX, and Galaxy, the LUB engine was engineered for smooth urban and motorway operation with a focus on driver comfort and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and integrated engine management, enabling Euro 3 compliance for early models and Euro 4 from 2005 onward depending on market specification.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain 2003–2005 production batches, highlighted in Ford Service Action 05B12. The issue was linked to lubrication flow restrictions in early camshaft journals. In response, Ford revised the camshaft oil feed design and updated assembly procedures in mid-2005, significantly improving long-term durability.
Production years 2001–2004 meet Euro 3 standards; 2005–2007 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford LUB is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and MPV platforms (2001–2007). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and responsive mid-range performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.8 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2005); Euro 4 (2005–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C205-A1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for city and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Ford WSS-M2C205-A1 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain camshaft journal lubrication and prevent premature wear. Extended idling or short-trip driving may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. Post-2005 models benefit from revised camshaft oil feeds; pre-2005 units should be inspected for wear signs. The three-way catalytic converter requires unleaded petrol meeting EN 228 standards to avoid poisoning and emissions failures.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C205-A1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 05B12). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2005 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 compliance from 2005 onward varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants produced.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-LUB-001, ENG-LUB-002, SIB 05B12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Ford LUB was used across Ford's B3/CDW27 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Mazda for global applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and enhanced NVH damping in the Galaxy-and from 2005 the updated C-MAX facelift adopted revised engine mounts and ECU tuning, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Mazda's 2.0L MZR units to share core architecture. 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 TIS ENG-LUB-008). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LUB series). Pre-2005 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2005 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Zetec-SE: LUB engine uses a cast aluminium intake manifold with integrated runners, while Zetec-SE uses plastic. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-2005 models are incompatible with post-2005 revised tensioner design (Ford SIB 05B12).
The LUB's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on pre-2005 builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2006 indicated a significant number of early engines requiring camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a notable rise in emissions failures linked to misfire and catalyst efficiency in affected units. Frequent cold starts and extended idling exacerbate oil starvation at the cam journals, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2004-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LUB.
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.
