The Ford LUG is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. Designed for compact and subcompact applications, it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance and fuel efficiency for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta (Mk7), Ford Focus (Mk2.5), and Ford C-MAX, the LUG engine was engineered for everyday drivability and low running costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds and closed-loop three-way catalytic converters, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run. Its lightweight design supports responsive handling and improved fuel economy.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 13B06, is associated with inadequate oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2012, revised tensioner and guide components were implemented to enhance durability and reduce failure incidence.
All production years 2009–2014 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford LUG is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2009–2014). It combines DOHC architecture with multi-port fuel injection to deliver smooth throttle response and reliable daily performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances fuel economy with urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-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 | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (rear-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the rear-mounted chain system. Cold-start idling should be limited to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The engine requires regular air filter maintenance to preserve fuel efficiency and throttle response. Post-2012 models feature updated tensioner and guide rails; pre-2012 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 13B06. Catalytic converter integrity depends on correct air-fuel mixture management and use of unleaded petrol meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 13B06). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2009–2014) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. B18200).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18200, B18510, SIB 13B06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LUG was used across Ford's Mk7 Fiesta/Mk2.5 Focus platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the Focus-and from 2012 the facelifted C-MAX adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating minor interchange considerations. 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 B18210). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for LUG series). Pre-2012 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2012 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from Duratec HE: LUG engine uses Ti-VCT (twin independent cam timing) with separate phasers on intake and exhaust cams. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2012 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Ford SIB 13B06).
The LUG's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2013 noted a significant share of pre-2012 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalyst degradation in high-mileage units. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2011–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LUG.
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.
