The Ford N3A is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for optimized valve control. Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, it offers linear power delivery and smooth operation ideal for mainstream family vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Mondeo Mk5 and S-MAX, the N3A engine was engineered for refinement and durability in mid-size applications. It meets Euro 6b emissions standards through precise air-fuel metering and a close-coupled catalytic converter, with no gasoline particulate filter (GPF) required. The engine’s naturally aspirated design supports predictable throttle response and reduced maintenance complexity compared to turbocharged units.
One documented concern is premature camshaft phaser wear, noted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 17M11. This issue is linked to delayed oil changes and use of non-specification lubricants, leading to reduced oil flow to the phaser mechanism. From mid-2016, revised phaser designs and updated oil pump profiles were introduced to improve hydraulic actuator reliability.
All production units comply with Euro 6b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4322).
The Ford N3A is a 1,999 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size applications (2015–2018). It combines MPFI with Ti-VCT and DOHC valvetrain architecture to deliver reliable, refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it emphasizes durability and serviceability over performance, targeting fleet and family buyers.
| 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 | Bosch ME7.9.10 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| 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-20) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-4 provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising and family use but requires adherence to 20,000 km oil service intervals to prevent camshaft phaser wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) oil is essential due to its low viscosity and protection of the high-pressure cam phasers. Avoid prolonged high-RPM operation and use only premium unleaded (RON 95+) to prevent intake valve deposits. The absence of turbocharger or GPF reduces maintenance complexity, but spark plug and EGR service remains critical for emissions compliance. Post-2016 models feature improved phaser design; pre-2016 units benefit from the updated phaser upgrade per Ford SIB 17 09 06. MPFI system is tolerant of lower fuel grades; minimum RON 91 is acceptable for standard operation.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-20) specification (Ford SIB 17 09 06). Optimized for fuel economy and cold-start performance.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 6b standards across entire production run (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4322). No GPF required.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output achieved at 6,500 rpm with standard calibration.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F19200, SIB 17 09 06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4322)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford N3A was used across Ford's C523 platform with transverse mounting and no hybrid integration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised accessory drive in the S-MAX and enhanced cooling in the Mondeo-and from mid-2016 the facelifted Mondeo models adopted the N3A-II variant with updated cam phaser profiles, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the cylinder head (Ford TIS F19300). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for N3A series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2016 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from N3A-II: Original N3A uses Bosch MD1CS019 ECU with 68-pin connector, while N3A-II uses MD1CS023 with 76-pin. Service parts require production date verification - cam phasers for engines before 08/2016 are incompatible with later units due to internal vane design changes (Ford SIB 17 09 06).
The N3A's primary reliability risk is cam phaser wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring phaser replacement beyond 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to aging EGR components in city-driven vehicles. Prolonged idling and delayed oil changes increase hydraulic actuator stress, making oil interval adherence and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD N3A.
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.
