The Ford N48H is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. Part of Ford's Duratec Ti-VCT engine family, it was designed for durability and efficiency in medium-duty applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT), it delivers smooth power delivery across the rev range with reduced emissions and improved combustion efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Mondeo (2016–2021), S-Max, and Galaxy, the N48H was engineered for long-distance comfort and fleet reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and integrated exhaust manifold, enabling Euro 6 compliance across its production run (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in high-idle or commercial use cycles. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 17S12, is attributed to oil flow restrictions during cold starts. A revised tensioner and updated oil specification were introduced in mid-2018 to improve long-term reliability.
All production years (2016–2021) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford N48H is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size and large passenger vehicles (2016–2021). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with port fuel injection to deliver consistent performance and durability. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it supports high-mileage operation with predictable maintenance intervals.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103–107 kW (140–145 PS) | |
| Torque | 188–190 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-E (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 136 kg |
The N48H delivers steady mid-range power ideal for highway cruising and family use, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-E (5W-30) oil is essential due to its enhanced anti-wear additives protecting the chain tensioner system. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. The Ti-VCT system relies on consistent oil pressure; clogged passages can cause rough idle and fault codes. Post-2018 models benefit from an upgraded tensioner; pre-2018 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 17S12. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-E (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 17S12). ACEA A5/B5 compatible but OEM spec is mandatory.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 107 kW output requires 98 RON fuel in high-load conditions (Ford TIS Doc. ENG-1792).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-1790, ENG-1791, TIM-2265, SIB 17S12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Ford N48H was used across Ford's C520 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo for large vehicle applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the S-Max and revised exhaust routing in the Galaxy-and from 2018 the facelifted Mondeo adopted the updated N48H variant with improved ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Ford TIS ENG-1790). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for N48H series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbo variants: N48H lacks turbocharger and intercooler, with simpler intake plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification—timing tensioners for pre-2018 models differ from post-2018 revisions due to internal updates (Ford SIB 17S12).
The N48H's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-idle or stop-start urban environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 2018 indicated a notable percentage of pre-2018 engines required tensioner replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures linked to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage units. Extended oil intervals and low-RON fuel exacerbate wear and combustion inefficiency, making oil quality and timely servicing critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2016-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD N48H.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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