The Ford N5B is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), multi-point fuel injection, and an aluminium block and head. In standard tune, it delivers 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery ideal for urban and light-duty applications.
Fitted to models including the Fiesta (Mk7), Focus (Mk3), and C-Max, the N5B engine was engineered for fuel efficiency and low maintenance in compact Ford vehicles. Its driving character emphasizes smoothness and reliability over performance, with sufficient torque for city driving and moderate highway use. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and adaptive lambda control, allowing Euro 6b compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature intake camshaft wear, highlighted in Ford Service Action 16S04. This issue arises from inadequate oil flow to the camshaft lobes under sustained low-RPM operation, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short trips. From 2016, Ford revised the camshaft oil feed design and updated calibration to mitigate the issue.
All production years 2014–2018 meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford N5B is a 1,596 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2014–2018). It combines Ti-VCT with multi-point injection to deliver smooth power delivery and strong low-end responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 6b emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel efficiency in non-turbocharged applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| 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 | Bosch ME7.9.10 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Camshaft drive | Timing chain (single-row) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The N5B's naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent camshaft wear and timing chain stretch. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives protecting the cam lobes. Extended low-RPM operation and short trips increase stress on the intake camshaft. Using fuel meeting Ford's FS-75 specification helps maintain injector cleanliness. Post-2016 models feature revised oil feed passages; earlier units should be inspected per Ford Service Action 16S04. The compact bore and stroke enhance fuel efficiency but limit high-load performance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 16S04). Meets Ford's mid-SAPS requirements for camshaft protection.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all 2014–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE Regulation 83. Output requires 95 RON fuel; 98 RON may improve high-RPM performance (Ford TIS Doc. WSD-N5B-2014).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs WSD-N5B-2014, SIB 16S04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
UN ECE Regulation 83: Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to the emission of pollutants.
The Ford N5B was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised torque mounts in the Focus and enhanced cooling in the C-Max-and from 2016 the facelifted Fiesta models adopted updated engine calibration, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS WSD-N5B-2014). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for N5B series). Pre-2016 models have black valve covers with silver Ford lettering; post-2016 units retain similar appearance but feature revised ECU calibration. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: N5B engines lack a turbocharger and intercooler, with a simpler intake manifold. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts before 04/2016 are subject to Service Action 16S04 and should be upgraded.
The N5B's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip driving. Ford internal field reports from 2018 indicated a significant number of pre-2016 units required camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in high-mileage examples. Frequent cold starts and low operating temperatures exacerbate wear, making oil quality and driving pattern awareness critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD N5B.
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)
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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
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