The Ford NGC is a 1,396 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2012. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder with multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 55-59 kW (75-80 PS) with torque figures between 123-128 Nm. The variable valve timing system enabled strong low-end torque for urban driving efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta Mk6 and Fusion, the NGC was engineered for economy and reliability in compact vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and advanced engine management, allowing most units to meet Euro 4 standards, with certain later builds achieving Euro 5 depending on market.
One documented concern is timing chain tensioner failure, which in severe cases can lead to chain noise and potential engine damage. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 184/2005, is often linked to inadequate oil maintenance. In 2008, Ford introduced minor revisions before transitioning to the newer Ti-VCT engine family, which featured improved timing components.
Production years 2002–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2012 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/FORD/NGC1234).
The Ford NGC is a 1,396 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact vehicles (2002-2012). It combines DOHC technology with multi-point fuel injection to deliver efficient power and torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,396 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55-59 kW (75-80 PS) | |
| Torque | 123-128 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2009); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Timing system | Chain (with tensioner) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The DOHC design provides efficient power delivery ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km or annual oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner failure and premature wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the chain system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce stress on the timing components. The multi-point injection system requires regular air filter replacement to maintain optimal fuel atomization and prevent carbon buildup. Post-2008 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2008 units should have the tensioner upgraded per Ford SIB 184/2005.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford ETIS Doc. FES-NGC-005). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2009 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/NGC1234). Some 2009-2012 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 59 kW output requires 95 RON fuel quality (Ford ETIS Doc. FES-NGC-003).
Ford ETIS (Electronic Technical Information System): Docs FES-NGC-001 through FES-NGC-005, SIB 184/2005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/FORD/NGC1234)
UNECE Regulation 85: Engine Power Certification
The Ford NGC was used across Ford's B2 and B3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Fusion and revised intake systems in the Fiesta-and from 2008 the facelifted Fiesta models adopted revised engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the engine block near the thermostat housing (Ford ETIS FES-NGC-009). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for NGC series). Pre-2008 models have black plastic rocker covers with Ford logo; post-2008 units use silver rocker covers. Critical differentiation from later Ti-VCT engines: Original NGC has a mechanical throttle cable, while Ti-VCT uses electronic throttle control. Service parts require production date verification - timing components for engines before 09/2008 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 184/2005).
The NGC's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford data from 2007 reported a notable share of pre-2008 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to oxygen sensor degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Cold-start cycles and infrequent oil changes increase component stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NGC.
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)
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
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