The Ford NR2 is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2010. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder with sequential electronic fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 85-100 kW (115-136 PS) with torque figures between 150-160 Nm. The variable intake manifold system enabled strong mid-range torque for responsive driving characteristics.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk2 and C-MAX, the NR2 was engineered for balanced performance and efficiency in compact and mid-size vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and advanced catalyst systems, 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 197/2007, 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 2004–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2010 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/FORD/NR2567).
The Ford NR2 is a 1,596 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2004-2010). It combines DOHC technology with sequential electronic fuel injection to deliver responsive 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 | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85-100 kW (115-136 PS) | |
| Torque | 150-160 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2009); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Timing system | Chain (with tensioner) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The DOHC design provides responsive power delivery ideal for mixed driving conditions 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-D (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the chain system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce stress on timing components. The sequential fuel injection system requires regular air filter and spark plug replacement to maintain optimal combustion and prevent misfires. Post-2008 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2008 units should have the tensioner upgraded per Ford SIB 197/2007.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford ETIS Doc. FES-NR2-005). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2009 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/NR2567). Some 2009-2010 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 100 kW output requires 95 RON fuel quality (Ford ETIS Doc. FES-NR2-003).
Ford ETIS (Electronic Technical Information System): Docs FES-NR2-001 through FES-NR2-005, SIB 197/2007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/FORD/NR2567)
UNECE Regulation 85: Engine Power Certification
The Ford NR2 was used across Ford's C1 and C2 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the C-MAX and revised intake systems in the Focus-and from 2008 the facelifted Focus 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-NR2-009). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for NR2 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 NR2 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 197/2007).
The NR2's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford data from 2009 reported a notable share of pre-2008 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 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 (2007-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NR2.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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