The Ford NRA is a 999 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct injection, variable valve timing, and an integrated exhaust manifold, delivering exceptional efficiency and performance from a small displacement. The lightweight aluminium construction with plasma-sprayed cylinder liners provides durability while minimising weight.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST, Focus Titanium, and B-Max Titanium, the NRA was engineered for drivers seeking responsive performance with class-leading fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management and exhaust after-treatment systems, allowing most models to meet Euro 5 standards with selective catalytic reduction technology.
One documented concern is coolant loss due to degraded cylinder head seals, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-17-2115. This issue is attributed to thermal cycling causing seal hardening, requiring replacement with revised components. In 2016, Ford introduced improved sealing materials to mitigate this issue in later production models.
Production years 2012-2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016-2018 models achieve Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Ford NRA is a 999 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact models (2012-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with integrated exhaust manifold turbocharging to deliver strong low-RPM torque and exceptional efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5/6 standards, it balances performance with class-leading economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.9 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74-103 kW (100-140 PS) | |
| Torque | 170-200 Nm @ 1,400-4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 250 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2016); Euro 6 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides responsive low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup and turbo degradation. Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the direct injection system. Aggressive driving styles should be minimized during cold starts to reduce premature component wear. The direct injection system demands minimum 95 RON unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent pre-ignition and carbon deposits. Post-2016 models feature revised cylinder head seals; pre-2016 units should have cooling system inspected per Ford TSB 17-2115. The catalytic converter requires periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance and prevent check engine lights.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 17-2115). Supersedes ACEA C5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2016 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). Some 2016-2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires 98 RON fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F-2590).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F-2345, F-2389, F-2456, SIB 17-2115
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford NRA was used across Ford's B-platform and C-platform with transverse mounting and exclusive to Ford models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Focus and modified cooling systems in the Fiesta-and from 2016 the facelifted models adopted revised cylinder head seals, creating service variations. No licensing partnerships were established for this engine. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Ford TIS F-2390). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('A' for NRA series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2016 units use black valve covers with revised cooling lines. Critical differentiation from earlier engines: NRA has integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head while earlier 1.0 engines have external manifold. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder head seals for engines before 07/2016 are incompatible with later units due to revised materials (Ford TSB 17-2115).
The NRA's primary reliability risk is coolant loss from cylinder head seals, with elevated incidence in high-temperature operating conditions. Internal Ford data from 2017 reported a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring seal replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage examples. Frequent short trips and high-load operation increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NRA.
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
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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