The Ford NSF is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), delivering outputs between 88–103 kW (120–140 PS) and torque from 153–159 Nm. Its compact architecture and lightweight aluminium block made it ideal for Ford’s global B‑ and C‑segment platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta (Mk6/Mk7), Focus (Mk2 facelift), B‑Max, and EcoSport, the NSF was engineered for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through port fuel injection, Ti-VCT, and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 compliance initially and Euro 5 for later variants depending on market.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in early production units (2008–2011), highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin SSM 45321. This issue stems from inadequate piston ring tension and oil control lands, leading to increased blow‑by and carbon buildup. From 2012 onward, Ford introduced revised pistons and rings to mitigate the problem.
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford NSF is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2008–2018). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with a lightweight aluminium block to deliver responsive low‑end torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 4 (early) and Euro 5 (later) standards, it balances economy with reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 88–103 kW (120–140 PS) | |
| Torque | 153–159 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point port injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2008–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC with Ti-VCT | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C945-A (SAE 5W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The Ti-VCT system provides smooth low-RPM response but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent sludge and cam phaser wear. Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20) oil is critical due to its low viscosity and additive package optimized for piston ring sealing. Early engines (pre-2012) are prone to oil consumption—monitor dipstick levels monthly. Use only EN 228-compliant unleaded petrol with max 10% ethanol. Post-2012 models feature revised pistons; verify engine build date before assuming oil consumption risk.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20) specification (Ford SSM 45321). Not interchangeable with generic ACEA A5/B5 oils.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2008–2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 applies to 2011–2018 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Higher output (103 kW) requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. ENG-NSF-03).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-NSF-01, ENG-NSF-03, SSM 45321
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford NSF was used across Ford's B‑platform and C‑platform vehicles with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Fiesta Mk7 and modified accessory brackets in the EcoSport—and from 2012 the facelifted Focus Mk2.5 adopted updated engine mounts and emissions hardware, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS ENG-NSF-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('6' for 1.6L). Early NSF engines (2008–2011) have silver cam covers with '1.6' cast into the plastic; post-2012 units use black cam covers with 'Ti-VCT' branding. Critical differentiation from Sigma engines: NSF uses a chain-driven DOHC with integrated cam phasers, whereas Sigma uses belt-driven DOHC. Service parts for pre-2012 pistons are incompatible with post-2012 revisions due to ring land geometry changes (Ford SSM 45321).
The NSF's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in early builds (2008–2011), with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate use. Ford internal data from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines consuming >0.5 L/1,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased crankcase ventilation (PCV) failures linked to sludge buildup in neglected service histories. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase ring coking, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NSF.
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
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VCA Certification Portal
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