The Ford NSG is a 1,798 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2012. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout, 16‑valve architecture, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 92 kW (125 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, prioritising smooth operation and everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (Mk2), C-MAX, and S-MAX, the NSG was engineered for economical urban commuting and relaxed motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft followers (tappets), which can cause audible ticking and reduced valve lift. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 06S078, is often linked to infrequent oil changes or use of non‑specified viscosity grades. Ford later revised the tappet material and updated lubrication recommendations in 2009.
All production years (2006–2012) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/F2006).
The Ford NSG is a 1,798 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and MPV applications (2006–2012). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances urban efficiency with highway capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 74.5 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The NSG delivers smooth, linear power ideal for daily commuting but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 15,000 km or 12 months) to prevent cam follower wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is critical due to its anti-wear additives protecting tappets and cam lobes. Extended oil life or incorrect viscosity accelerates follower pitting. The engine is non-interference, reducing catastrophic failure risk if timing issues arise. Fuel system is tolerant of standard UK unleaded (95 RON), though 98 RON may improve refinement under load.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 06S078). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all NSG production years (2006–2012) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/F2006).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output consistent across all applications (Ford TIS Doc. ENG-NSG-01).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-NSG-01, FUE-NSG-03, TIM-NSG-04, SIB 06S078
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/F2006)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford NSG was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the S-MAX and revised intake manifolds in the Focus—and from 2008 the facelifted Focus Mk2.5 retained the same engine with minor ECU updates, maintaining full interchangeability. 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-NSG-01). The 7th VIN digit is 'G' for NSG-equipped vehicles. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with '1.8' embossed; no turbocharger or intercooler plumbing. Critical differentiation from Duratec HE 1.8: NSG uses coil-on-plug ignition and lacks variable cam timing. All NSG engines share identical external dimensions and mounting points across Focus, C-MAX, and S-MAX.
The NSG's primary reliability risk is cam follower wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Ford internal data (2008) indicated a notable subset of pre-2009 engines required tappet replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low failure rates for emissions or mechanical integrity. Extended oil change intervals and incorrect viscosity make proper lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2006–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NSG.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
