The Ford NX is a 1,388 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2012. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and variable cam timing (iVCT), delivering outputs between 60–74 kW (82–100 PS) and torque from 124–128 Nm. Its compact design and lightweight cast‑iron block made it suitable for Ford’s global B‑segment vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta (Mk6), Fusion, and Streetka, the NX was engineered for urban efficiency, low emissions, and responsive low‑end performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through port fuel injection, iVCT, and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 compliance across its production lifespan.
One documented concern is premature wear of the iVCT solenoid leading to rough idle or hesitation, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin SSM 39872. This issue stems from oil contamination and solenoid coil degradation, particularly in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced units. From 2009 onward, Ford introduced updated solenoids with improved sealing.
All production years (2005–2012) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford NX is a 1,388 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2005–2012). It combines iVCT variable cam timing with a durable cast‑iron block to deliver responsive urban driving and efficient fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances economy with everyday reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,388 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.9 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 60–74 kW (82–100 PS) | |
| Torque | 124–128 Nm @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point port injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC with iVCT | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-A (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The iVCT system enhances low-RPM responsiveness but is sensitive to oil quality and change intervals. Ford WSS-M2C913-A (5W-30) oil must be used to prevent solenoid clogging and cam phaser wear. Extended oil intervals increase risk of iVCT faults—service every 15,000 km or annually. Use only EN 228-compliant unleaded petrol (max 10% ethanol). Post-2009 engines feature revised iVCT solenoids; verify build date before assuming fault risk. The cast-iron block offers durability but adds weight versus aluminium alternatives.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SSM 39872). Not interchangeable with generic ACEA A3/B4 oils.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all NX production years (2005–2012) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Higher output (74 kW) requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. ENG-NX-03).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-NX-01, ENG-NX-03, SSM 39872
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford NX was used across Ford's B‑platform vehicles with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Fiesta Mk6 and modified accessory brackets in the Streetka—and from 2009 the updated iVCT solenoid created 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-NX-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('4' for 1.4L). Early NX engines (2005–2008) have silver cam covers with '1.4' cast into the plastic; post-2009 units use black cam covers with 'iVCT' branding. Critical differentiation from Zetec-SE: NX uses chain-driven DOHC with iVCT, whereas Zetec-SE uses belt-driven DOHC without variable timing. Service parts for pre-2009 iVCT solenoids are incompatible with post-2009 revisions due to connector and sealing changes (Ford SSM 39872).
The NX's primary reliability risk is iVCT solenoid failure in early builds (2005–2008), with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected service histories. Ford internal data from 2010 indicated a notable share of pre-2009 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased idle instability linked to cam phaser faults in urban-driven vehicles. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase solenoid clogging, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2008–2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NX.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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