The Ford PRE is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features port fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16‑valve configuration. In standard tune it delivers 92 kW (125 PS) and 159 Nm of torque, optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth urban driving.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta, B-MAX, and EcoSport, the PRE was engineered for entry-level performance with low emissions and maintenance costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise lambda control and exhaust catalyst tuning, enabling Euro 5 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes in high-mileage units, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 14‑2103. This issue stems from marginal lubrication under sustained high-RPM operation and was addressed in late‑2015 builds with revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil specifications.
All production years (2012–2018) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford PRE is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (2012–2018). It combines port fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth, predictable power and low running costs. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 159 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point port injection (Bosch ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with electric thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 5W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers linear throttle response and low mechanical complexity, ideal for city driving and learner vehicles. However, sustained high-RPM use (e.g., mountain roads or towing) may accelerate exhaust cam lobe wear—especially in pre-late-2015 engines. Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20) oil is required to maintain camshaft lubrication and timing chain longevity. Engines built before October 2015 should be inspected for cam wear per SIB 14-2103. No GPF or turbo means minimal emissions-system maintenance, but catalytic converter health should be monitored via lambda sensor diagnostics.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-20) specification (Ford Owner’s Handbook 2013). Not interchangeable with older 5W-30 specs.
Emissions: Euro 5 compliance confirmed for all model years via VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. TIS-PRE-05).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-PRE-01 through TIS-PRE-05
Ford Service Information Bulletin 14-2103
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford PRE was used across Ford's B‑Car platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific calibrations—revised engine mounts in the B-MAX and updated cooling fans in the EcoSport—but remained mechanically identical across applications. All variants share the same ECU part number family (EEC-V), ensuring parts interchangeability within model years. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Ford TIS PRE‑ID‑01). The 7th and 8th VIN digits for PRE-equipped vehicles are typically 'F6' or 'G6'. All PRE engines feature a black plastic intake manifold with '1.6 Ti-VCT' embossing and no turbocharger plumbing. Differentiate from Sigma (Duratec) engines: PRE uses a chain-driven DOHC head with variable cam timing on the intake only, whereas Sigma uses belt-driven DOHC without VCT. Pre-October 2015 engines use standard camshafts; later units use hardened lobes per SIB 14‑2103.
The PRE's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-RPM driving or extended oil change intervals. Ford internal quality reports (2016) noted increased cam-related warranty claims for 2012–2015 builds, while UK DVSA MOT data shows low emissions failure rates due to robust catalyst design. Consistent use of correct 5W-20 oil and adherence to service schedules make long-term reliability achievable.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD PRE.
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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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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