The Ford R2A is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, sequential multi‑point fuel injection, and dual variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). In standard tune it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 153 Nm of torque, prioritizing smoothness, fuel economy, and low emissions.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta (Mk7), B-MAX, and EcoSport (early variants), the R2A was engineered for urban and suburban driving with an emphasis on refinement and cost‑effective maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and exhaust after‑treatment, allowing the engine to meet Euro 5 standards from launch and Euro 6 in later revisions.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in high‑mileage units, referenced in Ford Service Information Bulletin TSB‑14‑2103. This issue is attributed to wear in the piston ring lands and valve stem seals under extended service intervals, particularly when non‑spec oil is used or oil changes are delayed beyond 20,000 km.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7821).
The Ford R2A is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2010–2018). It combines sequential multi-point injection with dual variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) | |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 4,150 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (SMPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable throttle response and low maintenance complexity but requires adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals. Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30) oil is essential to minimize piston ring land wear and valve seal degradation. Extended oil intervals or use of non-spec oil accelerate oil consumption, as documented in TSB‑14‑2103. The chain-driven timing system is generally durable but should be inspected if unusual valvetrain noise appears after 150,000 km. Cold starts should be followed by gentle driving to allow oil pressure to stabilize.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-A (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner Manual – B-MAX 2012). Meets ACEA C2/C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2010–2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7821). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2015–2018 builds in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output validated at 6,300 rpm (Ford TIS Doc. M45890).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M45678, M45789, M45890
Ford Service Information Bulletins: TSB-14-2103
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7821)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford R2A was used across Ford's B299/B270 platforms with transverse mounting and no third-party licensing. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised ECU maps in the B-MAX for stop-start integration and compact accessory routing in the EcoSport—and from 2015 the introduction of updated catalyst formulations for Euro 6 compliance, creating service distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Ford TIS M45690). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('R' for R2A series). All R2A units feature a black cam cover with '1.6 Ti-VCT' embossing and lack turbocharger hardware. Critical differentiation from Sigma 1.6: R2A uses Ti-VCT (dual variable cam timing), whereas earlier Sigma engines used fixed cam profiles. Service parts for valve stem seals differ before and after 01/2015 due to material upgrade (Ford TSB‑14‑2103).
The R2A's primary reliability risk is elevated oil consumption in high-mileage or poorly maintained units, with incidence rising after 120,000 km. Ford internal field data from 2015 indicated a notable rate of oil top-up complaints in vehicles exceeding 20,000 km between oil changes, while UK DVSA records show increased MOT advisories for blue exhaust smoke linked to valve seal degradation. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-spec oil accelerate wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD R2A.
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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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