The Ford RTA is a 1,999 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features sequential multi‑point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard form it delivered 107 kW (145 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, offering smooth mid‑range response and refined highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Mondeo (Mk3 facelift), S-MAX, and Galaxy (first generation), the RTA was engineered for balanced performance and everyday drivability in mid-size MPVs and sedans. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature failure of the variable camshaft timing (VCT) solenoid due to oil contamination, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑06‑18‑05. This issue stems from inadequate filtration in early oil feed passages, allowing sludge to restrict solenoid operation. From mid‑2006, Ford implemented a revised VCT solenoid with improved debris resistance to address the failure mode.
All production years (2003–2008) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4127).
The Ford RTA is a 1,999 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and MPVs (2003–2008). It combines sequential multi-point injection with DOHC valvetrain and variable camshaft timing to deliver linear power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances responsiveness with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 107 kW (145 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch ME9.0) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with mechanical pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C913‑A (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed driving but lacks low-end torque compared to turbocharged successors. The variable camshaft timing (VCT) system enhances mid-range efficiency but requires clean oil to prevent solenoid clogging—especially on pre-2006 engines. Use of 95 RON (or higher) unleaded petrol ensures optimal combustion and prevents knocking. Ford WSS-M2C913-A (5W-30) oil must be used and changed every 10,000 km to protect the VCT system and timing chain. The revised VCT solenoid per TSB-06-18-05 is recommended for early engines showing rough idle or P0012/P0022 cam timing codes.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-A (5W-30) specification (Ford TSB-06-18-05). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5 but with Ford-specific additive limits.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all RTA engines (2003–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4127). No Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F12200).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F12105, F12200
Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-06-18-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4127)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford RTA was used across Ford's CD346/C1 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the S-MAX and modified exhaust manifolding in the Galaxy—and from 2007 the facelifted Mondeo adopted the updated 2.0L Duratec HE with Ti-VCT, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Ford TIS F12150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('R' for 2.0L Duratec). RTA units feature a black plastic intake manifold with “2.0 Duratec” branding and a visible VCT solenoid on the front cam cover. Differentiate from Zetec-E by DOHC head (vs. SOHC) and absence of distributor (coil-on-plug ignition). Early VCT solenoids have a smooth black housing; post-TSB units include a mesh filter screen visible at the oil inlet.
The RTA's primary reliability risk is variable camshaft timing (VCT) solenoid failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Ford internal field data from 2007 indicated a notable failure rate before 100,000 km in pre-TSB engines, while DVSA records show minimal emissions-related recalls. Infrequent oil changes accelerate sludge formation, making the TSB upgrade and strict service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2004–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD RTA.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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