The Ford STR is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2009. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout, 16‑valve architecture, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 80 kW (109 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing responsive urban drivability and modest highway performance.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Streetka and certain European-market Ka models, the STR was engineered for light, compact applications with an emphasis on cost‑effective reliability and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 3 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Bulletin 05S02, is attributed to marginal lubrication under sustained high‑rpm operation. Ford later revised camshaft material hardness and oil gallery routing in late‑production units.
All production years (2002–2009) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford STR is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact models (2002–2009). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive low‑to‑mid range performance and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.0) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The STR engine offers sprightly performance in lightweight applications like the Streetka but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to mitigate camshaft lobe wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives protecting the DOHC valvetrain. Extended high-RPM use without adequate warm-up accelerates lobe degradation, especially in pre-2006 builds. The Bosch ME7.0 ECU is sensitive to voltage fluctuations—maintain a healthy battery and alternator. No turbo or DPF simplifies maintenance, but carbon buildup on intake valves may occur after 120,000 km. Post-2006 units benefit from revised camshafts per Ford SIB 05S02.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual – Streetka 2003). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2002–2009 STR engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on Ford dynamometer per PT‑2005.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs STR-2003, SIB 05S02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford STR was used across Ford's B‑platform derivatives with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Streetka convertible and modified exhaust manifolds for packaging in the Ka—creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the transmission flange (Ford TIS STR-2003). The 7th VIN digit is 'S' for STR-equipped vehicles. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with '1.6' embossed; exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from Zetec‑SE: STR uses DOHC with external cam drive chain; Zetec‑SE is SOHC with belt. Service parts for camshafts differ before and after VIN breakpoint WAU06—verify via Ford EPC.
The STR's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-revving or poorly maintained examples. Ford internal data (2005) indicated a measurable uptick in cam failures beyond 100,000 km in pre-2006 builds, while UK DVSA MOT records show few emissions-related faults due to the engine’s simple Euro 3 compliance. Infrequent oil changes and aggressive driving accelerate wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2003–2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD STR.
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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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