The Ford T3CC is a 1,299 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) layout, 12‑valve architecture, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 110 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, offering economical urban performance with compact packaging.
Fitted primarily to the European-market Ford Ka and Fiesta Mk4, the T3CC was engineered for entry-level affordability, low emissions, and ease of service. 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 camshaft followers, particularly in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Bulletin 03S11, is attributed to marginal lubrication under sustained high‑rpm operation and suboptimal follower material hardness in early builds.
All production years (2002–2008) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford T3CC is a 1,299 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact models (2002–2008). It combines SOHC 12‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver frugal urban performance and compact packaging. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it emphasizes simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,299 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.9 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.0) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (replace every 100,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 89 kg |
The T3CC delivers modest but adequate performance in lightweight applications like the Ka and early Fiesta, with strong fuel economy. However, consistent oil changes every 10,000 km are essential to mitigate cam follower wear, especially in pre-2005 builds. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is required due to its anti-wear additives protecting the SOHC valvetrain. The timing belt must be replaced at 100,000 km or 6 years—neglect risks catastrophic interference damage. Bosch ME7.0 ECU is sensitive to voltage instability; maintain battery health. No turbo or DPF simplifies maintenance, but carbon buildup on intake valves may occur after 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual – Ka 2003). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2002–2008 T3CC engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on Ford dynamometer per PT‑2004.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T3CC-2002, SIB 03S11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford T3CC was used across Ford's B‑platform derivatives with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Fiesta and modified intake 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 front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS T3CC-2002). The 7th VIN digit is 'T' for T3CC-equipped vehicles. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with '1.3' embossed; SOHC layout with single camshaft visible under cover. Critical differentiation from Rocam 1.3: T3CC uses belt-driven SOHC with 12 valves; Rocam is pushrod-based. Service parts for cam followers differ before and after VIN breakpoint WAU04—verify via Ford EPC.
The T3CC's primary reliability risk is cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in high-revving or poorly maintained examples. Ford internal data (2004) indicated measurable cam follower degradation beyond 90,000 km in pre-2005 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 (2002–2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD T3CC.
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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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