The Ford T7CN is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) layout, 16‑valve architecture, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 74 kW (101 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering balanced urban and highway performance with modest fuel consumption.
Fitted primarily to the European-market Ford Focus Mk1 facelift and Fiesta Mk5, the T7CN was engineered for mainstream affordability, serviceability, and compliance with tightening emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, electronic throttle control, and precise fuel metering, meeting Euro 3 requirements across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes and hydraulic tappets, particularly in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced units. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Bulletin 04S09, is attributed to marginal oil flow characteristics and suboptimal surface hardening in early production batches.
All production years (2002–2008) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford T7CN is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (2002–2008). It combines SOHC 16‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-to-mid range performance and everyday drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with urban efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4,000 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 | 108 kg |
The T7CN provides smooth and predictable performance in compact Fords but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to mitigate cam lobe and tappet wear, especially in pre-2005 builds. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is essential 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 fluctuations; maintain a healthy battery. No turbo or DPF simplifies maintenance, but carbon buildup on intake valves may occur after 120,000 km. Post-2005 units benefit from revised camshafts per Ford SIB 04S09.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual – Focus 2003). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2002–2008 T7CN engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 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 T7CN-2002, SIB 04S09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford T7CN was used across Ford's C‑platform derivatives with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Focus and modified intake manifolds for packaging in the Fiesta—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 T7CN-2002). The 7th VIN digit is 'T' for T7CN-equipped vehicles. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with '1.6' embossed; SOHC layout with single camshaft visible under cover. Critical differentiation from Zetec‑SE: T7CN uses 16-valve SOHC with roller finger followers; Zetec‑SE is 8-valve SOHC with direct-acting buckets. Service parts for camshafts differ before and after VIN breakpoint WAU05—verify via Ford EPC.
The T7CN's primary reliability risk is cam lobe and hydraulic tappet wear, with elevated incidence in high-revving or poorly maintained examples. Ford internal data (2004) indicated measurable cam degradation beyond 100,000 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 T7CN.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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)
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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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