Engine Code

FORD T7DA engine (2005–2011) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford T7DA is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 80 kW (109 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, balancing urban responsiveness with highway refinement.

Fitted to compact and entry-level models such as the Mk5 Fiesta, Mk2 Fusion, and C‑Max, the T7DA was engineered for everyday drivability and compliance with tightening emissions standards. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, allowing all units to meet Euro 4 standards.

One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobe, which can cause rough idle and misfires. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 08S14, is linked to insufficient lubrication during cold starts and early-design camshaft metallurgy. From 2008 onward, Ford updated the camshaft material and surface treatment to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2005–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9352).

T7DA Technical Specifications

The Ford T7DA is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and MPV applications (2005–2011). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it emphasizes serviceability and fuel efficiency for high-mileage urban use.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,596 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke79.0 mm × 81.4 mm
Power output80 kW (109 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.0)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.3:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain‑driven DOHC
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight125 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC layout provides smooth power delivery but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000–15,000 km to prevent camshaft lobe wear, especially during cold starts. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is critical due to its compatibility with high-revving DOHC systems and cam lubrication requirements. Extended oil intervals increase the risk of premature lobe scuffing. The Bosch ME7.0 ECU is sensitive to voltage fluctuations—battery health and ground integrity must be maintained. Post-2008 engines feature an updated camshaft per Ford SIB 08S14; pre-2008 units should be inspected during major services for lobe wear signs.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 08S14). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9352). No Euro 3 or Euro 5 variants exist.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Ford TIS Doc. F21585).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F21560, F21585, F21600, SIB 08S14

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9352)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

T7DA Compatible Models

The Ford T7DA was used across Ford's Mk5 Fiesta, Mk2 Fusion, and C-Max platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the C-Max and unique engine mounts in the Fiesta—and from 2008 the updated camshaft improved reliability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2005–2008
Models:
Fiesta (Mk5)
Variants:
1.6i 109 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2020
Make:
Ford
Years:
2005–2011
Models:
Fusion (Mk2)
Variants:
1.6 Flex
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F21610
Make:
Ford
Years:
2005–2010
Models:
C-Max (Mk1)
Variants:
1.6i 109 PS
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F21620
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F21570). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('7' for T7DA). Pre-2008 camshafts use part number 1S6G-6250-AA with standard lobe finish; post-2008 units use 3S6G-6250-BA with nitrided surface treatment. Critical differentiation from Duratec Ti-VCT: T7DA lacks variable cam timing and uses a simpler intake manifold. Engine management ECU is Bosch ME7.0 with OBD2 port under dash. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts for engines before 01/2008 are not interchangeable with later units due to metallurgical updates (Ford SIB 08S14).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. F21570

Location:

Stamped on front cylinder block near timing cover (Ford TIS F21570).

Visual Cues:

  • Aluminum valve cover with '1.6' cast into it
  • Cast-aluminum intake manifold (not plastic)
Compatibility Notes

Camshaft:

Pre-2008 camshafts prone to lobe wear; post-2008 (3S6G) are not backward-compatible due to different lobe profile and hardening process.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 08S14

Engine Mounts:

Fiesta, Fusion, and C-Max mounts differ in geometry and damping—do not interchange without verifying part numbers.
Camshaft Inspection

Issue:

Early camshafts suffer from insufficient surface hardening, leading to lobe scuffing under cold-start conditions.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 08S14

Recommendation:

Inspect cam lobes during timing cover removal; replace with updated OEM camshaft if wear is evident.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD T7DA

The T7DA's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or cold-climate vehicles. Ford internal data from 2009 indicated a notable share of pre-2008 engines required camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show related misfire codes as a recurring MOT advisory item. Infrequent oil changes and use of non-spec oil increase wear risk, making correct oil specification and interval adherence critical.

Intake camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfire on multiple cylinders, P030X codes, ticking from cylinder head.
Cause: Insufficient surface hardening on early cam lobes; exacerbated by cold starts and extended oil change intervals.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM camshaft (3S6G-6250-BA) and flush oil system; verify valve clearance and timing post-repair.
Oil leaks from cam cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on cylinder head, smell in engine bay, drips on exhaust manifold.
Cause: Aged rubber gasket and thermal cycling degrade sealing surfaces over time.
Fix: Replace cam cover gasket with OEM part and clean mating surfaces; torque to specification in sequence.
Ignition coil pack failure
Symptoms: Misfire on single cylinder, loss of power, P030X codes, rough running.
Cause: Heat stress on coil pack insulation; common after 90,000 km in stop-start urban use.
Fix: Replace faulty coil with latest OEM revision; inspect spark plugs and connectors during service.
Thermostat housing cracks
Symptoms: Coolant leaks near front of engine, low coolant warning, overheating risk.
Cause: Plastic housing prone to thermal fatigue; repeated hot-cold cycles cause microfractures.
Fix: Replace with updated metal-reinforced housing per Ford parts catalogue; bleed cooling system thoroughly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2007–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD T7DA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD T7DA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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