The Ford T8CL is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2012. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 82 kW (111 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, offering responsive urban performance and relaxed highway cruising.
Fitted to compact and entry-level models such as the Mk5 Fiesta, Mk2 Fusion, and C‑Max, the T8CL 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 variable intake manifold runner flaps, which can cause rough idle and reduced low-end torque. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 09S21, is linked to brittle plastic flap arms that fracture under repeated thermal cycling. From 2010 onward, Ford updated the manifold design with reinforced composite materials to improve durability.
All production years 2007–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9763).
The Ford T8CL is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and MPV applications (2007–2012). 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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 82 kW (111 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.0) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 127 kg |
The DOHC layout provides smooth power delivery but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000–15,000 km to maintain chain and valvetrain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is critical due to its compatibility with high-revving DOHC systems. Extended oil intervals increase sludge risk and may impair variable intake runner operation. The Bosch ME7.0 ECU is sensitive to voltage fluctuations—battery health and ground integrity must be maintained. Post-2010 engines feature an updated intake manifold per Ford SIB 09S21; pre-2010 units should be inspected for cracked runner arms during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 09S21). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2007–2012 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9763). No Euro 3 or Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Ford TIS Doc. F22175).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F22150, F22175, F22200, SIB 09S21
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9763)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford T8CL 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 2010 the updated variable intake manifold improved reliability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F22160). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('8' for T8CL). Pre-2010 intake manifolds use part number 1S6G-9424-BA with plastic runner arms; post-2010 units use 3S6G-9424-AA with reinforced composite arms. Critical differentiation from Duratec Ti-VCT: T8CL lacks variable cam timing and uses a simpler intake manifold without electronic actuation. Engine management ECU is Bosch ME7.0 with OBD2 port under dash. Service parts require production date verification—intake manifolds for engines before 01/2010 are not interchangeable with later units due to runner design changes (Ford SIB 09S21).
The T8CL's primary reliability risk is variable intake manifold runner flap failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban driving. Ford internal data from 2011 indicated a notable share of pre-2010 engines required manifold replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show related misfire codes as a recurring MOT advisory item. Thermal cycling and aggressive driving increase stress on the plastic arms, making timely inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2009–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD T8CL.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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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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