The Ford XRMA is a 1,299 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2006. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8‑valve architecture and multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 55 kW (75 PS) and 110 Nm of torque. Its simple valvetrain design enables reliable low‑cost operation with minimal maintenance requirements.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Ka (Mk1 facelift) across European markets, the XRMA was engineered for urban economy and compact packaging. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and closed‑loop lambda control, allowing adherence to Euro 3 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust manifold studs, which can lead to exhaust leaks and compromised emissions performance. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Bulletin 03S029, stems from thermal cycling fatigue in the cast‑iron manifold mounting points. Later production batches introduced upgraded stud material to mitigate cracking.
All production years (2000–2006) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4821).
The Ford XRMA is a 1,299 cc inline‑four SOHC petrol engine engineered for subcompact city cars (2000–2006). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a durable cast‑iron block to deliver frugal urban performance and straightforward serviceability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances cost efficiency with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,299 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.9 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch ME7.0) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-A (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The XRMA’s SOHC design provides predictable performance and low running costs but requires periodic inspection of the exhaust manifold studs to prevent leaks. Ford WSS-M2C913-A (5W-30) oil ensures optimal valve train lubrication and sludge control. The Bosch ME7.0 ECU relies on stable battery voltage—voltage drops below 11.5V can trigger limp mode. Use only EN 228-compliant unleaded petrol to protect the catalytic converter. The timing chain is designed for life-of-engine service, but tensioner wear should be checked if unusual valvetrain noise appears after 150,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-A (5W-30) specification (Ford Owner Manual 2002). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2006 XRMA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4821). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. F02105).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F01987, F02105, SIB 03S029
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4821)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford XRMA was used exclusively in Ford's Mk1 Ka platform with transverse mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received minor ECU calibration updates in 2003 for cold-start refinement, but no mechanical changes affected interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head flange (Ford TIS F01987). The 7th VIN digit for XRMA-equipped Ka models is 'R'. The engine features a black plastic intake manifold with '1.3' embossed on the side and a single-row timing chain cover. Critical differentiation from Endura-E: XRMA uses a coil-on-plug ignition system (no distributor), whereas Endura-E uses a distributor and different ECU. Service parts are generally consistent across all production years, but exhaust manifolds after 06/2003 use upgraded studs per Ford SIB 03S029.
The XRMA's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud fracture, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban use. Ford internal data from 2004 indicated a measurable uptick in exhaust leak repairs before 100,000 km in pre-2003 builds, while UK DVSA MOT records show exhaust integrity as a frequent failure point. Thermal cycling and aggressive driving accelerate stud fatigue, making timely inspection 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 XRMA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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