The Ford XWMC is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16‑valve architecture and sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI), delivering 88 kW (120 PS) and 153 Nm of torque. Its lightweight aluminium block and twin‑independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) enable responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency over predecessor units.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Focus Mk3 and C-MAX Mk2 across European markets, the XWMC was engineered for mainstream hatchback and MPV efficiency with refined drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter, closed‑loop lambda control, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling adherence to Euro 5 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the variable cam timing (VCT) solenoid screens, which can restrict oil flow and cause erratic cam phasing. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Bulletin 12S045, stems from inadequate filtration of engine oil contaminants in early production batches. From 2014, Ford introduced revised solenoid assemblies with enhanced filtration to mitigate oil passage clogging.
All production years (2010–2018) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5891).
The Ford XWMC is a 1,596 cc inline‑four DOHC petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2010–2018). It combines sequential fuel injection with Ti-VCT (twin independent variable cam timing) to deliver linear power delivery and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance‑free) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 93 kg |
The XWMC’s Ti-VCT system provides smooth, efficient power delivery but relies on clean oil flow through VCT solenoids—contaminated oil can cause phasing faults and check engine lights. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain solenoid screen integrity and cam phasing accuracy. Use only EN 228-compliant unleaded petrol to protect the catalytic converter. The Bosch ME7.8 ECU is sensitive to low battery voltage; maintain ≥12.4V to prevent adaptation loss. Post-2014 engines include upgraded VCT solenoids per Ford SIB 12S045.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 12S045). Equivalent to ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2018 XWMC engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5891). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. F03180).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F03127, F03180, SIB 12S045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5891)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford XWMC was used exclusively in Ford's Focus Mk3 and C-MAX Mk2 platforms with transverse mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received VCT solenoid and ECU updates in 2014 for reliability, but no mechanical changes affected interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing chain cover (Ford TIS F03127). The 7th VIN digit for XWMC-equipped vehicles is 'W'. The engine features a silver aluminium valve cover with '1.6' embossed and dual VCT actuators on both camshafts. Critical differentiation from XVJD: XWMC uses a higher 11.0:1 compression ratio and updated Bosch ME7.8 ECU with revised cam profiles. VCT solenoids after 01/2014 include integrated filter screens per Ford SIB 12S045.
The XWMC's primary reliability risk is VCT solenoid clogging, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or extended-interval oil change scenarios. Ford internal data from 2013 indicated increased P0011/P0014 fault codes before 100,000 km in pre-2014 builds, while UK DVSA MOT records show secondary failures linked to misfires from incorrect cam phasing. Infrequent oil changes accelerate solenoid screen blockage, making oil quality and service discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD XWMC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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