Engine Code

FORD A9JA engine (2015–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford A9JA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020 as part of the Ford EcoBlue family. It features high-pressure common-rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), delivering strong low-end torque and improved fuel efficiency. Its modular design supports multiple output variants across global platforms.

Fitted to models such as the C519 Mondeo, CX482 Edge, and PX65 Transit Custom, the A9JA engine was engineered for responsive performance and low CO₂ emissions in both passenger and light commercial applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual-loop exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 6 compliance across its production run.

One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under low-fuel-level operation, highlighted in Ford Service Action 18M03. This issue stems from inadequate fuel cooling and lubrication when the tank is consistently run below ¼ full. From 2018, revised fuel pump calibration and updated monitoring logic were implemented to reduce thermal stress in later production units.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2015–2020) meet Euro 6b emissions standards with SCR/AdBlue system (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

A9JA Technical Specifications

The Ford A9JA is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for mid-size and commercial platforms (2015–2020). It combines Bosch CRS 3-18 common-rail injection with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and Ti-VCT to deliver robust low-RPM torque and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it integrates SCR/AdBlue technology for NOx control while maintaining real-world drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,998 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 94.6 mm
Power output88–110 kW (120–150 PS)
Torque300–370 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 3-18 common-rail (up to 2,500 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6b (with SCR/AdBlue)
Compression ratio15.8:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerGarrett variable-geometry turbo (VNT)
Timing systemChain (front-mounted; revised guides post-2018)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30)
Dry weight158 kg
Practical Implications

The Garrett VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) to maintain timing chain and turbo bearing life. The Bosch CRS 3-18 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) and consistent fuel levels above ¼ tank to prevent HPFP overheating. SCR/AdBlue system requires periodic refill (~1,500 km consumption) and must not be disabled to avoid DPF saturation and engine derate. Post-2018 models feature improved fuel pump calibration; pre-2018 units should be monitored per Ford SIB 18M03. EGR cooler and DPF require cleaning if short-trip driving predominates.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18M03). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all A9JA models (2015–2020) with SCR system (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires EU5+ diesel (Ford TIS Doc. B42602).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B42021, B42104, B42602, SIB 18M03

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

A9JA Compatible Models

The Ford A9JA was used across Ford's C5xx/PXxx platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover for global scalability. This engine received platform-specific tuning—longer intake tracts in the Edge and enhanced cooling in the Transit Custom—and from 2018 the facelifted Mondeo adopted revised EGR calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Land Rover's D200 diesel to share core injection and turbo technology. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
Mondeo (C519)
Variants:
2.0 TDCi 120, 2.0 TDCi 150
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Edge (CX482)
Variants:
2.0 TDCi AWD
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. B42210
Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Transit Custom (PX65)
Variants:
2.0 TDCi 125, 2.0 TDCi 150
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. B42301
Make:
Land Rover
Years:
2017–2020
Models:
Discovery Sport
Variants:
D200 2.0L (shared architecture)
View Source
Land Rover EPC #LR-980
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS B42090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for A9JA series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from A9JB: Original A9JA uses Bosch EDC17CP55 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while A9JB uses MD17CP66 with circular port. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for engines before 04/2018 are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions per Ford SIB 18M03.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. B42090

Location:

Stamped vertically on the front cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS B42090).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2018: Silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover
  • Post-2018: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 18M03

Flywheel:

Timing kits and flywheel assemblies for pre-2018 A9JA models are not compatible with post-facelift C519 Mondeo due to dual-mass flywheel revisions per OEM documentation.

Fuel Components:

High-pressure fuel pumps revised in 2018 C519 facelift models. Pre-2018 pumps fit only pre-LCI engines.
Fuel Pump Upgrade

Issue:

Early A9JA engines experienced HPFP failure due to thermal stress from low fuel levels and poor lubrication.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 18M03

Recommendation:

Maintain fuel above ¼ tank and install updated pump per Ford SIB 18M03 if failure occurs.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD A9JA

The A9JA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 noted a significant share of pre-2018 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to DPF clogging in stop-start vehicles. Short-trip driving and low fuel levels increase pump and DPF stress, making fuel quality and driving pattern adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear or failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs, white smoke at startup.
Cause: Bosch CRS 3-18 pump susceptible to thermal degradation when operated with low fuel levels, reducing lubrication and cooling.
Fix: Replace with latest OEM-specified HPFP per service bulletin; verify fuel quality and driver refueling habits post-repair.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, limp-home mode, over/under-boost DTCs, increased regeneration frequency.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the VGT actuator linkage, exacerbated by infrequent highway operation.
Fix: Clean or replace actuator assembly per OEM procedure; recalibrate vanes in diagnostics after replacement.
DPF saturation and regeneration issues
Symptoms: Reduced power, frequent regens, warning lights, excessive soot in oil.
Cause: Incomplete passive regeneration due to short-trip driving; EGR soot loading accelerates DPF clogging.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration or clean/replace DPF per OEM guidance; inspect EGR system and driving pattern.
Oil leaks from valve and timing covers
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at bellhousing, residue around valve cover and front timing cover.
Cause: Age-related gasket degradation and crankcase ventilation system clogging increasing pressure.
Fix: Replace gaskets and seals with OEM parts; service CCV system and use correct oil spec to reduce seepage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2017–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD A9JA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD A9JA.

Research Resources

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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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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