The Ford ASZ is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2000 and 2007 as part of the Ford Duratorq TDDi family. It features pump-nozzle direct injection, a fixed-geometry turbocharger, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, delivering durable performance with good fuel economy. Its robust mechanical fuel system supports reliable operation in commercial and high-mileage applications.
Fitted to models such as the B245 Focus, B455 Transit Connect, and B525 Mondeo, the ASZ engine was engineered for fleet operators and drivers seeking dependable power and low running costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, enabling Euro 3 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature injector failure under poor fuel quality conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Action 05M04. This issue stems from inadequate filtration and contamination of the high-pressure pump-nozzle units. From 2004, revised injector seals and updated fuel filter specifications were implemented to improve reliability in later production units.
All production years (2000–2007) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Ford ASZ is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for compact and light commercial platforms (2000–2007). It combines pump-nozzle injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver consistent torque and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes durability and serviceability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 66–74 kW (90–100 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–220 Nm @ 1,750–2,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Pump-nozzle direct injection (Lucas DCU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI fixed-geometry turbo (no intercooler) | |
| Timing system | Belt (front-mounted; requires 100,000 km replacement) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C912-A (15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable mid-range torque ideal for urban delivery and light towing but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C912-A (15W-40) to prevent injector and pump wear. The Lucas DCU pump-nozzle system demands high-quality diesel (EN 590) with effective water separation to avoid internal corrosion. Extended idling and short-trip driving increase EGR and oil contamination risks. Post-2004 models feature improved injector seals; pre-2004 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 05M04. The oxidation catalyst requires periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C912-A (15W-40) specification (Ford SIB 05M04). Meets ACEA B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all ASZ models (2000–2007) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model years (Ford TIS Doc. B22602).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B22021, B22104, B22105, SIB 05M04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford ASZ was used across Ford's B2xx/B5xx platforms with transverse mounting and shared design elements with Peugeot for fleet scalability. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Transit Connect and shorter intake tracts in the Focus—and from 2004 the facelifted Mondeo adopted the updated injector seals, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Peugeot's 2.0 HDi units to share core pump-nozzle technology. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front cylinder block near the alternator mounting (Ford TIS B22090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('T' for ASZ series). Pre-2004 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2004 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from AJD-V6: Original ASZ has Lucas DCU ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while AJD-V6 uses Bosch MD17.8.8 with circular port. Service parts require production date verification—injection units for engines before 03/2004 are incompatible with later units due to seal redesign per Ford SIB 05M04.
The ASZ's primary reliability risk is injector failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2006 noted a significant share of pre-2004 engines requiring injector replacement before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in stop-start vehicles. Poor fuel quality and short-trip driving increase injector and EGR stress, making fuel filtration and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2003–2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD ASZ.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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