The Ford BAJA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It belongs to the Ford Duratec HE engine family, featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) and 16-valve configuration. This engine delivers 85 kW (115 PS) with 175 Nm of torque, offering refined performance and improved emissions compliance over earlier Zetec units.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk2, Ford C-MAX, and Ford Mondeo Mk4, the BAJA was engineered for responsive driving dynamics and enhanced fuel efficiency in compact and mid-size vehicles. It meets Euro 4 standards through sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-MPFI) and variable cam timing (VCT), enabling better throttle response, combustion efficiency, and cold-start reliability across diverse operating conditions.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Ford Service Action 06/025. This issue, primarily affecting engines built before 2008, is linked to inadequate oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. Later revisions included updated tensioner design and revised oil gallery drilling to improve lubrication and durability.
All production years (2005–2010) comply with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9234).
The Ford BAJA is a 1,998 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2005–2010). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-MPFI) and variable cam timing (VCT) to deliver balanced performance and improved emissions. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances responsiveness with everyday drivability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.8 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (non-serviceable, life-of-engine design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides strong top-end power ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF is essential for camshaft longevity and bearing protection under sustained load. The variable cam timing system enhances mid-range torque but can develop oil passage blockages over time. Early production engines (pre-2008) benefit from oil pressure checks and tensioner inspection if cold-start rattling occurs. Use of ethanol-blended fuels up to E10 is acceptable; higher blends may degrade fuel system seals. Coolant should be replaced every 2 years to prevent corrosion in the aluminium head.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SL/CF (Ford SIB 05 10 22). Earlier oils may lack shear stability for hydraulic lifters.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 4 across entire production run (2005–2010) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9234.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all S-MPFI-equipped BAJA units (Ford Group PT-2005).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P20920, SIB 05 12 30, SIB 05 10 22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9234)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Ford BAJA was used across Ford's Focus Mk2, C-MAX, and Mondeo Mk4 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo derivatives in niche European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised exhaust manifolds in the Mondeo-and from 2005 the Euro 4-compliant S-MPFI version introduced revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS P20920). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 2.0L Duratec series). The BAJA features a black cam cover with "DURATEC" casting and a round throttle body with four individual injectors. Critical differentiation from Zetec engines: BAJA uses a timing chain (not belt), DOHC 16-valve head, and lacks a distributor (uses coil-on-plug ignition). Service parts require model-year verification—tensioners for pre-2008 and post-2008 differ in internal design (Ford SIB 06 02 16).
The BAJA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure in early production units, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent cold starts or delayed oil changes. Ford's internal service reports from 2009 noted a significant number of tensioner replacements in fleet-operated Focuses, while VCA field data links poor oil quality to 58% of related drivability complaints. Cold-start cycles and infrequent maintenance increase wear, making oil specification and change intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2012). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD BAJA.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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