The Ford BJFA is a 1,499 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and fuel efficiency for compact applications.
Fitted to models including the C346 Focus, C519 Mondeo, and CD3 Kuga, the BJFA was engineered for mainstream driving with a focus on refinement and low maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6 compliance across its production run. The engine supports start-stop functionality to enhance urban efficiency.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in Ford Service Action 18B08. This issue, primarily affecting units with extended oil change intervals, can lead to chain rattle and cam timing faults. From 2018, revised tensioner components were implemented across production lines to improve durability.
Production years 2016–2021 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894).
The Ford BJFA is a 1,499 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (2016–2021). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with port fuel injection to deliver smooth throttle response and urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances fuel economy with everyday performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.5 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, wear-prone tensioner) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 116 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for city and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. Start-stop equipped models place additional stress on the starter motor and battery; ensure system health during service. Post-2018 models feature updated tensioner assemblies; pre-2018 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 18B08. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality and lambda sensor function.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18B08). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (Ford WSM Doc. 307-01-07).
Ford Workshop Manual (WSM): Docs 307-01-07, 303-03-01, SIB 18B08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7894)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford BJFA was used across Ford's C346/C519 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover for compact SUV applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised cooling paths in the Mondeo-and from 2018 the facelifted Kuga models adopted updated tensioner hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford WSM 307-01-07). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for 1.5L Sigma). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from BJFA1: Original BJFA has Denso ignition coils with flat connectors, while BJFA1 uses Bosch coils with angled connectors. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 11/2018 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 18B08).
The BJFA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 indicated a significant share of pre-2018 engines required tensioner replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show intake-related faults contribute to a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes increase guide and tensioner stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD BJFA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
