The Ford D2FA is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to the Ford Dragon engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing). Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, it offers a balance of smooth operation and fuel efficiency for mid-size applications.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus Mk4 (2018–2023), Ford Kuga (2019–2023), and Ford Escape (2019–2023), the D2FA was engineered for responsive urban and highway driving with an emphasis on linear power delivery and low emissions. Emissions compliance is achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6d-Final standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft phaser, which may lead to timing misalignment and reduced low-end torque. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S05, is attributed to oil flow restriction under cold-start conditions in early production units. From 2020, revised phaser components with improved oil passage geometry were implemented across the Dragon engine line to enhance durability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-Final emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford D2FA is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size and compact SUV models (2018–2023). It combines DOHC architecture with Ti-VCT on both intake and exhaust camshafts to deliver broad torque spread and improved emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final standards, it balances drivability with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) with high-pressure fuel pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Final | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, phaser-prone) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain cam phaser lubrication. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the Ti-VCT system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low-quality fuel; use of minimum 95 RON petrol is required to prevent knock and maintain efficiency. Post-2020 models feature upgraded cam phasers; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19S05. Catalytic converter longevity depends on lambda sensor health and proper warm-up cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S05). Compatible with ACEA A5/B5 and API SP standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Final certification applies to all production years (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model calibration (Ford TIS Doc. D23010).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D22840, D22910, D23010, SIB 19S05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford D2FA was used across Ford's C2/CD4 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Lincoln for North American applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the Kuga and revised intake manifolds in the Focus-and from 2020 the facelifted Kuga Mk3 adopted minor ECU recalibrations affecting idle stability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D22870). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 2.0L Dragon). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black cam covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: D2FA features a plastic intake manifold without turbocharger plumbing and uses a naturally aspirated design, whereas EcoBoost engines include intercoolers and direct injection. Service parts require production date verification—cam phasers for engines before 06/2019 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 19S05).
The D2FA's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft phaser wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a measurable share of pre-2020 engines exhibiting phaser rattle before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions-related failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage examples. Frequent cold starts and extended oil intervals amplify phaser and sensor stress, making oil quality and timely servicing critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD D2FA.
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