Engine Code

FORD FFDA engine (2018–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford FFDA is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's Dragon engine family, featuring twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and port fuel injection. Designed for durability and serviceability, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, with a focus on smooth mid-range response for urban and highway driving.

Fitted to models including the Focus (C519), Kuga (C520), and Mondeo (CD391), the FFDA petrol engine was engineered for balanced everyday performance and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6.2 standards across all production years without requiring a gasoline particulate filter (GPF).

One documented service concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobe, particularly in early-build units operated under frequent short-trip conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S06, is attributed to inadequate oil film development during cold cycles. From 2020, revised camshaft materials and updated oil change intervals were implemented to improve longevity.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 (Euro 6d-TEMP) emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

FFDA Technical Specifications

The Ford FFDA petrol is a 1,999 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for compact and mid-size passenger vehicles (2018–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with port fuel injection to deliver linear throttle response and consistent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances durability with emissions compliance for mainstream applications.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,999 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 93.8 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque180 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemPort fuel injection (PFI)
Emissions standardEuro 6.2 (6d-TEMP)
Compression ratio12.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming chain (single-row, front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30)
Dry weight138 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is critical due to its anti-wear additives protecting the Ti-VCT phasers and cam profiles. Short-trip driving without full warm-up increases oil contamination risk, accelerating wear. The PFI system is less prone to intake coking than GDI but still benefits from periodic fuel system cleaning. Post-2020 models feature upgraded camshafts; pre-2020 units should be monitored for cam wear symptoms per Ford SIB 19S06. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda control and use of minimum 95 RON fuel.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S06). Compatible with API SN/SP and ACEA A5/B5.

Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No GPF required.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford Group PT-2018).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information Service (XTIS): Docs DRA-7820, DRA-7825, DRA-7830, SIB 19S06

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

FFDA Compatible Models

The Ford FFDA Petrol was used across Ford's C519/C520 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and revised engine mounts in the Kuga-and from 2020, updated camshaft profiles and oil specifications were introduced to address early wear concerns, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Focus (C519)
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT, 140 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Kuga (C520)
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT, 140 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2022
Models:
Mondeo (CD391)
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT, 140 PS
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. CD391-ENG-04
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford XTIS DRA-7820). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 1.5L Ti-VCT). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black timing covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from GDI variants: FFDA has no high-pressure fuel pump on the cam cover and uses a traditional throttle body. Service parts require build date verification—camshafts and phasers for pre-2020 engines are not interchangeable with post-update units due to material revisions (Ford SIB 19S06).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford XTIS Doc. DRA-7820

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford XTIS DRA-7820).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2020: Silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover
  • Post-2020: All-black valve cover
  • No high-pressure fuel pump visible on cam cover (vs. GDI engines)
Compatibility Notes

Camshaft:

Camshafts and Ti-VCT phasers for pre-2020 FFDA engines are not compatible with post-2020 revisions due to hardened lobe treatment per Ford SIB 19S06.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Oil System:

Oil filter and sump gasket changed in 2020 refresh. Pre-2020 parts do not seal correctly on updated engines.
Service Update

Issue:

Early FFDA engines showed elevated camshaft lobe wear under short-trip driving due to oil film instability.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Recommendation:

Inspect camshafts and phasers per Ford SIB 19S06. Use only WSS-M2C949-A oil and avoid extended oil intervals.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD FFDA

The FFDA petrol's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear on pre-2020 units, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Ford's internal field reports from 2019–2021 indicated a measurable rate of camshaft replacement before 100,000 km in affected batches, while UK DVSA data shows increased catalytic converter failures linked to lean conditions from degraded lambda sensors. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase wear and emissions system stress, making oil quality and timely maintenance critical.

Intake camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Ticking noise from valve train, reduced power, cam position sensor faults, high oil consumption in severe cases.
Cause: Insufficient lubrication film on intake cam lobes during cold starts, exacerbated by extended oil intervals and short-trip driving in early-production engines.
Fix: Replace camshafts and phasers with updated OEM parts per Service Action 19S06; verify oil flow and use Ford WSS-M2C949-A specification oil.
Throttle body malfunction
Symptoms: Idle speed fluctuations, limp mode, lack of throttle response, stored throttle position sensor codes.
Cause: Carbon buildup on throttle plate and wear in the electronic actuator mechanism over time.
Fix: Clean or replace throttle body per Ford procedure; perform adaptation reset using diagnostic tool.
Coolant leak from water pump
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible leak at front of engine near timing cover.
Cause: Plastic impeller and seal degradation in early-design water pump; common after 80,000 km.
Fix: Replace water pump with revised OEM unit; inspect drive belt and tensioner condition during service.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Misfires under load, rough idle, stored ignition coil DTCs, illuminated check engine light.
Cause: Insulation breakdown in coil windings due to thermal cycling and vibration exposure.
Fix: Replace failed coil with latest-specification OEM part; inspect spark plug condition and gap.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD FFDA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD FFDA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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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