The Ford H3JA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. It belongs to Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and low-inertia turbocharging. In standard tune, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at balancing responsive performance with emissions compliance in compact and mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST-Line, Puma, and Kuga, the H3JA was engineered for urban and mixed driving conditions where strong low-end torque and fuel efficiency are prioritized. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6.2 compliance across all production years, verified under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), highlighted in Ford Service Action 21S02. This issue arises from inadequate lubrication under sustained high-load operation, particularly when lower-octane fuels are used. From 2022, Ford introduced revised HPFP components and updated fuel system calibration to improve durability and reduce failure incidence.
Production years 2020–2025 meet Euro 6.2 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Amended by (EU) 2018/858). VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/H3JA/8867.
The Ford H3JA is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size platforms (2020–2025). It combines direct injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range power and regulated emissions performance. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances drivability with efficiency in high-utilisation environments.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2018/858) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi ML50 with electronic wastegate actuator | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The H3JA's turbocharged design provides strong mid-RPM pull ideal for spirited driving but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Direct injection contributes to intake valve carbon buildup; Ford recommends induction cleaning every 60,000 km per TIS F20920. Extended idling and low-octane fuel increase risk of HPFP wear. Post-2022 models benefit from revised pump design and ECU mapping that improves fuel rail pressure stability. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21S02). Supersedes ACEA C2 and API SN.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all H3JA models (2020–2025) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/H3JA/8867).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full torque output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F20650).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F20650, F20920, SIB 21S02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/H3JA/8867)
European Commission: Regulation (EU) 2018/858
The Ford H3JA was used across Ford's C2 and CD4 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus and enhanced cooling in the Kuga-and from 2022 the facelifted Puma models adopted revised ECU calibration for improved emissions control, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS F20800). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for H3JA series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2022 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from H3JB: H3JA uses Mitsubishi ML50 turbo with electronic actuator (round connector), while H3JB uses Garrett GT22 with vacuum actuator (square connector). Service parts require VIN verification - fuel pumps before 08/2022 are incompatible with later units due to ECU calibration changes (Ford SIB 21S02).
The H3JA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in mixed and highway use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2023 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 engines required pump service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR and turbo faults in city-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and low-load operation increase carbon buildup, making oil quality and driving pattern awareness critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020-2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD H3JA.
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