The Ford HHJA is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's Dynamic Force engine family, designed for durability and efficiency in mainstream applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), and high-pressure direct injection, it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with an emphasis on linear power delivery and long-term reliability.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (C519), Kuga (C520), and EcoSport (M270), the HHJA was engineered for drivers prioritising fuel economy, low maintenance costs, and predictable performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in stop-start urban driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19M04, arises due to the absence of port fuel injection, leading to reduced airflow and potential misfires. Ford recommends periodic intake cleaning at 60,000 km intervals for prevention.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford HHJA is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2018–2023). It combines high-pressure direct injection with Ti-VCT variable valve timing to deliver smooth throttle response and consistent efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances everyday drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (long-life design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for daily commuting but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain longevity and prevent sludge formation. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). Direct injection increases risk of intake valve coking; use of Top Tier detergent fuel and periodic walnut blasting are recommended. Cold-start operation should avoid immediate high loads to allow oil pressure stabilization. The timing chain is designed for life but inspection is advised if rattling occurs after 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19M04). Meets Ford-specific LSPI protection requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (RON 95 minimum) (Ford TIS Doc. B36021).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B35891, B36021, SIB 19M04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford HHJA 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 Kuga and revised cooling paths in the Focus ST-Line-and from 2021 the facelifted Kuga PHEV models replaced it with hybrid units, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS B35891). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for HHJA series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black timing covers; post-2020 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost: HHJA lacks turbocharger and intercooler plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for Focus and Kuga are not interchangeable (Ford SIB 20C03).
The HHJA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Ford internal field reports from 2020 indicated over 30% of city-driven units showed airflow restriction by 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a growing share of emissions failures to lean-running conditions in high-mileage petrol engines. Short trips and low-quality fuel accelerate deposit formation, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD HHJA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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