The Ford HHJD is a 1,596 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable valve timing (Ti-VCT). Delivering 85 kW (115 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, it was engineered for compact vehicle applications requiring reliability and fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk3, C-Max, and B-Max, the HHJD was designed for urban and suburban driving with an emphasis on low running costs and smooth refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 5 standard certification across its production run.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain 2011–2012 production units, highlighted in Ford Service Action 12B12. This issue is attributed to marginal oil flow design in early cylinder heads. From 2013 onward, revised camshafts and updated oil gallery machining were implemented to resolve the concern.

Production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford HHJD is a 1,596 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2010–2016). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it supports everyday drivability with low maintenance demands.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft wear in early production units. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high zinc content supporting flat-tappet cam lubrication. Extended idling or short trips may accelerate timing chain guide wear over time. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards to prevent injector coking. Post-2013 models feature revised camshafts and oil galleries per Ford SIB 12B12, significantly improving durability. Regular air filter and spark plug maintenance ensures consistent emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 12B12). Meets ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all HHJD models (2010–2016) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228 (Ford TIS Doc. S16021).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S15670, S15802, SIB 12B12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford HHJD was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover entry-level petrol units in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the B-Max and revised exhaust routing in the C-Max-and from 2013 the updated Focus Mk3 facelift adopted revised camshaft profiles, 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 starter motor (Ford TIS S15780). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for HHJD series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged Sigma engines: HHJD has no intercooler or boost piping. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts for engines before 09/2012 are incompatible with later units due to profile and oil gallery revisions (Ford SIB 12B12).
The HHJD's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in poorly maintained units. Frequent cold starts and extended idling exacerbate oil degradation and wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD HHJD.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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