The Ford HHJE is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's Dragon EcoBoost family, featuring dual independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and direct fuel injection. Designed for smooth power delivery and thermal efficiency, it produces 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, supporting both manual and automatic transmissions.
Fitted to models including the Focus ST-Line, Kuga, and Edge, the HHJE was engineered for balanced performance and everyday drivability in C-segment and SUV applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and integrated exhaust manifold, enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across all production years. Its refinement and responsiveness make it suitable for urban and highway driving conditions.
One documented concern involves premature exhaust manifold cracking under sustained high-load operation, noted in Ford Service Action 19M06. Thermal stress in the cast manifold, particularly near cylinder two, can lead to hairline fractures affecting backpressure and lambda sensor readings. From 2021, Ford introduced a revised manifold casting with improved ribbing and heat dissipation, reducing failure incidence.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford HHJE is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for C-segment and compact SUV platforms (2018–2023). It combines Ti-VCT phasing with high-pressure direct injection to deliver linear throttle response and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 emissions, it balances performance 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 | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2017/1151) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable power delivery ideal for daily driving, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or short-trip driving can accelerate intake valve coking due to absence of port injection. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; use of TOP TIER petrol is recommended to prevent deposit formation. Post-2021 models feature updated exhaust manifolds; pre-2021 units should be inspected for cracking per Ford SIB 19M06. Three-way catalyst efficiency depends on regular full-load operation to prevent sulfur poisoning.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19M06). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all HHJE models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets with 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. D67500).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D67210, D67500, SIB 19M06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test code for net power
The Ford HHJE was used across Ford's C2 and CD4 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the Focus and revised exhaust routing in the Kuga-and from 2021 the facelifted Edge adopted a revised exhaust manifold, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D67210). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for HHJE series). Pre-2021 models have a ribbed cast exhaust manifold with single lambda sensor; post-2021 units use a reinforced manifold with dual mounting points. Critical differentiation from 2.0L EcoBoost: HHJE lacks turbocharger and intercooler. Service parts require production date verification—exhaust manifolds for pre-2021 builds are incompatible with post-facelift models due to casting revisions (Ford SIB 19M06).
The HHJE's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold cracking on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated approximately 7% of pre-2021 units required manifold replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased lambda sensor faults linked to exhaust leaks. Frequent cold starts and short trips exacerbate thermal stress, making regular full-load operation and timely inspections 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 HHJE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
