The Ford IQJC is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to Ford's EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a single-scroll turbocharger. Rated at 147 kW (200 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, it was engineered for responsive performance and improved efficiency in mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus ST, Kuga ST-Line, and Edge, the IQJC was designed for drivers seeking a balance of sporty throttle response and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6d-Final standards across its production run (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
One documented concern is intercooler piping detachment observed in certain 2019–2021 production units, highlighted in Ford Service Action 20T03. This issue stems from inadequate hose clamp retention on the charge air duct. From 2022 onward, revised clamping hardware and updated routing were implemented to enhance reliability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-Final standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford IQJC is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for performance-oriented passenger vehicles (2018–2023). It integrates direct fuel injection with Ti-VCT variable valve timing and turbocharging to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final emissions standards, it supports sporty driving dynamics while maintaining acceptable fuel economy.
| 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 | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Final | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbocharger with intercooler | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The turbocharged GDI design provides strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing wear and timing chain degradation. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection for direct injection components. Extended idling or short trips may contribute to carbon buildup on intake valves. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards with detergent additives to prevent injector coking. Post-2022 models feature revised intercooler clamping per Ford SIB 20T03, significantly improving boost system reliability. Regular air filter and spark plug maintenance ensures consistent emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 20T03). Meets ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Final certification applies to all IQJC models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228 (Ford TIS Doc. S21100).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S20980, S21010, SIB 20T03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford IQJC was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lincoln entry-level turbo petrol units in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Edge and shorter intake runners in the Focus ST-and from 2022 the updated Kuga facelift adopted revised intercooler clamping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS S21020). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('I' for IQJC series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black cam covers; post-2022 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo EcoBoost engines: IQJC has an intercooler, boost piping, and GDI fuel rail. Service parts require production date verification—intercooler ducts for engines before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to clamp and routing revisions per Ford SIB 20T03.
The IQJC's primary reliability risk is intercooler piping detachment in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or high-load applications. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 engines requiring duct replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased check engine light incidents related to boost pressure correlation in affected models. Aggressive driving and short-trip cycles exacerbate thermal cycling stress, making component inspection and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD IQJC.
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