The Ford J6A is a 1,596 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It forms part of the Ford Dragon EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). Designed for compact and subcompact applications, it delivers 110–140 kW (150–190 PS) and 240–290 Nm of torque, balancing performance with efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus (C346), Fiesta (Mk7), and C-Max, the J6A was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising. Its driving character emphasizes low-end torque and smooth throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Ford Service Action 17B12. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication to the tensioner during cold starts. From 2016, Ford introduced revised chain guides and updated oil specifications to mitigate wear risks.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford J6A is a 1,596 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact models (2012–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 110–140 kW (150–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 240–290 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1544V variable-vane turbo | |
| Timing system | Wet timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves due to absence of port injection. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump requires consistent fuel pressure; use of low-quality petrol may trigger lean-burn misfire codes. Post-2016 models feature upgraded chain guides; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 17B12. Direct injection necessitates periodic intake cleaning to maintain throttle response.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 17B12). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2012–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 140 kW output requires premium unleaded (RON 98) (Ford TIS Doc. D1800).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D1567, D1721, SIB 17B12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford J6A was used across Ford's C346/Mk7 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised cooling layouts in the Focus ST-Line-and from 2016 received updated timing components under Service Action 17B12, creating interchange 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 D1580). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for EcoBoost petrol). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2016 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from J6B: J6A uses Bosch HDEV5 fuel system with green high-pressure line, while J6B uses Continental system with black line. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2016 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Ford SIB 17B12).
The J6A's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2017 noted a significant share of pre-2016 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD J6A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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