The Ford JAC Petrol is a 1,498 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft. Designed for light-duty applications, it delivers 74 kW (100 PS) and 136 Nm of torque, providing adequate performance for urban commuting and light-load operation.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Transit Connect and JAC Motors collaborations in select export markets, the JAC Petrol was engineered for cost-effective operation and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, allowing Euro 4 and later Euro 5 compliance depending on model year and regional tuning.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner in high-temperature environments, highlighted in Ford Service Action 14B07. This issue is linked to inadequate tensioner spring durability under sustained thermal cycling. From 2015, revised tensioner assemblies were implemented across production batches to improve long-term reliability.

Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 4 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 5 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford JAC Petrol is a 1,498 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for light commercial vehicles (2010–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with intake-side variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and economical operation. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.6 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (100 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2010–2014); Euro 5 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | 5W-30 C3 (Ford WSS-M2C913-D) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for stop-start urban delivery use but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30 C3) oil is essential for valve train longevity and thermal stability. Extended idling in hot climates increases tensioner wear risk. The MPFI system is tolerant of lower fuel quality but performs best with 95+ RON petrol. Post-2015 models include upgraded tensioner hardware; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 14B07. Catalytic converter longevity depends on maintaining correct air-fuel ratios and avoiding oil consumption.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30 C3) specification (Ford SIB 14B07). Compatible with ACEA C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2010–2014 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 applies to 2015–2018 builds depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly with intake air temperature and fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. A31500).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31200, A31500, SIB 14B07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford JAC Petrol was used across Ford's Transit Connect platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with JAC Motors for select export markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in high-heat regions and revised ECU calibrations for fuel quality-and from 2015 the updated tensioner design in post-facelift models created interchange limits. Partnerships enabled JAC to integrate Ford's emissions control logic into domestic variants. 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 exhaust manifold (Ford TIS A31250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.5L petrol). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from JAC-native 1.5L: Ford JAC Petrol uses Bosch ME7.9.9 ECU with 80-pin connector and green wiring loom. Service parts require production date verification - timing belt kits for pre-2015 engines are incompatible with post-2015 tensioner revisions (Ford SIB 14B07).
The JAC Petrol's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or stop-start environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2015 engines requiring premature belt replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of MOT failures to exhaust emissions exceeding limits due to oxygen sensor degradation. Extended idling and poor-quality fuel increase valve and sensor stress, making maintenance and fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD JAC.
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