Engine Code

FORD JCC engine (2002–2008) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford JCC is a 1,388 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It was developed as part of the Ford Duratec family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 16 valves, delivering reliable performance for compact applications. In standard tune, it produces 69 kW (94 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 127 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing balanced drivability in urban and suburban environments.

Fitted primarily to the Ford Fiesta Mark V (Mk5) and Ford Focus C170 platform, the JCC engine was engineered for economical daily commuting and low running costs. Its design prioritises fuel efficiency and low emissions, meeting Euro 3 standards across its production run. Equipped with sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-Fi) and a variable intake manifold (VIS), it maintains consistent performance across the rev range.

One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not addressed. This issue was highlighted in Ford Service Action 04B17, primarily affecting vehicles operated under frequent short-trip conditions. From 2005 onward, Ford introduced revised tensioner materials and updated inspection intervals to improve long-term reliability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2002–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2008 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

JCC Technical Specifications

The Ford JCC is a 1,388 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2002–2008). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with variable intake system (VIS) to deliver responsive mid-range performance and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday usability with cost-effective ownership.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,388 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke79.0 mm × 71.0 mm
Power output69 kW (94 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque127 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi-point fuel injection (S-Fi)
Emissions standardEuro 3 (2002–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2008)
Compression ratio11.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming belt (replaced every 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C205-A (5W-30)
Dry weight108 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design offers predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Ford WSS-M2C205-A (5W-30) oil is essential for valve train longevity and thermal stability. Extended idling and short trips accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. The VIS system enhances mid-range torque but requires periodic inspection of vacuum actuators. Post-2005 models benefit from revised tensioner design per Ford SIB 04B17, reducing belt-related failures. Emissions compliance depends on oxygen sensor and catalytic converter health; neglect can trigger check engine lights and failed MOT tests.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C205-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 04B17). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 standards.

Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2002–2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 compliance verified for 2006–2008 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants documented (Ford Group PT-2003).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 05-24-01, 05-24-07, SIB 04B17

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678, VCA/EMS/5679)

European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

JCC Compatible Models

The Ford JCC was used across Ford's B3 and C170 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the Focus-and from 2006 the updated Focus facelift adopted Euro 4-compliant calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2002–2008
Models:
Fiesta (Mk5, B3)
Variants:
1.4i 16V
View Source
Ford Group PT-2003
Make:
Ford
Years:
2002–2007
Models:
Focus (C170)
Variants:
1.4i 16V
View Source
Ford Group PT-2003
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS 05-24-01). The 8th VIN digit identifies the engine family ('L' for Duratec 1.4). Pre-2005 models have silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2005 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from Zetec-SE: JCC features variable intake system (VIS) with vacuum actuator on the intake manifold, while Zetec-SE uses fixed runners. Service parts require model-year verification—timing kits for pre-2005 engines are not compatible with post-2005 revisions due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 04B17).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS 05-24-01

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the bellhousing (Ford TIS 05-24-01).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2005: Silver cam cover with black intake manifold
  • Post-2005: Black cam cover with updated VIS actuator
Timing Belt Maintenance

Evidence:

Ford SIB 04B17

Interval:

Replace timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump every 120,000 km or 6 years, whichever comes first (Ford SIB 04B17).

Critical Note:

Failure to replace on schedule may result in valve-to-piston contact due to interference design.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD JCC

The JCC's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban driving. Ford's internal field reports from 2006 indicated a significant number of pre-2005 engines requiring unscheduled belt replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased catalytic converter failures in high-mileage examples. Infrequent oil changes and cold starts increase valve train and belt system stress, making scheduled maintenance critical.

Timing belt tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Squealing or chirping noise at startup, timing belt misalignment, engine misfire, or sudden stalling.
Cause: Plastic tensioner pulley degrades over time, especially under thermal cycling and short-trip operation, leading to loss of belt tension.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump using Ford-approved parts per SIB 04B17; verify alignment and tension after installation.
Intake manifold vacuum actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of mid-range power, check engine light, P1518 code (VIS system malfunction), rough idle.
Cause: Rubber diaphragm in the VIS actuator hardens and cracks over time, causing vacuum leak and incorrect flap positioning.
Fix: Replace VIS actuator with updated part number; clear fault codes and perform system adaptation via diagnostic tool.
Catalytic converter clogging or failure
Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, rotten egg smell, failed emissions test.
Cause: Contaminants from oil consumption or rich fuel mixture degrade catalyst substrate, increasing backpressure.
Fix: Replace catalytic converter with OEM-specified unit; diagnose and correct root cause (e.g., faulty oxygen sensor, injectors) before replacement.
Valve stem seal leakage
Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start, oil consumption between services, carbon buildup on spark plugs.
Cause: Hardened or cracked valve stem seals allow oil to seep into combustion chamber during engine shutdown.
Fix: Replace valve stem seals during cylinder head service; inspect guides for wear and reseat valves if necessary.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2004–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD JCC

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD JCC.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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