The Ford JQDA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for enhanced efficiency. Delivering 88 kW (120 PS) and 170 Nm of torque, it provides reliable low-end responsiveness ideal for urban driving conditions.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta Mk8 (Mk8), Puma, and B-MAX, the JQDA was engineered for cost-effective ownership and high fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6.2 standards across all production years. Its design prioritises durability under stop-start urban cycles and simplified maintenance routines.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobe, noted in Ford Service Action 20S12. This issue affects early-build units (2020–2021) and is linked to marginal oil film stability under prolonged low-RPM operation. From 2022, Ford introduced revised camshaft hardening and updated oil pump calibration to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford JQDA is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for supermini and subcompact vehicles (2020–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with multi-point fuel injection to deliver balanced urban responsiveness and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 emissions standards, it supports low-cost ownership with simplified service intervals.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted; cam lobe wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The naturally aspirated design ensures predictable throttle response but requires adherence to oil change intervals to protect the intake camshaft system. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives for the cam lobes. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The MPFI system is less sensitive to fuel quality than GDI but still benefits from detergent-rich petrol. Post-2022 models feature revised camshaft surface hardening; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 20S12. Emissions systems require full operating temperature for optimal function, so long warm-up cycles should be avoided.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 20S12). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all JQDA models (2020–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. C20560).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C20560, SIB 20S12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford JQDA was used across Ford's MK8/M286 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Volvo under engine co-development agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Puma and revised exhaust routing in the Fiesta-and from 2022 the facelifted Fiesta ST-Line adopted the JQDA with recalibrated throttle response, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Volvo's B4194S petrol units to share valve train components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS C20560). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for JQDA series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2022 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from JQDA GDI: Original JQDA MPFI has Delphi fuel injectors with grey connectors, while GDI variants use black Bosch units. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 04/2021 are incompatible with later units due to camshaft redesign (Ford SIB 20S12).
The JQDA's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in city driving with frequent short trips. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 indicated a significant share of pre-2022 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR clogging in urban-driven vehicles. Low-speed operation and extended idling increase cam and lifter stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD JQDA.
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.
