The Ford JQGA is a 1,498 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford’s Dragon EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune, it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 170 Nm of torque, offering a balance of urban responsiveness and fuel efficiency for compact applications.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta MK8 (MkVIII), Focus MK4 (C519), and Puma (SUV), the JQGA engine was engineered for responsive city driving and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run. This engine replaced older naturally aspirated units, aligning with Ford’s downsizing and efficiency strategy.
One documented reliability concern is carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in stop-start urban driving conditions. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S06, arises due to the absence of port fuel injection, leading to oil-fuel mixture deposits. Ford recommends periodic intake cleaning and adherence to oil change intervals using WSS-M2C949-B1 specification oil to mitigate risks.
All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (Regulation (EU) 2017/1151); verified under VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678.
The Ford JQGA is a 1,498 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver linear throttle response and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances everyday drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 80.4 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2017/1151) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth and predictable power delivery ideal for city driving, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent intake valve carbon buildup. Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its detergent and anti-sludge properties, protecting the direct-injection system. Extended idling and short trips accelerate deposit formation, so periodic professional intake cleaning is recommended. The integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up time, aiding emissions compliance. Vehicles in high-dust environments should have air filter inspections every 7,500 km to maintain airflow and prevent contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S06). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all 2018–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford PT-2020).
Ford Technical Information Portal (TIP): Docs DRG-TECH-045, DRG-MAINT-112, SIB 19S06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission: Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
The Ford JQGA was used across Ford's MkVIII/C519 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the Fiesta and revised engine mounts in the Puma-and from 2020, the facelifted Focus ST-Line adopted a revised intake manifold for improved mid-range response, 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 exhaust manifold (Ford TIP DRG-ID-202). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for JQGA series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers; post-2020 units use dark grey. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost turbo variants: JQGA lacks turbocharger and intercooler, with simpler intake plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for pre-2020 Focus models are not compatible with post-facelift ST-Line variants due to internal runner revisions (Ford SIB 20S11).
The JQGA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Ford field reports from 2021 indicated a notable number of pre-2020 units requiring intake cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a significant share of emissions-related MOT failures to idle instability in city-driven petrol vehicles. Extended idling and low-speed operation reduce cleaning effect of airflow, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD JQGA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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