The Ford JQMB is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's Dynamic Flex family, designed for durability and smooth operation in high-mileage applications. Featuring port fuel injection, twin-independent camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), and an Atkinson-cycle combustion strategy, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, primarily paired with a CVT automatic transmission.
Fitted to models including the Mondeo Hybrid, Kuga Hybrid, and S-MAX, the JQMB engine was engineered for blended hybrid operation. It functions as the primary combustion source in Ford’s hybrid drivetrain, engaging during higher-load conditions while allowing electric-only operation at low speeds. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and advanced lambda control, enabling Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature camshaft phaser wear, identified in Ford Service Action 21S08. This issue arises from inadequate oil flow to the phaser chambers under extended low-RPM operation typical of hybrid driving cycles. From mid-2022, revised phaser hardware with improved oil passage geometry was implemented to enhance reliability and reduce fault incidence.
All production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford JQMB is a 1,998 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for hybrid applications (2020–2023). It combines Atkinson-cycle thermodynamics with Ti-VCT to deliver efficient operation and seamless integration with electric drive systems. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it prioritizes longevity and emissions control over peak performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch port fuel injection (120 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 13.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, non-interference) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The JQMB's Atkinson-cycle design enables high thermal efficiency ideal for hybrid operation but requires consistent oil pressure to maintain cam phaser function. Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (0W-20) oil is essential for maintaining variable cam timing and reducing internal friction. Extended low-RPM operation in hybrid mode increases risk of phaser wear; periodic higher-RPM operation helps maintain oil flow. The port fuel injection system avoids low-speed pre-ignition but requires periodic intake cleaning to prevent deposit buildup. Post-2022 models feature updated cam phasers; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 21S08. Catalytic converter efficiency depends on closed-loop lambda control; faulty sensors can trigger emissions-related DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 21S08). Supersedes ACEA C5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2020–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 95 fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F16830).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F16830, F16831, SIB 21S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford JQMB was used across Ford's C525 platform with transverse mounting and hybrid integration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake runners in the Kuga and revised cooling paths in the Mondeo-and from 2022 the facelifted S-MAX adopted the JQMB-TU variant with enhanced phaser durability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F16830). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for JQMB series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2022 units use gloss black covers. Critical differentiation from JQMB-TU: Original JQMB uses Bosch MD1CS048 ECU with 84-pin connector, while JQMB-TU uses MD1CS052 with 104-pin. Service parts require production date verification - cam phasers for engines before 04/2022 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 21S08).
The JQMB's primary reliability risk is camshaft phaser wear, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Ford's internal quality report from 2021 indicated a significant share of pre-2022 engines required phaser service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to prolonged lean-running conditions in stop-start traffic. Low-RPM operation and infrequent high-speed cycles increase oil starvation risk, making driving pattern management and oil specification 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 JQMB.
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