The Ford JTDA is a 1,997 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved efficiency. Delivering 92 kW (125 PS) and 175 Nm of torque, it provides responsive urban performance with smooth mid-range delivery.
Fitted to models such as the Focus Mk4 (C519), Fiesta Mk8, and Puma, the JTDA was engineered for cost-effective ownership and everyday reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across all production years. Its design prioritises low maintenance costs and cold-start cleanliness.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft phaser, noted in Ford Service Action 19S15. This issue affects early-build units (2019–2020) and is linked to oil flow restriction under prolonged low-RPM operation. From 2021, Ford introduced an updated phaser design and revised oil pump calibration to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2019–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Ford JTDA is a 1,997 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2019–2023). 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 | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.4 mm × 93.5 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4,500 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; phaser wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 137 kg |
The naturally aspirated design ensures predictable throttle response but requires regular oil changes to protect the front-mounted timing chain and cam phaser system. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives for the phaser mechanism. 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-2021 models feature revised phaser geometry; pre-2021 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19S15. 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 19S15). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all JTDA models (2019–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. B18451).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18451, SIB 19S15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford JTDA was used across Ford's C519/MK8 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 Focus-and from 2021 the facelifted Focus ST-Line adopted the JTDA 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 B18451). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for JTDA series). Pre-2021 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from JTDA GDI: Original JTDA 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 07/2020 are incompatible with later units due to phaser redesign (Ford SIB 19S15).
The JTDA's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft phaser wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in city driving with frequent short trips. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 indicated a significant share of pre-2021 engines requiring phaser replacement before 100,000 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 phaser and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD JTDA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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