The Ford JTDB is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. Part of Ford's Dragon engine family, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Ti-VCT variable cam timing, and port fuel injection. It delivers 88 kW (120 PS) at 6,500 rpm and 170 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, providing efficient performance for urban and mixed driving conditions.
Fitted to the Ford Focus Mk4 (C519) and Kuga Mk3 (CX48), the JTDB was engineered for cost-effective ownership and strong fuel economy. It meets Euro 6.2 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), with no particulate filter required due to its port-injected design. The engine is transversely mounted and shares architecture with Volvo units via joint engineering agreements.
One documented service concern involves early intake manifold runner binding, particularly in pre-2021 builds. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S04, can lead to airflow inconsistencies and fault codes under load. From 2021 onward, revised manifold assemblies with improved flap durability were introduced to reduce failure incidence.
Production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Ford JTDB is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2020–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with port fuel injection to deliver reliable everyday performance and consistent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances efficiency with durability in urban and highway applications.
| 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 | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2016/427) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain and camshaft longevity. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and wear protection for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or short trips can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection cleaning. The cooled EGR system requires periodic inspection to prevent clogging and maintain emissions compliance. Post-2021 models feature updated intake manifolds per Ford SIB 19S04, resolving early airflow inconsistencies.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S04). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all 2020–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. D18752).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D18752, D18923, SIB 19S04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
European Commission: Regulation (EU) 2016/427 on emissions
The Ford JTDB was used across Ford's C519/CX48 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo via joint engineering agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust manifolds in the Kuga and revised intake tuning in the Focus-and from 2021 the facelifted Kuga models adopted updated EGR calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS D18803). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for JTDB series). Pre-2021 models have silver intake manifolds with black valve covers; post-2021 units use black manifolds. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost: JTDB lacks turbocharger and intercooler, with simpler intake plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification - intake manifolds before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to runner design changes (Ford SIB 19S04).
The JTDB's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner binding on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Ford's internal field reports from 2021 indicated a measurable share of pre-2021 engines triggering airflow faults before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased EGR-related failures in stop-start conditions. Short trips and infrequent oil changes accelerate carbon accumulation, making maintenance 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 JTDB.
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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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