The Ford KVJA is a 1,999 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, and variable cam timing. In standard tune, it delivers 147 kW (200 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, primarily used in performance-oriented and mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Kuga ST-Line X, and Edge Titanium, the KVJA was engineered for responsive driving dynamics and strong mid-range power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6.2 (Euro 6d-TEMP) compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, noted in Ford Service Action 19S07. This issue arises from carbon buildup on the actuator lever mechanism under frequent short-trip driving. From 2021, Ford introduced revised actuator hardware and updated ECU calibration to reduce fault frequency.

Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021–2023 models comply with full Euro 6d (RDE) requirements (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford KVJA is a 1,999 cc inline-four turbo-petrol engineered for performance and utility applications (2018–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive throttle and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and later RDE standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Honeywell turbo with integrated wastegate actuator | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong mid-range pull ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo actuator and injector coking. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability protecting direct injectors and turbo bearings. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on the wastegate lever. Using premium-grade petrol (RON 97+) enhances throttle response and reduces knock risk under load. Post-2021 models feature updated actuator hardware; pre-2021 units benefit from the revised actuator upgrade per Ford SIB 19S07. Regular ECU updates maintain optimal boost control and emissions performance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S07). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Full Euro 6d (RDE) compliance from 2021 onward.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 147 kW output requires RON 95 minimum (Ford TIS Doc. A56012).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A56012, SIB 19S07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford KVJA was used across Ford's C2 and CD4 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning-calibrated throttle response in the Focus ST and enhanced cooling in the Edge-and from 2021 the facelifted Kuga adopted the updated turbo actuator and ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS A56012). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('U' for 2.0L EcoBoost). Pre-2021 models have silver turbocharger housings with black actuators; post-2021 units use all-black housings with revised actuator arms. Critical differentiation from earlier 2.0L EcoBoost: KVJA features HDEV5 injectors and updated ECU calibration. Service parts require model year verification—turbo actuators before 09/2020 are incompatible with later revisions due to lever redesign (Ford SIB 19S07).
The KVJA's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip driving. Ford's internal field reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2021 units requiring actuator service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage petrol SUVs. Frequent cold starts and low-speed operation increase carbon accumulation, making oil quality and fuel type selection 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 KVJA.
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