The Ford LJD is a 999 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Part of the Ford EcoBoost engine family, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and direct fuel injection. Delivering 74 kW (100 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 170 Nm of torque between 1,400–4,500 rpm, it was engineered for responsive urban performance in compact vehicles.
Fitted to the Ford Fiesta Mk7 (Mk7.5) and Ford Puma, the LJD was designed for drivers seeking strong low-end torque and excellent fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance is achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and gasoline particulate filter (GPF), meeting Euro 6d-Final standards across its production run (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in high-mileage stop-start applications. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 18B22, is associated with oil flow restrictions in early oil pump designs. In 2020, Ford introduced an updated oil pump and revised chain guide system to improve lubrication and reduce failure risk.
All LJD engines comply with Euro 6d-Final emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Ford LJD is a 999 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine developed for compact Ford platforms (2018–2023). It integrates turbocharging with direct fuel injection and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) to deliver strong low-RPM torque and throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final emissions standards, it balances performance with urban efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 68.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (100 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 1,400–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Turbocharged direct injection (GDi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Final | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (prone to tensioner wear) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the chain tensioner system. Extended idling and cold starts increase wear risk due to delayed oil pressure build-up. The Ti-VCT system demands clean oil to prevent cam phaser clogging. Post-2020 models feature revised oil pumps and guides; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 18B22. GPF longevity depends on regular longer drives to enable passive regeneration and correct air-fuel mixture control.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18B22). Replaces ACEA C2 standards.
Emissions: All LJD engines meet Euro 6d-Final standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901). No earlier Euro variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (Ford TIS Doc. B19425).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B19420, B19701, SIB 18B22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford LJD was used across Ford's Mk7.5 Fiesta and Puma platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the Puma and ECU tuning for higher torque delivery-and from 2020 the updated oil pump and chain guide system was implemented, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B19480). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('Q' for LJD series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2020 units use textured black covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo Sigma engines: LJD has turbocharger and GPF; Sigma units are naturally aspirated. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units due to oil pump and guide redesign (Ford SIB 18B22).
The LJD's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 noted a significant number of pre-2020 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased GPF clogging in poorly maintained units. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase chain and phaser 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 LJD.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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