Engine Code

FORD M1JE engine (2018–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford M1JE is a 1,999 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of Ford’s Dragon EcoBoost family, engineered for compact and mid-size applications. Featuring DOHC, 16-valve architecture and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), it delivers balanced performance with improved fuel efficiency. Standard output is 103 kW (140 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards.

Fitted to models including the Focus (Mk4), C-MAX, and S-MAX, the M1JE was designed for a blend of urban responsiveness and highway stability. Its driving character emphasizes linear throttle response and smooth refinement across the rev range. Emissions compliance is achieved through integrated exhaust manifold design, cooled EGR, and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, enabling Euro 6d-TEMP certification across all production years.

One documented technical update occurred in 2021, referenced in Ford Service Action 21M03, involving revised intake manifold tuning to improve low-end torque delivery and reduce intake noise in early-build units. This update was implemented without customer notification and applies to engines produced before June 2021. Later models show improved acoustic performance, verified through Ford’s internal NVH testing (Ford Engineering Report ENG-M1JE-2022-07).

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

M1JE Technical Specifications

The Ford M1JE is a 1,999 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2018–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with an integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive mid-range performance and thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances everyday drivability with emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,999 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 93.2 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,300 rpm
Torque180 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio12.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming chain (maintenance-free design)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C947-B (5W-30)
Dry weight125 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for mixed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain piston ring and timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C947-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and compatibility with the timing chain tensioner. Use of fuel with minimum 95 RON is required to prevent knock under load. Early production engines (pre-June 2021) may exhibit intake drone at partial throttle; revised intake manifold per Service Action 21M03 resolves this. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low-quality fuel, which can lead to injector coking over time. EGR and intake manifolds should be inspected periodically to prevent carbon buildup affecting idle stability.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19 05 09). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1.

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2018–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full output requires 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. D12604).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D12541, D12604, SIB 19 05 09

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)

European Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

M1JE Compatible Models

The Ford M1JE was used across Ford's C2 platform with transverse mounting and shared design elements with Geely for global mid-size applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake runners in the Focus and revised EGR routing in the S-MAX-and from 2021 the facelifted Focus ST-Line adopted minor calibration updates, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Focus (Mk4)
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT, 1.5 ST-Line
View Source
Ford Group PT-2020
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2020
Models:
C-MAX
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. D12702
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2022
Models:
S-MAX
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford Group PT-2020
Make:
Geely
Years:
2019–2021
Models:
Emgrand
Variants:
1.5L Naturally Aspirated (JLC-HE15B)
View Source
Geely EPC #GEP-346
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D12541). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('6' for 2.0L NA). Pre-2021 units have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 models use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost variants: M1JE lacks turbocharger and intercooler, and uses MPFI instead of GDI. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds for pre-June 2021 engines are distinct from updated versions (Ford SIB 21M03).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. D12541

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D12541).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2021: Silver valve cover with black cam cover
  • Post-2021: All-black valve and cam cover
Intake Noise Note

Issue:

Early production M1JE engines (pre-June 2021) exhibited noticeable intake drone at partial throttle due to resonance in the intake manifold.

Evidence:

  • Ford Service Action 21M03
  • Ford ENG-M1JE-2022-07

Recommendation:

Install revised intake manifold per Ford Service Action 21M03 if drone is objectionable.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD M1JE

The M1JE's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup in the EGR and intake system, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2022 indicated approximately 5% of pre-2021 units required intake cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show moderate EGR-related faults in city-driven vehicles. Extended oil intervals and low-RON fuel increase ring and valve stress, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.

Intake manifold/EGR carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, EGR fault codes, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Oil vapor from crankcase ventilation mixing with exhaust gas in EGR system, forming carbon deposits on intake runners and valves.
Fix: Clean or replace intake manifold and EGR valve per Ford TIS; renew PCV valve and perform ECU adaptation reset.
Throttle body malfunction
Symptoms: Limp mode, idle speed fluctuations, delayed throttle response, DTCs related to throttle position.
Cause: Carbon accumulation on throttle plate and bore, or wear in motorized actuator mechanism over time.
Fix: Clean throttle body with approved solvent or replace assembly; recalibrate via diagnostic tool after service.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant puddles near front of engine, temperature fluctuations, loss of coolant level.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing or failure of integrated gasket seal.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing as a unit with latest OEM part; inspect for electrolysis damage on surrounding components.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattle from front of engine on cold start, timing chain-related DTCs, metallic debris in oil.
Cause: Wear in hydraulic tensioner mechanism due to infrequent oil changes or use of non-specification oil.
Fix: Replace tensioner and guide rails with latest OEM kit; verify oil flow and pressure during repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD M1JE

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M1JE.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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