The Ford M1JU is a 1,999 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing). In standard tune, it delivers 120 kW (163 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, primarily used in mid-size passenger vehicles requiring balanced performance and refinement.
Fitted to models such as the C519 Focus ST, CD345 Mondeo, and C520 Kuga, the M1JU was engineered for responsive urban driving and stable highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds, closed-loop three-way catalytic converters (TWC), and evaporative emission control systems, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing chain guide wear observed in high-mileage applications, particularly under frequent short-trip usage. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 14B12, is attributed to oil flow restriction in cold-start conditions affecting upper chain tensioner lubrication. From 2015, revised guide materials and oil feed orifices were implemented to improve durability.

Production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford M1JU is a 1,999 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mainstream passenger applications (2011–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with Ti-VCT technology to deliver smooth throttle response and mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel efficiency in front-wheel-drive platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, rear-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for daily driving but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) to prevent timing chain guide wear. The Ti-VCT system requires clean oil passages for optimal phaser operation; neglected changes may lead to rattle or reduced performance. Short-trip driving without full warm-up cycles accelerates carbon buildup on intake valves. Post-2015 revisions improved guide durability; pre-2015 units benefit from early inspection of chain tensioner condition. Evaporative system integrity must be maintained to prevent fuel vapour leaks and failed emissions tests.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 14B12). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all M1JU models (2011–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 95 RON unleaded petrol (Ford TIS WSM-307-01A).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): WSM-307-01A, SIB 14B12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford M1JU was used across Ford's C519/CD345 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover in limited European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the Focus and enhanced NVH damping in the Mondeo-and from 2015 updated oil feed geometry improved timing system lubrication, creating interchange limits. 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 WSM-307-01A). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for M1JU series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbo variants: M1JU lacks turbocharger and intercooler; uses MPFI instead of GDi. Service parts require production date verification - timing guides for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to oil feed redesign (Ford SIB 14B12).
The M1JU's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2014 indicated a significant number of pre-2015 engines showing guide degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records associate timing-related faults with increased emissions test failures in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M1JU.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.