The Ford M2DA is a 2,488 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It forms part of the Ford Dynamic Force Engine family, designed for durability and broad torque delivery in commercial and passenger applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), port and direct fuel injection (D-4), and variable valve timing (VVT-iE), it delivers 128 kW (174 PS) and 249 Nm of torque, with strong mid-range performance suited to load-carrying duties.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Transit Custom (2018–2023) and Transit Connect (2019–2023), the M2DA was engineered for fleet operators prioritising reliability and serviceability. Driving character emphasizes low-to-mid RPM tractability, reducing driver fatigue during urban delivery cycles. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter (TWC) and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run.
One documented update occurred in 2021, referenced in Ford Service Action 21M06, addressing intermittent crankshaft position sensor signal loss under thermal cycling. This issue, linked to sensor internal solder joint fatigue, could result in no-start conditions or unexpected stalling. Revised sensors with improved thermal resilience were introduced from production week 21/2021, and field replacements are covered under extended warranty in certain regions.
All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (Regulation (EU) 2018/858; VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford M2DA is a 2,488 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for light commercial vehicles (2018–2023). It combines port and direct fuel injection with dual VVT systems to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and consistent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 emissions standards, it balances durability for high-mileage operation with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,488 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 103.4 mm | |
| Power output | 128 kW (174 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 249 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Dual injection (D-4: port + direct, 13 MPa) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2018/858) | |
| Compression ratio | 13.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, electric thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (maintenance-free, life-of-engine design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable power delivery ideal for stop-start delivery routes but requires higher RPMs for overtaking, impacting fuel economy under aggressive driving. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain hydraulic lifter stability and timing chain lubrication. The dual D-4 injection system reduces carbon buildup on intake valves compared to direct-only systems, though periodic fuel system cleaning is recommended after 120,000 km. The 2021 crankshaft sensor update (SIB 21M06) should be verified on high-mileage units; replacement with the revised part prevents thermal-induced stalling. Lambda sensor health is critical for emissions compliance and must be diagnosed promptly if DTCs appear.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A specification (Ford SIB 21M06). Equivalent to ACEA A2/B2; not compatible with C-class oils.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all models 2018–2023 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Complies with Real Driving Emissions (RDE) Phase 1 requirements.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent with standard 95 RON fuel (Ford PT-2020).
Ford Technical Service Documents: A21-4400, SIB 21M06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/858
The Ford M2DA was used across Ford's Transit Custom and Transit Connect platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drive layout in the Transit Connect and reinforced engine mounts in high-roof Transit Custom vans-and from 2021 the facelifted Transit Custom adopted revised ECU calibration for improved cold-start emissions, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford TSD A21-4400). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M2DA series). Pre-2021 models have a silver engine cover with black intake manifold; post-2021 units retain the same appearance but feature a revised crankshaft position sensor (black housing vs. grey). Critical differentiation from diesel variants: M2DA has no turbocharger or high-pressure fuel pump; ignition coils are directly mounted on spark plugs. Service parts require VIN verification—ECU software for 2021–2023 Transit Custom models is not backward compatible with pre-facelift units (Ford SIB 21M06).
The M2DA's primary reliability risk is crankshaft position sensor failure under thermal stress, with elevated incidence in high-ambient-temperature operation. Ford's internal field reports from 2022 indicated a measurable failure rate in units operating above 35 °C ambient for extended periods, while VCA roadside failure data shows electrical faults as a top cause of immobilisation in commercial fleets. Stop-start cycles and prolonged idling increase thermal cycling, making sensor quality and cooling airflow critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M2DA.
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