Engine Code

FORD M2GA engine (2018–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford M2GA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT). In standard tune, it delivers 147 kW (200 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering strong mid-range performance ideal for sporty driving and highway overtaking.

Fitted to models including the Focus ST, Kuga, and Edge, the M2GA was engineered for responsive acceleration and improved fuel efficiency over naturally aspirated predecessors. Its compact turbocharger reduces lag, while Ti-VCT optimises valve timing across the rev range for balanced power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6d-Final standards throughout its production run.

One documented concern is intercooler pipe detachment under high boost conditions, which can lead to sudden loss of power. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19B08, is primarily associated with clamp design flaws in early production units. Later builds introduced revised hose clamps and reinforced intercooler piping to improve reliability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2018–2023) comply with Euro 6d-Final (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

M2GA Technical Specifications

The Ford M2GA is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size performance vehicles (2018–2023). It combines direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger and Ti-VCT to deliver strong mid-range torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final emissions standards, it balances sporty performance with improved efficiency over previous generations.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,998 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke87.5 mm × 83.1 mm
Power output147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque320 Nm @ 2,500–3,500 rpm
Fuel systemDirect injection (GDI) with port injection supplement
Emissions standardEuro 6d-Final
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle-scroll turbo (Honeywell HTZ55L)
Timing systemTiming chain (front-mounted, revised tensioner)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30)
Dry weight142 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged design provides strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain turbo and timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). Aggressive driving and short-trip cycles increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. Post-2020 models feature updated intercooler clamps per Ford SIB 19B08; pre-2020 units should be inspected for pipe detachment risk. Catalytic converter durability depends on consistent lambda sensor function and proper fuel trim control.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19B08). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.

Emissions: All models meet Euro 6d-Final standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across UK/EU markets (Ford TIS Doc. D28901).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D28110, D28245, SIB 19B08

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

M2GA Compatible Models

The Ford M2GA was used across Ford's C2/CD6 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning variations-aggressive throttle mapping in the Focus ST and enhanced cooling in the Edge-and from 2020 the facelifted Kuga Mk3.5 adopted revised emissions calibration to meet updated Euro 6d-Final requirements, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Focus ST
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Kuga
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford Group PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018–2023
Models:
Edge
Variants:
2.0 EcoBoost
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. D28301
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D28150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for M2GA series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black cam covers; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated variants: M2GA has turbocharger, intercooler piping, and higher-pressure fuel rail. Service parts require production date verification - intercooler kits for engines before 04/2020 are incompatible with later units due to clamp redesign (Ford SIB 19B08).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. D28150

Location:

Stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D28150).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2020: Silver valve cover with black cam cover
  • Post-2020: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19B08

Intercooler:

Intercooler piping and clamps for pre-2020 M2GA models are not compatible with post-facelift units due to design revisions per OEM documentation.

Turbo Components:

Turbocharger assemblies for pre-2020 models may lack updated wastegate actuator calibration found in later builds.
Intercooler Upgrade

Issue:

Early M2GA engines experienced intercooler pipe detachment under high boost due to inadequate clamp tension.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19B08

Recommendation:

Install updated intercooler piping and clamps per Ford SIB 19B08.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD M2GA

The M2GA's primary reliability risk is intercooler pipe detachment on early builds, with elevated incidence during aggressive driving. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 noted a significant share of pre-2020 engines requiring intercooler service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Short-trip cycles and delayed oil changes increase turbo wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Intercooler pipe detachment
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, sudden power drop, hissing noise under load, check engine light with boost control codes.
Cause: Early-design hose clamps unable to maintain tension under thermal cycling and high boost pressure, leading to pipe disconnection.
Fix: Install the latest OEM-specified intercooler piping and clamps per service bulletin; verify boost pressure integrity and ECU adaptation after repair.
Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under load, reduced throttle response, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Direct injection without port cleaning leads to oil/air mixture deposit accumulation on intake valves, restricting airflow.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of intake ports; ensure PCV system is functioning correctly and oil consumption is within spec.
Lambda (oxygen) sensor degradation
Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, failed emissions test, rough running, DTCs for fuel trim imbalance.
Cause: Ageing of upstream and downstream O2 sensors reduces signal accuracy, affecting air-fuel mixture control.
Fix: Replace sensors with OEM-specified parts; recalibrate fuel trims and perform adaptation reset.
Turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking
Symptoms: Erratic boost control, over-boost or under-boost DTCs, reduced performance, black smoke under acceleration.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the wastegate actuator mechanism prevents proper movement.
Fix: Clean or replace wastegate actuator per OEM procedure; verify free movement and recalibrate boost control in diagnostics.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD M2GA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M2GA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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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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