Engine Code

FORD M2GB engine (2020–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford M2GB is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing) for improved fuel efficiency and smooth power delivery. In standard tune, it produces 103 kW (140 PS) and 188 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at mid-size applications requiring balanced performance and economy.

Fitted to models such as the Focus (Mk4) and Kuga (Mk3), the M2GB was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and cooled EGR system, enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run. The engine’s character emphasizes linear throttle response and low maintenance over high performance.

One documented concern involves intermittent throttle body malfunctions, particularly in high-humidity environments. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Information Bulletin 21S03, is linked to condensation affecting the electronic throttle motor. From 2022, revised sealing and updated control logic were implemented to improve reliability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

M2GB Technical Specifications

The Ford M2GB is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size vehicles (2020–2023). It combines MPFI with Ti-VCT to deliver responsive mid-range torque and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it balances everyday drivability with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,998 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 93.2 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,300 rpm
Torque188 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 6.2
Compression ratio12.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemChain (front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30)
Dry weight121 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for mixed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its formulation supporting the front-mounted chain tensioner. High-humidity operation increases risk of throttle body condensation; extended idling should be minimised. The MPFI system is less sensitive to fuel quality than GDI but still benefits from TOP TIER petrol. Post-2022 models feature improved throttle body sealing; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 21S03. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent manifold clogging.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21S03). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all models (2020–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Ford TIS Doc. F21002).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F20198, F20311, SIB 21S03

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

M2GB Compatible Models

The Ford M2GB was used across Ford's Mk4 Focus/Mk3 Kuga platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake runners in the Kuga and revised engine mounts in the Focus-and from 2022, updated throttle body hardware was introduced across all applications, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2020–2023
Models:
Focus (Mk4)
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford Group PT-2021
Make:
Ford
Years:
2020–2023
Models:
Kuga (Mk3)
Variants:
1.5 Ti-VCT
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. F20205
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Ford TIS F20199). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for M2GB series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers; post-2022 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.0L EcoBoost: M2GB has a traditional intake manifold with throttle body, while EcoBoost features turbo plumbing and intercooler lines. Service parts require production date verification - throttle bodies for engines before 04/2022 are incompatible with later units due to internal sealing updates (Ford SIB 21S03).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. F20199

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Ford TIS F20199).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2022: Silver valve cover
  • Post-2022: Black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 21S03

Throttle Body:

Throttle bodies for pre-2022 M2GB engines are not compatible with post-2022 revisions due to internal sealing and control logic updates per Ford SIB 21S03.

Engine Mounts:

Kuga-specific engine mounts differ from Focus due to SUV packaging and weight distribution.
Throttle Body Upgrade

Issue:

Early M2GB engines experienced intermittent throttle response issues due to condensation affecting the electronic throttle motor in high-humidity conditions.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 21S03

Recommendation:

Inspect or replace throttle body per Ford SIB 21S03, especially on high-mileage units with frequent short-trip operation.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD M2GB

The M2GB's primary reliability risk is throttle body malfunction on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-humidity environments. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 noted a measurable rate of idle instability in pre-2022 units before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data links intake clogging to EGR faults in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase electrical stress, making software updates and interval adherence critical.

Throttle body malfunction or failure
Symptoms: Intermittent idle fluctuation, hesitation, limp mode, stored throttle position sensor DTCs.
Cause: Electronic throttle motor susceptible to condensation ingress in high-humidity environments, especially during cold-start cycles.
Fix: Install updated OEM-specified throttle body per service bulletin; perform electronic adaptation reset after replacement.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, EGR-related DTCs, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Oil vapour and exhaust gas recirculation leading to carbon deposits in intake runners and EGR passages.
Fix: Clean or replace intake manifold and EGR valve per OEM procedure; renew PCV system components as needed.
Coolant leaks from water pump housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible leaks near front of engine, low coolant level, temperature fluctuations.
Cause: Age-related degradation of water pump seal; thermal cycling accelerates failure.
Fix: Replace water pump and housing gasket with OEM parts; inspect coolant condition and flush if contaminated.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattle at cold start, especially on idle; may subside after warm-up; stored DTCs for cam correlation.
Cause: Front-mounted chain with early-design tensioner prone to wear under cold-start oil starvation and short-trip driving cycles.
Fix: Install updated OEM-specified tensioner per service bulletin; verify oil flow and chain guide condition during repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD M2GB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M2GB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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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