The Ford M8DA is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's Sigma engine family, featuring port fuel injection, dual independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and a lightweight aluminium block. Designed for durability and ease of maintenance, it produces 103 kW (140 PS) and 188 Nm of torque, with linear power delivery ideal for daily driving.
Fitted to models such as the Focus Titanium, Kuga Trend, and EcoSport, the M8DA engine was engineered to serve as a reliable, low-cost powertrain option in Ford’s European lineup. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6.2 compliance across its production run for all major European markets.
One documented concern is intake manifold runner flap failure due to plastic degradation under prolonged thermal cycling. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 21S08, can lead to reduced low-end torque and erratic idle. From 2022, revised intake manifolds with reinforced polymer materials were implemented across all M8DA builds to improve longevity.
Production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford M8DA is a 1,998 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mainstream applications (2020–2023). It combines port fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver smooth, predictable performance and long-term reliability. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 standards, it prioritizes durability and serviceability in compact and mid-size Ford vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.2 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 124 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, linear throttle response but requires adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the chain-driven cam system. Extended low-RPM operation increases carbon buildup on intake valves. The engine performs optimally on 95 RON fuel to prevent knock and maintain valve cleanliness. Post-2022 models feature upgraded intake manifolds; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 21S08. EGR and catalytic converter lifespan benefit from regular highway driving to prevent soot accumulation.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21S08). Replaces ACEA A5/B5 in Ford applications.
Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all M8DA models (2020–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full output requires 95 RON or higher fuel (Ford TIS Doc. E2021-M8DA).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs E2021-M8DA, SIB 21S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford M8DA was used across Ford's C2 and C3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake runners in the Kuga and revised cooling layouts in the EcoSport-and from 2022 the facelifted Focus adopted the M8DA with enhanced engine mounts, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS E2021-M8DA). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for M8DA series). Pre-2022 models have black plastic intake manifolds with visible runner flaps; post-2022 units use reinforced grey polymer with internal bracing. Critical differentiation from EcoBoost engines: M8DA lacks turbocharger and intercooler piping. Service parts require model-year verification—intake manifolds before 04/2022 are incompatible with later revisions per Ford SIB 21S08.
The M8DA's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner flap failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 noted a significant number of pre-2022 engines requiring manifold replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased EGR-related faults in stop-start urban use. Frequent thermal cycling and low-speed operation increase flap and EGR stress, making regular inspection and highway driving critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M8DA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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