The Ford STJA is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2024. It features a DOHC 12‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and a single twin‑scroll turbocharger. In standard form it delivers 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) with peak torque of 240–270 Nm, enabling brisk acceleration and responsive low‑end thrust.
Fitted to models such as the Fiesta ST, Puma ST, and Focus ST‑Line, the STJA was engineered for agile performance and everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6d TEMP and later Euro 6d standards across its production run.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high‑load conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 06‑22‑14. This is often linked to marginal lubricity in low‑sulfur fuels and elevated rail pressures. From 2021, Ford introduced an updated HPFP design with revised cam follower geometry to improve durability.
Production years 2018–2020 meet Euro 6d TEMP standards; 2021–2024 models comply with Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford STJA is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for compact performance hatchbacks (2018–2024). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive torque and sporty acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6d TEMP and Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 118–140 kW (160–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 240–270 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–2024) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C948‑B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response and strong mid-range pull, ideal for spirited driving. However, the high-pressure fuel pump requires consistent use of 95 RON (or higher) unleaded petrol to maintain lubricity and prevent premature wear. Extended high-load operation (e.g., track use) without cooldown periods may accelerate HPFP cam follower wear. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration; frequent short trips can trigger warning lights. Oil must meet Ford WSS‑M2C948‑B1 specification to protect turbo bearings and maintain chain tensioner function.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS‑M2C948‑B1 (0W‑20) specification (Ford Owner’s Handbook 2020). Not interchangeable with ACEA C2/C3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6d TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6d compliance confirmed for 2021–2024 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 140 kW variant requires 98 RON for optimal performance (Ford TIS Doc. F‑STJA‑07).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F‑STJA‑01 to F‑STJA‑07, SIB 06‑22‑14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford STJA was used across Ford's B‑Car and C‑Car platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Fiesta ST and enhanced cooling in the Puma ST—and from 2021 the Focus ST-Line adopted a revised intake manifold with acoustic tuning, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Ford TIS F‑STJA‑02). The 7th VIN digit is 'J' for STJA-equipped vehicles. All STJA engines feature a black plastic cam cover with '1.5 ECOBOOST' embossing. Critical differentiation from earlier 1.5L EcoBoost (Sigma): STJA uses cylinder deactivation (cylinder on demand) and has a 3-cylinder firing order. HPFP part number prefix 'F1TZ' indicates pre-2021 units; 'F2TZ' denotes updated 2021+ pumps per Ford SIB 06‑22‑14.
The STJA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or track use. Ford internal data (2021) indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP-related warranty claims for 2018–2020 Fiesta STs before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF control. Extended high-RPM operation without cooldown increases thermal stress on the pump drive mechanism, making fuel quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD STJA.
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