The Ford TZJA is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2018 as part of Ford’s EcoBoost family. It features a DOHC 12‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it produces 118 kW (160 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm of torque from 1,600–4,000 rpm, delivering responsive performance with improved fuel efficiency over larger naturally aspirated units.
Fitted to models including the Ford Focus Mk4, Puma, and Transit Courier, the TZJA was engineered for urban agility and motorway refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and precise engine management, enabling Euro 6d‑TEMP and later Euro 6d compliance across all variants.
One documented concern is low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) under high-load, low-RPM conditions, noted in Ford Engineering Bulletin FEB‑19‑08. This phenomenon is linked to oil/fuel droplet auto-ignition in the combustion chamber and can cause severe knock or piston damage. Ford mitigated this through revised piston crown geometry and updated engine calibration.
All TZJA engines meet Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020) or Euro 6d (2021–present) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/FORD/TZJA).
The Ford TZJA is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact vehicles (2018–present). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance and real-world efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 minimum; RON 98 recommended for performance variants) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 101.8 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020); Euro 6d (2021–present) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC (service interval: 160,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (SAE 0W‑20 full synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The three-cylinder layout provides excellent low-end torque and packaging efficiency but requires precise engine balancing to minimize vibration. The belt-driven DOHC system demands strict adherence to the 160,000 km replacement interval to avoid catastrophic failure. Use of Ford-specified 0W‑20 oil is critical for LSPI prevention and GPF protection. Direct injection increases carbon buildup on intake valves over time, though less severely than in port-injected turbo engines. Regular oil changes (every 15,000 km or annually) and avoidance of sustained low-RPM/high-load driving reduce LSPI risk per FEB‑19‑08.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W‑20) specification (Ford Lubricants Guide 2020). Not interchangeable with ACEA C2/C5 without validation.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2018–2020 models; Euro 6d certification for 2021+ units confirmed under VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/FORD/TZJA.
Power Ratings: Measured under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and SAE J1349. Figures reflect net output with accessories.
Ford Workshop Manual (2019), Sections 1B–3D
Ford Engineering Drawings: TZJA‑01, TZJA‑05
Ford Service Bulletins: FEB‑19‑08, SIB 05‑19‑12
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Type Approval Database
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 & (EU) 2017/1151
The Ford TZJA was used across Ford's C2 and B2E platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Puma for NVH control and unique exhaust manifolds in the Focus—and from 2021 all variants adopted updated calibration for Euro 6d compliance, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford Workshop Manual 2019, Fig. 1B‑3). The code 'TZJA' appears as raised casting, not a label. VIN 8th digit is 'J' for this engine family. Pre-2021 units have silver intake manifolds; 2021+ Euro 6d models use black manifolds with integrated GPF pressure sensors. Differentiate from the similar 1.0L EcoBoost by displacement badge and cylinder count—TZJA is a three-cylinder with balance shaft.
The TZJA's primary reliability risk is low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) under aggressive driving conditions, with elevated incidence in early 2018–2020 builds. Ford Engineering Bulletin FEB‑19‑08 documented knock-related piston damage in <1% of high-mileage fleet units, while UK DVSA data shows GPF regeneration faults as a secondary concern in urban-driven vehicles. Short-trip cycles and incorrect oil use increase LSPI and soot accumulation, making oil specification and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD TZJA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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