The Ford U5JA is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 88 kW (120 PS) at 6,300 rpm and 153 Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm, providing smooth and efficient performance suited to compact hatchbacks and crossovers.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta (Mk7), Ford B-MAX, and Ford EcoSport, the U5JA was engineered for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering, variable valve timing (Ti-VCT), and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the Ti-VCT solenoid seals, which can lead to oil leakage into the cam cover and erratic cam phasing. This issue was addressed in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑15‑2218, which recommends replacing the solenoid assembly with an updated design featuring improved sealing materials.
All production years (2010–2018) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7892).
The Ford U5JA is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and urban crossovers (2010–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) and sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive throttle response and low fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME17.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (SAE 5W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The U5JA offers linear power delivery ideal for city and highway use but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (5W‑20) to maintain Ti-VCT function and prevent sludge. Early units (2010–2014) are prone to Ti-VCT solenoid seal degradation—symptoms include rough idle and cam phasing faults. Ford TSB 15‑2218 mandates replacement with updated solenoids (Part No. CV6W‑6A527‑AB). The timing chain is maintenance‑free but sensitive to oil quality; use only approved low-viscosity oil. 95 RON fuel is sufficient; higher octane yields no measurable benefit.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS‑M2C945‑A (5W‑20) specification (Ford TSB 15‑2218). Equivalent to ILSAC GF‑5.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all U5JA production years (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7892).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Ford PT‑2014.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F31254, F31402
Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB 15‑2218
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7892)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford U5JA was used across Ford's Mk7 Fiesta, B-MAX, and EcoSport platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the EcoSport for off‑road durability and modified intake manifolds in the B-MAX for packaging—creating minor 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 exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F31254). The 7th and 8th VIN digits for Ford models indicate engine type ('U5' for U5JA). All units feature a black cam cover with integrated Ti-VCT solenoids on both intake and exhaust cams. Critical differentiation from older Sigma engines: U5JA includes dual cam phasers and a compact intake manifold with integrated throttle body. Service parts for Ti-VCT solenoids are production-date sensitive per Ford TSB 15‑2218.
The U5JA's primary reliability risk is Ti-VCT solenoid seal degradation in early-production units, with elevated incidence after 80,000 km. Ford internal quality data from 2016 indicated approximately 9% of pre-2015 engines required solenoid replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show cam phasing-related advisories are common in high-mileage examples. Extended oil change intervals and frequent short trips accelerate seal hardening, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD U5JA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
