Ford Ka+
Ford-badged Fiat 1.2 Fire derivative. 1169cc and 1198cc variants. Used in Ka II RU8 (69 hp / 51 kW), Ka II RU8 (71 hp / 52 kW) and Ka+ 2016. Reliable — watch the timing belt and cooling system.
Base engine
70 hp in the Ka+: just about adequate for town traffic. Not a recommendation.
Engine Weaknesses 8
The 1.2 Ti-VCT (Fiat Fire basis) is an interference engine with a timing belt. Replacement interval 150,000 km or 10 years; check belt history on any used purchase. Snap leads to engine destruction.
Symptoms: No warning symptom — sudden engine cutout on snap. Knocking sounds can indicate a loose belt.
Ford recalled Ka+ models in 2019 due to possible short circuits in the battery wiring. A short circuit can cause overheating and in extreme cases start a fire.
The 1.2 Ti-VCT in the Ka+ uses a Fiat Fire derivative. The pencil coils on this engine fail at higher mileages with misfires in the mid-rpm range, typically after 100,000 km.
Symptoms: Hesitation at 1,500–2,500 rpm, fault code P030x, rough engine running, occasional stumble under acceleration
Thermostats on the 1.2 Ti-VCT (Fire derivative) occasionally stick in the open position. Engine never reaches operating temperature, fuel consumption rises. Inexpensive replacement recommended.
Symptoms: Temperature gauge permanently low, poor heater output, increased fuel consumption
The individual ignition coils on the 1.25 Duratec commonly fail between 80,000–110,000 km. Hesitation and misfires in the mid-rpm range are typical; coils and spark plugs should be changed together.
Symptoms: Hesitation under acceleration between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm, rough engine running, check engine light on, noticeable power loss
On the Ford 1.25/1.4 Duratec (Sigma) the valve cover gasket tends to leak from around 80,000 km. Oil drips onto hot engine parts, creating a burning oil smell and in the worst case posing a fire risk.
Symptoms: Burning oil smell from engine bay, visible oil traces on valve cover, slight oil loss at spark plug gallery
The Fiat FireFly 1.2 in the Ford Ka+ (B2KA) shows increased oil consumption in some examples through the PCV system. Regular oil level checks are recommended.
Symptoms: Slight oil consumption (approx. 0.3–0.5 L/1,000 km); occasional blue smoke on start; oily intake tract.
As with other small engines, the individual ignition coils on the Fiat FireFly 1.2 in the Ford Ka+ occasionally fail, causing engine misfires. Replacing all spark plugs and coils together is recommended.
Symptoms: Hesitation under acceleration; check engine light; rough idle; noticeable power loss on one cylinder.