Ford Ka+
1.5L TDCi diesel used in Ka+ 2016-2019. 95 hp, 5-speed manual.
Best Ka+
95 hp diesel in the Ka+: economical and well-motorised for a small car. A sensible choice.
Engine Weaknesses 6
Ford recalled approximately 8,400 vehicles (production October 2014 to April 2015) because the camshaft sprocket can fracture due to material fatigue and damage the engine.
The EGR cooler develops cracks under extreme thermal cycling. Coolant enters the intake tract and forms black foam in the expansion tank. In the worst case a hydraulic lock results.
Symptoms: Black or oily foam in the coolant expansion tank, coolant loss with no external leak, white exhaust smoke, tendency to overheat.
The 1.5 TDCi frequently suffers from DPF clogging. Regeneration temperature is not reached on short trips, resulting in failed regeneration cycles and fuel dilution of the oil. Widely reported as the most common warranty complaint.
Symptoms: Check engine light, power loss, raised oil level, DPF warning lamp
As with PSA-related 1.6 TDCi engines, oil sludge and coked oil passages can damage the turbocharger. Regular oil changes at shortened intervals are strongly recommended.
Symptoms: Whistling turbo noise, power drop, increased oil consumption
The 1.5 TDCi is well known for DPF problems. The filter clogs in short-trip use as regeneration never completes. Ford temporarily had no replacement filters in stock.
Symptoms: Check engine light, power loss, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning lamp on, oil level rising from fuel dilution.
The EGR valve on the 1.5 TDCi is prone to soot clogging in urban use. Power loss and hesitation at part throttle follow. Cleaning or replacement every 100,000–120,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: Hesitation at part throttle, check engine light, power loss at low rpm