Ford Kuga

Same open-deck liner issue as other 1.5 EcoBoost engines from earlier build years. Coolant ingress into combustion chambers possible. TSB recommends short-block replacement.

Symptoms: White exhaust smoke, coolant loss, rough running, oil-coolant emulsion.

The 1.0 EcoBoost in the Puma requires Ford oil WSS-M2C948-B without exception. With incorrect oil specification the oil-bath timing belt degrades and can snap, resulting in engine damage.

Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, oil pressure warning light, in the worst case engine damage from oil starvation.

The 1.0 EcoBoost shows head gasket issues across various build years, often caused by thermal overloading during short trips or neglected coolant changes.

Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible leak, sweet smell in exhaust, occasional tendency to overheat.

Early 1.5 EcoBoost four-cylinders (up to approx. March 2019) are prone to hairline cracks in the cylinder block. Coolant enters the cylinders and causes severe engine damage. Short-block replacement required.

Symptoms: Rough cold start, white exhaust smoke, coolant loss without external leak, engine warning light.

Individual 1.5 EcoBoost engines show piston ring fractures from as early as 35,000 km. The affected cylinder loses compression completely; short-block replacement required.

Symptoms: Sudden power drop, severe misfiring or engine stalling, compression loss in one cylinder measurable.

Boost solenoid or wastegate issues may occur in Kuga operation. Occasional P0299 codes at higher mileages.

Symptoms: Code P0299, power drop, engine warning light.

The Kuga PHEV (plug-in hybrid) was recalled multiple times for fire risk. Faulty charge regulation or defective battery cells can cause overheating and vehicle fire. Multiple separate recall actions up to 2025.

The 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine in the Kuga III — despite revisions from mid-2019 — still occasionally suffers from hairline cracks in the engine block. Coolant enters the combustion chamber or oil circuit.

In 2022 Ford recalled over 36,000 German Kuga PHEV and FHEV vehicles because a defective connecting rod bearing can damage the engine block. Oil can reach hot exhaust components — significant fire risk. As an immediate measure the grille was modified rather than replacing the bearing.

On the Kuga PHEV, the 12-volt starter battery deep-discharges during extended standing because the control unit doesn't regulate standby current draw optimally. Vehicles that aren't moved or charged regularly can be left stranded.