Known Faults Database

Ford Kuga problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Ford Kuga, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 5 known faults for this model, 5 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

Free advert check

Found a Ford Kuga for sale?

Paste the advert and we read it against these 5 known faults, its MOT history and the DVLA record, and tell you what the seller has not. Free, about a minute, no card.

Check a Ford Kuga advert (free) →

Works with any listing: paste the text from AutoTrader, Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace or a dealer’s own site.

Is the Ford Kuga reliable?

The Ford Kuga has 5 known faults in our database across 3 generations, 5 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (two owners of the four-cylinder 1.5 EcoBoost Kuga have reported engine failure) and gearbox (the 2.0 TDCi Powershift automatic, offered on the first generation Kuga from 2010). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Ford Kuga years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

Mk1, 2008 to 20121 high severity

1 known fault, the serious ones in the engine

Mk2, 2013 to 20203 high severity

3 known faults, the serious ones in the engine, gearbox

Mk3, 2020 on1 high severity

1 known fault, the serious ones in the electrics

Years and engines with a serious known fault

2014 to 2019, 1.5 EcoBoost petrol (four-cylinder): two owners of the four-cylinder 1.5 EcoBoost Kuga have reported engine failure
2010 to 2020, 2.0 TDCi Powershift automatic: the 2.0 TDCi Powershift automatic, offered on the first generation Kuga
2020 to 2021, 2.5 PHEV: the high-voltage battery pack on early Kuga PHEVs can overheat
2011 to 2014, 1.6 EcoBoost: localised overheating of the 1.6 EcoBoost petrol engine's cylinder head can
2014 to 2015, 2.0 Duratorq Diesel: on some 2.0 Duratorq diesels built between July 2014 and October 2015

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 31 known fault · 25 owner reports · 1 good note

Ford Kuga Mk1 (2008 to 2012) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

Localised overheating of the 1.6 EcoBoost petrol engine's cylinder head can crack the head, letting pressurised oil leak onto hot parts and in extreme cases start an engine bay fire. UK safety recall R/2018/008 covers Focus, C-Max and Kuga built from June 2010 to December 2014: the fix is an inspection, replacement of damaged parts and fitting a sensor that warns the driver when coolant runs low. On the Kuga this engine was only offered on the second generation, from 2013.

Rough guide

£unknown (the recall work itself is free)

Typical symptoms

Engine overheating warning
Coolant loss
Oil leak, particularly onto hot engine surfaces
Smoke or fire from engine compartment

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 1.6 EcoBoost
Typical mileage:: Unknown miles

🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

What owners report on the Mk1

25 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

Electrics · August 2018The digital odometer display on a 2011 Ford Kuga disappeared at 45,000 miles, requiring a new instrument cluster costing £1,000.
General · November 2017A 2009 Ford Kuga experienced multiple failures near 100,000 miles, including the turbo, starter, and a computer module located in the wheel arch.
Bodywork · August 2017A blocked air conditioning evaporator drain pipe caused the interior of a 2009 Ford Kuga to become saturated with water.
Electrics · April 2017A 2011 Ford Kuga suffered multiple electrical faults, including power steering malfunction, engine warnings, and crackling radio speakers.
Electrics · December 2016A 2012 Ford Kuga 2.0TDCI AWD with 20,000 miles had a flat battery if left for 10 to 14 days or used for short trips.
Engine · October 2016A 2009 Ford Kuga 2.0TDCI intermittently cut out when approaching roundabouts or coming to a stop, requiring a restart.
Exhaust · September 2016A 2010 Ford Kuga required a DPF replacement, with a quoted cost of £1,330 for parts and labour.
Bodywork · September 2016Three consecutive Ford Kugas experienced front windscreens cracking across the glass, possibly due to unprotected edges.
Brakes · June 2016The ABS light illuminated on a 21,000 mile 2012 Ford Kuga, with a dealer quoting £1,120 for a new ABS module.
Exhaust · January 2016A 2010 Ford Kuga with 88,000 miles entered limp mode; a new DPF sensor was fitted, resolving the issue for £505.
Gearbox and clutch · August 2015The dual-mass flywheel and clutch failed on a 2009 Ford Kuga 4x4 at 40,000 miles, costing £1,194 for repair.
Electrics · August 2015The EPAS ECU failed on a four-year-old Kuga with 32,000 miles, resulting in a £780 bill, with Ford contributing 30%.
Bodywork · February 2015Failure of the original windscreen bonding on a 2009 Kuga led to water ingress, damaging electrics and costing £1,200.
Electrics · September 2014A 2012 Ford Kuga displayed a 'Computer Data Error' message, but the dealer was unwilling to fix it under warranty.
Electrics · September 2014An immobiliser problem was reported on a 9,500 mile 2012 Ford Kuga, but the dealer showed no interest in resolving it.
Engine · April 2014A 2011 Kuga 2.5 automatic suddenly revved to 7,000rpm while stopped, eventually requiring accelerator and brake sensor replacement.
Exhaust · October 2013A 2010 2.0TDCI Powershift Kuga experienced intermittent DPF problems, causing ESP warnings, engine malfunction messages, and jerky transmission.
Suspension and steering · September 2013A 2009 Kuga developed tyre rumbling due to circumference differences, which was resolved by swapping front and rear tyres.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2013The dual-mass flywheel failed on a 2010 Kuga 2.0TDCI at 49,000 miles, with a quoted replacement cost of £1,500.
Bodywork · August 2013The protective coating on alloy wheel polished areas proved thin, making it susceptible to chipping and chemical damage, causing oxidation beneath.
General · May 2013The AWD system is sensitive to tyre circumference differences; swapping front and rear tyres helps prevent issues.
Electrics · March 2013A steering angle sensor issue on an early Kuga caused immobilisation, though it could be overridden; the underlying cause remained unknown.
Suspension and steering · May 2012Two-wheel drive Kugas can suffer from 'stepping' of the rear tyres, which can be cured by swapping them front to back.
Exhaust · January 2012DPFs on some Kugas were reported to fail in as little as 68,000 miles, requiring replacement.
General · September 2010Checking the power steering fluid on the Kuga requires removing the headlight due to the reservoir's location.

What owners like about the Mk1

1 note

The Kuga achieved a commendable five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, indicating strong occupant protection.

End of the Mk1 section.Pick another year ↑Check a Ford Kuga advert →

Generation 2 of 33 known faults · 30 owner reports · 1 good note

Ford Kuga Mk2 (2013 to 2020) problems

Transmission/ClutchHigh severity📝 Editorial

The 2.0 TDCi Powershift automatic, offered on the first generation Kuga from 2010 and on the second generation, is a six-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox that relies on fresh fluid and a new filter at 3 year or 37,500 mile intervals. Skipped servicing is the usual reason these gearboxes fail, with harsh or jerky changes and a transmission warning before the clutches give up.

Typical symptoms

harsh gear changes
slipping clutches
transmission limited function warning

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.0 TDCi Powershift automatic
Typical mileage:: 65000 miles

1 more owner report backs this up

May 2018A 2.0 TDCi Ford Kuga experienced Powershift transmission failure at 65,000 miles, likely due to missed fluid and filter changes.

🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

On some 2.0 Duratorq diesels built between July 2014 and October 2015, the engine control software may not detect overheating properly, and in extreme cases an overheated engine can crack the oil sump and lose its oil. UK safety recall R/2018/053 covers Focus, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, Galaxy and S-Max and fits revised software with a dashboard warning and a power cut-back.

Rough guide

£unknown (the recall software update is free)

Typical symptoms

Engine overheating warning
Sudden loss of engine oil
Engine management light
Engine de-rate or limp mode

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.0 Duratorq Diesel
Typical mileage:: Unknown miles

🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2019 to 2021

Two owners of the four-cylinder 1.5 EcoBoost Kuga have reported engine failure. In one case localised overheating of the third cylinder warped the head at 30,000 miles and a new engine was needed; in the other a 2018 car used small amounts of coolant every few months with no visible leak before the engine failed and was replaced under warranty.

Typical symptoms

coolant level dropping with no visible leak
low coolant warning
engine overheating

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 1.5 EcoBoost petrol (four-cylinder)
Typical mileage:: 30000 miles

🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

What owners report on the Mk2

30 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

Gearbox and clutch · October 2022A 2013 Kuga experienced repeated automatic gearbox failures; the transmission was replaced for £4,500, then failed again 16 months later.
Gearbox and clutch · May 2022A 2014 Kuga suffered two automatic gearbox failures; the first at 57,000 miles cost over £6,000, and the second occurred 15 months later.
Engine · September 2021A 2018 Ford Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost engine failed after consuming coolant, and was replaced under warranty, but spark plugs and fluids were extra.
Electrics · January 2020A November 2019 Ford Kuga had a fluctuating external temperature gauge, traced to water ingress in an engine bay wiring loom connection.
Brakes · January 2020A 2018 Ford Kuga needed new rear brake components due to corrosion, but the Ford dealer declined warranty coverage.
Engine · October 2019A Ford Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost engine failed at 30,000 miles due to cylinder 3 overheating, which warped the head and corroded the engine.
Gearbox and clutch · October 2019A 2014 Ford Kuga developed a clunking sound after a service; loose bolts damaged the transfer box and gearbox housing, costing over £5,500.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2019The front universal joint of the propshaft failed on a 2013 Ford Kuga automatic.
Brakes · August 2019A 2015 Ford Kuga experienced intermittent severe faults where brakes snapped on and off, activating the ESP light and transmission failure warnings.
Engine · May 2019A 60,000 mile 2013 Ford Kuga failed to start; a new starter motor was fitted for £460, but the problem persisted.
Gearbox and clutch · March 2019A 2016 Ford Kuga 2.0TDCI 6-speed manual lost 4th gear, possibly due to a linkage or internal gearbox issue.
Gearbox and clutch · March 2019A 2017 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Powershift required a transmission oil and filter change at 38,000 miles, costing £400.
Interior · January 2019The seat belt buckle holder of a folded rear seat in a 2014 Kuga Titanium jammed, preventing the seat from being raised.
Fuel system · December 2018A 2013 Ford Kuga 2.0TDCI randomly knocked on tick-over; a "fuel rod" was replaced because diesel was overheating and evaporating.
Gearbox and clutch · September 2018A 2014 Kuga 2.0 TDCi experienced clutch and dual mass flywheel failure at 16,000 miles, with the dealer charging £1,287.25 for the repair.
Gearbox and clutch · July 2018A Ford Kuga 2.0TDI 4x4 manual burned out its clutch and dual-mass flywheel at 20,000 miles, with parts costing £1,300.
Fuel system · July 2018A 2017 Ford Kuga developed a thudding noise from the fuel tank, believed to be a loose fuel tank float sensor.
Suspension and steering · February 2018The track rod arm of a 2014 Ford Kuga snapped clean in two while driving at 15mph on a side street.
Electrics · November 2017The valet mode on a 2017 Kuga 2.0 180PS Titanium X AWD caused the dashboard screen to go blank, requiring system re-boot.
Engine · September 2017A 2015 Ford Kuga 2.0TDCI Powershift engine failed to shut down using the button, possibly due to a raised sump oil level.
Gearbox and clutch · July 2017The clutch failed on a new Ford Kuga TDCi 2WD after 1,800 miles, caused by a failed slave cylinder leaking fluid.
Engine · April 2017A 2016 Kuga 2.0 TDCi AWD automatic experienced persistent drivetrain hesitation when accelerating from low speeds.
Engine · March 2017A 2015 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi 2WD repeatedly displayed an "engine service now" message and entered limp mode.
Bodywork · September 2016All windows of a six-month-old Ford Kuga opened during a storm, causing severe rainwater ingress, possibly due to an ECU issue.
Gearbox and clutch · May 2016A 2015 Kuga 2.0 TDCi 150 experienced intermittent problems with gear changes into second, including a "graunching" noise.
Gearbox and clutch · February 2016The dual-mass flywheel of a 10,000 mile, six-month-old Kuga released damping medium, causing the clutch assembly to slip.
Electrics · December 2015The Bluetooth system on a 2014 Ford Kuga never worked since purchase, with the dealer blaming Ford for lacking a fix.
Electrics · August 2015A brand new Kuga 2.0 TDCi 180 had its radio remain live and drain the battery, despite two garage attempts to fix it.
Electrics · December 2014A Ford Kuga regularly flattened its battery; the solution involved leaving the radio on and decoupling Bluetooth phones.
Electrics · October 2013A problem was reported with the Sony DAB System in a Ford Kuga.

What owners like about the Mk2

1 note

The Ford Kuga achieved a Five Star Euro NCAP rating, with high scores for adult, child, and safety assist protection.

End of the Mk2 section.Pick another year ↑Check a Ford Kuga advert →

Generation 3 of 31 known fault · 1 good note

Ford Kuga Mk3 (2020 on) problems

ElectricalHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

The high-voltage battery pack on early Kuga PHEVs can overheat and vent hot gas, which can ignite surrounding components or the whole vehicle. DVSA recall R/2020/224 states it directly: "The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas". Ford halted sales of Kuga PHEVs built before 26 June 2020, told owners not to charge them, and replaced battery packs. Later related recalls followed (R/2025/527 covers HV cell short-circuit and thermal venting risk), so one completed recall does not mean the car is clear of all of them

Rough guide

£0 (free safety recall)

Typical symptoms

charging restricted
battery over-temperature warning
thermal event (fire)

Affected vehicles

Engines:: 2.5 PHEV
Typical mileage:: 1000-20000 miles

🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

What owners like about the Mk3

1 note

December 2019The Ford Kuga received a 5-Star EURO NCAP RATING, with strong scores for adult, child, and vulnerable road user protection.

End of the Mk3 section.Pick another year ↑Check a Ford Kuga advert →

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

We track 12 specific phrases sellers use in adverts to soft-pedal these exact issues. Paste any Ford Kuga advert and we check it in seconds.

Check an advert now (free) →

Free report, no credit card required.

Ford Kuga recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 38 DVSA recalls for the Kuga, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ February 2027Cars built July 2019 to March 2020

Kuga - Powertrain Control Module Software Update

On affected vehicles the software repair for previous recall 25C79 may not have been delivered properly and the Powertrain Control Module software may deliver lower power output than intended.

Put right by: Update the Powertrain Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the configuration has been installed correctly.

DVSA R/2026/03019 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2026Cars built February 2025 to June 2025

Kuga Ranger - Potential Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Failure

On affected vehicles the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve may fail leading to weak acceleration engine vibration a no start condition or a loss of power.

Put right by: Replace the EGR valve.

DVSA R/2026/160314 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2026Cars built September 2025 to April 2026

Multi Vehicle Line: Unintended High Beam Behaviour - Compliance

Affected vehicles may experience erratic behaviour of the Glare Free High Beam function under certain circumstances.

Put right by: Update the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Electronic Control Unit software.

DVSA R/2026/2689,702 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2026Cars built March 2020 to January 2022

Transit Courier: Diesel DV-Neo Engine Coolant Pump Update

Affected vehicles may have been repaired using a coolant pump with a potential issue. This issue may lead to incorrect engine timing resulting in an engine failure causing a sudden loss of power without prior warning. The engine cannot be restarted.

Put right by: Check and replace the water pump and timing belt if necessary.

DVSA R/2026/2376 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2026Cars built December 2019 to February 2024

Multi Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software Update

Affected vehicles may experience a loss of emergency call system (eCall) functionality which impacts both automatic and manual eCall events.

Put right by: Update the Telematics Control Unit software to the latest level.

DVSA R/2026/1817,099 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2025Cars built August 2019 to February 2026

Kuga - Do not charge high voltage battery to levels above 80%

On affected vehicles the high voltage battery may have some cells that could potentially develop a short circuit leading to a Stop Safely Now message and possible loss of motive power or battery thermal venting.

Put right by: Update the vehicle's Battery Energy Control Module software.

DVSA R/2025/52749,466 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2025Cars built September 2024 to December 2024

Kuga - Cylinder head replacement

On affected vehicles the cylinder head may have loose ball plugs. This condition may result in a rapid oil leak if a ball plug comes out of the cylinder head.

Put right by: Replace the cylinder head.

DVSA R/2025/3413 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2025Cars built March 2019 to July 2023

CrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software Update

On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver's view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.

Put right by: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.

DVSA R/2025/359867 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2025Cars built January 2021 to December 2022

Kuga S-Max and Galaxy - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update

Certain Kuga S-Max and Galaxy vehicles equipped with a 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine may not have the remedy for Safety Recall 23S27 installed correctly but were recorded as having received the repair successfully. Because the correct software update may not have been installed on these vehicles the underlying condition specified in Safety Recall 23S27 potential under hood fire may still exist.

Put right by: Dealers are to update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software.

DVSA R/2025/243547 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2025Cars built July 2019 to January 2023

Kuga - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update

On affected vehicles the remedy software for a previous recall which was needed to mitigate a potential fire risk may not have been installed correctly.

Put right by: Update the Power Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the software has been installed correctly.

DVSA R/2025/1632,984 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2025Cars built February 2020 to September 2022

Kuga PHEV - Powertrain Control Module Software Update

On affected vehicles software from a previous recall may not have been installed correctly. Vehicles may have Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software that can result in a forced neutral condition while driving.

Put right by: Update and verify the software.

DVSA R/2025/16215 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2024Cars built November 2019 to September 2022

X-Car Powertain Control Module (PCM) Software Update

Affected vehicles may develop a crack in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Put right by: Update software to prevent a cracked DPF. Test and replace DPFs that are already cracked.

DVSA R/2025/09410,905 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2024Cars built January 2020 to October 2022

Kuga 2.5L PHEV supercreep

On affected vehicles a recent update to the Power Control Module (PCM) software could result in the vehicle shifting into neutral and coasting to a stop. The subsequent limp home mode results in unintended acceleration or 'supercreep'.

Put right by: Update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software

DVSA R/2024/2601,553 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2024Cars built November 2022 to January 2023

Kuga - PCM Programming and Drain Tube Installation

A small number of vehicles on which the fuel injectors may crack and leak. In the event of an injector failing this may result in fuel accumulating on the top of the engine. The accumulation of fuel could become the catalyst for a fire due to the proximity to the exhaust system and lack of an escape route for the leaking fuel.

Put right by: The dealer will fit a specially developed drain tube which will safely drain any leaking fuel away from hot surfaces like the cylinder head or exhaust. Also the vehicle software will be updated which will allow any drop in fuel pressure to be detected. This software will reduce the power of the engine if a drop in fuel pressure is detected and a warning light will be illuminated in the instrument cluster.

DVSA R/2024/1411,136 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2024Cars built July 2019 to December 2022

Kuga S-Max/Galaxy 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine: Engine Compartment Issue

Engine failure that may lead to a breach of the engine oil sump or engine block

Put right by: Software update

DVSA R/2023/17524,762 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2024Cars built January 2021 to September 2021

Kuga - Steering gear top plug potentially loose

The steering gear could potentially develop excessive movement. Over time a wear condition may manifest in an audible noise increased steering efforts and the steering wheel not returning to the centre position. In rare circumstances if the issue of noise increased steering efforts and the steering wheel not returning to the centre position are not addressed the excessive movement in the steering gear may lead to the pinion shaft becoming disconnected from the steering rack.

Put right by: Replace affected components.

DVSA R/2023/3415,154 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2023Cars built July 2019 to December 2022

In the event of a fuel injector failing this will potentially cause a fuel leak.

Put right by: A drain tube will need to be installed to allow safe passage of the fuel away from hot surfaces in the event of a leak occurring. Also the dealer will perform a PCM software update that will reduce the engine power if a drop in fuel pressure is detected and a warning light will be illuminated to make the user aware.

DVSA R/2023/08013,671 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2023Cars built June 2022 to July 2022

A small number of vehicles may be fitted with tyres that do not meet the high specification expected.

Put right by: Conduct a visual inspection of the summer tyres to identify known and specific build codes. If after inspecting the vehicle a tyre(s) is identified as one of the known specific build numbers that falls in the suspect build range the Dealer will replace the affected tyre free of charge.

DVSA R/2023/042142 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2022Cars built April 2021 to November 2021

Some Kuga vehicles with a panoramic roof may have a fixed glass panel with poor adhesion to the roof frame assembly

Some Kuga vehicles with a panoramic roof may have a fixed glass panel with poor adhesion to the roof frame assembly. As a result there is a possibility that the fixed glass panel could detach during driving causing a hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users.

Put right by: Check the panoramic roof frame If an affected date is present the fixed glass roof panel will need to be removed to inspect the integrity of the adhesive. If the adhesive is found to be compromised a new roof frame assembly will need to be installed.

DVSA R/2022/3252,359 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2022Cars built November 2019 to April 2021

Lower seatbelt bolt may not be tightened to specification

The lower front seatbelt bolt may not be correctly tightened to specification.

Put right by: Inspect and re-torque the front lower seatbelt bolts to specification

DVSA R/2022/30435 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2022Cars built February 2022 to June 2022

THE eCALL FEATURE WILL STOP FUNCTIONING DUE TO A MALFUNCTION

It may be possible that the eCall feature will stop functioning due to a malfunction.

Put right by: The Telecommunication Module will need to be replaced

DVSA R/2022/2399,388 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2022Cars built July 2020 to April 2021

Internal fault with one of the battery arrays may cause overheating

A number of Kuga PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) have a High Voltage (HV) battery that may have an internal fault with one of the battery arrays causing overheating

Put right by: A new HV battery must be installed

DVSA R/2022/167760 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2022Cars built January 2020 to July 2022

Under certain operating conditions an oil and/or fuel vapour leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in an engine compartment or vehicle fire localized melting or smoke.

Put right by: Modification of the engine undertray and active grill assemblies.

DVSA R/2022/23116,155 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2022Cars built February 2020 to February 2022

The right-hand engine oil seperator may have been damaged prior to engine assembly.

Certain vehicles could have an engine oil separator that may have been damaged prior to engine assembly.

Put right by: Inspect the engine oil separator and if found to be damaged and/or leaking a replacement engine oil separator must be installed

DVSA R/2022/1719,818 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2022Cars built February 2020 to September 2021

A battery may have an incorrectly positioned/welded busbar in one of the battery arrays

Put right by: Install a new High Voltage battery.

DVSA R/2022/00314 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built July 2019 to February 2021

Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that contols the funtionality of the ecall system

Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that controls the functionality of the eCall system.

Put right by: Carry out a software update.

DVSA R/2021/177100 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2020Cars built January 2020 to September 2020

Particle contamination can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage battery cells

Particle contamination can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage battery cells.

Put right by: The HV battery pack will be replaced on affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2020/3172,326 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2020Cars built November 2019 to June 2020

The fuel operated heater could start inadvertently

The Fuel Operated Heater could start inadvertently

Put right by: New SYNC system software must be applied.

DVSA R/2020/2141 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2020Cars built July 2019 to September 2020

The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas

The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas which can ignite vehicle components or in extreme cases the entire vehicle.

Put right by: To prevent a vehicle fire the vehicles should not be charged using the external charging cable and the vehicles should only be driven using the default Auto EV mode only.

DVSA R/2020/2245,046 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2020Cars built July 2019 to July 2020

The high voltage battery control charger module connector may be damaged

The High Voltage Battery Control Charger Module (BCCM) connector may be damaged

Put right by: An inspection of the BCCM is required to confirm an undamaged connector. If a failed inspection occurs the vehicle must be reworked with a replacement BCCM and charge cable.

DVSA R/2020/19630,202 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2019Cars built June 2016 to May 2018

Vehicle could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture

A number of vehicles fitted with a 1.0 1.5 or 1.6 Ecoboost engine and 6-speed manual transmission could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture. This results in clutch smell reduced vehicle speed and performance. In the unlikely event of clutch pressure plate fracture a noise (thud / bang) could be heard from the vicinity of the transmission in extreme cases resulting in clutch / transmission fragments being released and striking under hood components creating a risk of smoke and fire from the under hood area.

Put right by: To prevent the repeated heating /cooling events a new calibration has been developed for vehicles fitted with Engine Stop Start feature. The software with the additional feature sets the Instrument panel Wrench light and de-rates the engine performance if prolonged clutch slip is detected. The software feature includes a drive cycle strategy for latching the wrench light and engine performance de-rate if the customer should experience repeated clutch slip events. For vehicles that do not have Engine Stop Start feature an alternative clutch kit has been released.

DVSA R/2018/35166,497 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2018Cars built August 2013 to June 2016

Clutch pressure plate may fracture

Affected vehicles fitted with a 1.0 1.5 or 1.6 Ecoboost engine and 6-speed manual transmission could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture. This results in clutch smell reduced vehicle speed and performance. In the unlikely event of clutch pressure plate fracture a noise (thud / bang) could be heard from the vicinity of the transmission in extreme cases resulting in clutch / transmission fragments being released and striking under hood components creating a risk of smoke and fire from the under hood area.

DVSA R/2018/082122,199 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2018Cars built October 2014 to September 2015

Oil sump may crack due to the engine overheating

The engine control module calibration may not adequately detect an overheat condition in certain 2.0L Duratorq Diesel engines. In extreme cases an overheated engine can result in a breach of the oil sump leading to loss of the engine oil.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and download revised software for the control module calibration that improves overheat detection and provides an instrument cluster warning indicator to the driver and engine de-rate strategy.

DVSA R/2018/05348,595 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ January 2018Cars built June 2010 to December 2014

The engine cylinder head may crack

Localized overheating of the engine cylinder head may cause the cylinder head to crack.This may cause a pressurized oil leak which in extreme circumstances could result in a fire in the engine compartment.

Put right by: On affected vehicles Inspect engine and cooling system. Replace affected components and fit a Coolant Level Sensor along with associated software to provide and audible and visual warning to the driver.

DVSA R/2018/00815,228 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2017Cars built July 2016 to December 2016

Side and/or knee airbag may fail to deploy in a collision

The airbag initiator may be defective and may prevent the side airbag(s) and/or knee airbag deploying in the event of an accident. In a collision the airbags not deploying could put the occupants at further risk.

Put right by: Recall the 1943 vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary replace the side and knee protection airbags complete with initiators.

DVSA R/2017/2411,943 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2017Cars built July 2012 to June 2014

B-pillar trim insulation too close to the seat belt pretentioner

In the event of a colision which deploys the front seat belt retractor pre-tensioner there is a possibility that the insulation material on the inner face of lower 'B' pillar trim could be subjected to a concentrated heat source that could ignite the insulation material resulting in fire.

Put right by: Remove a section of the insulation material on both B pillar trims.

DVSA R/2017/23829,904 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2017Cars built May 2010 to October 2010

Heated washer jets may overheat

The heated washer jets fitted to some Kuga vehicles may have jet heating elements that are not correctly sealed. There is a possibility that poor sealing could lead to corrosion due to water ingress and subsequent overheating of the jets. An overheating jet element will damage the nozzle housing and may cause local heat/fire damage to the cowl grille accompanied by smoke and burning smell.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit new washer jets.

DVSA R/2017/1074,382 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2016Cars built January 2008 to May 2010

Risk of fire

The heated washer jets may have jet heating elements which are not correctly sealed. There is a possibility that poor sealing could lead to corrosion due to water ingress and subsequent overheating of the jets. An overheating jet element will damage the nozzle housing and may cause local heat/fire damage to the cowl grille accompanied by smoke and burning smell.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit new washer jets.

DVSA R/2016/06720,358 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Ford Kuga cambelt or timing chain, and service intervals

An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used Kuga. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Powershift gearbox oil

Mk2, 2.0 TDCI

37,500 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first

Strict requirement to replace fluid and filter every 3 years or 37,500 miles to prevent mechatronic failure.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt

Mk2, 2.0 TDCI

125,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first

Ford states 10 years or 125,000 miles. Always replace the water pump with the cambelt kit.

Timing chainChain

2.5 PHEV, 2.5 HYBRID

No fixed replacement interval

The 2.5 Duratec Atkinson cycle engine uses a chain-in-oil drive. Regular oil changes are essential to maintain tensioner health, but there is no scheduled replacement interval.

Timing belt (cambelt)Wet belt

2.0 ECOBLUE

100,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first

The Mk3 Kuga (on sale early 2020) offered the 2.0 EcoBlue as a 150PS mild hybrid and a 190PS four-wheel drive, alongside a 1.5 EcoBlue with a dry belt. The row carries no fuel type because the mild hybrid can be registered as a hybrid; the 1995cc capacity is what separates it from the other Kuga engines. The 2.0 EcoBlue runs its timing belt and a separate oil pump belt in oil (a wet belt), the same engine as the Transit vans. Ford's original schedule was 10 years / 150,000 miles. Ford's published cut to 6 years / 100,000 miles names only the vans, and no car-specific revision was found, but the engine and the cause (fuel dilution of the oil during DPF regeneration) are the same, so the van figure is recorded as the safer one. Change the oil pump belt with the timing belt. Not to be confused with the 1.5 EcoBlue, which is a conventional dry belt.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026

Ford Kuga buying questions

What are the most common Ford Kuga problems?

Three stand out. Engine: two owners of the four-cylinder 1.5 EcoBoost Kuga have reported engine failure (typically 30000 miles). Gearbox: the 2.0 TDCi Powershift automatic, offered on the first generation Kuga from 2010 (typically 65000 miles). Electrics: the high-voltage battery pack on early Kuga PHEVs can overheat and vent hot gas (typically 1000 to 20000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Ford Kuga years should I avoid?

No Ford Kuga year is a write-off, but the Mk2 (2013 to 2020) carries the most serious faults: engine and gearbox. The Mk3 (2020 on) and Mk1 (2008 to 2012) have high-severity faults on record too. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Ford Kuga?

Ask the seller about the engine, gearbox and electrics faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for coolant level dropping with no visible leak, harsh gear changes and charging restricted. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 5 known faults before you travel. Check a Ford Kuga advert →

Are there any recalls on the Ford Kuga?

The DVSA lists 38 safety recalls for the Ford Kuga issued between 2016 and 2027. The most recent, from February 2027, is "Kuga - Powertrain Control Module Software Update". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Ford Kuga?

Owners report 38.7 mpg on average across the Ford Kuga engines with data, about 84% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 2,343 owner submissions. Ford Kuga Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Ford Kuga right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Ford Kuga fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Ford Kuga owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Ford Kuga goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

How to haggle for a used car: negotiate the price with what its records show13 min read HPI check vs carVertical: which is better, and our pick for a UK car9 min read MOT advisories explained: how to check them, and which ones should worry you12 min read

All buyer's guides →

Other Ford models

Focus35 known faults Fiesta17 known faults Mondeo6 known faults C-Max6 known faults