johna's automotive blog

Ford Territory (SX/SY) 2004-2010 Review

2021-03-27T12:00:00+10:00

Build quality does seem to vary greatly.

Common reports of problems with rust, brakes and suspension, some solved by recalls.

Also some reports of transmission failure.

Plenty more faults reported by owners, some minor, some annoying, and some that will require a tow truck.

Fuel economy is poor.

Image credit: OSX, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Ford Focus (LS) 2005-2007 Review

2021-03-27T12:00:00+10:00

Generally a reliable model but most models are made in South Africa and let down by minor faults due to parts and assembly quality issues.

2.0-litre engine has a timing chain. Common problems include oil leaks from the cylinder head cover, intake manifold solenoid and alternators that wear out sooner than on other cars.

Check for smooth gear changes on automatic models as harsh shifting means that a transmission overhaul may be required.

The XR5 model uses a 5 cylinder turbo engine shared with Volvo which are generally reliable and long-lasting. This engine uses a timing belt, but the replacement interval is every 180,000 km.

Image credit: OSX, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Ford Focus (LW, LW MkII) 2011-2015 Review

2021-03-27T12:00:00+10:00

The dual-clutch automatic (PowerShift) transmission has been a great source of problems for owners and for Ford, including a large fine and class action lawsuit. Any vehicle with this transmission should be avoided.

1.6-litre petrol engine uses a timing belt which requires replacement every 150,000 km or 8 years. 2.0-litre petrol engine uses a timing chain.

2.0-litre diesel engine uses a timing belt that requires replacement every 195,000 km or 10 years.

Steering racks can fail and are expensive to replace.

Image credit: OSX, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Ford Fiesta (WT/WZ) 2010-2016 Review

2021-03-27T12:00:00+10:00

Ford EcoSport (BK) 2013-2017 Review

2021-03-27T12:00:00+10:00

The dual-clutch automatic (PowerShift) transmission has been a great source of problems for owners and for Ford, including a large fine and class action lawsuit. Any vehicle with this transmission should be avoided.

1.0-litre turbo engine uses a lubricated timing belt (runs in engine oil) that is claimed to last the life of the engine, but is recommended to be replaced after 240,000 km or 10 years.

The 1.5-litre engine also has a timing belt which should be replaced every 150,000 km or 8 years.

Image credit: Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons