KNOWN FAULTS · Ford

Ford Focus (III) 1.5 / 1.6 TDCi common problems.

2011–2018 · Diesel

Sources are not verified in real time and no entry confirms that your car is affected.

3 known faults with sources

Applies if: Only the 1.5 diesel built from 12/5/2014 to 19/1/2023.

Ford diesel particulate filter: regeneration and emissionsExhaust and emissions

Engine / equipment: Kuga 2.0 TDCi and 1.5 / 2.0 EcoBlue; 1.5 TDCi and EcoBlue in the Focus, C-Max, Transit Connect and Transit Courier
Period mentioned: 2014–2023
Symptoms: Filter regenerations at excessive temperature, a damaged filter and particle emissions above the limit: the car can fail the emissions part of the roadworthiness test.
Possible cause described: Because of how the filter regenerates, particle emissions can rise over the years. Ford recalled several diesels (code 24E06): it recalibrates the regeneration, inspects the filter and replaces it if damaged. The German guide calls the filter the Achilles heel of modern Ford diesels.
Check for the garage: Ask Ford by VIN whether recall 24E06 is outstanding; check the filter and the regeneration history before the roadworthiness test.
Cost cited in the source: Free under the recall; before that, many owners paid for the filter themselves.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Applies if: Weak points of this model from inspections, breakdown statistics and recalls; anything specific to one engine is stated in the sheet.

EcoBoost clutch, batteries and suspension on the Focus IIIKnown weak points

Engine / equipment: Ford Focus III (petrol, diesel and electric)
Period mentioned: 2010–2018
Symptoms: A pressure plate that breaks on manual EcoBoosts; batteries, alternators and boost control (2011); starter (2011–2014); at the roadworthiness test, springs and shock absorbers, suspension, lights, oil leaks already at the first inspection and exhaust; a broken cable in the tailgate hinge.
Possible cause described: Recalls: pressure plate on manual 1.0, 1.5 and 1.6 EcoBoost (1/8/2012–30/6/2016), the 2.0 TDCi fuel sensor and sump leak, side and knee airbags, alloy wheels and the automatic-gearbox wiring loom.
Check for the garage: Check every campaign by VIN; check oil leaks, suspension and lights; test the battery.
Cost cited in the source: No verified estimate; ask the garage for a quote.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Applies if: Only the 1.6 TDCi.

1.6 TDCi turbo starved of oilInjection / turbo

Engine / equipment: 1.6 TDCi (DV6)
Period mentioned: Approx. 2004–2018
Symptoms: Hissing from the engine, diesel smell in the cabin, very dark oil between changes and, eventually, a failing turbo with smoke and loss of power.
Possible cause described: The injectors’ copper washers stop sealing; the gases form carbon that gets into the oil and blocks the mesh filter in the turbo oil-feed pipe, starving the turbo. The wrong oil and switching off with the turbo very hot make it worse.
Check for the garage: Check the injector washers and the turbo oil-feed filter. If the turbo is replaced, also clean the sump, intercooler and feed pipe, or the new turbo can fail again. Use low-SAPS oil.
Cost cited in the source: Approx. €1,200–2,500 for a turbo replacement with oil-circuit cleaningA rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.