Ford Kuga Common Problems and Solutions
Drained Battery
Problem:
Despite charging the battery fully, it is flat the next day and needs a jump start.
Solution:
It's quite likely that your battery has reached the end of its lifespan, and you'll need to purchase and fit a replacement. Even if you've never replaced a car battery yourself, it's simpler than you might think. You can find plenty of step-by-step guides for replacing a battery on a Kuga. Shop for your new battery right here.
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Greasy windscreen
Problem:
The windscreen on the Kuga has sometimes become greasy because of faulty wiper blades. Even cleaning the screen and blades hasn't resolved the problem.
Solution:
The only way to solve this problem is to replace the blades. You might be able to do so under warranty. If you need to replace them yourself, they are very simple to change.
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Knocking noise from rear
Problem:
If you notice a knocking noise from the rear, it is most likely the rear door striker rubbing.
Solution:
To fix this, you'll need to apply some grease to the door striker, which will eliminate the noise.
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Diesel Engine warning light
Problem:
If your Kuga Diesel engine warning light comes on your dashboard, you might have an issue with the diesel particulate filter. This component helps to reduce the CO2 emissions from the exhaust.
Solution:
A new filter will be required to resolve the issue.
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Gearstick and worn surround
Problem:
A common problem with the Kuga is a worn gearstick and gator.
Solution:
If you notice this, you'll need to replace the trim around the gearstick, or you can simply put up with it as it is.
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Door seal fault
Problem:
When you're driving and notice a creaking sound from the doors, it indicates an issue with your door seals. This is common on the Ford Kuga, and if the car is still under warranty, you might get it repaired at no cost. Otherwise, you'll need to replace the parts yourself.
Solution:
Fitting the door seals will solve the problem.
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Engine problems
Problem:
When the engine is idling, you hear a rattling noise and the idle revs are inconsistent; you probably have an issue with the fuel injectors.
Solution:
The best solution is to have a diagnostic check by a professional before undertaking any major work.
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Exhaust problems
Problem:
If you notice blue smoke coming from the exhaust during start-up and your vehicle is very sluggish, you might have a problem with the EGR (Exhaust Gas Re-circulation) valves. Instead of directing the gases back to the engine for better efficiency, they are just escaping directly into the atmosphere.
Solution:
You will need to install new EGR valves to resolve the issue.
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EGR Valve
Burning Clutch
Problem:
A strong smell of burning is coming from your clutch, often accompanied by loud bangs or thuds.
Solution:
This issue is almost always caused by a cracked clutch pressure plate. It mainly affects 1.6 and 1.5-litre Ecoboost engines from 2013 to 2018. You can replace the clutch pressure plate, but it’s worth checking with a Ford dealer first. They might be able to install a modified clutch kit, and often need to update the start/stop system. If you want to replace your clutch pressure plate, get a quote from us today.
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Accelerator/Reverse Stops Working
Problem:
Usually only seen in 2014 models, this occurs when you start the car and neither the accelerator nor reverse functions.
Solution:
This might simply require turning the engine off and on again to reset the dual-clutch electronic control. If this does not resolve the issue, you should seek an assessment from a Ford dealer.
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Overheating
Problem:
More common in the 2.0-litre models, the Kuga sometimes experiences an issue with overheating. Often, the engine overheats to the extent that the sump may crack. This can result in oil loss.
Solution:
The only option here is to take the car to a Ford dealer, who will run a software check to see if it needs updating.
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Car Heater Blowing Cold
Problem:
The heating in your car has completely stopped working or is producing less heat than before.
Solution:
Affecting the Mark 3 Kuga, this problem is often caused by the air pollen filter. When the filter becomes wet, it effectively blocks airflow. Open the glove box and locate the two tabs on either side. Find the pollen filter and check if it is wet. If it is, you'll need to dry it out. If it remains dry, it may need to be replaced. Pollen filters are very inexpensive; you can get a quote for these replacement parts on our website. Plus, replacing them takes only a few minutes.
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Hot Gas From Battery
Problem:
The high-voltage battery pack is venting hot gas, which can cause other vehicle parts to overheat and raise the risk of a fire or serious damage.
Solution:
The issue affected only the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle models produced between July 2019 and July 2020, and was so serious that Ford had to issue a recall. Return the car to the dealership for a replacement.
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Fuel Operated Heater
Problem:
The Fuel Operated Heater (FOH) turns on by itself.
Solution:
This can be potentially dangerous if the FOH turns on while the car is parked in an enclosed space. It will mean replacing the FOH system entirely and was the reason why Kugas manufactured between November 2019 and June 2020 were the subject of a recall. You can find a replacement FOH system within our range of parts.
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