Ford Puma Common Problems and Solutions
High Revs And Power Loss
Problem:
When you accelerate beyond 4000rpm, the engine power suddenly drops off.
Solution:
There are several reasons why this might happen on the Puma. Start by checking your spark plugs, as they are the easiest parts to replace. If the spark plugs look fine, inspect your air filter. If it's blocked, try cleaning it, as this could solve the issue. If the air filter is damaged, you can order a new one from the parts page. If the problem persists, it's likely the fuel filter, which is also prone to damage. This part is easier to replace than you might think.
Difficulty level
Grinding Noise on Gear Change
Problem:
When you change gear, there is a terrible grinding noise. The noise grows louder as you shift into lower gears. The grinding appears to originate from above the clutch pedal.
Solution:
You probably have a worn or cracked clutch release bearing. You can replace the bearing yourself, but it does mean removing the gearbox to access it. Most drivers facing this issue will opt to replace the entire clutch assembly, which includes the relevant bearing. We have the bearings available for quick delivery and can also supply a complete clutch assembly if you choose to go that route.
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Clutch Release Bearing
Misfiring Engine
Problem:
The engine has started to misfire regularly and might not start at all. You will likely hear a ticking noise coming from the engine when you manage to get it running.
Solution:
This is quite common if your Puma has reached 50,000 miles and needs a new cambelt due to natural wear. Replacing the cambelt from our online store is a major job on the Puma, but there are videos available that can guide you through the process.
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Timing Cam Belt Kit
Rough Engine
Problem:
The engine runs unevenly and idles roughly. The check engine light may flash intermittently, and there is a noticeable decrease in vehicle power. The engine will also sound significantly louder.
Solution:
These are clear signs that your coil pack has worn out and needs replacing. However, it's advisable to install a new exhaust oxygen sensor as well, since the two issues often occur together. You can find both parts on our replacement parts list for the Puma, and they are simple to install.
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Coil Pack
Boot Door Slow To Open
Problem:
When you press the release button for the boot door, it opens slowly instead of springing open quickly. If left unattended, the boot door will eventually cease to open on its own but will still unlock.
Solution:
There are two pneumatic struts inside the boot mechanism, but the gas that powers them will eventually deteriorate over time. You could ignore this issue since it won't cause further damage to your car, and most drivers are happy to lift the boot manually. However, if you want to return to quick automatic boot opening, then you should consult our parts list for replacements struts.
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Bootlid Tailgate Struts
Melting Steering Wheel
Problem:
The faux leather on your steering wheel is becoming lumpy and looks as if it is melting.
Solution:
Although this is purely an aesthetic issue and doesn't affect driveability, most drivers will want to know their options. Ideally, you should simply replace the steering wheel with a more durable one, which we always have in stock and are easy to order.
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Steering Wheel
Heater Malfunction
Problem:
Your heater is either stuck on the maximum heat setting or the cool setting. You cannot switch between settings at all.
Solution:
The heater in the Puma is the same problematic one that was fitted to the Ford Fiesta. They are extremely prone to rapid wear on the heater control valve. This is a very low-cost part when you order directly from BreakerYard, and many online guides are available to show you how to install the new valve.
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Heater Valve
Knocking From Front
Problem:
There is a knocking noise coming from the front of the car when you're driving.
Solution:
The front suspension bushes are known to wear out more quickly than usual on the Puma. If your bushes are worn, you can order new ones from our parts list, but it's worth checking your brake pads at the same time. These may also need replacement.
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Parcel shelf
Problem:
There have been many issues with the parcel shelf falling into the boot because the pins are too small to fit securely into the gap. This then causes the shelf to fall into the boot area.
Solution:
One way to resolve this issue is to wrap some electrical insulating tape around the pins to enlarge them, which will help the parcel shelf stay in place without any problems. This is a cheap and effective solution.
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Fan blower motor problem
Problem:
Any model up to 1999 may have the problem of the heater not functioning on settings 1, 2, and 3, as well as emitting a smell of burning plastic. This smell is caused by a poor connection on the blower motor resistor multiplug, which in turn burns the plastic.
Solution:
To resolve this, you need to install a revised blower motor resistor and a new wiring loom that can withstand high temperatures.
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Wheel cylinder problem
Problem:
A 1997-99 Puma may develop a water leak to the wheel cylinder, which can cause noise and lead to the brakes sticking.
Solution:
The best way to address this problem is to fit a rubber gasket to the wheel cylinder, which will prevent the leak and also eliminate the noise from the wheels.
Difficulty level
Braking problems
Problem:
These problems occurred on several Pumas from 1997 to 1999. This issue is caused by a faulty brake cross shaft and spring. It could lead to acceleration problems and various braking issues.
Solution:
You will need to replace both the cross shaft and the spring to resolve this issue.
Difficulty level
Brake fluid leakage
Problem:
The brake fluid leak occurs in a 2000 Puma, causing the warning light on the dashboard to illuminate prematurely. The leak is at the connection between the brake hose and wheel cylinder.
Solution:
You will need to tighten the hose to the revised torque of 21.5mm to stop the leak. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace either the hose or the cylinder, depending on which part is faulty.
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Engine problems
Problem:
Any Ford Puma Racing could encounter engine issues caused by a faulty TPS (Throttle Positioning Sensor) that sends incorrect signals. Watch the video below to see this problem.
Solution:
The solution to this problem is to fit a new sensor and wiring loom. Also, check that water is not leaking into the sensor's connectors, as this could ultimately damage the sensor and cause it to stop working.
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Problems Starting Engine
Problem:
You're having difficulty starting the engine.
Solution:
This issue results from incorrectly torqued hybrid battery connections. Your MHEV battery should be inspected by a Ford dealer and tightened to the correct specifications.
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Loose Airbag Unit
Problem:
Your airbag appears to be loose. Sometimes, you might not notice the looseness, and the airbag simply won't activate during a collision.
Solution:
This issue only affects Pumas manufactured between June 2019 and January 2020, and most will still be covered by warranty. The problem stems from poorly manufactured airbag retention springs, which will need to be replaced. Most Ford dealers will replace the spring free of charge. If, for any reason, they do not, we have the replacement springs available for quick delivery.
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