The Ford KA Plus is a small subcompact city car with outstanding features. It is also reliable, efficient, and cheap to maintain. However, it also comes with several problems that interested buyers should know about. So, what are the common Ford KA Plus problems?
Common problems with the Ford KA Plus are the engine won’t start, a rattling engine, engine misfiring, idle speed control valve issue, and a failing temperature sensor. Additionally, some owners have reported having rear brake problems, front brake hose retention, and un-fused battery monitoring wire chafing.
What are the common problems with Ford KA Plus?
The engine won’t start
This is one of the major problems that Ford KA Plus owners should be ready to deal with. Several owners complained that the engine refused to start, and it started to overheat. The main culprit behind this problem is a broken temperature sensor in the coolant system.
To fix this issue, you will have to visit a professional mechanic. Ensure that the mechanic replaces the bad temperature sensor to fix the issue.
Engine misfiring
Another common problem with the Ford KA Plus is the engine misfiring. Many Ford KA+ owners have complained that the engine misfires and makes a high-pitched whine while the car is idling. Note that this problem is normally caused by a faulty ignition coil pack, which doesn’t usually activate the engine management light when it breaks.
To fix this problem, you will have to replace the faulty ignition coil pack. It is ideal if you hire a professional mechanic to fix it.
Rattling engine
While this issue is not very common, several Ford KA owners have also reported having a rattling engine. Many users complained that they heard a rattling sound from the engine while driving. Some complained that their car lost power. The main culprit behind this problem is damaged or worn-out cam followers.
To resolve this issue, you will have to replace the damaged or worn-out cam followers.
Idle speed control valve issue
The idle speed control valve is also known as the air bypass valve and it is located on the inlet manifold. When the idle speed control valve has an issue, it can lead to stalling at junctions and rough idling. The main problem that causes the idle speed control valve to become problematic are carbon and oil deposits that clog up the valve.
If the idle speed control valve is clogged and not damaged, you should clean it and get rid of the carbon deposits. But if it’s damaged, you should have it replaced.
Failing temperature sensor
This problem is common in older Ford KA Plus models. The temperature sensor in the coolant system is prone to failure. Even though the temperature sensor usually shuts off an overheating engine, it will not allow the car to start or stop if it’s broken.
To fix this problem, you will have to replace the broken temperature sensor.
Rear brake problems
This is one of the issues that forced Ford to recall some of the Ford KA models. It was discovered that the rear brake back plate bolts may not have been tightened to the required torque. If a back plate bolt falls into the brake drum damage to the brake linings or wheel lockup could take place.
Note that Ford recalled the affected models, and the issue was resolved.
Front brake hose retention
Another problem that forced Ford to recall several Ford KA Plus models was due to the front brake hose retention problem. There is a chance that the front brake hose might foul and rub on the front wheel rim which might lead to a brake fluid leak and a possible loss in braking performance.
Un-fused battery monitoring wire chafing
This problem was found in Ford KA Plus models made between 2017 and 2019. The manufacturer detected un-fused battery monitoring wire chafing. This issue can be fixed by inspecting the BMW wire and replacing it if it’s damaged. Use cloth tape to wrap the BMS wiring and install a wiring harness retaining clip on all cars.
FAQ
Is the Ford KA Plus reliable?
Yes, the Ford KA Plus is a reliable car. Many owners have reported clocking several miles before registering minor problems. Additionally, it is cheaper to maintain this car compared to some of its rivals. Besides, it has a fur star Euro NCAP safety rating, which is pretty good.
How many miles does the Ford KA Plus last?
It depends on how well you take care of the car. With good care and maintenance, the Ford KA Plus should last for at least 200,000 miles. Some Ford KA Plus owners who haven’t taken good care of their cars clocked more than 100k miles, meaning that this car is very reliable.
Is the Ford KA Plus expensive to maintain?
Like most mainstream cars, the Ford KA Plus is not expensive to maintain. Besides, servicing prices are competitive for both of the petrol engines, and the diesel unit won’t be significantly pricier to operate. On average, the owner of the Ford KA Plus should spend around $210 to maintain the car annually.
Is the Ford KA Plus fuel-efficient?
The Ford KA Plus is an efficient car, even though it is offered in two power outputs. The 1.2-liter petrol engine is the most efficient as it can manage up to 48.7 mpg, in its lowest trim. On the other hand, the efficiency drops in the high-end trims with the Active trim offering up to 43.5 mpg.
What is the difference between Ford KA and Ford KA Plus?
The Ford KA is a three-door city car that shares its mechanical underpinnings with the Fiat 500. On the other hand, the newer Ford KA Plus is based on the Fiesta, but shorter, and with a much roomier interior than the old car. Besides, the Ford KA is quite longer than the Ford KA Plus.
Summary
The Ford KA Plus may be an outstanding city car with lots of amazing features, but it also comes with multiple issues. Some of the issues that owners should be ready to deal with are engine problems, rear brake problems, idle speed control valve problems, and failing temperature sensors.