The Ford Focus Ecoboost is one of the Ford models with powerful and efficient Ecoboost engines. Unlike other Ford Focus models, this particular model is more efficient, but also offers the same power and torque as ordinary Ford Focus engines. However, the first Ford Ecoboost engines had several problems before they were improved.
What are the common problems with the Ford Focus Ecoboost? Some of the common problems with the Ford Focus Ecoboost models are engine overheating, lower pressure fuel pump, malfunctioning head gasket, carbon buildup, fuel injector problems, exhaust manifold cracking, and cooling system problems, and much more.
What are the common problems with Ford Focus Ecoboost?
Engine overheating
One of the biggest problems with Ford Focus Ecoboost is engine overheating. This issue is rampant on the 1.6 Ford Focus Ecoboost engine. It is estimated that Ford had to recall over 360,000 Fords because of engine overheating that could lead to a fire.
Malfunctioning head gasket
Another common problem with the Ford Focus Ecoboost is the head gasket going bad. Note that this is a common problem on old cars with at least 150,000 miles. However, this issue occurs early in some Ford Focus models. The issue is common on the Ford Focus RS as it’s fitted with the wrong head gasket.
Oil leaks
Oil leaks are also common in the Ford Focus Ecoboost with the 1.6 engine. Most of the causes of this leakage can be linked to faulty engine gaskets, worn-out oil seals, and bad connections. However, this issue is easy to fix by normally replacing a bad head gasket.
Low-pressure fuel pump
Ecoboost engines are usually fitted with a low-pressure fuel pump and a high-pressure fuel pump. The role of the low-pressure fuel pump is to pull gas from the tank and deliver it to the high-pressure fuel pump, while the high-pressure fuel pump provides fuel to the fuel injectors.
However, because of carbon buildup, the low-pressure fuel pump may not work as intended, leading to engine misfires and incorrect air-fuel mixture. You will have to clear the carbon build-up or replace a bad fuel pump.
Cooling system problems
This problem is common on both the Ford Focus Ecoboost 1.5-liter and 1.6-liter engines. Note that the 1.5-liter engine is the improved version of the problematic 1.6-liter engine. The cooling system develops issues because of a design flaw in the engine block and head. This may require an engine replacement.
Fuel injector problem
This is a common problem in all direct injection engines. Hence, since the Ford Focus Ecoboost is a direct injection engine, expect to have this problem. Besides, this issue is rampant in the 1.5-liter Focus Ecoboost model. The fuel injector on this car may clog or leak.
When this happens, you may notice rough idle, low fuel economy, and engine misfire. Replace the bad fuel injector with a good one to resolve the issue.
Exhaust manifold cracking
If you own a Ford Focus ST, expect to experience this problem. This is because it is fitted with the 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine, which usually experiences exhaust manifold cracking. Specifically, most users of the 2015 model year have reported this issue. You will have to change the bad exhaust manifold.
Clutch slippage issue
Another problem that is common in second-generation Ford Focus Ecoboost models is the clutch slippage. Several users have reported not having issues changing gears. This is because of the dry-clutch, powershift gearbox. You will have to replace the entire gearbox to fix the problem.
Water leakage
Water leakage is common across Ford Focus models. This model is not an exception as several users have complained about water leaking into the car’s cabin. This is because of the faulty seals that have to be replaced to resolve the issue.
FAQ
Is the Ford Focus Ecoboost a reliable car?
Yes, Ford Focus Ecoboost is a reliable car. This is because many reliability agencies have given the Ford Focus Ecoboost above-average reliability. Besides, most Ford Focus Ecoboost models register fewer problems, which makes them even more dependable. However, some models such as those with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engines are not so reliable.
What is the high mileage for Ford Focus Ecoboost?
If you intend to purchase a used Ford Focus Ecoboost, ensure that it has less than 150,000 miles. This is because most Ford Focus models start developing serious issues after hitting over 150,000 miles. Regardless, it is crucial to inspect a used Ford Focus to avoid getting a bad deal, no matter the miles on the car.
Is it expensive to maintain a Ford Focus Ecoboost?
It depends on several things. For instance, Ford Focus Ecoboost models with the 1.0 engines are more problematic than Ford Focus models with the 2.3 or 1.5-liter engines. Overall, it is cheaper to maintain this car as it comes with fewer problems compared to its rivals. Also, Ford spare parts are quite cheaper, thus reducing the cost of maintenance.
What is the least reliable Ford Ecoboost engine?
The title for the least reliable Ford Ecoboost engine goes to the 1.6-liter and 1.0-liter engines. The worst engine is the 1.6-liter unit as it had the most recalls and problems. For instance, 29 vehicles with this engine were known to have caught fire. Some of the major issues of this engine are oil leaks, coolant leaking, and engine overheating.
What is the most reliable Ford Ecoboost engine?
Ford Ecoboost boasts different sets of engines, but the most reliable engine is the 3.5-liter unit. This may come as a surprise as it’s the most complained about Ford Ecoboost engine. However, that’s not the case as it only happens to be fitted in the bestselling Ford F-150 model. Thus, there are more complaints.
Bottom line
Ford Focus Ecoboost is not only a lovely compact car, but it also possesses one of the best Ford engines on the market. The Ford Ecoboost engine is one of the finest as it is dependable. Nonetheless, it also has several issues that users should be aware of as discussed above.
But with proper care and maintenance, Ford Focus Ecoboost can last for a very long time. It is also important to note that the Ford Focus Ecoboost with the 1.6 engine has more issues than other Ford Focus Ecoboost engines, such as the 2.3 engine.