The Ford Focus C-Max 1.6 TDCI engine is a reliable and durable engine with excellent performance. But like any other engine, it needs proper care and maintenance to last. With that said, what are the Ford Focus C-Max 1.6 TDCI problems?
Common problems with the Ford C Max 1.6 TDCI engine are engine overheating, carbon build-up, ignition system issues, and failing fuel injectors. Additionally, several owners have reported the engine experiencing faulty alternators, failing cam belts and bearings, and turbocharger malfunction.
What are the common problems with the Ford Focus C Max 1.6 TDCI engine?
Engine overheating
This issue not only affects this engine but most Ford engines. Several owners have complained in the past that the engine overheats, leading to various problems. The main problem that causes the engine to overheat is the low coolant level. As a result, the cylinder head overheats, cracks, and leaks oil.
To fix this problem, the owner will have to add coolant to the engine. If the engine is losing an unusual amount of coolant, it is important to diagnose the car and fix the underlying problem.
Carbon build-up
Another common problem with the Ford C-Max 1.6 TDCI engine is carbon build-up. This problem is common in direct injection engines and the 1.6 TDCI is not an exception. Direct injection engines are powerful, efficient, and with low emissions. However, after driving this car for a long time or for shorter distances, carbon will build up and cause several problems like misfire, power loss, and rough idle.
To fix this issue, the owner will have to clean the carbon build-up or hire a professional mechanic to do so. What’s more, it is vital to drive the car for longer journeys so that sufficient fuel can be burnt.
Ignition system problems
Like most Ford engines, the ignition system on this car also comes with lots of issues. Nonetheless, most of these problems are caused by bad or worn-out spark plugs and ignition coils. Since this engine is turbocharged, the spark plugs and ignition coils will wear out faster, causing several issues.
It is important to inspect and change your spark plugs every 40,000 miles or ignition coils every 50,000 miles. Failure to do so may lead to problems like poor performance, engine misfire, and rough idle. This problem can be corrected by replacing the bad spark plugs and ignition coils.
Failing fuel injectors
If your Ford C-Max 1.6 TDCI engine isn’t starting, then you may have a problem with the fuel injectors. After being used for several miles, the fuel injector may start to wear out and fail in its functions. However, in some cases, it can be contaminated, and it won’t perform optimally. To fix this problem, you will have to replace the failing fuel injectors.
Failing cam-belt and bearings
If your engine is misfiring, difficult to start, or you notice rough idling, then you have a failing or bad cam belt and bearings. Like most engine parts, these parts also wear out or get damaged. If you notice any of the above signs, you will have to replace the failing cam-belt and bearings.
Turbocharger malfunction
Another Ford C Mx 1.6 TDCI problem that is overlooked is turbo malfunction. This problem happens because of carbon clogging in the turbo. As a result, it leads to a blocked oil feeder pipe.
This issue can be fixed by cleaning out the oil feeder pipe. But if the pipe is damaged, it will have to be replaced.
Faulty alternators
The alternator helps to change mechanical energy to electrical energy with an alternating current. However, the alternator also becomes faulty because of damaged wiring, faulty car battery, or defective fusible link.
To fix this issue, you will have to fix the underlying issues first. But if the alternator is bad, you will have to replace it as well.
FAQ
Is the Ford Focus C Max 1.6 TDCI engine reliable?
Yes, the Ford Focus C-Max 1.6 TDCI is one of the most reliable Ford engines on the market. According to the WhatCar reliability survey, the Ford C Max finished third in its ranking, making it one of the most reliable MPVs in the UK. It had an overall score of 95%, which is outstanding.
How many miles does the Ford C Mx 1.6 TDCI engine last?
The Ford 1.6 TDCI engine is one of the most reliable Ford engines on the market. So, if this engine is properly maintained and looked after, it can last for more than 200,000 miles. But for this to happen, the owner also needs to exercise good driving habits.
Is it expensive to maintain the Ford 1.6 TDCI model?
Maintaining the Ford C-Max 1.6 TDCI engine is cheap as it does not register a lot of problems. Therefore, if this car is well-maintained and cared for, it will last for a long time and won’t cost a lot to maintain. On average, the owner of this car should be ready to spend between $200 and $400 to maintain it annually. However, if there are serious issues, it can cost more.
How much horsepower does the Ford C-Max 1.6 TDCI engine have?
The Ford C-Max 1.6 TDCI engine comes with two horsepower options. The first and cheaper variation offers a total of 94 hp at 3600 Rpm and 170lb-ft of torque at 1500 to 2000 Rpm. On the other hand, the second variation produces up to 113 hp at 3600 Rpm and 210 lb-ft of torque at 1750 to 2500 Rpm.
Is the Ford TDCI a good engine?
Yes, the Ford C Max TDI engine is good as it offers excellent performance and registers fewer issues. Additionally, this engine is reliable and efficient. Moreover, it has an excellent fuel economy with less emissions than most of its competition. And since it is a diesel engine, it will last for a very long time.
Final thoughts
The Ford Focus C Max 1.6 TDCI engine may be reliable and efficient, but it also comes with multiple issues. The most common issues as discussed above are engine overheating, turbocharger malfunction, carbon build-up, failing fuel injectors, and faulty alternators.
Nonetheless, this is still an outstanding engine with great performance and durability. With good care and maintenance, this engine can easily clock more than 200k miles.