Common problems · Ford

Ford Kuga common problems and recalls

13 sourced problems across the Kuga's generations since 2012, plus 31 DVSA recalls. Enter a registration to see the ones that apply to your exact car.

Free · no signup · recalls, MOT data and researched problems

Kuga Mk3 (2019 on)

Acknowledged by the manufacturer

Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.

Recall · FordHybrid & electric drive
Recalls: Kuga plug-in hybrid battery cells and charger
The Kuga plug-in hybrid has had several high-voltage battery recalls. In 2020 the battery pack could overheat and vent hot gas that could start a fire, and a charger-module connector could be damaged; in 2025 Ford found cells that could short-circuit, bringing up a 'Stop Safely Now' warning or a loss of drive. Owners were told to limit charging to 80% until a fix is available, so check what has been done.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk3 plug-in hybrid (2.5 PHEV), built from 2019
Only the plug-in hybrid. DVLA records the Kuga's petrol-electric hybrids alike, so this also shows for the self-charging hybrid.
5 sources
Recall · FordEngine
Recall: oil or fuel vapour leak can cause an engine-bay fire
Under some operating conditions an oil or fuel vapour leak can meet an ignition source and cause an engine-bay fire, melting or smoke. The remedy modifies the engine undertray and the active grille shutters.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk3, built January 2020 to July 2022
The recall notice does not say which engines are affected; a Ford dealer can check by VIN.
3 sources
Recall · FordFuel system
Recall: a cracked fuel injector can leak fuel onto the engine
A fuel injector can crack and leak, letting fuel collect on top of the engine near the exhaust, which is a fire risk. Dealers fit a drain tube to carry leaking fuel away from hot parts and update the engine software so that a drop in fuel pressure lights a warning and reduces power.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk3, built 2019–2023 (DVSA lists the recalls against those model years)
The recall notices do not name the engine; a later Ford recall ties this fire-risk remedy to the 2.5 hybrid and plug-in hybrid. A Ford dealer can check by VIN.
4 sources
Recall · FordEngine
Recall: engine oil separator may be damaged and leak
Some engines were assembled with an oil separator that had been damaged beforehand and can leak oil. Dealers inspect it and replace it if it is damaged or leaking.
Applies to: Ford Fiesta, Puma, Focus and Kuga built February 2020 to May 2022
The recall notice does not name the engine and covers fewer than 10,000 cars; a Ford dealer can check by VIN.
2 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — THE RIGHT-HAND ENGINE OIL SEPERATOR MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED PRIOR TO ENGINE ASSEMBLY (R/2022/171)
- Car Recalls UK (mirror of DVSA recall data) — FORD FOCUS 2020-2022 – The engine oil seperator (R/2022/171)
Recall · FordEmissions, DPF & AdBlue
Recall: diesel particulate filter can crack
On some diesel models the particulate filter (DPF) can crack. Ford updates the engine software to prevent it and tests the filter, replacing any that have already cracked.
Applies to: Some diesel Ford Focus Mk4, Kuga Mk3, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy and EcoSport (DVSA lists 2018–2022 model years)
Only some diesels — the recall covers a few thousand vehicles across these models and does not name the engine. A Ford dealer can check by VIN.
3 sources

Reported by owners and the motoring press

Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.

Nothing reported that met our bar of two independent publishers.

DVSA recalls for the Kuga Mk3

Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.

Some Kuga vehicles with a panoramic roof may have a fixed glass panel with poor adhesion to the roof frame assemblyR/2022/325 · 30/11/2022
Some Kuga vehicles with a panoramic roof may have a fixed glass panel with poor adhesion to the roof frame assembly. As a result there is a possibility that the fixed glass panel could detach during driving causing a hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users.
Remedy: Check the panoramic roof frame If an affected date is present the fixed glass roof panel will need to be removed to inspect the integrity of the adhesive. If the adhesive is found to be compromised a…
Listed for: KUGA · built 2021
Multi Vehicle Line: Unintended High Beam Behaviour - ComplianceR/2026/268 · 30/06/2026
Affected vehicles may experience erratic behaviour of the Glare Free High Beam function under certain circumstances.
Remedy: Update the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Electronic Control Unit software.
Listed for: KUGA, TRANSIT CUSTOM, TRANSIT COURIER, TRANSIT, MACH-E · built 2025–2026
25S16 Kuga PHEV - Powertrain Control Module Software UpdateR/2025/162 · 30/04/2025
On affected vehicles software from a previous recall may not have been installed correctly. Vehicles may have Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software that can result in a forced neutral condition while driving.
Remedy: Update and verify the software.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2020–2022
THE eCALL FEATURE WILL STOP FUNCTIONING DUE TO A MALFUNCTIONR/2022/239 · 29/07/2022
It may be possible that the eCall feature will stop functioning due to a malfunction.
Remedy: The Telecommunication Module will need to be replaced
Listed for: PUMA, S-MAX, KUGA, FOCUS, GALAXY · built 2022

Show 17 more

24S33 – Kuga 2.5L PHEV supercreepR/2024/260 · 28/06/2024
On affected vehicles a recent update to the Power Control Module (PCM) software could result in the vehicle shifting into neutral and coasting to a stop. The subsequent limp home mode results in unintended acceleration or 'supercreep'.
Remedy: Update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software
Listed for: KUGA PHEV · built 2020–2022
Lower seatbelt bolt may not be tightened to specificationR/2022/304 · 27/10/2022
The lower front seatbelt bolt may not be correctly tightened to specification.
Remedy: Inspect and re-torque the front lower seatbelt bolts to specification
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2021
26S10 - Kuga Ranger - Potential Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve FailureR/2026/160 · 27/08/2026
On affected vehicles the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve may fail leading to weak acceleration engine vibration a no start condition or a loss of power.
Remedy: Replace the EGR valve.
Listed for: KUGA, RANGER · built 2025
23S27 Kuga S-Max/Galaxy 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine: Engine Compartment IssueR/2023/175 · 26/02/2024
Engine failure that may lead to a breach of the engine oil sump or engine block
Remedy: Software update
Listed for: S-MAX/GALAXY, KUGA · built 2019–2022
Particle contamination can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage battery cellsR/2020/317 · 21/12/2020
Particle contamination can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage battery cells.
Remedy: The HV battery pack will be replaced on affected vehicles.
Listed for: KUGA PHEV · built 2020
Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that contols the funtionality of the ECALL systemR/2021/177 · 21/05/2021
Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that controls the functionality of the eCall system.
Remedy: Carry out a software update.
Listed for: KUGA, PUMA, FOCUS, EXPLORER · built 2019–2021
Internal fault with one of the battery arrays may cause overheatingR/2022/167 · 19/07/2022
A number of Kuga PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) have a High Voltage (HV) battery that may have an internal fault with one of the battery arrays causing overheating
Remedy: A new HV battery must be installed
Listed for: KUGA PHEV · built 2020–2021
23S57 Kuga - Steering gear top plug potentially looseR/2023/341 · 19/02/2024
The steering gear could potentially develop excessive movement. Over time a wear condition may manifest in an audible noise increased steering efforts and the steering wheel not returning to the centre position. In rare circumstances if the issue of noise increased steering efforts and the steering wheel not returning…
Remedy: Replace affected components.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2021
25S61 – Kuga – Cylinder head replacementR/2025/341 · 15/09/2025
On affected vehicles the cylinder head may have loose ball plugs. This condition may result in a rapid oil leak if a ball plug comes out of the cylinder head.
Remedy: Replace the cylinder head.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2024
Transit Courier: Diesel DV-Neo Engine Coolant Pump UpdateR/2026/237 · 15/06/2026
Affected vehicles may have been repaired using a coolant pump with a potential issue. This issue may lead to incorrect engine timing resulting in an engine failure causing a sudden loss of power without prior warning. The engine cannot be restarted.
Remedy: Check and replace the water pump and timing belt if necessary.
Listed for: KUGA, FOCUS, TOURNEO CONNECT, TRANSIT CONNECT, TRANSIT COURIER · built 2019–2024
A battery may have an incorrectly positioned/welded busbar in one of the battery arraysR/2022/003 · 15/02/2022
A battery may have an incorrectly positioned/welded busbar in one of the battery arrays
Remedy: Install a new High Voltage battery.
Listed for: KUGA PHEV · built 2020–2021
A small number of vehicles may be fitted with tyres that do not meet the high specification expected.R/2023/042 · 10/02/2023
A small number of vehicles may be fitted with tyres that do not meet the high specification expected.
Remedy: Conduct a visual inspection of the summer tyres to identify known and specific build codes. If after inspecting the vehicle a tyre(s) is identified as one of the known specific build numbers that fal…
Listed for: KUGA · built 2022
The fuel operated heater could start inadvertentlyR/2020/214 · 09/09/2020
The Fuel Operated Heater could start inadvertently
Remedy: New SYNC system software must be applied.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2020
25S21 Kuga - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software UpdateR/2025/163 · 09/05/2025
On affected vehicles the remedy software for a previous recall which was needed to mitigate a potential fire risk may not have been installed correctly.
Remedy: Update the Power Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the software has been installed correctly.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2023
CrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software UpdateR/2025/359 · 08/09/2025
On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.
Remedy: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.
Listed for: KUGA, TRANSIT, MONDEO, FIESTA, GALAXY, FOCUS, TRANSIT COURIER, TRANSIT CUSTOM, ECOSPORT, EXPLORER, PUMA, TOURNEO CUSTOM… · built 2018–2023
Multi Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software UpdateR/2026/181 · 05/05/2026
Affected vehicles may experience a loss of emergency call system (eCall) functionality which impacts both automatic and manual eCall events.
Remedy: Update the Telematics Control Unit software to the latest level.
Listed for: FOCUS, GALAXY, KUGA, MONDEO, PUMA, S-MAX · built 2019–2024
25C79 Kuga - Powertrain Control Module Software UpdateR/2026/030 · 03/02/2027
On affected vehicles the software repair for previous recall 25C79 may not have been delivered properly and the Powertrain Control Module software may deliver lower power output than intended.
Remedy: Update the Powertrain Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the configuration has been installed correctly.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2020

Measured at MOT: how a 2023 Kuga fails more often

Based on 38,297 first MOT tests of this model at 3 years old (cars first used 2021–2022), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.

Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.

How to read this

These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.

A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.

MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.

Kuga Mk2 (2012–2019)

Acknowledged by the manufacturer

Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.

Recall · FordInterior
Recall: B-pillar trim insulation can catch fire in a crash
Insulation on the inside of the lower B-pillar trim sits too close to the front seat-belt pretensioner. If the pretensioner fires in a collision, its heat can ignite the insulation. Dealers remove a section of the insulation from both trims.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk2 built July 2012 to June 2014
2 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — B-PILLAR TRIM INSULATION TOO CLOSE TO THE SEAT BELT PRETENTIONER (R/2017/238)
- Auto Express — Used Ford Kuga Mk2 (2012-2019) review
Recall · FordCooling
If it has the Ford 1.6 EcoBoost petrol: Recall: cylinder head can crack if it overheats
On some 1.6 EcoBoost engines, localised overheating can crack the cylinder head. The crack can cause a pressurised oil leak and, in extreme cases, an engine fire. Under the DVSA recall, dealers inspect the engine and cooling system and fit a coolant level sensor with an audible and visual warning.
Applies to: Ford 1.6 EcoBoost petrol in the Focus, Kuga, C-Max, Fiesta ST, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy and Transit Connect, built 2010–2014
Only if it's the turbocharged 1.6 EcoBoost, not the non-turbo 1.6 Ti-VCT sold alongside it — check the badge or the V5C.
6 sources
Recall · FordCooling
If it has the Ford 2.0 Duratorq TDCi diesel: Recall: overheating may go undetected and crack the sump
On some 2.0 Duratorq diesels built in 2014–2015, the engine software may not detect an overheat properly. In extreme cases the overheated engine can breach the oil sump and lose its oil. The recall fix is new software that adds a dashboard warning and reduces engine power when it overheats.
Applies to: Ford 2.0 Duratorq TDCi diesel in the Focus, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, Galaxy and S-Max, built 2014–2015
3 sources
Recall · FordClutch & flywheel
If it has the Ford 1.0 / 1.5 / 1.6 EcoBoost petrol (6-speed manual): Recall: clutch pressure plate can fracture (EcoBoost manuals)
On 1.0, 1.5 and 1.6 EcoBoost petrol cars with the 6-speed manual gearbox, repeated clutch slip can overheat the pressure plate until it fractures. Owners notice a burning-clutch smell and a loss of performance; in extreme cases a bang from the gearbox and debris that can start an under-bonnet fire. The recall adds software that warns the driver and cuts power when the clutch is slipping, or fits a revised clutch on cars without stop-start.
Applies to: Ford Focus, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy and Transit Connect with a 1.0, 1.5 or 1.6 EcoBoost petrol engine and 6-speed manual gearbox, built 2009–2018
Only the turbocharged EcoBoost engines with the 6-speed manual gearbox. DVLA records neither the gearbox nor whether a 1.0 or 1.6 petrol is turbocharged, so this also shows for non-turbo Ti-VCT petrols and automatics.
6 sources

Reported by owners and the motoring press

Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.

Reported by 3 publishersEmissions, DPF & AdBlue
Diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging and repair bills
Owners of these diesels report DPF problems that can be expensive to put right. The filter needs regular longer, faster drives to clean itself; a car used mostly for short, slow trips can clog it, and interrupted cleaning cycles can dilute the engine oil with fuel. For mainly town use a petrol is the safer choice.
Applies to: Diesel Ford Fiesta Mk8, B-Max, C-Max / Grand C-Max, EcoSport, Kuga Mk2 and Mk3, Mondeo (2014–2022) and Ka Mk2
Mostly a matter of how the car is used — a diesel driven regularly on faster roads is far less likely to have trouble.
10 sources
Reported by 2 publishersGearbox
PowerShift automatic: harsh shifts and costly gearbox repairs
The PowerShift dual-clutch automatic has a poor reputation on this Kuga. On pre-facelift cars plastic retainers inside the gearbox can wear, break off and be churned up by the gears, meaning a gearbox strip-down; neglected fluid changes lead to shuddering, jerky shifts and big bills. It needs fresh oil and filters every three years. A manual or the post-facelift auto is the safer buy.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk2 (2012–2019) with the PowerShift automatic gearbox
DVLA does not record the gearbox, so this shows for every Kuga Mk2 — it only applies to the PowerShift automatic.
3 sources
Reported by 2 publishersCooling
Early EcoBoost petrols: coolant tank faults and head-gasket failure
Early EcoBoost petrol Kugas are reported to suffer faulty coolant expansion bottles, misfires and a higher chance of head-gasket failure, especially if the cooling system has not been modified. Look for coolant outside the expansion tank and for white deposits that suggest coolant mixing with oil. The 1.6 EcoBoost was also recalled for a cracking cylinder head.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk2 (2012–2019) with a 1.5 or 1.6 EcoBoost petrol engine, especially earlier cars
2 sources
- Parkers — Ford Kuga Mk2 (2012-2020) used review: known faults and common problems
- Autocar — Ford Kuga 2014-2019 Reliability & Common Problems
Reported by 2 publishersElectrics
Electrical faults, including a battery drained by the alarm
Electrical faults are the most commonly reported Kuga Mk2 problems: air-con, sat-nav and radio faults, warning lights and occasional limp-home mode. Higher-spec cars can suffer water getting into the electrics, and the alarm's backup battery can fail and flatten the main battery. Check the fuse boxes for damp and that every electrical item works.
Applies to: Ford Kuga Mk2 (2012–2019)
3 sources

DVSA recalls for the Kuga Mk2

Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.

Lower seatbelt bolt may not be tightened to specificationR/2022/304 · 27/10/2022
The lower front seatbelt bolt may not be correctly tightened to specification.
Remedy: Inspect and re-torque the front lower seatbelt bolts to specification
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2021
In the event of a fuel injector failing this will potentially cause a fuel leak.R/2023/080 · 27/03/2023
In the event of a fuel injector failing this will potentially cause a fuel leak.
Remedy: A drain tube will need to be installed to allow safe passage of the fuel away from hot surfaces in the event of a leak occurring. Also the dealer will perform a PCM software update that will reduce t…
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2022
23S27 Kuga S-Max/Galaxy 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine: Engine Compartment IssueR/2023/175 · 26/02/2024
Engine failure that may lead to a breach of the engine oil sump or engine block
Remedy: Software update
Listed for: S-MAX/GALAXY, KUGA · built 2019–2022
Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that contols the funtionality of the ECALL systemR/2021/177 · 21/05/2021
Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that controls the functionality of the eCall system.
Remedy: Carry out a software update.
Listed for: KUGA, PUMA, FOCUS, EXPLORER · built 2019–2021

Show 11 more

X-Car Powertain Control Module (PCM) Software UpdateR/2025/094 · 19/12/2024
Affected vehicles may develop a crack in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
Remedy: Update software to prevent a cracked DPF. Test and replace DPFs that are already cracked.
Listed for: MONDEO, CMAX, KUGA, FOCUS (SDPF), S-MAX, GALAXY, TRANSIT CUSTOM, FOCUS MCA, FOCUS, ECOSPORT, B-MAX, FIESTA MCA, TRANSIT… · built 2014–2022
Transit Courier: Diesel DV-Neo Engine Coolant Pump UpdateR/2026/237 · 15/06/2026
Affected vehicles may have been repaired using a coolant pump with a potential issue. This issue may lead to incorrect engine timing resulting in an engine failure causing a sudden loss of power without prior warning. The engine cannot be restarted.
Remedy: Check and replace the water pump and timing belt if necessary.
Listed for: KUGA, FOCUS, TOURNEO CONNECT, TRANSIT CONNECT, TRANSIT COURIER · built 2019–2024
The fuel operated heater could start inadvertentlyR/2020/214 · 09/09/2020
The Fuel Operated Heater could start inadvertently
Remedy: New SYNC system software must be applied.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2020
25S21 Kuga - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software UpdateR/2025/163 · 09/05/2025
On affected vehicles the remedy software for a previous recall which was needed to mitigate a potential fire risk may not have been installed correctly.
Remedy: Update the Power Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the software has been installed correctly.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2023
CrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software UpdateR/2025/359 · 08/09/2025
On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.
Remedy: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.
Listed for: KUGA, TRANSIT, MONDEO, FIESTA, GALAXY, FOCUS, TRANSIT COURIER, TRANSIT CUSTOM, ECOSPORT, EXPLORER, PUMA, TOURNEO CUSTOM… · built 2018–2023
Multi Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software UpdateR/2026/181 · 05/05/2026
Affected vehicles may experience a loss of emergency call system (eCall) functionality which impacts both automatic and manual eCall events.
Remedy: Update the Telematics Control Unit software to the latest level.
Listed for: FOCUS, GALAXY, KUGA, MONDEO, PUMA, S-MAX · built 2019–2024
25SC4 Kuga - Do not charge high voltage battery to levels above 80%R/2025/527 · 04/11/2025
On affected vehicles the high voltage battery may have some cells that could potentially develop a short circuit leading to a Stop Safely Now message and possible loss of motive power or battery thermal venting.
Remedy: Update the vehicle's Battery Energy Control Module software.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2026
The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gasR/2020/224 · 04/09/2020
The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas which can ignite vehicle components or in extreme cases the entire vehicle.
Remedy: To prevent a vehicle fire the vehicles should not be charged using the external charging cable and the vehicles should only be driven using the default Auto EV mode only.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2020
Side and/or knee airbag may fail to deploy in a collisionR/2017/241 · 04/09/2017
The airbag initiator may be defective and may prevent the side airbag(s) and/or knee airbag deploying in the event of an accident. In a collision the airbags not deploying could put the occupants at further risk.
Remedy: Recall the 1943 vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary replace the side and knee protection airbags complete with initiators.
Listed for: KUGA, CMAX, FOCUS · built 2016
25C79 Kuga - Powertrain Control Module Software UpdateR/2026/030 · 03/02/2027
On affected vehicles the software repair for previous recall 25C79 may not have been delivered properly and the Powertrain Control Module software may deliver lower power output than intended.
Remedy: Update the Powertrain Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the configuration has been installed correctly.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2020
The high voltage battery control charger module connector may be damagedR/2020/196 · 02/07/2020
The High Voltage Battery Control Charger Module (BCCM) connector may be damaged
Remedy: An inspection of the BCCM is required to confirm an undamaged connector. If a failed inspection occurs the vehicle must be reworked with a replacement BCCM and charge cable.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2019–2020

Measured at MOT: how a 2016 Kuga fails more often

Based on 42,116 first MOT tests of this model at 10 years old (cars first used 2014–2015), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.

Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.

How to read this

MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.

Kuga Mk1 (2008–2012)

Acknowledged by the manufacturer

Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.

Recall · FordCooling
If it has the Ford 1.6 EcoBoost petrol: Recall: cylinder head can crack if it overheats
On some 1.6 EcoBoost engines, localised overheating can crack the cylinder head. The crack can cause a pressurised oil leak and, in extreme cases, an engine fire. Under the DVSA recall, dealers inspect the engine and cooling system and fit a coolant level sensor with an audible and visual warning.
Applies to: Ford 1.6 EcoBoost petrol in the Focus, Kuga, C-Max, Fiesta ST, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy and Transit Connect, built 2010–2014
Only if it's the turbocharged 1.6 EcoBoost, not the non-turbo 1.6 Ti-VCT sold alongside it — check the badge or the V5C.
6 sources
Recall · FordClutch & flywheel
If it has the Ford 1.0 / 1.5 / 1.6 EcoBoost petrol (6-speed manual): Recall: clutch pressure plate can fracture (EcoBoost manuals)
On 1.0, 1.5 and 1.6 EcoBoost petrol cars with the 6-speed manual gearbox, repeated clutch slip can overheat the pressure plate until it fractures. Owners notice a burning-clutch smell and a loss of performance; in extreme cases a bang from the gearbox and debris that can start an under-bonnet fire. The recall adds software that warns the driver and cuts power when the clutch is slipping, or fits a revised clutch on cars without stop-start.
Applies to: Ford Focus, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy and Transit Connect with a 1.0, 1.5 or 1.6 EcoBoost petrol engine and 6-speed manual gearbox, built 2009–2018
Only the turbocharged EcoBoost engines with the 6-speed manual gearbox. DVLA records neither the gearbox nor whether a 1.0 or 1.6 petrol is turbocharged, so this also shows for non-turbo Ti-VCT petrols and automatics.
6 sources

Reported by owners and the motoring press

Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.

Nothing reported that met our bar of two independent publishers.

DVSA recalls for the Kuga Mk1

Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.

B-pillar trim insulation too close to the seat belt pretentionerR/2017/238 · 30/08/2017
In the event of a colision which deploys the front seat belt retractor pre-tensioner there is a possibility that the insulation material on the inner face of lower 'B' pillar trim could be subjected to a concentrated heat source that could ignite the insulation material resulting in fire.
Remedy: Remove a section of the insulation material on both �B� pillar trims.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2012–2014
Hard brake pedal may occur during engine warm upR/2009/050 · 21/05/2009
During engine warm up it is possible that the non return valve within the vacuum pump may stick. It is possible that if sufficient brake applications are made before the valve releases the vacuum stored within the brake booster will be used up and a hard brake pedal and longer stopping distances may result.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit a revised design of non return valve to the brake vacuum pump.
Listed for: KUGA, GALAXY, MONDEO, S-MAX, FOCUS, CMAX · built 2008–2009
Risk of fireR/2016/067 · 18/11/2016
The heated washer jets may have jet heating elements which are not correctly sealed. There is a possibility that poor sealing could lead to corrosion due to water ingress and subsequent overheating of the jets. An overheating jet element will damage the nozzle housing and may cause local heat/fire damage to the cowl g…
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit new washer jets.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2008–2010
Heated washer jets may overheatR/2017/107 · 05/06/2017
The heated washer jets fitted to some Kuga vehicles may have jet heating elements that are not correctly sealed. There is a possibility that poor sealing could lead to corrosion due to water ingress and subsequent overheating of the jets. An overheating jet element will damage the nozzle housing and may cause local he…
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit new washer jets.
Listed for: KUGA · built 2010

Measured at MOT: how a 2010 Kuga fails more often

Based on 5,533 first MOT tests of this model at 16–17 years old (cars first used 2007–2009), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.

Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.

How to read this

MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.

MOT failure rate: the Kuga against vehicles its age

In our analysis of DVSA's anonymised MOT data for 2024 and 2025, 21.3% of 565,375 initial MOT tests on the Ford Kuga failed at the first attempt — 13% less often than vehicles of the same ages and fuel types, which failed 24.6%.

KugaCars of the same age and fuel (all makes)

Ford Kuga initial MOT failure rate by age band, against vehicles of the same age and fuel
Age	Tests	Kuga	Same age & fuel	Difference
3–5 years	158,212	13.2%	15.8%	15% lower
6–9 years	266,062	19.3%	23.6%	18% lower
10–14 years	123,118	33.2%	35.6%	6% lower
15–19 years	17,983	40.5%	42.4%	About the same

These describe the model, not one car: how vehicles are used and maintained shows up as much as how they were built. Differences are the conservative end of a 95% confidence interval.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Rates and comparisons are FindServiceHistory's own analysis, not DVSA figures.

These describe the model, not one car. Plenty of cars never have the problems their model is known for, and a recall may already have been done on yours. Every problem links to its sources; a reported problem needs two independent publishers before we list it.

Recalls are listed by DVSA for the model around its build date — check a specific car by VIN at GOV.UK. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

Common questions

What are the most common Kuga problems?

For cars built from 2012, the problems at least two independent publishers report include: Diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging and repair bills; PowerShift automatic: harsh shifts and costly gearbox repairs; Early EcoBoost petrols: coolant tank faults and head-gasket failure; Electrical faults, including a battery drained by the alarm. Which apply depends on the generation and engine — they are listed generation by generation above, each with its sources.

Has the Kuga been recalled?

Yes. DVSA lists recalls for the Kuga built from 2012, shown above by generation. A recall covers a range of chassis numbers, so not every car is affected — check a specific car by VIN on GOV.UK, or by registration with our checker.

Does my Kuga have these problems?

Not necessarily. These describe the model; many cars never have them, and a well-maintained car is less likely to. Enter your registration above to see the problems for your exact generation and engine, and whether DVSA records an outstanding recall on it. Whether a known problem was fixed is what a service history check shows.

Has this Kuga had the work done?

A known problem matters far less on a car whose dealer records show it was fixed. A service history check returns the manufacturer's own dealership records for a specific car — and there's no charge if we find nothing.

Check a Ford service history

Ford Kuga common problems and recalls

Kuga Mk3 (2019 on)

Acknowledged by the manufacturer

Reported by owners and the motoring press

DVSA recalls for the Kuga Mk3

Measured at MOT: how a 2023 Kuga fails more often

Kuga Mk2 (2012–2019)

Acknowledged by the manufacturer

Reported by owners and the motoring press

DVSA recalls for the Kuga Mk2

Measured at MOT: how a 2016 Kuga fails more often

Kuga Mk1 (2008–2012)

Acknowledged by the manufacturer

Reported by owners and the motoring press

DVSA recalls for the Kuga Mk1

Measured at MOT: how a 2010 Kuga fails more often

MOT failure rate: the Kuga against vehicles its age

Common questions

Has this Kuga had the work done?

More common problems