Ford Puma 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid Mk2

This is the most widely discussed Ford Puma issue on owner forums, with a dedicated thread spanning over 140 pages. The mild hybrid system prioritises charging the 48V battery over the 12V starter battery, leaving some owners stranded with a dead battery after just a few days of non-use. Short trips and city driving make it worse, as the regenerative braking system doesn't generate enough energy to charge both batteries. Symptoms include the start-stop system disabling itself, dashboard warnings, and complete inability to start. Ford has released multiple software updates to improve charging behaviour, but the problem persists for some owners. A battery charging reset procedure (ignition on, headlights on, flash main beam 5 times, press brake 3 times) can sometimes help. Replacement 12V batteries cost around €150-250, but the underlying charging issue may need a software update or DC-DC converter diagnosis (€200-400 including labor).

The 48V mHEV system comprises a belt-integrated starter generator (BISG), a 48V lithium-ion battery, and a DC-DC converter. Owners report dashboard warnings indicating reduced hybrid functionality, loss of regenerative braking, and the electric motor not assisting during acceleration. In many cases, a software update at the dealer resolves the issue. Hardware failures are less common but more expensive: the DC-DC converter costs around €400-600 to replace, while 48V battery replacement has been quoted at approximately €800-1,200 including labor. A recall was issued in May 2021 for mHEV battery connections not torqued to specification, covering vehicles built between July 2019 and February 2021. Verify this recall has been completed on any used example.

The Puma uses Ford's Powershift seven-speed dual-clutch transmission when equipped with the automatic option. Although this is the newer wet-clutch design (improved over the infamous dry-clutch Powershift from Focus/Fiesta), it still generates complaints about jerky low-speed behaviour, hesitation when pulling away, and occasional limp-mode activation. Issues are most noticeable in stop-and-go traffic and cold weather. Ford has released software updates that partially alleviate the symptoms. In more serious cases, clutch pack replacement costs €1,200-2,100, and a full mechatronic unit repair runs €1,500-2,500. Manual gearbox versions avoid this issue entirely. If buying an automatic, test drive extensively in city traffic and check for any burning smell from the transmission area.

The Puma's suspension is tuned for handling agility, which comes at the cost of accelerated bushing and component wear, particularly on poor road surfaces. Owners report creaking or knocking from the front suspension, typically caused by worn top mounts, anti-roll bar links, or control arm bushings. This usually becomes noticeable after 50,000-70,000 km. Replacing anti-roll bar links costs approximately €150-250, while a complete front suspension bushing overhaul runs €500-700. Annual inspection of these components is recommended, especially after 50,000 km.

Reversing camera failures are commonly reported after 40,000-60,000 km. The camera module or its wiring harness in the tailgate area is susceptible to moisture ingress, causing the display to show a black screen, distorted image, or intermittent connection. The camera module itself costs around €100-200, with labor adding another €100-200 depending on whether the wiring also needs repair. Some early examples had this covered under warranty, but used cars outside the 2-year coverage will need to pay out of pocket.

The Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system in the Puma is prone to occasional freezing, slow response, dropped Bluetooth connections, and random reboots. Most issues can be resolved with a software update at the dealer (often free) or a hard reset. In rare cases, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) needs replacement, costing around €200-300. While annoying, this is not a safety or drivability concern. Ensure the system is running the latest software version when purchasing.