1.0 EcoBoost cooling and belt
Some earlier 1.0 EcoBoost engines suffered coolant loss and overheating, and the timing belt runs in oil, so it needs the right oil and on-time replacement.
Used Ford inspection
Ford pre-purchase inspection
Fords are everywhere on the used market, so you can afford to be picky. The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol, the PowerShift automatic and rust on older cars are what separate a good one from a money pit.
We check used Fiestas, Focuses, Kugas and more at dealers and private sellers, and tell you what needs doing and what it’s likely to cost.
Known problems
What goes wrong on a used Ford
Common on Fiesta, Focus, Puma, Kuga, Mondeo, Ranger. Not every car has these faults. They're what we look for.
PowerShift automatic
The PowerShift dual-clutch gearbox in Fiestas, Focuses and C-Max models from about 2011 to 2018 is known for judder, slipping and control unit faults.
Rust
Older Focuses and Fiestas can rust on the rear arches and sills. Check underneath too.
1.6 TDCi diesel
Older 1.6 diesels can suffer turbo failures from oil starvation and leaking injector seals.
Clutch and dual mass flywheel
Diesels and higher-mileage cars often need a clutch and flywheel, which is a significant bill.
1.6 EcoBoost overheating
Some 1.6 EcoBoost cars were recalled for overheating risk. Check recall work has been done.
Our inspection
What we check on every used Ford
On top of our standard checklist of up to 180 points.
- Coolant level and signs of overheating
- PowerShift behaviour at low speed and pulling away
- Rust on arches, sills and underneath
- Clutch bite point and flywheel noise
- OBD2 scan for stored and cleared codes
- Outstanding recalls and service history, including belt changes
Prices
Ford inspection prices
Fixed prices, the same for every make and model.
Basic110-point · No road test£69.99
Full135-point · Road test up to 10 miles£99.99
Premium160-point · Road test up to 15 miles£139.99
Ultimate180-point · Road test up to 20 miles£169.99
Questions
Ford inspection FAQs
Is the 1.0 EcoBoost a good used engine?
Many cover big mileages, but it needs the right oil, coolant checks and its belt changed on time. We check coolant level, look for leaks and ask about the belt.
How do I know if a Ford PowerShift gearbox is failing?
Judder when pulling away, slipping, hesitation and warning messages. Test it in slow traffic. We do on the road test and scan for gearbox codes.
How much does a used Ford inspection cost?
From £69.99 for Basic up to £169.99 for Ultimate. The price is fixed, with no travel charge, in London.
Can you inspect a used Ford at the dealer or a private seller?
Yes. The inspector comes to wherever the car is, on a forecourt or at the seller’s home or workplace. You don’t need to be there.
RevXpress is an independent inspection company and isn't connected to Ford. Faults listed are common patterns reported for these cars, not a sign that any particular car has them.
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