1997–2001 Ford Puma (First Generation)
Browse our directory of 1997–2001 Ford Puma (First Generation) vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.
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Common Problems & Reliability
The 1997–2001 Ford Puma (First Generation) has 4 known issues. 1 of these are classified as serious faults that could be expensive to repair. 3 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.
Structural Corrosion (Rear Arches, Sills, Floorpan)
SeriousThe Puma most infamous fault. Rear wheel arches rot from the inside out, and sills, jacking points and the boot floor are also susceptible. Fresh underseal may be hiding serious corrosion.
Symptoms: Bubbling paint around rear arches, Crusty sills and jacking points...
Est. repair cost: £300-£2,000
CV Joint and Driveshaft Wear
ModerateThe Puma front CV joints and boots deteriorate with age, leading to clicking on full lock and eventually joint failure. MOT testers often flag deteriorated or split CV boots.
Symptoms: Clicking noise on full lock, Vibration under acceleration...
Est. repair cost: £150-£350
Engine Management and Oxygen Sensor Faults
ModerateThe 1.7 VVT engine is sensitive to a failed heated oxygen sensor causing rough running, hesitation and poor idle. Coil pack failures and HT lead shorting from coolant leaking onto them via failed core plugs are also common.
Symptoms: Rough idle and hesitation, Engine management light...
Est. repair cost: £60-£250
Coolant Leaks (Core Plugs and Thermostat)
ModerateThe 1.7 engine has core plugs near the spark plugs that can leak coolant onto the HT leads causing misfires. The thermostat also fails regularly causing the temperature gauge to fluctuate.
Symptoms: Temperature gauge fluctuating, Misfire from coolant on HT leads...
Est. repair cost: £50-£200
Buying Tips for the 1997–2001 Ford Puma (First Generation)
- ✓Rust is the number one concern. Check the rear arches, sills, boot floor and under the plastic trims.
- ✓The 1.7 engine requires 5W-30 semi-synthetic oil; using the wrong grade can cause bore wear and misfires.
- ✓Check the heater works on all four settings; the resistor pack that controls fan speed is a known failure point.
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