Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2019 Ford Puma Mk2

We've identified 5 known issues that can affect the 2019 Ford Puma Mk2. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

5
Known Issues
0
Serious
4
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

1.0 EcoBoost Oil-Pump Belt and Breather-Service Sensitivity

ModerateEngine

The main cam drive is chain-based, but the engine still relies on very specific oil quality and can suffer oil-separator or lubrication-related issues when servicing is stretched.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Oil leaks around breather components, Noisy start-up after missed servicing, Low-oil-pressure concerns or warning messages

What to Inspect:
  • Demand full service history with the right Ford-spec oil
  • Inspect for oil residue around breather and separator parts
  • Check whether any Ford campaigns were completed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

12V Battery and Mild-Hybrid Electrical Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Weak 12V batteries or software glitches can bring stop-start failures, mild-hybrid warnings and intermittent low-voltage gremlins.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£500
Warning Signs:

Stop-start unavailable, Hybrid warning messages, Flat battery after standing

What to Inspect:
  • Ask for a battery-health printout if available
  • Check whether the car has had repeated battery replacements
  • Watch for low-voltage warnings on startup
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

ADAS False Alarms and Calibration Issues

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The Puma advanced driver-assistance systems can be over-sensitive, activating emergency braking when there is no real danger. Dirt on the windshield camera is the most common cause, but calibration after bumper or screen work is also frequently needed.

Est. Repair Cost: £150-£500
Warning Signs:

False emergency braking activations, Lane-keeping warning when centred in lane, Pre-collision assist not available message

What to Inspect:
  • Keep windshield camera and sensors clean
  • Test all driver-assistance features
  • Ask for dealer records of calibration
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

48V Mild Hybrid System Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The mHEV belt-driven starter-generator (BISG) and small 48V lithium-ion battery can develop faults. The BISG can fail triggering limp mode, and the 48V battery degrades over time reducing the modest fuel-economy benefit.

Est. Repair Cost: £400-£800
Warning Signs:

Stop-start unavailable, Hybrid warning messages, Flat battery after standing, BISG failure warning

What to Inspect:
  • Ask for a battery-health printout
  • Watch for low-voltage warnings on startup
  • Check for repeated battery replacements
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

SYNC 3 Infotainment Freezes and Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The SYNC 3 touchscreen can develop screen freezes, black screens, Bluetooth dropouts and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto disconnections. A soft reset usually fixes it but chronic issues may need dealer software updates.

Est. Repair Cost: £0-£350
Warning Signs:

Frozen or black infotainment screen, Bluetooth connection dropping, Apple CarPlay not working, Slow or unresponsive touch inputs

What to Inspect:
  • Test all media functions during the drive
  • Check current SYNC software version
  • Ask whether OTA updates have been applied
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2019 Ford Puma Mk2

  • Verify the 1.0 EcoBoost engine has been serviced on time with the correct oil; early models use a wet-belt, while later ones switched to a chain.
  • Check the boot for dampness around the 'MegaBox'; water ingress from poorly sealed rear light clusters or tailgate hinges has been reported.
  • Test the SYNC 3 infotainment system to ensure it connects to Apple CarPlay/Android Auto without freezing.
  • Listen for any rattling from the mild-hybrid system's Belt Starter Generator (BSG) on startup or deceleration.
  • Ensure the manual gearbox shifts smoothly into first and reverse, as some owners report a notch or stiffness when the car is cold.
  • Inspect the large alloy wheels on ST-Line models for kerb damage, as the firm suspension and low-profile tyres offer little protection.