During my live broadcasts, another vehicle I approach cautiously and try to direct towards alternatives whenever possible is Ford cars with the 1.0 EcoBoost engine. As we mentioned in our previous 1.2 PureTech article, this engine, which has a timing belt running in oil (up to 2018-19 model year, later versions switched to timing chain) just like the PureTech, is prone to many problems due to constantly operating under high stress because of its small displacement.

Ford’s 1.0L EcoBoost engine, introduced in 2012, is a turbocharged, direct injection, three-cylinder unit. It has been used in the brand’s models such as the Fiesta, Focus, Puma, EcoSport, C-Max, Mondeo, and Transit Connect. This engine was redesigned in 2018 (with the transition in the Fiesta starting from 2020): The flow between the cylinder heads was reversed, cylinder deactivation was added, and a chain was used instead of a wet belt (although the oil pump still operates with a wet belt). In the old models, the turbo was located at the front, while in the revised models, the turbo is at the rear. Let’s examine its technical details together:

Types and Power Figures:

- Previous Versions: 99 hp, 123 hp, 138 hp.

- Later Versions: 125 hp, 140 hp, 155 hp (mild hybrid).

Technical Specifications:

- Turbocharger: BorgWarner KP39 turbo.

- Cylinder Head: Integrated exhaust manifold, which allows for faster warm-up and improved efficiency.

- Fuel Injection: Over 1500 bar direct injection.

- Cooling System: Electrically separated cooling system with a water pump.

This engine, like the PureTech, won the International Engine of the Year award in its category (under 1-liter) six years in a row from 2012 to 2017. However, as we also pointed out in that article:

These awards are given by automotive journalists based on the balance of efficiency and performance, as well as the technologies used, and have no relation to reliability.

This is already evident from the recalls it has been involved in due to the problems it caused during the years it won these awards:

1. Cooling System Failures (2017-2018): Cracks and leaks in the cooling hoses caused engine overheating, and in some cases led to engine fires. This problem was particularly common in models from 2011-2014, prompting recalls. Ford addressed the issue by replacing the cooling hoses and providing software updates to monitor engine temperature.

2. Oil Pump Failures (2018-2019): Design flaws in the oil pump resulted in insufficient oil circulation in some models, causing severe engine damage. Recalls were issued to fix these issues as well.

In summary, here are the common problems and their solutions:

1. Coolant Leaks and Overheating: Cracks in the cylinder head or faulty hoses can cause coolant leaks, leading to engine overheating and block cracks. This is particularly common in 2011-2014 models.

  - Solution: Regular inspection and replacement of coolant hoses and cylinder head as needed.

2. Wet Belt Degradation: This belt, running in oil, can degrade prematurely, contaminating the oil and causing engine damage. This can lead to excessive engine noise or even bearing damage.

  - Solution: Early replacement and regular inspection of the belt.

3. Turbocharger Issues: The turbo often loses power due to oil supply issues or mechanical failures. Insufficient lubrication can lead to turbo failure.

  - Solution: Regular inspection of the turbocharger and oil lines, replacing them as needed.

4. Low Fuel Pressure: High temperatures can damage the fuel injection pumps, causing the engine to misfire or shut down.

  - Solution: Inspection of the fuel injection system and cam bucket, replacing faulty parts.

5. Oil Pump Failures: Design flaws in the oil pump can cause oil shortages in some engines, leading to rapid engine wear.

  - Solution: Regular inspection of the oil pump and oil pressure, with early intervention for faulty parts.

When used consciously and with regular maintenance, modern (later than 2018-2019) versions of the Ford 1.0L EcoBoost may not cause issues, but the problems encountered especially with the earlier versions require careful attention and early intervention.

Sources:

https://www.slashgear.com/1581215/ford-1-0l-ecoboost-engine-common-problems-issues/

https://ksbautostyling.co.uk/ford-1-0-ecoboost-engine-problems/

https://www.trents.co.uk/blog/common-ford-1-litre-ecoboost-engine-problems

https://www.clickmechanic.com/blog/common-problems-with-the-ford-ecoboost-engine/

https://approvedengines.com/blogs/garage-talk/common-ford-1-0l-ecoboost-engine-problems-and-what-to-do-if-you-have-them

https://www.ecosportforum.com/threads/%E2%80%98time-bombs%E2%80%99-ford-ecoboost-oil-pump-defect-can-cause-engine-failure-while-driving-class-action-says.2019/

https://blueovalforums.com/forums/index.php?/topic/75765-ford%E2%80%99s-self-clogging-10-liter-ecoboost-engine-is-finally-getting-recalled/