ExhaustHigh
DPF blocking on short-journey 2.0 TDCi cars
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for warning lights, look at service history for forced regens, drive at motorway speed
2013–2024 Ford Kuga · common problems & known faults
A high-volume UK family SUV. Diesel DPF health and, on the PHEV, battery recall history are the two things that separate a clean car from an expensive one.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2024 Ford Kuga are PHEV high-voltage battery recall (overheating) on 2020 cars, DPF blocking on short-journey 2.0 TDCi cars and Coolant intrusion on 1.5 EcoBoost petrol. Of the documented issues, 1 rated critical and 2 rated high · these are the ones worth inspecting first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Ford Kuga.
5.7/ 10
- Critical
- 1
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 0
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Ford Kuga problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
BatteryCritical
PHEV high-voltage battery recall (overheating) on 2020 cars
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Check the recall has been completed against the VIN on GOV.UK
EngineHigh
Coolant intrusion on 1.5 EcoBoost petrol
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check coolant level, oil condition, and history of head replacement
ElectricalLow
Infotainment and parking sensor faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle through SYNC, test reversing sensors and camera
Inspecting a Ford Kuga?
Generate a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist tailored to this exact vehicle · add photos and notes as you inspect. Try it free.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Kuga PHEV safe to stock?
Yes once the battery recall is confirmed complete. Check the VIN before you take it into stock.
How do I judge a Kuga diesel quickly?
Service history plus a motorway run. A DPF light after a warm run means it is a trade car, not a retail one.
Which Kuga engine holds value?
The 2.0 diesel with a full history in the mid-mileage band still retails well in the UK.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.