Two eras, one name, both worth hunting
Two very different cars share this name. The 1997-2002 original is a lightweight Fiesta-based coupe now cherished as an affordable modern classic with exceptional handling. The 2019-onwards crossover is the UK's best-selling new car for three consecutive years, meaning used stock is abundant and values are competitive for a compact SUV with genuine driver appeal.
We track 5 known issues across the Ford PUMA range, including 2 rated as safety-critical. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Ford PUMA? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
EC (1997–2002) — Engine options included the 1.4 Zetec-SE, 1.6 Zetec-SE, 1.7 VCT. Our database flags 5 known issues on this generation, 2 of which are rated as safety-critical. The most significant concern is Brake hose deterioration and ferrule corrosion (£120–£200 to address).
Ford Puma brake hoses show severe deterioration rates significantly exceeding the national fleet average, with flexible hoses becoming excessively damaged, chafed, twisted or stretched. The ferrules (metal end fittings) suffer accelerated corrosion that weakens the connection between rigid and flexible brake lines. This appears to affect all engine variants and becomes critical as early as 20,000 miles. The issue represents a fundamental brake system safety concern unique to this model.
Brake hose failure results in complete loss of braking capability to the affected wheel(s) and potentially catastrophic brake fluid loss. In the worst case, multiple hose failures can leave the car with minimal or no braking ability. The vehicle should not be driven if hose deterioration is visible or brake pedal feel is compromised.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
The Ford Puma suffers from severe structural corrosion affecting the subframe and critical mounting points for suspension components. MOT data shows failure rates up to 76 times the national average for body corrosion at mounting points, with additional failures for load-bearing structure weakness within 30cm of suspension mountings. This affects the fundamental structural integrity of the chassis and can progress to the point where vehicle control is adversely affected.
Severe subframe corrosion can lead to suspension component detachment, loss of steering control, or structural collapse. In extreme cases, the subframe may separate from the body shell during driving, making the vehicle completely uncontrollable. Cars with significant structural corrosion should not be driven until professionally assessed and repaired.
Inspect the wheel arches, sills, jacking points and door bottoms carefully. Press gently on sills to check for soft spots. Look underneath for corrosion on structural components. Check the MOT history for corrosion-related advisories or failures.
Ford Puma suspension components show accelerated wear rates with MOT failures 45 times higher than the national fleet average for worn pins, bushes, and joints. The issue affects both front and rear suspension systems across all engine variants. Premature bush deterioration is likely linked to the structural corrosion issues that compromise mounting point rigidity, creating additional stress on rubber components.
Worn suspension bushes compromise vehicle handling, braking stability, and tyre wear patterns. Severe bush failure can allow suspension geometry to change unpredictably, affecting steering response and braking effectiveness. Complete bush failure may lead to suspension component detachment.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
Beyond the critical subframe issues, Ford Pumas suffer from widespread body structure corrosion that affects the overall rigidity of the vehicle assembly. This is separate from cosmetic rust and represents a fundamental structural integrity concern.
Structural body corrosion compromises crash protection, reduces chassis rigidity affecting handling, and can lead to MOT failure. In severe cases, weakened body structure may affect door alignment, window sealing, and overall vehicle safety. Extensive structural repairs often exceed the vehicle's market value.
Inspect the wheel arches, sills, jacking points and door bottoms carefully. Press gently on sills to check for soft spots. Look underneath for corrosion on structural components. Check the MOT history for corrosion-related advisories or failures.
The 1.7-litre Puma variants with power steering show elevated failure rates for power steering pipes, hoses, and associated components. MOT data indicates failure rates 30 times higher than the fleet average, typically manifesting as corroded or damaged pressure lines between the pump and steering rack. This appears specific to the power-assisted steering system fitted to higher-specification models.
Power steering system failure results in heavy steering effort, particularly noticeable during parking manoeuvres and low-speed driving. While the car remains controllable, the increased steering effort can cause driver fatigue and reduce safety margins in emergency situations. Leaking fluid can also contaminate other components.
During the test drive, check the steering for excessive play, vibration or pulling to one side. Listen for groaning or whining when turning the wheel at low speed. Power steering fluid level and condition should be checked on hydraulic systems.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Ford PUMA common problems page.
Based on 18k real DVSA MOT tests, the Ford PUMA fails more often than average on several items. The biggest outlier is brake hoses perished or damaged at 167x the fleet average, followed by body, cab or chassis corroded at a mounting point (136x).
When viewing a specific car, check its MOT history for recurring advisories in these categories. See the full Ford PUMA MOT failure breakdown for data at every mileage point.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 10k miles) typically costs £45–£65 at an independent garage.
The bigger-ticket items to budget for include timing belt and tensioner (£350–£450).
See the full Ford PUMA service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Ford PUMA has some well-documented weak points, including 2 safety-critical issues that demand careful checking. The right example, properly maintained, can still be a sound purchase — but cutting corners on the pre-purchase inspection is not advisable. Classic: any rust-free example is gold, but the 1.7 VCT Racing Puma (1999-2000, 155hp, just 500 built) is the holy grail. Modern: 2021+ models resolved early infotainment niggles; ST-Line and ST variants offer the best balance of kit and driving engagement.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Ford PUMA, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Ford PUMA issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.