2017 Ford EcoSport

The 2017 Ford EcoSport marked the vehicle’s introduction to the North American market, although it had been available in other markets prior. It’s a subcompact SUV known for its compact size, maneuverability, and relatively affordable price point. The 2017 EcoSport offered two engine options: a 1.0L EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 125 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the EcoSport for its easy-to-park size and available features like SYNC 3 infotainment. However, it’s frequently criticized for its relatively underpowered engines, cramped rear seating, and lower-quality interior materials compared to competitors.

Engine

1.0L EcoBoost (3-Cylinder)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive blue smoke from the exhaust, whining noise from the engine bay. This can be due to oil starvation from the EGR port clogging.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger, cleaning EGR port.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+

2.0L (4-Cylinder)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level despite recent oil change, blue smoke from the exhaust, need to add oil frequently.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacement of the piston rings may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable clunking or jerking during gear changes, delay when accelerating, transmission slipping, difficulty getting into gear, transmission error codes.
  • Solution: Typically requires a software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and/or replacement of faulty solenoids. In severe cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (Software Update), $500 - $1200+ (Solenoid Replacement), $3000-$5000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive rear-end movement over bumps, visible oil leaking from the shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Electrical

• SYNC 3 Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Unresponsive Touchscreen, Bluetooth Connectivity Problems, SYNC system freezing or displaying a blank screen.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update if Available), $500 - $1200+ (APIM Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car unable to start, frequent jump starts needed, battery constantly dying.
  • Solution: Identification of parasitic draw, replacement of faulty components (alternator, sensors), or replacement of the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Latch Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the side swinging rear liftgate, latch not releasing, requiring excessive force to open.
  • Solution: Latch assembly lubrication or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2017 Ford EcoSport, while offering practicality in a small package, does present some common issues. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption in the 2.0L and potential turbocharger failure in the 1.0L, can be costly. Transmission issues with harsh shifting can also arise. Electrical glitches within the SYNC 3 system are frequent, potentially requiring expensive module replacements. While not all EcoSports will experience these problems, they’re common enough to warrant close inspection when considering purchasing this vehicle.