2019 Ford SSV Plug-In Hybrid

The 2019 Ford Police Responder Plug-In Hybrid Sedan (SSV Plug-In Hybrid) is a unique vehicle designed for law enforcement, offering a blend of efficiency and performance. It utilizes a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and a 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The combined system output is 205 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. As a dedicated police vehicle, it often sees demanding usage patterns. Owners and fleet managers generally appreciate its fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional police cruisers. However, the complexity of the hybrid system can lead to specific issues. Some users have noted reduced trunk space due to the battery pack, and others find the electric-only range insufficient for their needs.

Electric Motor

• Hybrid Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced all-electric range over time. Battery may not hold a full charge or charge as quickly. Error messages related to battery performance may appear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electric Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle loses power or refuses to shift into electric-only mode. Check engine light illuminates, possibly with codes related to the electric motor or inverter.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the electric motor, inverter, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

2.0L Atkinson-Cycle I-4

• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light. Difficult to start the vehicle. Rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Investigate for leaks and repair. In severe cases, engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Electronic Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission does not change gears properly. The vehicle will shift to neutral unexpectedly. There will be warning lights on the dash.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing or swaying on rough roads. Fluid leaking from the shock absorber.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as flickering lights, malfunctioning sensors, or non-functional accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle fails to charge, charges slowly, or displays error messages during charging.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the on-board charger, charging port, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Hinge Fatigue/Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors sag or are difficult to close properly, especially on the driver’s side.
  • Solution: Replacement of door hinges and/or adjustment of door alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, displays error messages, or stops working entirely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the infotainment screen or related module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Ford Police Responder Plug-In Hybrid, while offering fuel efficiency benefits, can present a range of issues primarily related to its hybrid powertrain and electrical system. The most significant potential expenses involve hybrid battery replacement and electric motor repairs, which can be costly. Other common issues, such as purge valve failures and suspension wear, are less expensive but can still be inconvenient. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs associated with the hybrid system compared to traditional gasoline-powered police vehicles.