Ford Puma 16V (1997–2000)

The Ford Puma 16V, while not a common sight on New Zealand roads, has garnered a reputation for its agile handling and distinctive design. If you're a Puma owner, or considering becoming one, this guide provides insights into potential issues, essential maintenance, and common Warrant of Fitness (WOF) considerations.

Parts for the Ford Puma 16V

• Brake Pads Front (6)
• Brake Drum Rear (5)
• Oxygen Sensor (4)
• Sensor Abs/Wheel Speed (3)
• Brake Hose Rear (3)
• Sway Bar Link Front (3)
• Strut Mount Front (2)
• Brake Hose Front (2)
• Wiper Blade Front (2)
• Brake Caliper Piston Front (2)
• Drive Belt Pulley Idler/Tensioner (2)
• Brake Shoe Rear (2)
• Brake Shoe Fitting Kit Rear (2)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm - Lower (2)
• Ball Joint Front Lower (2)
• Ignition Coil (2)
• Oil Pressure Switch/Sender (1)
• Timing Kit (1)
• Timing Belt Camshaft (1)
• Manifold Gasket Exhaust (1)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Front Left Inner (1)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Front Right Inner (1)
• Cv Joint Front Outer (1)
• Water Pump (1)
• Radiator Hose Lower (1)
• Starter Motor (1)
• Oxygen Sensor Post-Catalytic Converter (1)
• Air Filter (1)
• Engine Oil (1)
• Tie Rod End (1)
• Wiper Blade Rear (1)
• Shocks / Strut Front (1)
• Suspension Bush Front Sway Bar Mount (1)
• Strut Boot Kit Front (1)
• Hub Carrier Bush (1)
• Strut Mount Rear (1)
• Strut Boot Kit Rear (1)
• Steering Bush Steering Rack Mount Front (1)
• Suspension Bush Front Spring Axle Pivot (1)
• Disc Brake Rotor Front (1)
• Brake Caliper Kit Front (1)
• Brake Pad Fitting Kit Front (1)
• Brake Caliper Guide Sleeve Kit (1)
• Brake Caliper Kit (1)
• Timing Tensioner (1)
• Oxygen Sensor Pre-Catalytic Converter (1)

Known issues

Owners should be aware of potential issues like rear axle beam rust, variable cam timing solenoid failure, and ABS module failure, particularly in vehicles with 150,000-250,000 km.

WOF tips

When preparing for a Warrant of Fitness, pay close attention to rear wheel arch rust and the condition of the front lower suspension arms, especially the ball joints.

About the Ford Puma 16V

For Ford Puma 16V owners in New Zealand, keeping your vehicle in top condition means being aware of its potential weak spots and staying on top of maintenance. Here's what you should know:

Maintenance Matters
Regular servicing, ideally every 10,000 km, will help ensure the longevity of your Puma. Focus on maintaining optimal engine performance and addressing wear and tear promptly. Parts like the timing belt are crucial for engine health, with kits available that include essential components to facilitate comprehensive service.

Addressing Common Issues
Several areas warrant particular attention as your Puma ages:
• *Rust*: Rear axle beam rust is a well-known issue commonly observed in Pumas with higher mileage.
• *Variable Cam Timing*: Failure of this system's solenoid can impact performance. Monitoring for any engine management lights or changes in engine behaviour are key
• *ABS*: ABS module failures can occur, especially in older vehicles.

Parts that may require replacement over time include oxygen sensors (important for fuel efficiency and emissions), front strut mounts, rear strut mounts, and components within the braking system such as rear brake hoses. Suspension components like front shocks/struts, rear strut boot kit, front strut boot kit, front lower ball joints and tie rod ends also experience wear and tear. Keep an ear out for worn hub carrier bushes to maximize the longevity and sharpness of handling. Note to replace the outer cv joints when issues arise to maximize efficient transmission of power.

Questions owners ask

What are the common rust issues I should look out for on my Ford Puma 1997–2000 in New Zealand?

Owners of the Ford Puma 1997–2000 should be particularly vigilant about rust on the rear axle beam, especially in vehicles with higher mileage. Additionally, when preparing for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF), pay close attention to rear wheel arch rust.

My Ford Puma 1997–2000 is showing an engine management light. What could be causing this?

An engine management light in your Ford Puma 1997–2000 could indicate a failure of the variable cam timing system's solenoid. This is a known issue that can impact engine performance, particularly in vehicles with 150,000-250,000 km.

What maintenance is crucial for the engine of my Ford Puma 1997–2000?

Regular servicing every 10,000 km is vital for the longevity of your Ford Puma 1997–2000's engine. A key component to focus on is the timing belt. CARFIX offers timing belt kits that include all essential components for a comprehensive service.

Where can I get replacement oxygen sensors for my Ford Puma 1997–2000 in NZ?

CARFIX stocks 73 SKUs for the Ford Puma 1997–2000, including oxygen sensors. These are important for maintaining fuel efficiency and emissions. You can find these parts and more on the CARFIX website or at your local CARFIX store.

What should I check on my Ford Puma 1997–2000 to ensure it passes its WOF?

For your Ford Puma 1997–2000's Warrant of Fitness, pay close attention to rear wheel arch rust and the condition of the front lower suspension arms, especially the ball joints. Also, be aware of potential ABS module failures, which can occur in older vehicles.

What suspension components commonly wear out on the Ford Puma 1997–2000?

Commonly replaced suspension components on the Ford Puma 1997–2000 include front strut mounts, rear strut mounts, front shocks/struts, rear strut boot kits, front strut boot kits, front lower ball joints, and tie rod ends. It's also wise to listen for worn hub carrier bushes to maintain handling performance.