The Sporty Coupe offers eye-catching styling and enjoyable handling, appealing to those seeking a sporty driving experience. However, significant rust issues are prevalent. This guide helps you assess the risks involved in purchasing one of these coupes.
Severe rust is the primary and most concerning issue, potentially rendering the car unroadworthy. Rear suspension beam failure, timing belt issues (requiring regular replacement), ABS sensor problems, and air conditioning failure are also common.
WOF tips
Rust is the critical area to inspect, especially around rear arches and sills. Also check suspension components (the rear beam is a known weak point), brake condition, engine issues (oil leaks, timing belt), and ABS sensors.
About the Ford Puma Racing ST 160
A niche vehicle that represents a desire for sporty coupes in the late 1990s/early 2000s, the Sporty Coupe was a head-turner. However, its Achilles' heel is rust.
Heritage & Heart: This Stylish coupe turns heads on the road, a popular 'first car' for those interested in something a bit different.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common issues with a 1999-2002 Ford Puma in New Zealand?
The most significant issue for the Ford Puma (1999-2002) in New Zealand is severe rust, particularly around the rear arches and sills, which can make the car unroadworthy. Other common problems include rear suspension beam failure, timing belt issues, ABS sensor problems, and air conditioning failure.
Where can I get replacement timing belts for my 1999-2002 Ford Puma in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 58 SKUs for the Ford Puma (1999-2002), including timing belt kits. You can find these parts on our website or by visiting a CARFIX store in New Zealand.
What should I look out for during a WOF inspection for a Ford Puma (1999-2002) in NZ?
For a Ford Puma (1999-2002) WOF inspection, pay critical attention to rust, especially around the rear arches and sills. Also, thoroughly check suspension components, as the rear beam is a known weak point, brake condition, potential engine issues like oil leaks, the timing belt's condition, and ABS sensors.
Is the 1999-2002 Ford Puma a good first car in New Zealand?
The Ford Puma (1999-2002) is a stylish coupe that was popular as a 'first car' for those seeking something a bit different. However, due to the overwhelming risk of severe rust, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a rust specialist is essential before considering it as a first car.
How often should I service my 1999-2002 Ford Puma?
The recommended service interval for the Ford Puma (1999-2002) is every 10,000km.
Does CARFIX have DIY guides for common maintenance on the Ford Puma (1999-2002)?
Yes, CARFIX offers 34 DIY video guides for various maintenance tasks on the Ford Puma (1999-2002), which can help you with common jobs like oil changes or spark plug replacements.