- Reliability Index score out of 100
- 76
- Average repair cost
- £1130
- Most regular repair request
- Turbocharger
- Average age at repair
- 7 years
- Average mileage at repair
- 60,100 miles
Ford EcoSport: How Reliable is This Compact SUV for Used Car Buyers?
Since its introduction, the Ford EcoSport has faced challenges in standing out in the competitive UK small SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) market. However, this creates an excellent opportunity for buyers who value affordability, as it offers an alternative to more mainstream models. While some critics have mentioned areas for improvement, such as practicality and design, the EcoSport still appeals to those seeking a compact SUV with a unique style. Plus, its side-hinged tailgate adds a distinctive touch, setting it apart from the crowd [1].
The EcoSport also comes with a commendable list of standard features, including Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, which is user-friendly and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This enhances connectivity and convenience for drivers.
It is an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers, often seen as a budget-friendly option in the used car market, with prices for lightly used models being quite low. But there’s more to the purchase price of the car when it comes to affordability. What about reliability and repair costs?
In this post, we’ll break down the reliability metrics for the Ford EcoSport. Using data from our reliability index, we’ll look at everything from repair costs to regular issues and current market prices.
Ford EcoSport’s overall score: 77
The Ford EcoSport scores 77 on our Reliability Index, which places it slightly below average compared to other SUVs in its category. This score reflects a mix of reasonable reliability, balanced against some higher repair costs and the potential for issues as the vehicle ages. While not the highest in its class, it still provides a dependable option for those prioritising budget over premium features.
Most regular repair requests
For the Ford EcoSport, the most regular repair requests are associated with the turbocharger. A failing turbocharger can cause a noticeable decrease in engine power, slower acceleration, and difficulty maintaining high speeds [2][3]. If left unaddressed, turbo failure can cause severe engine damage. The longer you drive with a failed turbo, the more damage it can cause to your engine [4].
Beyond turbocharger problems listed in the Warrantywise Reliability Index, EcoSport owners have reported a range of other quality concerns, including noisy brake pads, jerky transmissions, and doors that won’t lock properly [5]. According to EcoSport owners in the WhatCar survey, the EcoSport’s engines are also described as noisier than they are in the Ford Fiesta, and are noted to be “especially wheezy when getting up to speed” [6]. Could this highlight further quality issues with the engine?
For EcoSport owners, this means being vigilant about your vehicle’s performance, particularly in terms of power output and acceleration. Any decrease in these areas could signal turbocharger problems. It’s crucial to address such issues early to prevent more extensive and costly engine damage.
Given these potential concerns and the range of reported issues, an extended used car warranty could be a wise investment for EcoSport owners. An extended warranty can provide financial protection against unexpected repairs, especially for components like the turbocharger, which can be expensive to fix or replace (subject to your Warranty Plan). You should read your warranty plan book carefully before you take out your warranty to make sure you know what you’re getting.
Most expensive repair: engine replacement
The most expensive repair recorded for the Ford EcoSport involves the engine, with costs reaching £7,242.85. Although such repairs are rare, they’re worth considering when evaluating older models or those with higher mileage. This serves as a reminder to check the service history thoroughly and ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained.
Having an extended warranty in place can also help provide peace of mind against expensive engine repair bills – subject to your Warranty Plan.
Average repair costs: a tad on the high side
The average repair cost for the Ford EcoSport is £1,130.24, which is higher than more budget-friendly rivals like the Dacia Duster (£685.63) but lower than the Mitsubishi Outlander (£1,527.79). This places the EcoSport on the higher end of the spectrum for repair expenses, so it’s important to weigh these costs when considering it as a compact SUV option.
Age and mileage factors
Ford EcoSport drivers may want to take note of the age reliability data. On average, EcoSport owners report repair requests when their vehicles are just 6.9 years old with about 60,100 miles on the mileometer. This is notably earlier than other popular SUVs like the Hyundai Ix35 (9.3 years) and Kia Sportage (8 years). It’s also significantly below the average age of cars in the UK, which has been steadily increasing.
As of 2024, the average UK car is 9 years old [7], up from 8.8 years in 2022 and 8.4 years in 2021. This trend suggests that while cars are generally lasting longer on British roads, EcoSport owners might face repairs earlier than expected compared to both their SUV counterparts and the broader vehicle population. It could be worth considering an extended used car warranty for peace of mind against expensive repairs, especially if you are planning on keeping your EcoSport a little while longer.
Market pricing for used Ford EcoSport’s
As of 2024, most used EcoSport models are priced between £11,472 and £14,396, with an average price of around £13,000. When purchasing from a dealership, buyers can expect to pay between £11,050 and £14,400, with franchised dealers commanding slightly higher prices, averaging around £13,05 [8].
Private sellers typically offer the EcoSport for £10,100 to £12,750, with an average of £11,550. For those considering part-exchange, the expected value is around £8,860.
Final thoughts
The Ford EcoSport has faced challenges in the UK market, however, if you’re looking for a compact SUV that won’t break the bank but still offers reasonable reliability, the Ford EcoSport could be a good choice.
For added reassurance, especially if you are concerned about the higher average repair costs, an extended warranty might be a sensible investment. Start your used car warranty quote or buy online today and get motoring peace of mind.
The 10 most reliable SUVs 2024 by overall score
Here are the top 10 most reliable used SUVs for 2024 according to our Reliability Index data. Each vehicle has been given a reliability rating out of 100, along with key insights, including average repair costs, the most expensive repair requests, and the average age at which repairs are needed.
The Honda CR-V leads with a top score of 85, followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander at 81. Dacia Duster comes third with 79, while Kia Sportage and Ford Ecosport score 78 and 77 respectively. Renault Captur achieves 75, with Hyundai ix35 and Nissan Juke tied at 72. BMW X3 and Hyundai Tucson round out the list, both scoring 71.
| Rank | Vehicle | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda CR-V | 85 |
| 2 | Mitsubishi Outlander | 81 |
| 3 | Dacia Duster | 79 |
| 4 | Kia Sportage | 78 |
| 5 | Ford Ecosport | 77 |
| 6 | Renault Captur | 75 |
| 7 | Hyundai ix35 | 72 |
| 8 | Nissan Juke | 72 |
| 9 | BMW X3 | 71 |
| 10 | Hyundai Tucson | 71 |
Sources
Disclaimer: Warrantywise Reliability Index Scoring and Data: Rank is measured by repair request frequency, average vehicle age at the time of fault, average mileage, and average labour time, from 1 August 2021 and 1 August 2024, and includes vehicles between three and ten years old where there are a minimum of 250 cars on plan. Average repair costs collated over a period between 1 August 2021 and 1 August 2024. Since the sample was selected, Warrantywise has seen a significant rise in the price of labour and parts, which will impact future repair costs. All data used is from Warrantywise’s proprietary internal research. Warrantywise believes the information contained herein to be accurate at the time of release. However, the company may upload new or updated information if required and assumes that it is not liable for the accuracy of any information interpreted and used by the reader.
Warranty FAQs.
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A used car warranty can help manage the cost of unexpected repairs after a manufacturer’s warranty ends. Warranty plans vary, so check the plan documentation carefully for listed components, exclusions, repair limits and any conditions you need to follow.
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A discretionary warranty means each repair request is assessed individually, based on its particular circumstances rather than relying on automated systems. This allows the full context of each request to be considered before a decision is made.
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An extended warranty can help you manage the cost of mechanical or electrical repairs once the manufacturer’s warrant has ended. Add-ons such as breakdown recovery, car hire or onward travel may also be available depending on the plan level.
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The warranty plan options available to you will depend on factors such as your vehicle’s age and mileage. You can then tailor selected features and limits to reflect your needs and budget.
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Yes. You can use a VAT-registered garage of your choice or a Warrantywise Authorised Repairer. If you use your own garage, check that the labour rate is within the limit shown on your plan schedule.
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Once Warrantywise has provided written authorisation, the garage can carry out the agreed repair. If further work or a change in cost is needed, the garage must contact Warrantywise and receive additional authorisation before continuing.
Payment arrangements depend on the garage you use. Warrantywise will normally pay the agreed repair contribution directly to an Authorised Repairer. If you use your own VAT-registered garage, you may need to pay first and provide the required documentation for reimbursement.
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If your car’s most recent service was completed in line with the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, you may not need to service it before your plan starts.
You will need to arrange a service within 14 days if you are unable to provide evidence of servicing, and you must follow the recommended schedule throughout the plan.
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Regular servicing helps maintain your vehicle and provides evidence that you have followed the plan requirements. Keep your service invoices and records, as Warrantywise may request them when assessing a repair request.
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Before the plan starts, the vehicle’s servicing must be brought up to date in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, including any recommended upkeep. You will need to provide evidence that the required service and any associated work have been completed.
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No, you do not usually need to have your car inspected before taking out a Warrantywise plan. However, you will need to provide accurate information about your vehicle such as its age, mileage and service history.
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Warrantywise plans may be available monthly or for fixed terms of 12, 24 or 36 months. The terms and prices available for your vehicle will be shown in your quotation.
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You can pay for your Warrantywise plan in full, spread the cost over four months or choose a monthly pay-as-you-go option. Before choosing, check the payment schedule so you understand how much you will pay, when payments are due and how the pay-as-you-go option works.
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You can receive a full refund if you cancel within 14 days, provided you have not asked Warrantywise to contribute towards a repair. Check your plan book for the full cancellation conditions.
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If your car breaks down outside Warrantywise’s repairs office hours, including at weekends or during bank holidays, call the 24-hour breakdown assistance line on 0800 054 2174. Always follow the out-of-hours repair procedure in your plan book before agreeing to any repair work.
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Stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so, as continuing could cause further damage. Contact the Warrantywise repairs team on 01254 648 212 for the next steps, ans do not authorise repair work until you have received written authorisation from Warrantywise.
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Electrical parts are components that use, generate, store or control electrical power within your car, for example sensors, control units and dashboard displays. For full details please refer to your plan booklet, as the parts listed will depend on your plan level.
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Mechanical parts are components that use movement or force to help your car operate, for example parts within the engine, steering and suspension systems. For full details please refer to your plan booklet, as the parts listed will depend on your plan level.
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If your car breaks down while you are travelling abroad, you will need to arrange and pay for recovery. If the vehicle requires repairs, contact Warrantywise as soon as possible and follow the repair procedure set out in your plan book.
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If your vehicle is off the road while an authorised repair is being completed, Warrantywise may contribute towards the cost of a hire car for up to 10 days. Check your plan book for full details, including any daily rate or vehicle-type limits.
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The plan cannot be transferred from your current car to another vehicle, however you may be able to cancel it and put any remaining balance towards a new Warrantywise plan for your own or a family member’s vehicle.
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If you are unhappy with the service you have received, you can contact us via post, online form or by phone. Visit our Complaints page for more information.
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Our customer service teams are based in our Blackburn office. When you contact Warrantywise about a repair request, complaint or question about your warranty plan, you’ll speak to a member of the relevant team who will guide you through the next steps.
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Edd China fulfils the role of expert adjudicator, this means he has the final say over any dispute that we cannot resolve between us, subject of course to your statutory rights.
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Quentin Willson was instrumental in working with Warrantywise from 2007 to 2023 to develop our extended warranty plans to ensure they are clear, transparent and comprehensive. In July 2023, he passed over the responsibility of expert adjudicator to Edd China who will use his ‘discretion’ to ensure a fair and equitable resolution on a case-by-case basis.