Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Competitors:
Nissan Qashqai, Volkswagen Tiguan, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage.
Design Philosophy:
Focus on practicality, efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience, often incorporating Ford's Kinetic Design language.
Technology Integration:
Typically equipped with Ford's SYNC infotainment system and available driver-assistance features.
Powertrain Options:
Wide range of EcoBoost gasoline engines and TDCi diesel engines, often with AWD options.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for all engine variants including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Engine Management:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, and ECU troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Coverage for automatic and manual transmissions, including fluid service, clutch, gearbox overhaul, and torque converter replacement.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including axle shafts, differentials, and transfer case.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, rack and pinion repair, and steering column components.
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid service, and caliper/rotor replacement.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, and power distribution.
Body And Interior:
Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, seat mechanisms, dashboard disassembly, and trim components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, and climate control module troubleshooting.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms, and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement, and fluid level checks.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable parts.
Diagnostics:
Utilizing diagnostic scan tools, interpreting live data, and performing component tests.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clearly labeled electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
A-Z coverage, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Variants:
Likely includes various EcoBoost inline-3 and inline-4 turbocharged gasoline engines (e.g., 1.0L EcoBoost, 1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost) and TDCi diesel engines (e.g., 1.5L TDCi, 2.0L TDCi).
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 100 PS to 240 PS depending on engine and tune.
Torque Range:
Approx. 170 Nm to 400 Nm depending on engine and tune.
Fuel Delivery:
Direct injection (EcoBoost), Common Rail Diesel Injection (TDCi).
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug technology.
Cooling Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostatically controlled fan.
Transmission Options:
Manual (e.g., 6-speed) and Automatic (e.g., 6-speed PowerShift dual-clutch or traditional torque converter automatic).
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD).
Transmission Features:
Includes electronic control modules for shifting strategy, torque management, and potential manual override modes (e.g., paddle shifters on select models).
Euro Ncap Rating:
Likely achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating for the 2018 model year, with strong scores in adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, and safety assist.
Active Safety Features:
ABS, EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Torque Vectoring Control (TVC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Cruise Control, available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane Keeping Aid (LKA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), height-adjustable seatbelts with pre-tensioners, ISOFIX child seat anchorage points.
Infotainment System:
Ford SYNC 3 system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.
Driver Assistance Technologies:
Available technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System, Lane Keeping Aid, Park Assist, and a rearview camera.
Connectivity Features:
FordPass Connect with Wi-Fi hotspot capability (on some models), smartphone integration via SYNC AppLink.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to the manual for specific intervals based on engine type and oil specification.
Air Filter Interval:
Inspect every 12,500 miles (20,000 km), replace as needed or every 25,000 miles (40,000 km).
Cabin Filter Interval:
Replace every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Interval:
For EcoBoost engines, typically every 37,500 miles (60,000 km) or as specified for the particular plug type.
Engine Oil Specification:
Ford recommends specific synthetic engine oils meeting Ford WSS-M2C948-B (e.g., 5W-20 for many EcoBoost engines) or WSS-M2C913-D (for certain diesel engines). Always verify with the specific engine in the manual.
Coolant Specification:
Ford Super Coolant (Orange) or equivalent antifreeze/coolant conforming to Ford WSS-M97B44-D.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Specific automatic transmission fluid (ATF) depending on the transmission type (e.g., WSS-M2C200-D2 for Powershift, WSS-M2C938-A for torque converter automatics). Manual transmission fluid specifications will vary by gearbox.
Common Issues:
Potential issues can include dry clutch wear on Powershift transmissions, DPF regeneration problems on diesel models under certain usage patterns, minor electrical glitches, and occasional suspension component wear. The manual will provide diagnostic and repair procedures for these and other potential issues.
Brand Heritage:
Ford has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles across various segments.
Generation:
The 2018 Ford Kuga represents the second generation (Mk2), which underwent a facelift for the 2017 model year, introducing updated styling, powertrains, and technology.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Europe (e.g., Valencia, Spain) for the European market, and also in other locations globally for different markets.