I purchased a Ford Kuga 1,6 EcoBoost Titanium with 14 000 km on the clock from Eagle Ford in April 2015. We embarked on a trip to Clarens shortly thereafter and I was shocked when I noticed the petrol consumption indicated at the end of the trip was 14,1 litres/100 km. According to the Ford’s brochure, the consumption should be nearer to 9,0 litres/100 km. I could not find a CAR road test before buying the Kuga, but considering the hype surrounding the EcoBoost engine technology, I was not too worried about high fuel consumption when I bought the vehicle.
The Kuga was due for its 20 000 km service and the Ford dealer recalibrated the computer before stating there had been a problem. The fuel consumption then came down to 13,1 litres/100 km after a trip to Hartebeespoort and surrounds. I was told to go on a long trip again to check the fuel consumption, but it again climbed.
I’m retired and was looking forward to many midweek breaks, but the fuel expense is a prohibiting factor. What can be wrong with my vehicle?
BARRY DAVIS
Sandton
Answer: The consumption is excessive, but it’s difficult to comment without having a clear idea of your driving style or drive cycle. You mentioned that the computer was recalibrated? Have you tried any tank-to-tank measurements to see if they tie up with the reading of the onboard computer?
We would also suggest that you fill the vehicle to second click auto-stop on the fuel pump (and zeroing the trip computer) before going on a longish drive (150 km) on a motorway at a steady 100 km/h. Fill the vehicle again and compare the consumption figures. The fuel consumption should be below 10,0 litres/100 km. Remember that on-road testing is far from scientific, but you can at least get a good indication.
If the vehicle still returns 14,0 litres/100 km during the test, there is something wrong and Ford should investigate. It might be a sensor problem – perhaps the mass airflow – resulting in a rich mixture. It’s best is to do a full diagnostic check on the vehicle and also measure the air-fuel ratio coming out the exhaust with a gas analyser. It should be close to 14:1 air-to-fuel ratio.
