Ford EcoSport II (B515) (2017 – 2022)

Reliability score : 6.2/10

The Ford EcoSport II (B515) Phase 2 (2017-2022) represents a major facelift of Ford's small urban SUV. Initially designed for emerging markets (Brazil, India), this model was extensively reworked to meet European and North American standards. This phase 2 corrects the main flaws of the first iteration: the interior is transformed with a dashboard inspired by the Fiesta Mk8 integrating the excellent SYNC 3 multimedia system, soundproofing is improved, and the backpack-style spare wheel disappears as standard in Europe. Above all, the catastrophic PowerShift dual-clutch automatic gearbox is replaced by a classic torque converter gearbox (6F15). Although it remains based on the old Fiesta Mk6 platform, it offers a highly appreciated high driving position. It was gradually replaced by the Ford

✅ Strengths

Highly responsive and ergonomic SYNC 3 infotainment system (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto)
High driving position, genuine feeling of driving an SUV
Ultra-compact size (4.10 m) ideal for city parking
Availability of a true all-wheel drive (AWD) on certain versions
Reliability of the torque converter automatic gearbox (finally rid of the PowerShift)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Side-opening trunk door: very impractical in the city (requires a lot of clearance)
Disastrous reliability of the 1.0 EcoBoost (wet belt) if maintenance is not meticulously followed
Very firm suspension comfort, juddering at low speeds
High fuel consumption of the 1.0 EcoBoost compared to the competition
Aging platform (2008 Fiesta Mk6 base), clumsy road handling

🎯 Verdict

The Ford EcoSport Phase 2 is a vehicle of contrasts. Its 2017 facelift significantly improved its interior presentation and onboard technology, finally making it competitive. The abandonment of the PowerShift gearbox is also excellent news for reliability. However, in Europe, it is predominantly powered by the 1.0 EcoBoost, whose wet belt design is a real sword of Damocles. If you are looking for a small Ford SUV, the Puma is infinitely superior in every respect. Buying advice: AVOID the 1.0 EcoBoost unless the belt has just been changed and the history is crystal clear. NEGOTIATE the diesel version (1.5 TDCi/EcoBlue) for high mileage drivers. BUY without hesitation in non-European markets if equipped with the naturally aspirated 1.5 Ti-VCT or 2.0 Ti-VCT engines, which are very robust.

Common issues

Dégradation prématurée de la courroie de distribution humide (moteur 1.0 EcoBoost) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km (intervalle officiel 240k km, mais problèmes avant)

💶 1 000 – 2 500 € (si remplacement avant casse moteur, sinon bien plus)

Respecter scrupuleusement les vidanges avec huile homologuée Ford.

Fuites ou défaillances du circuit de refroidissement (durites, boîtier thermostat) Medium

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 800 €

Surveiller régulièrement le niveau de liquide de refroidissement.

Usure prématurée de l'embrayage (boîte manuelle) Medium

🔧 50 000 – 100 000 km

💶 900 – 1 600 €

Tester l'embrayage lors de l'achat, éviter les démarrages brusques.

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement SYNC (bugs, lenteurs) Low

🔧 Dès l'achat

💶 0 – 200 € (souvent mise à jour logicielle)

Vérifier la version logicielle et demander une mise à jour si nécessaire.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£850 – 1 700 (if replacement, complex on 1.0 EcoBoost)
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.