Contents
In short
- Some popular engines and gearboxes have well-known weaknesses: knowing them changes how you check a car.
- Wet timing belts (1.0 EcoBoost, 1.2 PureTech) need the right oil and the right intervals.
- Timing chains can stretch (BMW N47, early VW 1.2 and 1.4 TSI): listen at cold start.
- Dual-clutch gearboxes (DSG7 dry clutch, Ford Powershift) can judder or fail.
- A known weakness isn't a reason to refuse a car: it's a reason to check the invoices and negotiate.
Ford 1.0 EcoBoost
Very common in Fiestas, Focuses and other Fords. Earlier versions are known for coolant hose and overheating problems, and the engine uses a timing belt that runs in oil.
- Check the coolant level and look for leaks or traces of overheating.
- Ask for evidence of the correct oil and the timing belt interval.
- Check that any manufacturer recalls or updates have been done.
PSA 1.2 PureTech (Peugeot, Citroën, Vauxhall)
The three-cylinder 1.2 PureTech uses a wet timing belt that can deteriorate early, shedding debris into the oil that can block the oil pump strainer and the brake vacuum pump. Oil consumption is another reported issue.
- Ask when the timing belt was last inspected or replaced, and with which oil.
- Check the oil level and ask about top-ups between services.
- Ask a main dealer whether any recall or extended cover from the manufacturer applies to the car.
BMW N47 diesel and early VW TSI petrol engines
- BMW N47 (2.0 diesel, around 2007 to 2011 in particular): the timing chain, at the back of the engine, can stretch and break. Listen for a rattle at the gearbox end, especially at cold start.
- VW group 1.2 and 1.4 TSI (first generation, until around 2012): timing chain stretch and tensioner problems. A rattle at cold start is the warning sign.
Dual-clutch gearboxes
- VW DSG 7-speed dry clutch (DQ200) on smaller engines: judder when pulling away, mechatronic unit failures.
- Ford Powershift (Fiesta, Focus, around 2011 to 2016): judder, slipping, hesitation.
On the test drive, pull away gently several times, drive in slow traffic and reverse up a slope: these are the situations where these gearboxes show their faults.
How to use this list
These engines also have many owners without problems, especially when maintained properly. Ask for invoices that prove the weak point was dealt with; otherwise, include the repair cost in your offer.
The Carvizia report identifies the exact engine and gearbox of the ad and lists their known faults with repair costs.
Written by
The Carvizia team
Every day we analyse used car listings: engines, known faults, maintenance and market value. Our guides bring together what to check before you buy, without jargon.
About usFrequently asked questions
Should I avoid every 1.2 PureTech?
Not necessarily. A car with proof of correct oil and timing belt checks is a different risk from one with no history. Price the risk in.
How do I know which engine a car has?
The V5C gives the engine size and fuel; the exact version is often in the ad title or the service book. Carvizia identifies it from the listing.
Are diesels still worth buying?
For high mileage, often yes, but check the DPF, EGR and injectors, and the ULEZ status. See our ULEZ guide.