2017 FORD FIGO

Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: rattling noise on cold start that persists, check engine light with misfire codes, rough idle and power loss, metallic ticking from valve cover area, complete engine seizure in worst cases

Fix: The Dragon engine has inadequate oil flow to the timing chain tensioner and hydraulic lifters. Chain stretches, guides break, lifters collapse. Requires timing chain kit, all lifters, camshaft inspection (often damaged), cylinder head removal for valve stem seal replacement. 12-18 labor hours depending on cam/head damage. Many shops recommend full engine rebuild at this point given collateral damage.

Estimated cost: $3,500-6,500

Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: transmission overheat warning, harsh shifting or jerking during acceleration, burnt transmission fluid smell, loss of drive in severe cases

Fix: Factory oil cooler clogs or develops internal leaks, causing clutch pack overheating. Requires cooler replacement, full fluid flush, often new transmission mounts due to vibration damage from slipping clutches. 4-6 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $800-1,400

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: white smoke from exhaust, coolant loss with no visible leaks, overheating, milky oil on dipstick, rough running and misfires

Fix: Head gasket fails between cylinders or into coolant passages. Given the Dragon engine's other issues, shops typically find warped head requiring machining or replacement, worn camshaft lobes, and collapsed lifters during teardown. 14-20 hours with head resurfacing.

Estimated cost: $2,200-4,000

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: severe vibration especially at idle, visible wobble of crankshaft pulley, squealing serpentine belt that keeps throwing off, knocking sound from front of engine

Fix: The rubber damper ring separates from the hub, causing catastrophic vibration that can crack the crankshaft if not caught early. Requires OEM balancer replacement, serpentine belt, and crankshaft inspection for damage. 3-4 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $450-750

Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: combination of timing chain noise, lifter tick, oil consumption, progressive power loss, metal shavings in oil, catastrophic loss of compression

Fix: When timing chain issues aren't caught early, the Dragon engine grenades itself. Requires complete teardown, crankshaft/bearing inspection, new pistons/rings, cylinder honing, head rebuild, timing components, lifters. 25-35 hours. Many owners opt for used engine swap instead at 8-12 hours.

Estimated cost: $4,500-7,500 rebuild, $2,500-3,800 used engine swap

Typical onset: 40,000-70,000 mi

Symptoms: clunking when shifting from park to drive, excessive vibration at idle in gear, visible transmission sag on inspection

Fix: Dual-clutch shudder and jerking accelerates mount wear. Both upper and lower mounts typically need replacement together. 2-3 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $350-550