Photo: Harvey Bold / CC0 / Wikimedia Commons
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (230 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2019
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided between standard models and the performance-oriented ST variant.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 1 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentDual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) failures
Catastrophic, widespread failures described as "planned obsolescence," leading to costly repairs, often before 100,000 miles. Linked to a known class-action lawsuit.
- Very frequentGeneral reliability concerns (non-ST, automatic)
Described as a "money pit," with reports of transmissions needing replacement within a year and various other failures.
- RecurrentHVAC vent motor failure
Motors fail and produce a persistent clicking noise.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedEngine overheating (early 2016 Fiesta ST)
Related to a bad cylinder head, similar to a recall on 2014-2015 models; some 2016 models exhibited the same issue without a recall.
- IsolatedBody/paint quality issues (Fiesta ST)
Reports of build quality problems requiring hatch repaint under warranty.
- IsolatedInfotainment (SYNC) update issues
Problems with software updates requiring dealer visits to resolve.
The version owners recommend
Fiesta ST: The high-performance variant is overwhelmingly recommended by enthusiasts for its driving engagement, handling, and fun factor. It is explicitly distinguished from the problematic standard models, particularly those with automatic transmissions. The ST is noted for its good fuel economy, practical hatchback form, and lower maintenance costs compared to some rivals.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Focus (ST/RS), Chevrolet Sonic, Volkswagen Golf (GTI/R), Hyundai i20 N and Honda Civic (Type R).
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Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided between standard models and the performance-oriented ST variant. Standard Fiesta models, particularly those equipped with the automatic dual-clutch transmission (DCT), are subject to severe and widespread criticism for catastrophic transmission failures, described by owners as a "planned obsolescence" defect leading to expensive repairs and unreliability before 100,000 miles. This issue dominates discussions of non-ST models, creating a reputation as an unreliable "shitbox" and a "money pit." In stark contrast, the manual-transmission Fiesta ST is consistently praised as an "insanely fun to drive," "tossible," and engaging hot hatch. Owners report it feels faster than it is, offers excellent handling, and provides a pure driving experience, though some note it can feel underpowered compared to more potent rivals. Standard models with manual transmissions or the 1.0L EcoBoost engine are mentioned more neutrally, with some reports of good fuel economy and basic reliability, but are universally overshadowed by the DCT debacle.
Positioning vs competitors
The standard Fiesta is positioned as an entry-level, budget-friendly hatchback but is broadly considered inferior to competitors like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda 3 due to its notorious transmission reliability. It is frequently cited as a car to avoid. The Fiesta ST is positioned as a top-tier enthusiast hot hatch, celebrated for its raw, accessible fun and superior driving dynamics compared to the larger Ford Focus ST, though it is acknowledged to have less ultimate power. It is favorably compared to the Hyundai i20 N for driving thrill but noted to have lower running costs. It is considered a more engaging but less refined alternative to mainstream hot hatches like the Volkswagen GTI.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is strongly recommended to avoid the defective DCT automatic. For the ST, no specific trim is highlighted, but the model itself is the recommended configuration. For standard models, the 1.6L diesel engine is mentioned as a reliable, high-mileage option with good fuel economy (50+ mpg). Owners suggest avoiding the automatic transmission at all costs.
General recommendations
Only consider a Fiesta if it is a manual-transmission model, preferably the ST variant for enthusiasts. For budget-conscious buyers seeking basic transportation, a manual non-ST may be acceptable, but extreme caution is advised regarding vehicle history. The automatic DCT transmission should be categorically avoided due to well-documented, widespread failure rates and associated class-action litigation. For ST buyers, it is recommended as a fantastic "fun per dollar" choice for spirited driving and commuting, though those seeking higher straight-line performance may prefer a Focus ST or Golf GTI. Always obtain a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for higher-mileage examples.
Remarks
The defective DCT automatic transmission is the single most defining issue for the Ford Fiesta in owner discussions, severely tarnishing the model's reputation for reliability. This problem is so prevalent it is used as a benchmark for poor automotive engineering in broader discussions. The Fiesta ST exists in a completely separate category, beloved by enthusiasts and largely exempt from the severe criticisms leveled at its automatic-equipped siblings. Distinguishing between generations is challenging from the provided data, but the DCT issue appears to span multiple model years of the last generation sold in markets like North America. The 1.0L EcoBoost engine receives mixed mentions, with some noting reliability but others referencing "EcoBoom" wet timing belt concerns. Analysis based on approximately 50 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Fiesta VIII (Mk8)2017–2023212 complaints · 3 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (53) · engine (35) · unknown or other (33)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the Mk8 Fiesta generally express strong affection for the car, frequently describing it as fun, zippy, and enjoyable to drive.
10 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequent1.0 EcoBoost wet timing belt disintegration causing oil pump clogging and engine failure
- Very frequentSYNC/APIM module failures causing infotainment and Bluetooth issues
- RecurrentBlend door actuator failure
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- Recurrent1.5 EcoBoost oil pump wet belt concerns
- RecurrentSmall battery causing frequent flat batteries (1.5 EcoBoost models)
- RecurrentSteering heaviness/electrical power steering issues
- IsolatedGearbox synchromesh failure on manual transmission (3rd gear)
- IsolatedMuffler contacting plastic gas tank after minor impact
- IsolatedBCM connector corrosion from water leak after windshield replacement
- IsolatedTransmission engagement lag with rotary gear selector
Is a 2017–2023 Fiesta right for you?
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Fiesta VII (Mk7)2008–20173,026 complaints · 20 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (1466) · engine (489) · structure (385)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners overwhelmingly describe the automatic PowerShift dual-clutch transmission as the defining flaw of this generation, with shuddering, jerking, and hesitation at low speeds being very frequent complaints.
13 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPowerShift automatic transmission shuddering, jerking, and hesitation at low speeds
- Very frequentTransmission clutch failure requiring replacement
- RecurrentTransmission control module (TCM) failure and recalls
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentScraping or clunking noise during gear changes
- RecurrentTransmission input shaft seals leaking fluid onto the clutch
- RecurrentExtended cranking when starting, possibly due to fuel pressure loss or fuel pump priming
- IsolatedBattery management system needing reset after battery replacement
- IsolatedDoor lock issues and recalls
- IsolatedSYNC infotainment system being unreliable
- IsolatedExhaust heat shield corroding and falling off
- IsolatedStarter failure or wear around 76,000 miles
- IsolatedRough idle and stalling possibly caused by vacuum leaks or PCV valve issues
- IsolatedAir conditioning compressor not engaging
Is a 2008–2017 Fiesta right for you?
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Fiesta VI (Mk6)2001–20082 complaints · 0 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (1) · latches/locks/linkages (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners describe the Mk6 Fiesta as a fun, zippy small car with a solid build and pleasant ride, particularly praising the ST 150 variant for its handling and comfort at highway speeds.
12 problems reported (1 recurrent, 11 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentStiff or notchy 1st-to-2nd gear changes, especially when cold
- IsolatedDry gearshift cable causing sticky gearstick
- Isolated1.25 Zetec engines burning oil
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedRust on rear arches and sills
- IsolatedClutch slave cylinder leaking onto clutch disc
- IsolatedCoolant leaks from expansion tank micro-cracks or thermostat
- IsolatedEngine running cool due to thermostat failed open
- IsolatedRadio front panel faults or audio system stuck on splash screen
- IsolatedDash lights flickering and trip meter resetting
- IsolatedPoor fuel economy, particularly with decatted exhaust systems
- IsolatedStarting problems with clicking noise from key turn
- IsolatedMissing tow point cover on front bumper
Is a 2001–2008 Fiesta right for you?
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Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2011. Years to avoid: 2014, 2013, 2011Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Ford Fiesta years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 103 | 3 | back over prevention |
| 2018 | 35 | 0 | power train |
| 2017 | 74 | 0 | power train |
| 2016 | 178 | 0 | power train |
| 2015 | 258 | 4 | power train |
| 2014 | 502 | 7 | power train |
| 2013 | 667 | 3 | power train |
| 2012 | 617 | 3 | power train |
| 2011 | 730 | 3 | power train |
| 2002 | 1 | 0 | power train |
| 2001 | 1 | 0 | latches/locks/linkages |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices23 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 19V629000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Fiesta vehicles. The brake calipers may have been manufactured with the incorrect assembly fluid, which can cause the caliper's rubber seals to swell.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 24V951000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Flex, Fiesta, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. The rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 25V695000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
2015 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 17V209000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Escape, 2014-2015 Fiesta ST, 2013-2014 Fusion and 2013-2015 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI engines. If the vehicle is started and driven with an insufficient level of coolant within the engine cooling system, the engine cylinder head may overheat, crack and leak oil.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 15V005000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on January 8, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 15, 2014, to May 8, 2014, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured April 21, 2014, to May 15, 2014. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 45,505 vehicles, including certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Transit Connect vehicles manufactured November 11, 2013, to August 29, 2014, 2014-2015 Ford Fiesta vehicles manufactured April 10, 2014, to June 17, 2014 and 2014 Ford Edge vehicles manufactured April 30, 2014, to May 21, 2014. Improper nickel plating of components within the fuel pump may result in the fuel pump failing.
2015 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 20V177000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Fiesta, 2014-2016 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
2015 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 23V775000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component inside the door latches may break, which can make it difficult to latch or possibly allow the doors to open while driving.
2014 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 17V209000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Escape, 2014-2015 Fiesta ST, 2013-2014 Fusion and 2013-2015 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI engines. If the vehicle is started and driven with an insufficient level of coolant within the engine cooling system, the engine cylinder head may overheat, crack and leak oil.
2014 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 17V210000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Ford Fiesta, 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
2014 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 15V246000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on April 23, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013, and 2012-2014 Fiesta vehicles manufactured February 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 119,567 vehicles, including certain model year 2011 Ford Fiestas manufactured from November 11, 2009, to May 31, 2013 and certain model year 2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured from February 1, 2012, to June 30, 2012. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
2014 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 15V005000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on January 8, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 15, 2014, to May 8, 2014, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured April 21, 2014, to May 15, 2014. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 45,505 vehicles, including certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Transit Connect vehicles manufactured November 11, 2013, to August 29, 2014, 2014-2015 Ford Fiesta vehicles manufactured April 10, 2014, to June 17, 2014 and 2014 Ford Edge vehicles manufactured April 30, 2014, to May 21, 2014. Improper nickel plating of components within the fuel pump may result in the fuel pump failing.
2014 · fuel system, gasoline:storagecampaign 14V402000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Fiesta vehicles manufactured October 25, 2013, to February 27, 2014. Due to a manufacturing error, the fuel tank may leak.
2014 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 20V177000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Fiesta, 2014-2016 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
2014 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 20V331000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
2013 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:latchcampaign 15V246000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on April 23, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013, and 2012-2014 Fiesta vehicles manufactured February 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 119,567 vehicles, including certain model year 2011 Ford Fiestas manufactured from November 11, 2009, to May 31, 2013 and certain model year 2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured from February 1, 2012, to June 30, 2012. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
8 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: MK8
1.0 EcoBoost
1.0L 3-cylinder · 140 hp · FWD · manual
Built 2018–2020