Ford Fiesta Common Problems and Solutions
Damp Patches
Problem:
Damp patches are appearing in your car's interior.
Solution:
This will be caused by a faulty pollen filter. Simply buy and install a replacement pollen filler, which is very low cost and a simple process to do yourself. Get a quote from our website today to make the process of replacing your pollen filler easier.
Difficulty level
Pollen Filter
Clutch
Problem:
Clutches are renowned as a part prone to wear and tear regardless of the make or model. Ford Fiesta's, including Zetec models, are far from immune to clutch problems. A particularly common problem with Ford Fiesta hydraulic clutches is caused by the cylinder rod becoming disconnected from the clutch pedal.
Solution:
To fix this the connecting clip (which may have snapped or come loose to cause the problem) simply needs replacing.
Difficulty level
Steering
Problem:
Perhaps one of the most concerning 2006 Ford Fiesta problems was an issue with the steering columns, which could lead to a loss of steering control in some cases. Thankfully, this only affected a small number of the cars built between August and September 2006, and was subject to a vehicle recall at the time.
Solution:
If the steering column universal joint shows signs of damage, the steering column assembly will need replacing.
Difficulty level
Fuel pipe
Problem:
Fuel pipe problems are fairly common in Fiestas built between July 2004 and February 2005. As with the rear axle welding problems with some 2002 Fiestas, this fault resulted in a vehicle recall as the pipes were not built to specification and could cause fuel leaks.
Solution:
Fitting a new pipe will rectify the problem.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pipe
Water pump
Problem:
If your engine is idling and you hear strange whining or knocking noises coming from it, it is likely there is something wrong with the car’s water pump.
Solution:
Solution: This is a common problem with this generation of Ford Fiesta, and can be fixed by installing a new pump.
Difficulty level
Water Pump
Stereo
Problem:
A number of people who own a fifth-generation Fiesta have reported problems with the car’s stereo: either the stereo has stopped working completely, or stops connecting with mobile phones as it should.
Solution:
Again, a replacement stereo may be required. If you have a faulty stereo and need to know how to remove it, take a look at the video we’ve found below, which shows how to remove a stereo in a Ford Fiesta Triple Dash.
Difficulty level
CD Player
Rear axle
Problem:
The rear axle welding was one of the largest Ford Fiesta 2002 problems which resulted in a recall of any models manufactured between August and September 2002.
Solution:
The weld holding the brake unit mounting plate to the rear axle did not meet specified standards and therefore would need to be re-welded to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Air distribution flap
Problem:
Fiesta's built between 2002 and 2004 had a problem with the fan direction. When set to windscreen, air still blew to the foot well due to a faulty air distribution flap.
Solution:
This can be fixed by installing a new flap.
Difficulty level
Airbag
Problem:
One of the more common Ford Fiesta 2004 problems for Fiesta's built between August 2001 and August 2004 is the faulty airbag warning lights. It has been noted that sometimes when the front crash detectors noticed a fault, the warning lamp failed to work. Faulty sensors can also cause the lights to flash intermittently.
Solution:
This common problem with the Ford Fiesta airbag was subject to a vehicle recall. Fiestas affected by the problem were recalled to main dealerships to have the air bag control module fitted with a later specification unit.
Difficulty level
Airbag Control Unit ECU
Suspension
Problem:
A further recall for the Ford Fiesta was announced released in 2012 aimed to tackle a problem with the rear suspension of cars built during September 2011. The rear axle mounting bolts used did not meet the required specification and so it was possible they could break.
Solution:
Replacing these bolts will rectify the problem.
Difficulty level
Suspension Complete System
Exhaust
Problem:
Some Fiestas built after 2011 had faults with the exhaust system. In some rare cases the blanking plug was not fitted tightly enough which left a hole in the system. This could potentially cause the moulding on the cooling fan to melt. It was feared in some cases this could result in fumes entering the passenger compartment, and therefore affected models have been subject to a vehicle recall.
Solution:
To fix this fault, the plug could be tightened up, or alternatively new parts may be needed.
Difficulty level
Door Ajar Warning
Problem:
The warning light is always on, even when you know for a fact that the door is closed.
Solution:
This most commonly affects the 2011-2013 Ford edge, but it has been known to happen on Fiestas as well. It's usually a case of simply cleaning the door sensor, but if that doesn't work, then you will need to replace the entire module. Replacing the electrics on a car can be very tricky, but there are guides that will walk you through the process on YouTube. Plus, you can look through our electrical systems car parts pages to find exactly what you need.
Difficulty level
Rattling Steering Column
Problem:
When driving, the steering column is rattling.
Solution:
This was a big problem for Fiestas manufactured between 2015 and 2017 and resulted in a recall. If you notice this happening with your Fiesta, then you should take it to a Ford dealer.
Difficulty level
Loss of Braking Assistance
Problem:
The brakes have become less effective, with a sudden reduction in automatic brake assistance.
Solution:
This affected Fiestas manufactured in 2017 and was caused by a faulty diaphragm plate. The result is a loss of vacuum, which leads to reductions in braking assistance. This caused a recall of some 2017 models, so the best option is to take your car to an authorised Ford dealer.
Difficulty level
