Ford Fiesta Common Problems and Solutions
Damp Patches
Problem:
Damp patches are emerging inside your car.
Solution:
This issue is caused by a faulty pollen filter. Simply purchase and install a replacement pollen filter, which is very affordable and easy to do yourself. Get a quote from our website today to simplify the process of replacing your pollen filter.
Difficulty level
Pollen Filter
Clutch
Problem:
Clutches are known to be a part prone to wear and tear, regardless of the make or model. Ford Fiestas, including Zetec models, are not immune to clutch issues. A common problem with Ford Fiesta hydraulic clutches involves the cylinder rod becoming disconnected from the clutch pedal.
Solution:
To fix this, the connecting clip—which may have snapped or come loose and caused the issue—simply needs replacing.
Difficulty level
Steering
Problem:
One of the most worrying 2006 Ford Fiesta issues was a problem with the steering columns, which could sometimes cause a loss of steering control. Fortunately, this only affected a small number of vehicles built between August and September 2006, and a recall was issued at the time.
Solution:
If the universal joint of the steering column shows signs of damage, the entire steering column assembly will need to be replaced.
Difficulty level
Fuel pipe
Problem:
Fuel pipe issues are quite common in Fiestas manufactured between July 2004 and February 2005. Similar to the rear axle welding issues seen in some 2002 Fiestas, this fault led to a vehicle recall because the pipes were not manufactured according to the required standards and could result in fuel leaks.
Solution:
Installing a new pipe will resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pipe
Water pump
Problem:
If your engine is idling and you hear strange whining or knocking noises from it, it is likely that there is something wrong with the car’s water pump.
Solution:
Solution: This is a common problem with this generation of Ford Fiesta, and it can be fixed by installing a new pump.
Difficulty level
Water Pump
Stereo
Problem:
Several owners of a fifth-generation Fiesta have reported issues with the car’s stereo: either it has ceased to function entirely, or it fails to connect with mobile phones as it should.
Solution:
Again, you might need to replace the stereo. If your stereo is faulty and you want to learn how to remove it, check out the video below, which demonstrates 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 main issues with the Ford Fiesta 2002, leading to a recall of all models manufactured between August and September 2002.
Solution:
The weld attaching the brake unit mounting plate to the rear axle did not meet the specified standards and therefore needs to be re-welded to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Air distribution flap
Problem:
Fiesta models built between 2002 and 2004 had an issue with the fan direction. When set to windscreen, air still blew into the footwell because of a faulty air distribution flap.
Solution:
This can be resolved by fitting a new flap.
Difficulty level
Airbag
Problem:
One of the most common issues with the Ford Fiesta 2004, particularly for models built between August 2001 and August 2004, is the faulty airbag warning lights. It has been observed that sometimes, when the front crash detectors detect a fault, the warning light fails to illuminate. Faulty sensors can also cause the lights to flash intermittently.
Solution:
This common issue with the Ford Fiesta airbag led to a vehicle recall. Fiestas affected by the problem were sent to main dealerships to have their airbag control modules replaced with a later specification unit.
Difficulty level
Airbag Control Unit ECU
Suspension
Problem:
A further recall for the Ford Fiesta was announced in 2012 to address a problem with the rear suspension of cars built during September 2011. The rear axle mounting bolts used did not meet the required specifications, and therefore, they could potentially break.
Solution:
Replacing these bolts will resolve the problem.
Difficulty level
Suspension Complete System
Exhaust
Problem:
Some Fiestas built after 2011 had faults with the exhaust system. In rare cases, the blanking plug was not fitted tightly enough, leaving a hole in the system. This could potentially cause the moulding on the cooling fan to melt. It was feared that, in some cases, fumes could enter the passenger compartment, and therefore affected models have been subject to a vehicle recall.
Solution:
To fix this fault, the plug could be tightened, or alternatively, new parts may be required.
Difficulty level
Door Ajar Warning
Problem:
The warning light remains on, even when you are certain that the door is shut.
Solution:
This issue most commonly affects the 2011-2013 Ford Edge, but it has also been known to occur on Fiestas. Usually, it involves simply cleaning the door sensor, but if that doesn't resolve the problem, you'll need to replace the entire module. Replacing electrical components in a car can be very tricky, but there are guides available on Youtube that will guide you through the process. Additionally, you can browse our electrical systems car parts pages to find exactly what you need.
Difficulty level
Rattling Steering Column
Problem:
The steering column rattles when driving.
Solution:
This was a significant issue for Fiestas manufactured between 2015 and 2017, leading to a recall. If you notice this occurring with your Fiesta, you should take it to a Ford dealer.
Difficulty level
Loss of Braking Assistance
Problem:
The brakes have become less effective, with a sudden loss of 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