Need to know the most common Ford Fiesta problems? Read our extensive guide on recalls, common problems and solutions. The Ford Fiesta MK 7 was made between 2008 and 2019, it has been a popular choice for small families and young drivers for many years now. It’s stylish, affordable, and efficient. However, there are a few problems that you should be aware of.
In this article, we will discuss the most common Ford Fiesta MK7 problems from the years 2008 to 2019. We will also provide advice on how to fix some of these issues. If you are considering buying a MK7 Fiesta or having trouble with your existing car, be sure to read this article.
Is the MK7 Fiesta Reliable?
The Ford Fiesta MK7 has a reputation for being a reliable car. Families and young drivers alike love the Fiesta due to its compact size and practicality. Another great benefit is that the car is cheap to run. You can expect to get around 50 mpg from the EcoBoost engine, which is great for a small car.
However, as with any car, there are a few common problems that you should be aware of. If you follow the recommended maintenance schedule and keep an eye out for recalls, you can help to ensure that your Ford Fiesta MK VII will serve you well for many years to come.
It is possible to prevent more urgent and expensive repairs down the line if you identify problems early on.
You may save a significant amount of money if you are prepared to handle part of the job yourself. Consider the simple chore of changing your own oil. Over the course of your vehicle’s lifetime, one operation may save you hundreds.
Overall the fiesta is known to be very reliable, scoring highly in owner reviews. When things do go wrong, it should be relatively inexpensive to fix when compared to other cars in its class.
Ford Fiesta MK7 Recalls
Ford has issued three separate recalls for the Fiesta Mk7. The earliest impacted vehicles were those manufactured between July and November 2011, and they may have suffered from exhaust fumes entering the interior. The second problem occurred in February 2012, when 889 Ford Fiestas constructed in September 2011 were found to have failed rear suspension nuts. The most recent recall, which took place in November 2014, was issued. It had an impact on 40,000 diesel vehicles manufactured in 2010 and 2011. It is possible for the glow plug control module to experience a short circuit and catch fire. If buying a used Fiesta, always check with the garage and seller these have been done, dependent on the model of course.
Ford Fiesta MK 7 Common Issues
Gearbox
The gearbox can be quite stiff and difficult to change gears smoothly. This is one of the most numerous Ford Fiesta MK7 problems. Gear selection, particularly in reverse and first, may be difficult. It’s generally simpler to start with whatever gear you can get your hands on before progressing to the gear you desire.
Ensure that the clutch pedal is fully depressed when you’re trying to engage a gear. Excessive force is not required and may actually damage the mechanism.
You can try lubricating the linkage with WD-40 or another suitable lubricant. This may help to make the gear changes smoother.
If the problem persists, it’s likely that there is an issue with the clutch or gearbox and you will need to take your car to a mechanic.
Oil Leaks
One of the most common Ford Fiesta problems is oil leaks. You may notice oil stains on your driveway or garage floor where you park your car.
Oil leaks can be caused by a number of things, including seals that have failed, a faulty gasket, or an incorrect oil level. If you notice an oil leak, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Exhaust
The Fiesta has been known to have issues with the exhaust system. In particular, there have been reports of exhaust fumes entering the interior of the car. This can be a problem for both your health and the environment.
If you notice that your car is emitting excessive fumes, then you can take it to a mechanic for repair.
Seals
Door seals may break loose from their frames, causing wind noise and water leaks into the cabin while travelling at high speeds. A dab of glue should be sufficient to repair the situation. To make sure your seal lasts as long as possible ensure that the frame and seal are totally clean before applying the glue.
If the seal is completely missing, you can purchase a new one from your local Ford dealer. Fortunately, most Fiesta seals are readily available and inexpensive to replace.
Alloys
Alloy wheels, especially those with 16 and 17-inch rims, are susceptible to buckling. Once a wheel has buckled, though, it will be noticeable since you will feel a vibration as soon as you begin to move the vehicle. This will be most prevalent on the motorways or when travelling at speed.
The best way to avoid this problem is to make sure that you keep your tyres inflated to the correct pressure. You can check your owner’s manual to find the correct tyre pressure for your car.
If you have already damaged your alloy wheels, you can take them to a mechanic for repair or replacement. However, this can be an expensive process.
Steering rack and bushes
The steering rack and bushes on the MK7 may wear out over time. This can cause a number of problems, including a loss of steering control.
If you notice that your car is starting to veer to one side when driving, or if it feels like the steering is not as responsive as it should be, then you should take it to a mechanic to have the steering racks and bushes checked.
To stop the deterioration of your steering rack and bushes, you can apply a coat of silicone grease. This will help to keep them lubricated and in good condition.
While steering racks do not seem to survive very long, track rod ends do not appear to be very long-lasting either. Repairs, on the other hand, are not usually prohibitively expensive.
Your annual MOT test every year should pick up on any steering issues as they are a safety issue. If you are concerned about any steering knocking or wobbling, get the vehicle checked out as soon as you can
Interior
Ford has been criticised for its interior design of the Fiesta. In particular, the dashboard and centre console can develop a rattle over time. Though The cabin is well-designed, simple to operate, and overall has a high-quality feel about it. Cubby space is plenty, and head and legroom are acceptable, but not exceptional in this vehicle due to its compact size. The 290-litre boot is likewise adequate without being outstanding. When the seats are folded, the capacity increases to 974 litres, which is pretty impressive for a small hatchback.
Aux Issues
Faulty auxiliary components are another of the Ford Fiesta MK 7 problems. In particular, some people have found that the aux unit does not pick up the input properly.
There have been complaints of the Aux being muted. If this happens continue to press AUX until the words LINE or LINE IN show on the screen. Even if the volume on your device is low, you should be able to hear the music.
Alternatively, make sure the volume on your portable music player is set to the same level as the FM station or CD player. This may be accomplished by repeatedly toggling between the AUX and FM or CD buttons.
If you are experiencing ongoing problems with your auxiliary input, you can purchase a new auxiliary input from your local Ford dealer.
How Long Does the Ford Fiesta MK 7 Last?
The Ford Fiesta MK7 is a reliable car and should last for decades if it is properly taken care of. Think how many of the previous generation Fiestas you see on the road. Some factors that will affect the longevity of your car include how often you drive it, how well you maintain it, and what kind of driving conditions you typically encounter.
If you take good care of your car and do not drive it too hard, you can expect it to last for many, many years to come. However, if you are a more aggressive driver or do a lot of travelling, then longevity may be significantly decreased.
What Should I Look for When Purchasing a Ford Fiesta MK7?
When purchasing a MK7 Fiesta, there are a few things you should look out for. The most common problems with this vehicle include:
- The gearbox can be quite stiff and difficult to change gears smoothly
- The exterior door handles can break easily
- The sunroof can leak water into the car
- The air conditioning unit can stop working
- The electric windows can stop working
- The dashboard lights can flicker on and off
If you are aware of these problems before purchasing the car, you can be prepared to deal with them when they occur. Make sure you test drive the car before you buy it to see if you can feel any of these problems yourself. Additionally, it may be worth paying a mechanic to inspect the car if you are not technically minded.
Ford Fiesta MK7 Recommended Maintenance Schedule
It’s important that you have a rigid maintenance schedule for your Fiesta. This will help to prevent any common problems from occurring. You should have the following services carried out on your car:
- Oil & oil filter change every 10,000 miles
- Air filter changes every 10,000 miles
- Spark plug changes every 20,000 miles (petrol models)
- Glow Plug replacement every 80,000 miles (diesel models)
- Brake fluid changes every 25,000 miles
- Coolant changes every 25,000 miles
- Tyre pressure check every month
Following the recommended maintenance schedule will ensure your Ford Fiesta MK7 runs smoothly for years to come.
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain Ford Fiesta MK7?
When it comes to the cost of maintaining a Fiesta, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. First of all, the price of parts and labour can vary depending on your location and whether you use a main dealer. In addition, the severity of the problem will also affect the cost. That said, the maintenance costs of a Fiesta are very competitive when compared to other vehicles. Tax is low and so are insurance groups.
Should I Buy a Used Fiesta MK7?
Overall, the Ford Fiesta MK VII is a great car and should provide you with years of reliable service. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing one.
First of all, make sure that you do your research and find a reputable dealer who will stand behind their cars. In addition, be aware of the common problems that can occur with this model of car.
If you take your time and do your homework, then you should be able to find a great deal on a used Ford Fiesta MK VII. Just remember to keep an eye out for common problems and have a plan in place for dealing with them. This will save you both money and time.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide has been helpful in giving you an idea of some of the common Ford Fiesta problems. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines; always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to perform any maintenance or repairs.
Ford has always been a reliable brand and the Fiesta MK7 is no exception. With proper care and maintenance, your car should last for many years.
If you are looking for a used Ford Fiesta MKVII, make sure to do your research first. There are many places where you can find information on the reliability of different models. In addition, be sure to have a mechanic inspect the car before making a purchase.
If this guide on Ford Fiesta problems has been helpful, please share it with others who may also find it useful. If you encounter a problem that is not covered in this guide, be sure to leave a comment below.