2012-2017 (Mk7/Mk7.5) - 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo petrol (100hp/125hp/140hp)
Award-winning city car with the innovative 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine. Popular with commuters and first-time buyers for its agile handling and low running costs. The 1.0 EcoBoost uses a "wet belt" timing system running in oil - replacement is expensive (around 1,000-1,500 euros) but only required every 10 years/150,000 km. Early 2012-2013 models had coolant hose issues leading to overheating - verify any recalls completed. Avoid the PowerShift automatic; stick with the reliable 5-speed manual. Post-2014 models are significantly more reliable after Ford addressed early teething problems.
Required maintenance item every 10 years/150,000 km - not a failure · more· less
The 1.0 EcoBoost uses an innovative "wet belt" system where the timing belt runs in engine oil. This provides quieter operation but makes replacement labor-intensive - the engine must be partially disassembled from top, side, and bottom. Ford recommends replacement at 10 years or 150,000 km, but many specialists suggest 8 years/80,000 km to be safe. Independent specialists charge around €1,000-1,200; Ford dealers typically €1,500-1,800. If the belt fails, expect catastrophic engine damage costing €3,000-5,000 for a replacement engine. Always verify when the belt was last done when buying.
Plastic coolant connector can crack causing rapid coolant loss · more· less
Early 1.0 EcoBoost engines (October 2011 - October 2013) had a weakness in the degas pipe connecting to the coolant reservoir. The plastic section can crack, causing rapid coolant loss and engine overheating. If caught early, hose replacement costs €200-300. If overheating damages the head gasket or cracks the cylinder head, repair costs €1,500-4,500. Ford issued a Field Service Action and claims 96% of affected cars have been fixed. The Fiesta uses different pipework than the Focus and was less commonly affected. Post-2014 cars have improved components.
Turbo actuator sticking€500 - €2,000
Carbon buildup causes actuator to stick, triggering limp mode · more· less
The turbo wastegate actuator can stick if carbon builds up - common in cars driven very gently or only for short trips. Symptoms include EPC warning light, loss of power, and limp mode. Ford does not sell the actuator separately, only as part of the turbo assembly. Specialist repair of just the actuator costs €500-600. If the turbo internals are damaged, full replacement runs €1,200-2,000. Prevention: use premium fuel occasionally and drive spiritedly (full throttle acceleration) periodically to clean out deposits.
Dry-clutch dual-clutch transmission has well-documented reliability issues · more· less
The 6-speed PowerShift (DPS6/6DCT250) uses a dry dual-clutch design that is notorious for problems. Common failures include premature clutch wear (sometimes under 60,000 km), mechatronic unit faults, jerky shifting, and shuddering. Ford faced regulatory action in Australia over this transmission. Clutch pack replacement costs €800-1,500; full mechatronics repair €1,500-2,500; complete rebuild €2,500-3,500. Strong recommendation: buy a manual transmission Fiesta instead - the 5-speed manual is far more reliable.
Clutch wear (manual transmission)€450 - €800
Clutch typically lasts 80,000-150,000 km depending on driving style · more· less
The manual gearbox clutch is a normal wear item. Lifespan varies significantly based on driving style - city driving with frequent stop-start accelerates wear. Symptoms of worn clutch: slipping under load, high bite point, difficulty engaging gears. Parts cost approximately €200-300; labor around €250-500 (approximately 4-5 hours work). Overall, a straightforward job that any competent garage can handle. This is not a Fiesta-specific weakness, just normal wear.
Ignition coil/spark plug failure€150 - €350
Coil-on-plug design means individual coils can fail causing misfires · more· less
The 3-cylinder EcoBoost uses coil-on-plug ignition. Individual coils can fail, causing misfires, rough running, and check engine light. Usually occurs after 60,000-100,000 km. Spark plugs should be replaced every 37,500 km (major service interval). Single coil replacement is straightforward - parts €50-80 each, labor minimal as they're easily accessible. Often worth replacing all three coils and plugs together as preventive maintenance.
Suspension bushings and components€200 - €500
Bushings, springs, and shocks wear out typically after 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The Fiesta Mk7's suspension is a known weak point according to reliability surveys - it's the most common source of trouble on this generation. Control arm bushings wear out and cause squeaking over bumps; severely worn bushings cause knocking sounds. Springs can sag or break. Shock absorbers lose damping. Most issues appear as MOT/TUV advisories. Budget €100-200 for bushings, €150-250 per corner for shocks. Quality aftermarket parts are widely available.
Water pump/thermostat failure€400 - €700
Water pump or thermostat can fail causing overheating or poor heating · more· less
The EcoBoost has multiple thermostats including one near the turbo. Failure symptoms include engine not reaching operating temperature, overheating, or poor cabin heating. Water pump failures cause coolant leaks and overheating. Replacement requires significant labor as components are not easily accessible. Parts €150-250, labor €250-450. Often recommended to replace water pump during wet belt service to save on labor costs.
Reliable when maintained, but early cars had teething problems
The 1.0 EcoBoost earned International Engine of the Year awards 6 times in a row for good reason - it's a clever, efficient engine. Post-2014 cars have proven reliable with many examples exceeding 150,000 km without major issues. The main considerations are the expensive wet belt replacement (plan for this) and avoiding the troublesome PowerShift automatic. Early 2012-2013 models require extra scrutiny for coolant system recalls.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. The EcoBoost requires specific 5W-20 oil - verify correct oil was used at each service. Many independent garages use incorrect oil grade.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes on sidewall), and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start
Start engine completely cold. Listen for any unusual rattling, tapping, or whining sounds in the first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust on wheel arches, door edges, and underbody. Inspect for accident damage or paint mismatch.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Get the engine fully up to temperature.
Specific for this vehicle
Check wet belt service history
Ask when the timing belt was last replaced. If the car is over 8 years old or has over 100,000 km and belt hasn't been done, factor €1,000-1,500 into your purchase price.
Coolant level and condition
Check coolant level is between min/max marks. Look for any signs of leakage around hoses and reservoir. Check for white residue indicating past leaks.
Temperature gauge behavior
During test drive, watch that temperature gauge rises to normal operating temperature (center) and stays stable. Fluctuating temperature indicates thermostat issues.
Turbo operation
During test drive, accelerate firmly from low revs. Turbo should spool smoothly with no hesitation, surging, or warning lights. Listen for whining or whistling sounds.
Verify recall status (2012-2014 models)
Enter registration/VIN on Ford ETIS website to check if coolant hose recall was completed. Also check door latch recall status.
Gearbox operation (PowerShift)
If automatic: drive for 15+ minutes. Feel for jerky shifts, shuddering at low speeds, or hesitation. Any transmission warning = walk away.
Suspension check
Listen for clunks or squeaks over bumps. Push down on each corner - car should rebound once and settle. Multiple bounces indicate worn shocks.
Enter your VIN on the Ford ETIS website (etis.ford.com) to verify all applicable recalls have been completed. The door latch recall has been issued multiple times - some cars may need re-inspection even if previously repaired.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all Mk7
Timing belt warranty10 years / 200,000 km
Corrosion warranty12 years from new
All Mk7 Fiestas (2012-2017) are outside their original factory warranty. The timing belt warranty of 10 years or 200,000 km may still apply to later 2015-2017 models if belt fails prematurely. Extended warranties through Ford dealers or third parties are available but may exclude known issues.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.