The Ford Fiesta ST, introduced in 2018, quickly became a favorite among hot hatch enthusiasts. This small but mighty hatchback offers a thrilling driving experience with its 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, sporty handling, and aggressive styling. It's widely praised for its balance of performance, practicality, and affordability, making it one of the best value-for-money performance cars on the market.
However, like any vehicle, the Fiesta ST is not without its quirks and potential problems. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the common issues reported by owners of the 2018-present Ford Fiesta ST, provide tips on what to look for when buying a used one, and discuss the costs of ownership.
Introduction: The Allure of the Fiesta ST
The Ford Fiesta ST is part of a long lineage of hot hatches that have captivated car enthusiasts with their playful driving dynamics and approachable price points. With its lightweight chassis, quick-shifting six-speed manual gearbox, and potent turbo engine, the Fiesta ST delivers a fun and engaging driving experience. It’s designed to offer thrills on twisty backroads while remaining practical for daily use.
But even with all its charm and performance, the Fiesta ST has its share of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. These issues can range from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical concerns that could lead to expensive repairs.
Common Problems with the Ford Fiesta ST (2018-Present)
1. Coolant Leak and Overheating Issues
One of the most commonly reported problems with the Ford Fiesta ST is coolant leaks that can lead to engine overheating. These leaks are typically caused by failures in the water pump, coolant hoses, or the thermostat housing. Over time, the seals on these components can degrade, leading to leaks.
Symptoms of a coolant leak include:
- Coolant puddles under the car after it has been parked.
- Low coolant warning light on the dashboard.
- Engine overheating, especially during stop-and-go traffic or hot weather.
If left unchecked, coolant leaks can result in engine overheating, which may cause significant damage to the engine. It’s important to check the coolant level regularly and address any leaks promptly.
2. Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (Direct Injection Engines)
Like many modern turbocharged engines, the Ford Fiesta ST’s 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine is equipped with direct fuel injection, which is known to cause carbon buildup on the intake valves over time. Unlike port injection, where fuel is sprayed directly into the intake manifold and helps clean the valves, direct injection engines don’t have this benefit, leading to carbon deposits.
Symptoms of carbon buildup include:
- Rough idle or engine misfires.
- Loss of power or reduced throttle response.
- Check engine light due to misfire codes.
To combat this, many owners opt for intake cleaning methods such as walnut blasting, which physically removes the carbon deposits. This issue typically becomes more noticeable as the car accumulates higher mileage, often around 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
3. Clutch Wear and Failure
Although the Ford Fiesta ST is known for its engaging manual transmission, some owners have reported issues with premature clutch wear. This can be exacerbated by aggressive driving, which is common for a performance-oriented car like the Fiesta ST.
Symptoms of a failing clutch include:
- Slipping clutch, where the engine revs increase, but the car doesn’t accelerate as expected.
- Difficulty shifting gears, particularly into first or reverse.
- Burning smell when driving, especially during heavy acceleration or on hills.
Clutch replacement is an inevitable maintenance item for manual cars, but premature failure can be an expensive repair, often costing several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the damage.
4. Transmission Issues (Manual Gearbox)
The six-speed manual transmission in the Fiesta ST is generally well-regarded, but some owners have experienced gearbox problems, such as difficulty shifting into gear or gear grinding. This can be caused by several factors, including:
- Worn synchros, which help smooth out shifts between gears.
- Clutch issues, where the clutch isn’t fully disengaging, leading to grinding or difficulty selecting gears.
- Transmission fluid issues, such as low or degraded fluid, which can affect gear engagement.
While these issues aren’t widespread, it’s important to pay attention to how the transmission feels, particularly when shifting between gears. If the gearbox feels notchy or unresponsive, it may be a sign that the transmission needs attention.
5. Suspension Wear and Knocking Sounds
The Fiesta ST’s sport-tuned suspension is one of its standout features, offering excellent handling and cornering ability. However, some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components, particularly the front struts and anti-roll bar links. Symptoms include:
- Knocking or clunking noises when driving over bumps or rough roads.
- Uneven tire wear, which can indicate misalignment or worn suspension parts.
- Poor handling, such as excessive body roll or vague steering response.
While suspension wear is a normal part of vehicle aging, it’s more noticeable in performance cars that are driven aggressively. Regular inspection of the suspension components can help identify worn parts early and prevent more expensive repairs down the road.
6. Interior Rattles and Build Quality Issues
Although the Fiesta ST is praised for its driving dynamics, some owners have reported interior rattles and issues with build quality, particularly as the car ages. These rattles can come from various parts of the cabin, including the dashboard, door panels, and rear seats.
While these issues don’t affect the car’s performance, they can be annoying for drivers who expect a solid, rattle-free experience. Fixing rattles often involves tightening or replacing interior clips and fasteners, though this can be time-consuming.
7. Exhaust System Issues
Some Fiesta ST owners have experienced problems with the exhaust system, particularly with the exhaust valves or catalytic converter. These issues can cause:
- Rattling or buzzing noises from the exhaust, especially at idle or low speeds.
- Reduced performance due to backpressure issues.
- Check engine light if the catalytic converter isn’t functioning properly.
Exhaust issues can often be diagnosed by inspecting the exhaust system for leaks, cracks, or damaged components. In some cases, replacing a faulty exhaust part may be necessary to restore performance.
What to Look For When Buying a Ford Fiesta ST (2018-Present)
If you’re considering purchasing a used Ford Fiesta ST, it’s important to know what to look for to avoid buying a car that has been poorly maintained or has unresolved issues. Here are some tips:
- Service History: Look for a full service history, especially regular oil changes and maintenance of critical components like the clutch and coolant system.
- Transmission Feel: During the test drive, pay close attention to how the transmission shifts. Ensure the gearbox feels smooth and there’s no grinding or difficulty engaging gears.
- Suspension Condition: Listen for any knocking or clunking noises from the suspension while driving over bumps. Check for uneven tire wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension problems.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of oil or coolant leaks, particularly around the water pump and thermostat housing.
- Interior Build Quality: Check for any rattles or loose components inside the cabin, particularly around the dashboard and doors.
How Expensive is It to Own a Ford Fiesta ST (2018-Present)?
While the Fiesta ST is relatively affordable compared to other performance cars, ownership costs can add up, particularly if the car requires unexpected repairs. Here’s what to consider:
- Fuel Efficiency: The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine offers decent fuel economy, especially when driven conservatively. However, fuel consumption increases significantly with spirited driving.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the Fiesta ST can be higher than for regular hatchbacks due to its performance capabilities, so it’s worth shopping around for a good rate.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Routine maintenance costs, such as oil changes, tire replacements, and brake servicing, are typical for a performance car. However, repairs related to the clutch, transmission, or suspension can be more expensive.
- Depreciation: The Fiesta ST holds its value relatively well compared to other small cars, but like all vehicles, it will depreciate over time.
Conclusion
The 2018-present Ford Fiesta ST is a fantastic hot hatch that offers an engaging driving experience with a balance of performance and practicality. However, like any car, it comes with its share of common problems. From coolant leaks and carbon buildup to clutch and suspension wear, being aware of these issues can help you make an informed decision when buying a used model or maintaining your own.
If you’re considering buying a Ford Fiesta ST, be sure to check for a full service history, inspect the transmission and suspension thoroughly, and be mindful of potential issues like clutch wear and coolant leaks. With proper care and maintenance, the Fiesta ST can provide many years of driving excitement without breaking the bank.