Little car, big problems? Not so much, the Ford Fiesta was a great subcompact over the course of its existence, offering buyers the perfect mix of style and affordability. Not only that, but the Fiesta didn’t have the same transmission issues as the Focus, which resulted in a massive payout by Ford.
Are there recalls on the Ford Fiesta transmission?
No, but there have been several manufacturer communications and customer complaints, which is usually what happens before a recall is issued.
Here, we will look at some of the transmission-related problems with the Ford Fiesta as reported by customer complaints and manufacturer communications. We will also cover three recalls you should know about affecting some of the latest Fiestas.
Manufacturer Communications
NHTSA ID: 10169986
In December of 2019, Ford issued a recall for the 2015 through 2020 Ford Fiesta (and other vehicles) related to the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).
This light should appear on the dashboard, indicating a problem with one of several systems, including the powertrain. Small debris can cause the VCT solenoid to stick.
The dealerships were told how to handle this problem, including cycling the affected VCT solenoid ten times to clear the debris. If not managed, this can create inferior operation of the transmission and the vehicle overall.
NHTSA ID: 10160931
In May of 2019, Ford issued a manufacturer communication related to its Ford Fiesta vehicles’ automatic transmission. It noted the importance of properly greasing the converter pilot hub with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A.
This was to be done even if it was not originally applied at the factory. Dealerships were also told to ensure the transmission and engine alignment dowel pins are present and that the engine crankshaft dowel pin is in place.
If this is not done, it can create problems for the transmission’s function. It can cause a misalignment issue that results in the transmission failing prematurely. A recall was not issued for this, but the company had dealerships update all vehicles as they came in for repairs.
Customer Complaints
The Ford Fiesta has had customer complaints over the last ten years related to the transmission. This includes problems with the powershift automatic transmission not operating efficiently or properly, leading to sluggish function when shifting.
When drivers move from the brake to the accelerator after a light, for example, the vehicle does not move as quickly as it should initially. In other cases, it jolts significantly.
Other concerns date to the Ford Fiesta from 2015. In this model, drivers noted the transmission warning light showing up when they depressed the accelerator. In some cases, codes noting the transmission was defective were issued.
Recalls
Front Brake May Drag
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V629000
In August of 2019, Ford issued a recall for the hydraulic system and service brakes for some 2019 Fiesta vehicles. In these vehicles, the brake calipers may have been poorly manufactured using the wrong assembly fluid. This can cause the calipers’ rubber seals to swell in some conditions.
When swelling occurs, it can cause the brakes to drag or lag when depressed. This can also lead to the overheating of the brakes. This can cause the car to harder to control, increasing the risk of an accident.
The fix? Owners were sent notice of the problem. The dealerships were then tasked with flushing the brake fluid in the vehicles. They then replaced the front brake calipers and the brake hoses. These repairs started in October of 2019.
Engine Cylinder Head May Leak Oil
NHTSA Recall ID: 17V209000
Ford issued a recall for the 2014 and 2015 Fiesta ST in March of 2017. It only affected those vehicles with a 1.6L GTDI engine. In these vehicles, if the driver starts and operates the vehicle with insufficient coolant amounts within the engine cooling system, it can cause problems with the engine.
This can include the engine cylinder head cracking, overheating, or leaking oil.
In some situations, the overheating or fluid leak can create a dangerous situation. The oil may contact the hot engine or the exhaust components. This increases the risk of a fire occurring.
Improper Plating on Fuel Pump May Result in Stall
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V005000
Ford issued a recall in January of 2015 on the 2014 and 2015 Ford Fiesta vehicles made between April 10, 2014 and June 17, 2014.
These vehicles have a problem with the fuel system. The nickel plating on the components located inside the fuel pump may not be in the correct place. This can lead to the fuel pump failing.
When this problem causes the fuel pump to fail, the vehicle may stall without warning to the driver. This creates a significant risk of a car accident.
Ford alerted drivers to the problem. It then replaced the affected fuel pumps in vehicles beginning in February of 2015.
How Do You Handle an Open Recall on a Ford Fiesta Vehicle?
Recalls on the transmission for the Ford Fiesta may occur at some time in the future. To find out, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Use the vehicle’s make, model, and year (or the VIN) to look up applicable recalls.
The system will display any recalls associated with the vehicle. With a VIN, it will show all pending recalls for that car itself.
If there is an open recall, owners can contact Ford’s customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more about getting them fixed. Ford will tell you where to go to get the repairs and, if any, need to be done urgently.
