   2011 Ford Fiesta Sedan & 2012 Hatchback. Click image to enlarge |
Review by Justin Pritchard
Vehicle Type: Subcompact Sedan / Hatchback
History/Description: Fiesta hit the Canadian market in its most recent iteration for the 2011 model year, and has just been redesigned for 2014 – meaning early copies of the latest Fiesta have now moved under our used-car microscope.
Used car shoppers can check Ford’s entry-level model out in five-door hatchback or four-door sedan configurations, depending on their need and lifestyle.
Depending on the model selected, feature content included Bluetooth, 16-inch wheels, heated seats, exterior thermometer, the slick Ford Sync infotainment system, fog lamps, USB audio inputs, cruise control, ambient interior lighting and more.
Full power accessories, remote access and push-button start were also available. Finally, the ‘EasyFuel’ capless refueling system was on board, saving owners a step at the gas station by replacing the gas-cap with a self-sealing flap.
Key used-car competitors include the Nissan Versa, Toyota Yaris, Mazda2 (with which it shares a platform) and, perhaps most closely where sporty handling performance is concerned, the Honda Fit Sport.
Engines / Trim: Trim grades included S, SE, SEL and Titanium representing the ascent from basic to loaded, respectively. All models in this early Fiesta generation got a 1.6L four-cylinder engine sending 120 horsepower to the front wheels. A five-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic were available. This power plant should prove slightly above average where performance is concerned in its segment, and is fairly athletic relative to its displacement.
What Owners Like: Owners tend to speak highly of the Fiesta’s fun-to-drive character, styling, and flexibility – especially on hatchback models. Solid build and ride quality, as well as great fuel mileage, are also noted. An attractive cabin design and even comfortable seats are also commonly praised. End of the day, many owner reviews reflect a car that’s very ‘well done’ relative to its price and size.
  Ford Fiesta, 2011–2013. Click image to enlarge |
What Owners Dislike: Cramped rear-seat legroom, modest performance with the ‘PowerShift’ dual-clutch transmission and a tight cabin for larger drivers are among the most common complaints. On models with a manual transmission, some driving enthusiasts complain of a ‘mushy’ clutch that lacks bite and feel. Other complaints include rear seat headrests blocking rear visibility, as well as folding-seat action. These folding rear seats don’t fold flat to the rear floor, which frustrates some owners, too.
Ford Fiesta Owner Reviews (autoTRADER.ca)
Common Issues: Start your test drive with a check of the transmission, ensuring the manual-equipped Fiesta shifts smoothly and is able to engage all gears easily. Note any clutch slipping and ‘feel’ for any signs of the transmission ‘grinding’ or biting back at you while shifting. A transmission that pops out of gear when the clutch is applied, or tries to, is another sign of trouble. Though manual transmission problems were only reported by a small portion of Fiesta owners, common transmission trouble signs should be kept in mind. If any issues are apparent, have them investigated by a mechanic or move to another model.
Some owners have reported issues with the automatic dual-clutch transmission relating to hesitation and ‘clumsy’ operation, too. Strange vibrations or rattling sensations may be signs of trouble as well. Problems like these could be related to issues with the computer that controls the transmission, or even a bad electrical ground for said computer. This should be confirmed with a Ford mechanic if problems are noted.
Also note that the operation of a dual-clutch transmission means some very slight rolling-back on hills, or a slight delay between throttle application and forward motion, which is considered normal. Slippage, shuddering or hard shifting is not.
   Ford Fiesta, 2011–2013. Click image to enlarge |
Some reading on potential transmission problems here and here.
Confirm proper operation of the Ford Sync system, all steering wheel–mounted controls, and the Fiesta’s Bluetooth functionality, if equipped. Glitchy issues reported with the Sync system across various Ford models are numerous, and the Fiesta is no exception. Here’s some reading. Of course, as this sophisticated system is electronic in nature, many owners report that a reboot or software update can be the remedy. Be sure that’s the case. Link your phone via Bluetooth, place a call, have it read a text message, stream some audio and switch between input sources—ensuring the system operates with no issue.
  Ford Fiesta, 2011–2013. Click image to enlarge |
Ford even put this post on their website, detailing how to do a Sync ‘master reset’ to help solve problems.
Outside, inspect all four tires for signs of uneven wear across their treads. If one or more tires is worn more heavily at the inside or outside of its treads, the vehicle’s alignment is off – which could be evidence of a suspension-related issue. Vehicles with out-of-whack alignment can waste fuel, wear their tires out more quickly and burn excessive fuel. Ask your mechanic to have a closer look if you spot any signs of alignment trouble. Further, note that a Fiesta with a healthy suspension will absorb bumps without much fuss, and fairly quietly, while rebounding once and settling back to normal ride height. A Fiesta that makes popping or clunking noises, feels unstable or bounces excessively after going over a bump likely has some suspension repairs in its near future.
Shoppers should also confirm proper operation of the air conditioner and climate blower fan on all speed settings. Note any illuminated warning lights in the instrument cluster, possibly including “ABS” or ‘Check Engine” indicators. If any are apparent, be double-sure to have the cause checked by a Ford mechanic.
Other checks should include the power windows, power locks, remote key fobs, hatchback or trunk release and the front seats. Some owners have reported premature excessive wear or even indentations of said seats well before their time.
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Related Articles: Manufacturer’s Website: |
The Verdict: Fiesta looks like a solid used-car buy, with most common issues being easy to identify, diagnose and repair should they be apparent. Expect sporty handling, solid quality and affordable flexibility – not to mention good fuel mileage. Pay extra attention to the onboard electronics and transmission to find a healthy used model.
An airbag recall.
Crash Test Results:
NHTSA: 4 / 5 Stars (2011 Fiesta Sedan)
IIHS: Top Safety Pick (2011 Fiesta Hatahback)
