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Are Fiesta ST engines reliable?

The Ford Fiesta ST is a popular hot hatch known for its sporty performance and engaging driving dynamics. One key question many potential buyers have is whether the Fiesta ST's engine is reliable. Based on extensive research and owner reviews, the answer is generally yes - the Fiesta ST's engine is considered quite reliable, with few major issues reported by owners.


Engine Reliability Overview


The Ford Fiesta ST is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This engine has been used in various Ford models and is generally regarded as a reliable and durable powerplant. The Fiesta ST's engine is tuned to produce around 197 horsepower, which is a significant increase over the standard Fiesta's output.


Owners of the Fiesta ST report that the engine is responsive, with good low-end torque that provides a fun and engaging driving experience. Many owners have reported high mileage on their Fiesta ST engines, with some exceeding 100,000 miles without major issues.


Common Engine Issues


While the Fiesta ST engine is generally reliable, there are a few common issues that have been reported by some owners:



  • Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger is a critical component of the engine, and some owners have reported premature turbo failure, often requiring an expensive replacement.

  • Oil consumption: Some Fiesta ST owners have noted that their engines consume oil at a higher rate than expected, requiring more frequent top-ups.

  • Timing chain issues: In rare cases, the timing chain on the Fiesta ST engine has been known to stretch or fail, leading to costly repairs.


It's important to note that these issues are not universal, and many Fiesta ST owners have reported no major engine problems during their ownership. Proper maintenance and care can also help mitigate the risk of these issues occurring.


Maintaining Engine Reliability


To ensure the long-term reliability of the Fiesta ST's engine, it's important for owners to follow the recommended maintenance schedule and use high-quality parts and fluids. This includes regular oil changes, inspections of the turbocharger and timing chain, and addressing any issues promptly.


Overall, the Ford Fiesta ST's engine is generally considered a reliable and durable powerplant, with few major issues reported by owners. As with any vehicle, proper maintenance and care can help ensure the engine's longevity and performance.

What is the reliability score of the Ford Fiesta ST?


Reliability rating
The Ford Fiesta family (including the ST) has an above-average reliability score of 76% as of October 2024 (our most recent data point).



How many miles will a Fiesta ST last?


According to carparts.com, a typical Ford Fiesta will last 200,000 miles with excellent maintenance and constant, proper use. Some might push far beyond that point, while others could struggle and fall apart before nearing the 200,000-mile mark. Ultimately, much of it depends on the driver.



Is a Ford ST reliable?


As of April 2024, the third-generation Ford Focus ST holds a Used Car Expert Rating of C, with a score of 60%. It gets good grades for its media reviews and low running costs, but reliability is only average and its safety rating has long since expired.



How long does a Fiesta ST clutch last?


The clutch on your Ford Fiesta will need replacing anywhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Of course, this isn't a hard rule – your driving behaviours will have an impact on your clutch's lifespan. Being stationary in heavy traffic day to day will have a strain on your clutch.



How long does a Ford Fiesta ST last?


According to carparts.com, a typical Ford Fiesta will last 200,000 miles with excellent maintenance and constant, proper use. Some might push far beyond that point, while others could struggle and fall apart before nearing the 200,000-mile mark. Ultimately, much of it depends on the driver.



How long will a Ford Fiesta ST last?


Typically, a Ford Fiesta will last around 200,000 miles. Of course, for the car to make it that long, you must put serious effort into its care. From regular maintenance to critical repairs, ensure you're on top of its well-being to make the most of every dollar spent.



Is the Ford Fiesta ST a good car?


The Fiesta ST is a performance party where everyone's invited—and the cover charge is cheap. Its forgiving chassis and seamlessly shifting manual transmission allow amateur drivers to flourish and wily vets to test their limits. Its exuberant handling easily makes up for its shortfall in straight-line speed.



Are Fiesta ST expensive to run?


Clever engine technology means the Ford Fiesta ST's running costs are relatively sensible. Gone are the days when choosing a performance model means taking a massive hit when it comes to running costs. Today's hot hatches are designed to balance performance with efficiency and the Ford Fiesta ST is no exception.



Why was Fiesta ST discontinued?


Its early demise comes as car makers increasingly concentrate on larger crossover and SUV models, such as Ford's slightly pointless Puma and larger Kuga, which are growing in popularity and provide better profits than compact models.



Is the Ford Fiesta ST line reliable?


The ST didn't feature in the 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey but the standard Fiesta did. It finished in 12th place out of 19 cars in the small car class of our most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, albeit with a reasonably good overall score of 94.9%.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.