Is a 2016 Ford Fiesta a reliable car?

Overall, a 2016 Ford Fiesta can be economical and fun to drive, but its reliability record is mixed. The main concern for this model year is the PowerShift transmission, which has caused a number of owners headaches. With careful maintenance and a well-documented service history, a 2016 Fiesta can still be dependable, but buyers should proceed with caution and inspect the transmission closely.

Reliability overview

The reliability picture for the 2016 Fiesta centers largely on its transmission and a few age-related wear items. The 2011–2016 Fiesta was equipped with Ford’s PowerShift six-speed dual-clutch automatic (DPS6), which has been a frequent source of complaints, including rough shifts, shuddering, and, in some cases, transmission failure. While Ford issued software updates and recalls to address some issues, reports from owners and reviewers have kept the DPS6 transmission as the primary reliability caveat for this generation. Beyond the transmission, general wear-and-tear items like brakes, tires, and suspension components tend to be typical for a compact car of this age.

PowerShift transmission concerns

The PowerShift DPS6 unit is designed for quick, efficient shifts, but wear and software glitches can lead to rough engagement, hesitations, or shudder, especially at low speeds or when starting from a stop. Some cars benefited from dealer updates and warranty coverage, but others required more extensive repairs or replacement of the transmission. If you’re evaluating a 2016 Fiesta, verify any transmission work history, take note of shifting behavior during a test drive, and consider a pre-purchase inspection focused on the transmission.

• Shuddering, jerky or hard shifts during takeoff or low-speed driving


• Fueling or electronics interactions that briefly affect shifting behavior


• Potential need for transmission repair or replacement in higher-mileage examples


• Variability in reliability between individual cars, depending on maintenance and service history

Bottom line: the PowerShift transmission is the most significant reliability risk for the 2016 Fiesta. A car with documented transmission work or a solid service history is preferable, and a test drive that reveals smooth, consistent shifts is a strong buying signal.

What to check when buying a used 2016 Fiesta

If you’re considering a used 2016 Fiesta, prioritize transmission health, recall history, and documented maintenance. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a test drive are essential to avoid common trouble spots.

• Verify the transmission has been serviced as recommended and check for any signs of DPS6 issues during shifting (shudder, slipping, hesitations).


• Check the vehicle’s recall history using the VIN to ensure airbag, fuel, or other campaigns have been completed.


• Review maintenance records for routine items (oil changes, brakes, tires) and any major repairs, especially transmission-related work.


• Test-drive to confirm smooth acceleration, consistent shifts, and no unusual noises or clutch-like behavior from the transmission.

Conclusion: A well-documented service history and a clean transmission assessment can significantly reduce risk when buying a used 2016 Fiesta. If the car has known DPS6 issues or incomplete recalls, budgeting for potential repairs is prudent.

Maintenance and ownership costs

Maintenance and ownership costs for a 2016 Fiesta are generally affordable compared with many new or larger vehicles. Routine maintenance, tires, brakes, and minor repairs tend to be reasonable, and fuel economy remains a selling point for this model. The biggest potential expense is transmission-related repair or replacement for versions equipped with the PowerShift DPS6. Insurance costs for a compact, entry-level car are typically modest, though premiums can vary by driver history and location.

Summary

The 2016 Ford Fiesta offers economical operation and engaging driving dynamics for a subcompact. Its reliability is largely defined by the PowerShift transmission, which has been the primary cause of reliability concerns in this generation. For buyers and owners, the key to a satisfying ownership experience lies in a careful pre-purchase evaluation, thorough maintenance history, and awareness of the potential for transmission-related repairs. When these factors are favorable, a 2016 Fiesta can still deliver dependable, economical transportation.

How long will a 2016 Ford Fiesta last?

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What are common faults with the Ford Fiesta 2016?

Common problems for the 2016 Ford Fiesta include PowerShift automatic transmission failures, coolant and oil leaks, and electrical issues such as infotainment system malfunctions. Other reported issues include stalling when refueling, a faulty fuel pump, and a need for more frequent repairs on certain components like the blend door.
 
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Powertrain and engine 

• Transmission: The most frequently reported problem is with the PowerShift automatic transmission, which can have rough shifting, slipping, and premature failure. 
• Engine: Some owners report engine stalling, particularly after filling up with gas, which can be related to the fuel system. Coolant and oil leaks are also common, with some EcoBoost engines experiencing leaks from the cylinder head. 
• Fuel System: Problems with the fuel pump and bad fuel injectors have been reported.
• Overheating: This can be a symptom of coolant leaks and may lead to engine damage. 

Electrical and interior

• Electrical systems: A range of electrical problems have been reported, including issues with sensors, warning lights, and the SYNC infotainment system.
• Door latches: Faulty door latches have been an issue on some models, potentially causing doors to not close properly.
• Air conditioning: Air conditioning system faults and problems with the blower motor resistor are reported. 

Body and chassis

• Rust: Some Fiesta models are prone to rust, especially in areas like the rear wheel arches.
• Suspension: The suspension may show premature wear. 

Other issues

• Brakes: Some owners have reported issues with the brakes, such as the master or slave cylinder failing.
• Other mechanical issues: A faulty blend door is a common problem, and the rear motor mount may need an upgrade to improve shifting. 

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What year is the most reliable Ford Fiesta?

The most reliable Ford Fiesta years are generally 2016 and newer. These models avoid recalls for the overheating issue affecting some earlier 2014-2015 cars and benefit from a refined suspension and the newer Sync 3 system. Models from the 2011-2015 range, especially those with the PowerShift automatic transmission, had frequent recalls and were more prone to issues. 
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Why 2016 and newer are recommended

• Avoids recalls: These models have updated cylinder heads, which resolved an overheating issue found in some 2014-2015 cars.
• Newer technology: They feature the more modern and user-friendly Sync 3 infotainment system.
• Improved ride quality: The suspension was also softened slightly around the beginning of the 2016 model year. 

Years to be cautious of

• 2011-2015 models: These years saw the most frequent recalls, with issues ranging from doors opening unexpectedly to problems with the PowerShift automatic transmission, which often failed before 50,000 miles. 
• Early 1.0L EcoBoost engines: Some early versions of the 1.0L EcoBoost engine had a wet timing belt system that could break down over time, leading to engine failure. The engine was revised around 2018/2019 with a timing chain, but some later models still had issues with the oil pump's wet belt system. 

Other factors to consider

• ST models: The 2012-2017 Fiesta ST models are well-regarded for their performance, with a high average owner rating. 
• Overall: While the 2011-2015 models have some reliability concerns, many drivers of those years still report good ownership experiences, particularly with well-maintained vehicles. 

Are 2016 Ford Fiestas reliable?

The 2016 Ford Fiesta has a mixed reliability profile; while some sources give it a good score of 4.0 out of 5, it has specific issues with the dual-clutch PowerShift automatic transmission. Common problems reported by owners include the transmission, as well as some electrical issues like unresponsive infotainment systems and faulty door latches. Other potential problems include problems with cooling systems and faster-than-average brake wear.
 
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Positive aspects

• Good performance and handling: Many drivers praise its fun-to-drive nature and sharp handling. 
• Fuel-efficient: The car is known for good fuel economy. 
• Affordable: It's often cited as a great value, particularly for a commuter or first car. 
• Comfortable: Despite its size, many reviewers find it comfortable. 

Potential reliability issues

• Transmission: The most frequently cited problem is with the dual-clutch PowerShift automatic transmission, with owners reporting failures and rough shifting. 
• Electrical issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the SYNC infotainment system and other electrical components. 
• Cooling and engine: There have been reports of cooling system problems and some owners have experienced engine-related issues. 
• Brakes: Some owners have reported that brake components, such as pads and rotors, wear out faster than expected. 
• Other mechanical issues: Less common issues include steering problems and, for some models, a potential for coolant leaks that could be a fire hazard (although recalls may have addressed this for certain model years). 

What to do before buying

• Check for recalls: While there were no safety recalls at the time of writing, it's always a good idea to check for any open recalls specific to the VIN. 
• Inspect the transmission: If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for any signs of problems. 
• Consider manual transmission: If you are looking for a more reliable option, a manual transmission model may be a safer bet, as it bypasses the known issues with the automatic PowerShift transmission. 
• Look at other reviews: Consider reading reviews from other sources like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and J.D. Power for a more comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's reliability.