Used Ford Fiesta ST 2018-present reliability
Category: Hot hatch
Few cars are as much fun to drive as the Fiesta ST, and not many are as good value either
What should I look for in a used Ford Fiesta ST hatchback?
Many Ford Fiesta STs will have been used in towns and quite possibly on school runs so it’s worth checking the extremities of the car for any damage to the bodywork. Check the condition of the alloy wheels carefully as any kerb damage could be expensive to put right.
Some owner will have used their ST vigorously so, as well as taking care to do proper visual checks on the car when you’re buying it, it’s vital to watch out for obvious signs of misuse.
Do a visual check of the exhaust gases (they shouldn’t be too dark), the oil on the engine dipstick and the quality of the coolant. Also check for leaks under the car if possible, and look out for worn tyres that might need expensive replacement. It is always advisable to insist on a full service history, preferably with a Ford main dealer.
The ST didn't feature in the 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey but the standard Fiesta did. It placed last out of 24 small cars – a concern to say the least. In the same survey, Ford as a brand finished in 27th out of 32 manufacturers.