Summary
The Ford Fiesta has 13 recalls spanning the 1978–2019 production run, with the most serious recent issue being swollen brake caliper seals on 2019 models that cause the brakes to drag and overheat, raising the risk of a crash.
On the 2014 model year, certain vehicles have a fuel tank that can leak from its seam; fuel near an ignition source can cause a fire. The 2013–2014 model years also share a door latch recall where the latch can release while driving, allowing a door to swing open with an occupant next to it. A separate label recall affects certain 2013 models where the tire and loading information sticker may carry incorrect tire size and pressure data.
The 2011–2013 model years have two airbag-related issues. On 2011–2013 vehicles, the passenger side curtain airbag will not deploy in a side impact when the front passenger seat is empty, leaving a rear right-seat occupant without that protection. On 2011 models specifically, the restraint control module can switch off the right-side curtain and front passenger seat-mounted side airbag whenever the passenger seat sensor detects an empty seat, with the same consequence for a rear occupant. The 2011 model year also has a door latch with a broken internal spring tab that can allow a door to open while driving, and in salt-belt provinces, moisture and road salt can corrode the battery junction box fuse and wiring terminals on that same year. The 2012 model year has a related battery junction box issue where water and debris cause corrosion that can shut off the low-beam headlights and daytime running lights while driving.
Going back to the earliest production, the 1978 model year has two concerns: dealer-installed air conditioning kits where misrouted blower motor resistor wires can contact the plastic blower housing and, if the blower motor jams, generate enough heat to ignite the housing. The 1978 model also has steel wheels with mislocated tire valve stem holes that can allow air to leak at high speed, causing steering pull, tire overheating, or tire failure. A tire placard compliance recall also affects the 1978 model, where the label incorrectly lists an undersized tire as an acceptable fitment.
