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2013 Ford Fiesta Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2013 Ford Fiesta Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The automatic transmission is the primary concern, exhibiting shuddering, hesitation, and failure to engage, leading to a 'Below Average' reliability verdict.
  • Inspect the transmission meticulously for any signs of shuddering, lurching, or unusual noises before purchase.
  • Confirm that all door latch recalls have been addressed, as this is a recurring safety issue.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 32 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Ford Fiesta

The 2013 Ford Fiesta presents a mixed bag for used car buyers. While it offers respectable fuel economy and decent safety ratings, its reliability is a significant concern, particularly regarding the automatic transmission. With a high volume of complaints and multiple recalls, potential buyers must be aware of the inherent risks. The Fiesta's powertrain issues, specifically transmission shuddering and failure, are the dominant themes, demanding thorough pre-purchase inspection. Given the 6 recalls, potential repair costs associated with known issues should be factored into ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

The Powershift automatic transmission is prone to significant issues. Complaints frequently cite shuddering, rough shifting, and a general lack of responsiveness. This can escalate to complete transmission failure. Regular fluid checks and timely replacement are critical preventative measures.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls6
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

912
Power Train375
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
32
MPG
City
29
MPG
Highway
37
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy buyers who are mechanically inclined or have a trusted mechanic willing to thoroughly inspect the transmission and address potential issues.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those on a tight budget for unexpected repairs.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Ford Fiesta Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Ford Fiesta.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (AM6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
32

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 375 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 109 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $100

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
6 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Ford Fiesta reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Ford Fiesta is 6.9/10. Reliability score is 6.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 912.

How practical is the 2013 Ford Fiesta for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Ford Fiesta is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Automatic Transmission (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2013 Ford Fiesta use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Ford Fiesta, transmission is Automatic (AM6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Ford Fiesta, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Ford Fiesta use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Ford Fiesta, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2013 Ford Fiesta good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2013 Ford Fiesta presents significant challenges for tuning due to documented reliability issues, particularly with its automatic transm...

What are the most common power train problems on the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

Top complaint category: power train (375 reports, 41.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Ford Fiesta?▾

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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