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2016 Ford Fiesta Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 2026
Ethan Miller
2016 Ford Fiesta Owner Complaints

Complaint Summary

The 2016 Ford Fiesta has 253 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve power train and engine.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

7.8/ 10

Based on 253 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

POWER TRAIN

90 35.6%

ENGINE

33 13%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

22 8.7%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

22 8.7%

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

11 4.3%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is POWER TRAIN, accounting for 35.6% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 30 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2016 Ford Fiesta

The 2016 Ford Fiesta has 253 owner complaints in this dataset. POWER TRAIN is the most common complaint category, representing about 36% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2016 Ford Fiesta are POWER TRAIN (90), ENGINE (33), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (22).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 89 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2016 Ford Fiesta?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2017 Fiesta complaints2015 Fiesta complaints2018 Fiesta complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 30 of 30 systems

POWER TRAIN

88 Reports35% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

CLUNK NOISE SHIFTING FROM 1ST TO 2ND GEAR... I HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS FROM THE DAY I PICKED UP THE CAR FROM THE DEALER ON 9/29/16 (45 MILES ON CAR THEN).. I THOUGHT AT FIRST I IMAGINED IT OR JUST NEEDED TO GET USED TO THIS CAR SINCE I HAD JUST TURNED IN A 2014 LEASE CAR BACK TO TOYOTA SO BIG DIFFERENCE IN THESE 2 CARS..

10/17/2016

CAR SHUDDERS/SHAKES WHEN I START TO DRIVE AFTER A STOPLIGHT. USUALLY HAPPENS AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN ON FOR A WHILE AND THE ENGINE IS HOT. TOOK CAR FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND NOTICED A LOT OF OIL DRIPPING FROM UNDERNEATH THE CAR LATER THAT DAY (2 INCH DIAMETER SPOTS). TOOK THE CAR TO A MECHANIC, AND THEY SAID THE SHUDDERING/SHAKING IS CAUSED BY AN ISSUE WITH THE CLUTCH. I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR NEW, AND DID NOT EXPECT TO HAVE AN ISSUE ALREADY. THIS IS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT.

5/6/2017

86 more complaints are available in this category.

ENGINE

33 Reports13% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLE SEEMS TO HAVE OCCASIONAL HESITATION UNDER LOAD WHEN MAINTAINING SPEED, ALL OBSERVED SPEEDS, ALL OBSERVED GEARS (ROUGHLY 30MPH TO 70MPH IN GEARS 3-5). VEHICLE HAS DONE IS SINCE NEW, (DECEMBER 26, 2016 TO PRESENT) LESS THAN 4,500 MILES ON IT AT PRESENT. BRINGING TO DEALER IN NEXT WEEK OR TWO FOR FIRST SCHEDULED OIL CHANGE, WILL HAVE THEM CHECK IT.

4/9/2017

HAS A HESITATION WHEN YOU PRESS THE GAS PEDAL ALMOST LIKE TOO MUCH FUEL AT ONE TIME AND THEN ALL OF THE SUDDEN IT WILL LAUNCH FORWARD. WHEN THIS HAPPENS WHILE TURNING IT WILL CAUSE YOU TO REDIRECT YOUR STEERING QUICKLY OR YOU WILL END UP ON SOMEONE ELSE'S SIDE OF THE ROAD.AND WHEN PULLING OUT FROM STOP SIGNS OR SIGNAL LIGHTS IS VERY SCARY AND IS A SAFETY CONCERN FOR ME.NOT HAVING POWER WHEN NEEDED IS VERY UNSAFE FOR ME AND THE OTHER SURROUNDING DRIVERS.

5/28/2017

31 more complaints are available in this category.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

22 Reports9% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

DAYLIGHT RUNNING LAMPS INOPERATIVE AT TIME OF PURCHASE. PAID FOR TX INSPECTION. DISCOVERED AFTER LEAVING DEALERSHIP.

8/2/2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FIESTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE IN AN INTERSECTION. THE FAILURE OCCURED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON TWO OTHER OCCATIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 46,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.

4/10/2017

20 more complaints are available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

21 Reports8% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

MAYBE THIS IS AN OVERSITE ON MY PART, BUT I WAS TAKING SOMEONE HOME THEY WERE SEATED IN BACKSEAT, THE DOOR WAS LOCKED, THINKING THEY COULD UNLOCK DOOR FROM THE BACK, THEY WERE UNABLE TO, I HAD TO UNLOCK BACKDOOR FROM THE FRONT (WITH BUTTON NEAR FRON CONSOLE OF CAR). I SAT IN THE BACK AND COULD NOT FIND A BUTTON TO LOCK OR UNLOCK THE BACK DOOR EXCEPT TO ASK DRIVER OR HIS PASSENGER TO UNLOCK DOOR FROM THE FRONT.. I THINK THIS IS DANGEROUS, ESPECIALLY IN AN ACCIDENT, IF SOMETHING WOULD TO HAPPEN TO THE DRIVER AND BACK PASSENGER IS TRAPPED. I STILL DO NOT KNOW WHERE A BUTTON FOR. HAD I GOTTEN OUT OF CAR AND LEFT PASSENGER IN CAR, HE WOULD HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO UNLOCK DOORS

6/21/2016

I HAD THE HOOD ON MY FORD OPEN TODAY TO CLEAR OUT LEAVES THAT HAD GOTTEN STUCK AROUND THE VENTS UNDER THE HOOD. WHILE I HAD THE HOOD UP I NOTICED "TIN FOIL" AROUND THE WINDSHIELD WHERE IT MEETS THE FRAME OF FRONT WINDOWS.. I'M STRUCK BY THAT TIN FOIL & ON BOTH SIDES THE PASSENGER SIDE & THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD HOW SAFE IS THAT .. (TOOK THREE PICS & HOPE YOU CAN SEE IT) UPLOADED ALL 3 PICTURES.. AUTO WAS STATIONARY AT THE TIME..

3/22/2017

19 more complaints are available in this category.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

11 Reports4% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FIESTA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED SPONTANEOUSLY AND STRUCK A TREE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000.

11/2/2017

MY CAR STALLS WHEN I COME TO A RED LIGHT ..ITS LIKE IT DONT WANA MOVE..SLOW ACCLER ATION

7/16/2019

9 more complaints are available in this category.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

11 Reports4% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

WHILE IDLING AT STOP LIGHTS OR CITY DRIVING THE CAR WILL DROP RPM'S OR STALL OUT ON IT'S OWN. HAS HAPPENED WHILE MAKING A U-TURN, TURNING, AND IDLING. IT HAPPENS RANDOMLY AND FORD WILL NOT TAKE THE ISSUE SERIOUSLY

10/29/2018

WHEN FUELING CAR WANT START WITHOUT DELAY. CODES P2196,P1450

11/4/2018

9 more complaints are available in this category.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

8 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the "Service Transmission Now" message appeared on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic who diagnosed that the transmission control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer who confirmed the diagnostic results. The dealer informed the contact that the parts for the repair were on backorder. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the vehicle was out of warranty. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA to file a complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 97,000

10/20/2021

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH and accelerating, there was an abnormally loud grinding sound while the transmission was shifting gears. The contact stated that the transmission was also grinding gears while decelerating. The contact stated that the failure had gone from intermittent to constant. The contact stated that the check transmission light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer who diagnosed that the power train control module (PCM) needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

7/28/2022

6 more complaints are available in this category.

STEERING

7 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

STEERING WHEEL PLASTIC COVER CATCHES FINGER AT 5 O'CLOCK AND 7 O'CLOCK WHEN TRYING TO TURN. PLACING FINGER AND TURNING STEERING WHEEL CATCHES FINGER AND COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT. PLASTIC STICKS OUT FROM THE BLACK BACK PLASTIC THAT IT TOUCHES. IN MY CAR IT'S A GRAY ACCENT U SHAPED THAT STARTS ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE AIRBAG AND GOES DOWN AND AROUND TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE AIRBAG. THE TOUGH PART OF THE U-SHAPED GOES FROM THE LEFT AND YOU HAVE THE TELEPHONE BUTTONS RADIO BUTTONS ON ONE SIDE AND THEN YOUR CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS ON THE OTHER IN THE CENTER OF THE TOP OF THE U-SHAP. DOWN ALONG THE BOTTOM WHEN IT TOUCHES THE OUTSIDE OF STEERING WHEEL THAT'S WHERE YOUR FINGER CAN GET CAUGHT WHEN TRYING TO TURN IT WHILE DRIVING. IF YOU REACH YOUR HAND IN THROUGH THE SMALL BOTTOM HOLES AND PULL OUT YOU CAN FILL THE EXTRA PLASTIC AND ALMOST A SHAPNESS DOWN ALONG THE BOTTOM WHEN IT TOUCHES THE OUTSIDE OF STEERING WELL THAT'S WHERE YOUR FINGER TO GET CAUGHT WHEN TRYING TO TURN IT WHILE DRIVING. IF YOU REACH YOUR HAND IN THROUGH THE SMALL BOTTOM HOLES AND PULL OUT YOU CAN FILL THE EXTRA PLASTIC AND ALMOST A SHARPNESS FROM IT .

4/4/2017

I PICKED UP THIS FORD FIESTA 5DR VEHICLE 9/29/2016 (AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION) NEW & AT THAT TIME I NOTICED THAT THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK/UNLOCK LEVER FOR THE TILT/ TELESCOPIC WHEEL WAS VERY HARD FOR ME TO ENGAGE/DISENGAGE TO ADJUST THE HEIGHT OF THE STEERING WHEEL.. I ASKED AT THAT TIME IF THE LEVER COULD BE ADJUSTED FOR EASE SINCE I AM A 76 Y/O FEMALE WITH NOT MUCH STRENGTH IN MY HANDS, PERHAPS IF I WERE A 20 Y/O AGILE MALE IT WOULDN'T BE SUCH AN ISSUE.. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THEY COULD NOT ADJUST THAT SINCE IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE TO CHANGE THAT; WHILE I UNDERSTAND THE SAFETY THING I ALSO KNOW THAT MY HAND, THUMB, ARM & WRIST ARE SUFFERING FROM THIS 'DESIGN FLAW' & I WILL SPEAK WITH MY DOCTOR NEXT WEEK IN REGARD TO THIS PAIN.. I'M NOT SURE WHO DESIGNED THIS LEVER TO BE SO HARD FOR SOME PEOPLE TO USE & ADJUST BUT OBVIOUSLY THEY DIDN'T TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION OLDER FEMALE DRIVERS .. WHILE I PAID FOR THIS FEATURE OF THE TILT/ TELESCOPIC WHEEL I'M HAVING A DIFFICULT TIME TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THIS FEATURE BECAUSE OF THE LEVER ISSUE; IN ADDITION I AM SHORT SO NEED TO GET CLOSER TO THE STEERING WHEEL TO DRIVE COMFORTABLY.. SHAME ON THE AUTO DESIGNER FOR WHAT I CONSIDER A DESIGN FLAW DONE WITHOUT TESTING BEFORE RELEASING TO THE ENTIRE PUBLIC..

7/13/2017

5 more complaints are available in this category.

WHEELS

6 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

MY AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON. ALSO TIRE LOW LIGHT IS COMING ON I ALSO HEAR A BANGING NOISE WHEN I USE THE HEAT OR AIR., THIS HAPPENS WHETHER DRIVING OR PARKED.

2/6/2019

TPS LIGHT STAYS ON. AIR LOSE IN FRONT DRIVER TIRE AND BACK DRIVER SIDE TIRE. I HAVE TO PUT AIR IN BOTH TIRES EVERY DAY. ABOUT 15 LBS OF AIR IN THE FRONT DRIVER TIRE AND ABOUT 8 LBS OF AIR IN THE BACK DRIVER SIDE TIRE

1/27/2020

4 more complaints are available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY

6 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON THE FREEWAY THE VEHICLE WAS STRUCK TWICE AND CAREENED INTO THE CENTER DIVIDER ONCE BEFORE COMING TO REST. THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. I SUSTAINED A BROKEN NECK BY HYPER EXTENDING MY NECK OVER THE STEERING WHEEL.

2/23/2020

MY VEHICLE IS A 2016 FORD FIESTA ST WITH A SUNROOF. I LIVE IN AN AREA WHERE THERE IS NOT MUCH FLAT LAND TO PARK VEHICLES. MY DRIVEWAY IS GREATER THAN A 20% GRADE. THIS COMPLAINT IS RELATED TO SUNROOF SEAL LEAKS IN ANY MODE OF OPERATION. THE SUNROOF SEAL IS A SINGLE STRIP OF RUBBER WITH A DISCONNECTED SEAM THAT IS ORIENTED AT THE TOP OF THE SUNROOF. AS THE RUBBER AGES, THE RUBBER SHRINKS AND THE SEAM CAN DEVELOP INTO A GAP THAT LETS WATER INSIDE THE SUNROOF DRAINAGE TRAY. IF THE SUNROOF SEAL LEAKS OR FAILS, THE CAR IS DESIGNED TO COLLECT THE WATER AND DRAIN IT TO A LOCATION NEAR THE FRONT WHEEL WELLS. THIS WORKS PERFECTLY AS LONG AS THE CAR IS LEVEL. IF THE CAR IS PARKED AT A 15% GRADE OR STEEPER WITH THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE POINTING UPWARDS, THE SUNROOF SEAL WILL LEAK, BUT THE WATER COLLECTED WILL NOT DRAIN TOWARD THE INTENDED DRAINS. THE WATER WILL INSTEAD FLOW DOWN THE SIDES OF THE ROOFLINE INSIDE PLASTIC TROUGHS. THESE TROUGHS ARE NOT WELL DRAINED TO THE EXTERIOR. THE WATER WILL FLOW THROUGH THE TROUGHS AND EXIT INTO THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE NEAR THE HEAD LINER AND THE REAR PLASTIC TRIM OF THE INTERIOR NEXT TO THE REAR WINDOW. THIS WILL EVENTUALLY FILL UP THE SEALED SPARE TIRE WELL, AND WILL CAUSE CORROSION OVER TIME. THIS CORROSION MAY AFFECT THE CAR'S STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND MAY AFFECT THE CAR'S CRASH WORTHINESS IF ALLOWED TO CONTINUE. THE WATER IS ONLY NOTICEABLE IF THE TRUNK SHELF IS REMOVED, WHICH IN MANY VEHICLES WILL NEVER HAPPEN. THE WATER ALSO HAS A TENDENCY TO COLLECT ON THE REAR SEATBELT SPOOL AND THE SPOOL SUPPORT FASTENERS. IF THE WATER IS LEFT ON THE SEATBELT SPOOLS FOR LONG ENOUGH TIME, THE SEATBELTS FOR THE REAR SEATS CAN BE WEAKENED OVER TIME BY CORROSION. THE SEATBELT ISSUE MAY NOT BECOME A SAFETY CONCERN UNTIL SOMETIME IN THE CAR'S FUTURE IN THE SECONDHAND MARKET. BLACK MOLD GROWTH MAY BECOME AN ISSUE AS WELL.

4/24/2020

4 more complaints are available in this category.

SEAT BELTS

5 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FIESTA. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE PROPERLY. IN ADDITION, A SCRAPPING TYPE NOISE WAS PRESENT COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEAL HAMILTON FORD DEALER LOCATED IN CLOVIS, NEW MEXICO, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000. ...UPDATED 10/19/17 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE SEATBELTS IN BACK WOULD LOCK UP WHILE IN USE. *JS

8/7/2017

I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON THE FREEWAY THE VEHICLE WAS STRUCK TWICE AND CAREENED INTO THE CENTER DIVIDER ONCE BEFORE COMING TO REST. THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. I SUSTAINED A BROKEN NECK BY HYPER EXTENDING MY NECK OVER THE STEERING WHEEL.

2/23/2020

3 more complaints are available in this category.

SUSPENSION

5 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TRANSMJTIONS FEELS SLUGISH ONE DAY NORMAL NEXT REVS UP AT TIMES MORE THAN NORMAL MAKEING VEHILCE SPEED UP WHEN NEEDING TO SLOW DOWN . SUSPENSION OFTEN WARPS OUT OF PLACE MAKEING THE DRIVE HARSH ON MOTAR AND FALLS BACK ON PLACE. STEEDING COLLUM FALLS OUT OF PLACE TO ODFTEN HAVE TO BEND THE WHEEL TO GET BACK ALIGNMENT

4/9/2018

NOISE FROM RIGHT FRONT STRUT AREA. VERIFY NOISE FROM OUTSIDE STRUT FOUND TO BE LEAKING PASS SIDE STRUT LEAKING. REPLACE STRUT AND HARDWARE.

8/1/2019

3 more complaints are available in this category.

AIR BAGS

4 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

MY AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON. ALSO TIRE LOW LIGHT IS COMING ON I ALSO HEAR A BANGING NOISE WHEN I USE THE HEAT OR AIR., THIS HAPPENS WHETHER DRIVING OR PARKED.

2/6/2019

I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON THE FREEWAY THE VEHICLE WAS STRUCK TWICE AND CAREENED INTO THE CENTER DIVIDER ONCE BEFORE COMING TO REST. THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. I SUSTAINED A BROKEN NECK BY HYPER EXTENDING MY NECK OVER THE STEERING WHEEL.

2/23/2020

2 more complaints are available in this category.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

3 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 FORD Fiesta. The contact stated that the vehicle's transmission would suddenly slip while driving at various speeds. The contact would have to release some pressure on the acceleration pedal till the transmission realigns itself. The failure could occur several times in one day. The failure's occurrence had become more frequent. The vehicle's locking system for the hood had began to illuminate as open and or it had been tampered with, however, this had self- corrected since then. There had been several other electrical on and off failures, however, the transmission slipping had been the most present and frequently increasing of all they had experienced. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic who confirmed the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact confirmed their VIN was not included. The contact called the manufacturer who had opened a case regarding the matter. The contract was instructed to report their issue with NHTSA and to have the dealer diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle had not been officially been diagnosed by the dealer. The contact contacted the dealer who confirmed the VIN was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000. Consumer had their car evaluated by Ford and needs to add a couple more things that makes the car be safe to drive on the road.

12/27/2021

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle and attempting to drive, the transmission failed to shift properly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 40,000.

5/9/2022

1 more complaint is available in this category.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

DAYLIGHT RUNNING LAMPS INOPERATIVE AT TIME OF PURCHASE. PAID FOR TX INSPECTION. DISCOVERED AFTER LEAVING DEALERSHIP.

8/2/2016

TUVE PROBLEMA CON LA COMPUTADORA Y TRANSMISIN AUTOMTICA, DESDE QUE SE ADQUIRI LA UNIDAD REPORTE PROBLEMA CON LOS ELEVADORES DEL AUTO YA QUE NO SE TRABAN A SUBIR Y BAJAR, NO HAN DADO SOLUCIN A ESTE PROBLEMA Y SOLO LO 'RESUELVEN CON LUBRICANTE' . LA INTENSIDAD DEL TABLERO CAMBIA CONSTANTEMENTE, AL TRATAR DE SUBIR O BAJAR EL VOLUMEN DEL ESTERO NO LO HACE DE MANERA CORRECTA

3/11/2020

SERVICE BRAKES

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FIESTA. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO LUNGE FORWARD WITHOUT WARNING. AT TIMES, WHILE APPLYING PRESSURE TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE WOULD STALL AND THEN SLOWLY PICK UP SPEED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED DURING THE FAILURES. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL WHILE IN DRIVE, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GALPIN FORD (1000 SANDRETTO DR, PRESCOTT, AZ 86305, (877) 826-2935) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A FAULTY TRANSMISSION. SINCE OWNING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HAD THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE REPLACED TWICE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES AND PROVIDED THE REPAIR COST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 39,000.

7/25/2019

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH and descending a grade in the road, the contact attempted to depress the brake pedal to slow down however, the brake pedal went to the floorboard. The contact had to pump the brake pedal to slow the vehicle. The contact stated that the check brakes warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that there were also mechanical issues with the transmission. The vehicle could not be shifted into reverse (R) and while the vehicle was in drive (D), the vehicle would hesitate while shifting gear. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the clutch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the dealer had not diagnosed a failure with the brakes. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.

2/15/2024

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the vehicle would shudder with a grinding noise coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the clutch was faulty and needed to be replaced. The clutch was replaced but the failure reoccurred. The contact indicated that a second clutch replacement was performed however, recently the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 76,000.

11/15/2021

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving 25-30 MPH, the vehicle was shuddering as if it would stall, and the vehicle made an abnormal whining sound. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while driving over a speed bump. The contact had noticed that the failure mostly occurred while driving at low speeds and while the RPMs were low. Additionally, the contact stated that the transmission was slipping while driving and making right turns. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission clutch assembly had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer determined that the failure was related to an undisclosed recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that no assistance could be provided unless the VIN was added to the unknown recall. The failure mileage was approximately 71,600.

12/6/2024

STRUCTURE

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front windshield and the windows became foggy, causing poor visibility of the roadway. The contact opened the rear liftgate door and noticed that the spare tire well was filled with water. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that water was leaking into the rear of the vehicle from the rear liftgate door. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 74,000.

4/12/2023

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that upon inspection, it was discovered that there was rust on the roof of the vehicle around the base of the antenna. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the VIN not being included in an unidentified recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.

8/21/2024

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

WE TRIED TURNING THE CAR ON. THE LIGHTS STARTED BLINKING RAPIDLY THE. IT SAID THE TRACTION CONTROL WAS OFF. EVEN THOUGH WE DID NOT TURN IT OFF. WE JUMP STARTED THE CAR AND IT WENT ON BUT ONLY FOR THE DASHBOARD TO SAY 'TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION SERVICE NOW'. WHEN DRIVING ON THE STREET AND FREEWAY TO THE NEXT EXIT. IT FELT AND SOUND LIKE THE ENGINE IS REVVING THE ENTIRE TIME NO MATTER WHAT SPEED. THE RPM IS RUNNING HIGH GOING STRAIGHT PAST 3

12/10/2019

SEATS

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

My Ford fiesta suddenly exploded the seat's ventilation and my seatbelts tore off, so i crashed into a semi at the speed of 191 km/h

2/1/2022

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated the seat belt does not retract on the driver's side and passenger side. The contact stated he sat on the buckle and injured himself. The contact has been seeing a chiropractor for 3 years now. The contact did not take the vehicle to a dealer nor was the seat belt repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The failure mileage was 51,617.

4/27/2022

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Transmission control module failed and driving is unsafe as lurching pick up in traffic and complete failure of transmission. No reverse or forward gear.

6/3/2022

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while opening the passenger’s side front door, she felt excessive play in the door handle. While attempting to close the door, the door failed to latch securely. The contact was able to secure the door using bungie cords. The contact drove the vehicle to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the latching mechanism was defective. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V331000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

12/28/2022

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Its the third time i find the hud of my car open! I was driving in the city and the speed was under 25 mph when i found out , im just concerned if im driving in a highway and that happens!

4/30/2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that the ignition switched failed to respond after the key was placed in the ignition. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the key needed to be replaced and a new key was cut. The vehicle had been repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

5/1/2023

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the dashboard made abnormal clicking sounds. The contact stated that the air inlet blend door actuator had previously been replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the air inlet blend door actuator needed to be replaced for the second time. The dealer replaced the air inlet blend door actuator. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 57,183.

4/12/2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, while the transmission was shifting between 1st and 2nd gear, the vehicle was shaking until the transmission had shifted to the higher gears. The contact stated that occasionally the vehicle failed to start intermittently. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The contact also stated that the battery had been replaced by a friend approximately 7 times, and once by an O' Riley’s within the past 2 years. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 80,100

9/27/2024

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was a continuous swishing sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the local independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the water pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The water pump was replaced. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 74,000.

5/15/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:COIL

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle was losing motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed and it was determined that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the same dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the ignition coils needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the TCM needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 14M02 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

7/24/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 110,000. It was later discovered that the actual mileage was 190,000.

9/22/2025

About This Data

Data and Methodology

Sources
Show 33 sources
  • carhp.com
  • lemonlawhelp.com
  • lemonlaw.com
  • caranddriver.com
  • vindecoderz.com
  • edmunds.com
  • realsafecars.com
  • youtube.com
  • edmunds.com
  • thecarconnection.com
  • cars.com
  • fordfiesta.org
  • reddit.com
  • reddit.com
  • vinitel.com
  • fuelly.com
  • riverviewford.com
  • autoweb.com
  • car-emissions.com
  • firestonecompleteautocare.com
  • cars.com
  • reddit.com
  • kbb.com
  • clickmechanic.com
  • carcarekiosk.com
  • jdpower.com
  • kbb.com
  • fiestastforum.com
  • fiestastforum.com
  • kbb.com
  • fordownersclub.com
  • transportation.gov
  • youtube.com
MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2016 Ford Fiesta?

The most reported complaint category for the 2016 Ford Fiesta is POWER TRAIN, with 90 owner reports. That is about 36% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include POWER TRAIN, ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER.

Are complaints about the 2016 Ford Fiesta a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 89 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2016 Ford Fiesta?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2016 Ford Fiesta severe?

89 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Ford Fiesta: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

Return to full vehicle report
Complaint entries
253
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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