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2017 Ford Fiesta Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2017 Ford Fiesta Report

Overall Score

8.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain issues are the most significant ownership risk, with frequent reports of transmission slippage and failure.
  • Inspect the engine and fuel/propulsion system thoroughly; stalling and difficulty starting after refueling are noted problems.
  • While safety ratings are good, the high complaint count warrants a detailed pre-purchase inspection.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Ford Fiesta

The 2017 Ford Fiesta is a practical compact car known for its nimble handling and good fuel economy. However, its reliability is rated as average, largely due to a significant number of consumer complaints focused on the powertrain, engine, and fuel/propulsion system. While there are no open recalls, these recurring issues, particularly with the transmission, warrant careful consideration. It boasts solid safety ratings, with an overall score of 4 stars from NHTSA.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints include transmission slippage, rough shifting, and loss of motive power. These issues can manifest across various mileages.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

104
Power Train20
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
26
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

6.2/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and city maneuverability.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Ford Fiesta Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Ford Fiesta.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 20 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 18 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Fluid Level and Wiper Blade Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

10,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Ford Fiesta reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ford Fiesta is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 104.

How practical is the 2017 Ford Fiesta for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.2/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ford Fiesta is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 6.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Fluid Level and Wiper Blade Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Control Module (TCM) (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

Base MSRP is $13,960.

What engine is in the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2017 Ford Fiesta use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Fiesta, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Fiesta, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Fiesta, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Ford Fiesta use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Fiesta, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

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

Is the 2017 Ford Fiesta good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide offers a pragmatic approach to modifying the 2017 Ford Fiesta (US market).

What are the most common power train problems on the 2017 Ford Fiesta?▾

Top complaint category: power train (20 reports, 19.2% of complaints).

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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