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2019 Ford Fiesta Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2019 Ford Fiesta Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The powertrain is the primary concern, with frequent reports of transmission issues, including the PowerShift dual-clutch system. Expect potential for costly repairs.
  • Airbag system failures, specifically non-deployment during collisions, represent a critical safety risk that demands careful consideration.
  • Rearview camera issues are prevalent, with numerous recalls and complaints detailing blank or distorted images, impacting the back over prevention system.
  • While fuel economy is a strong point, the potential for significant mechanical repairs could offset savings.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Ford Fiesta

The 2019 Ford Fiesta offers a practical, fuel-efficient package for urban driving. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its average reliability rating and a notable number of recalls, which may indicate potential repair costs down the line. Its safety scores are solid, but specific component failures have been reported.

Critical Failure Risk

Sluggish shifting, jolting, failure to reverse, complete loss of motive power, often linked to the PowerShift dual-clutch transmission. Issues include shuddering, hesitation, and difficulty engaging gears.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls14
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

85
Power Train18
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
28
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and city maneuverability, who are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections and budget for potential repairs.

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those who cannot afford unexpected, potentially expensive mechanical repairs. Families prioritizing absolute safety may also want to look elsewhere due to airbag concerns.

2019 Ford Fiesta Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 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
28

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 18 reports

2. BACK OVER PREVENTION

Usage: 16 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Multi-Point Inspection - Automatic Transmission Fluid Level Check - Brake System Inspection - Engine Cooling System Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection - Half-Shaft Boot Inspection - Steering Linkage Inspection - Tire Inspection - Wheel Inspection - Lubricate Grease Fittings - Oil Minder System Reset

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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full specs and trim-level context
14 recall campaign details & remedy notes
85 owner complaints by system
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Ford Fiesta reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Ford Fiesta is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 14. Owner complaints: 85.

How practical is the 2019 Ford Fiesta for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Ford Fiesta is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Multi-Point Inspection - Automatic Transmission Fluid Level Check - Brake System Inspection - Engine Cooling System Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection - Half-Shaft Boot Inspection - Steering Linkage Inspection - Tire Inspection - Wheel Inspection - Lubricate Grease Fittings - Oil Minder System Reset at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $627. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (PowerShift DCT) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $5,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

Base MSRP is $15,490.

What engine is in the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Ford Fiesta use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Fiesta, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Fiesta, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Fiesta, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Ford Fiesta use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Fiesta, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

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

Is the 2019 Ford Fiesta good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. This guide provides a realistic outlook on tuning and modifying the 2019 Ford Fiesta for the US market.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

Top complaint category: power train (18 reports, 21.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Ford Fiesta?▾

This model year has 14 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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