Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Ford Fiesta
The 2013 Ford Fiesta has significant issues with the power train and engine, based on high complaint counts. Door latch recalls should be checked for completion. Check passenger airbag function due to recall. Limited evidence on suspension and steering issues but be cautious during inspection and test drive.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Ford Fiesta has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 668 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V331000 Doors May Open While Driving NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V246000 Doors may Unexpectedly Open NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V488000 Passenger Side Curtain Air Bag/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 391 complaints
- Engine 110 complaints
- Unknown or Other 91 complaints
- Structure 78 complaints
- Electrical System 62 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 47 complaints
Of the 668 complaints on file, 12 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 668 complaints, owners report 9 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Power train issues
How to check: Check for smooth gear shifts and no vibrations.
Engine complaints reported
How to check: Inspect for unusual noises and smooth idle.
Door latch failure
How to check: Ensure doors latch and stay closed securely.
Airbag deployment issue
How to check: Confirm airbag recall was resolved.
Electrical system faults
How to check: Test all electrical functions, including lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine knocks or hesitations.
Red flag: Persistent knocking noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Warning lights stay on
- 03
Parking lot maneuvers
What to check: Observe steering responsiveness.
Red flag: Loose or unresponsive steering
- 04
City driving
What to check: Monitor transmission gear shifts.
Red flag: Gear slipping or harsh shifts
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for engine power consistency.
Red flag: Lag or stuttering during acceleration
- 06
Braking test
What to check: Feel for smooth, even braking.
Red flag: Spongy or uneven braking response
- 07
End of test drive
What to check: Inspect for fluid leaks beneath car.
Red flag: Any visible fluid leak
- 08
Final idle
What to check: Listen for unusual sounds or vibrations.
Red flag: New noises after drive
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the door latch recall been completed?
- Any past issues with the transmission?
- Have airbag recalls been addressed?
- Any electrical problems experienced?
- Is the maintenance record complete?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle title
- Recall completion records
- Maintenance history
- Warranty information
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Ford Fiesta at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 Ford Fiesta? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.