Used 2012 Ford Fiesta Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Great, affordable car
bayoubus, 12/08/2011
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
33 of 35 people found this review helpful
I got a basic model Fiesta at a steal of a price after my hand-me-down car from college suddenly needed a new engine. I didn't have much time to shop around because my job requires transportation, so I was apprehensive about the sudden purchase but couldn't turn down the deal I got on this car. I don't regret it! I previously owned a Toyota Echo that drove great but always felt a little flimsy on the road. I don't get this feeling at all with the Fiesta. It's stylish, drives great, feels solid and it gets awesome gas mileage. I'm pretty tall and I never feel smashed into this car despite its subcompact size. Perfect for a purchase on a budget. I didn't feel like I was sacrificing anything.
2012 Ford Fiesta SE Sedan (6-spd Auto)
mathjack22, 09/25/2011
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
27 of 29 people found this review helpful
I've had my new Fiesta for just over a week now, and I have to say, I'm incredibly impressed with its overall package. I downsized from a Mercury Grand Marquis LS to save on gas and to drive something much sportier for my age (23). To be such a small car, the Fiesta has plenty of front seat space, a feat in itself because I am 6'2 and 280 lbs. There is plentiful head and leg room; my only caveat would be the slightly narrow feel of the driver's side, though I can still get quite comfortable. As far as the back seat, it's a no-go for any practical use, but I didn't need the extra space, so it wasn't a deal-breaker for me. The features on the SE (along with the 203A package) are plentiful.
SE Automatic 6-speed (review didn't have that option)
groksurf, 09/17/2011
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
46 of 51 people found this review helpful
Have owned the SE for three weeks. The Transmission prefers a very light touch when starting from a stop. It shifts 1-2-3 rapidly up to about 25 mph if you do it that way, very smoothly and quietly. Then you can push the accelerator more for nice quiet power. It will switch awkwardly if you give it heavy foot at low speed. You definitely need to learn how it wants to be driven; once you do it's a pleasure to drive. At higher speeds very quiet engine (although at 70 the rpms almost reach 3K--I'd prefer 2300 at that speed), and minimal road/wind noise. If you do push the rpms, the engine sound is throaty and not at all unpleasant. Great mileage so far, about 33mpg at 60% city/40% highway
6 years later Ford finally bought it back!!!!!!!
Rose, 09/05/2015
updated 10/03/2019
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
We have had transmission problems since day 1, they always tell us it is fixed and it never is. It has spend so much time in the garage that Ford should be making some of my payments for me. I don't complain often about vehicles because I know things can go wrong with anything mechanical but please listen when i say don't buy an automatic transmission fiesta from 2012. This vehicle has had so many recalls and they are still attempting to repair the transmission after the 30th time at the garage. Just got it back a week ago and back it goes again next week for the SAME issue. I can say it is very economical on gas when we do have it to drive. The other upside is that i have never been stranded with the vehicle, the transmission just doesn't work right. ****update 9-18-2016 fiesta has been in the shop several times. Mechanics verify issues verbally just not on paper, prompted by Ford Motors, and refuse to remedy this ongoing issue. Drove it for a trip to Boston recently and I can tell you if you think the transmission is horrible to drive for normal driving DON'T drive it in large cities or rush hour because it is horrendous jerking, jolting and skipping of transmission with acceleration!! March2018 as of this week & thanks to the class action law suit against Ford I have received notification that Ford is buying my junk vehicle back. I guess I didn’t realize how much time, accumulatively, my car has been in the garage being repaired until I had to count the days for the buy back. It has been in over 1/2 a year for repairs & that doesn’t count the time I have had to spend running it back & forth to the garage that is 45 mins away. Most recently in August 2017 they refused to continue fixing it at Quirk Ford in Augusta, Me. Hopefully this will be a nightmare that is soon over, never would have had this issue if Quitk Ford would have sold the the standard transmission I wanted but they convinced me this one was a much better deal. Yes a deal for them because they already knew the issues these cars had. Fingers crossed within the next mo th it will be fine because we have emailed confirmation of a buy back & the requisition team is supposed to be contacting us within 2 weeks! October 2018- if you have one of these lemons stick with the class action lawsuit & fight for the buy back. Yes they make you jump through hoops, spend hours filling out paperwork & submit the same informations SEVERAL times but it is worth it. I received a check for 2/3 of what I paid for the fiesta 6 years ago. Pls remember our fiesta is on the extreme issue end therefore we were compensated for the extreme number of days it was at the shop. If you are in the process & feel it is not worth it just remember the extended warranty they gave is running out & then all these issues will be at your expense so hang in there. I have myself a new Hyundai Elantra with 20k miles that i was able to pay cash with from the buy back check. Guess Ford should have bought it back several years ago when I offered it to them for $6k.
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Fun to Drive but Squealing Clutch
cventrice, 03/15/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
24 of 28 people found this review helpful
Overall, I like the performance and design features of my Ford Fiesta. The base S model is very affordable and it comes with several features such as ABS and stability control that are not normally standard in the base model. The car is a little slow in city driving but handles and accelerates well on the highway. Unfortunately, the car that I bought has had persistent problems with a squealing noise when the clutch pedal is depressed. It started the morning after I purchased the car. The dealer replaced the slave cylinder/throwout bearing assembly after 600 miles. It squealed again the morning after I picked the car up and has been intermittently squealing ever since then.
Fiesta s 5 speed manual Just towed!!!
benchpress777, 07/13/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
25 of 30 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2012 ford fiesta s for reliability.I am a courier which means i drive alot making deliveries.(o hold on tow truck guy calling.)so anyways driving today the traffic slowed down and i tried to down shift on highway.My clutch would not go into gear. I actually slowed down all the way to 25 mph on the highway till it it went in to gear.A semi was coming fast and almost rear ended me.Later on coming to a traffic light it would not shift into 1st gear.Eventually hardly any gears would work. barley made it home safely and loss money from not being able to make any more deliveries . I am very blessed it happened around midnight with less traffic.You know I was actually hoping this car would be much more reliable than a 2000 mercury sable i had.Theirin which nickled and dimed me after 2500 in repairs.I ended up trading it in on the fiesta .They junked the sable and gave 500 on trade. Who knows about the 2012 fiesta its sure not starting out good.I have driven 90% fords my hole life this one may be my very last.May even get out of it early.This is my honest story.1st tow around 15000 miles. Where did the quality go!
Stutter and Shudder
Deb, 07/15/2016
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
When I first test drove this car I fell in love, but about a month later I sincerely regretted buying this car. The first problem I had was the catalytic converter end out at around 40,000 miles. Then it started shifting really weird when accelerating from a stop, it would stutter and shudder as if driving a manual and bogging down very badly. So I brought it to Ford and they said it was to be expected and they didn't know why it does that but it is normal, but they decided to try and recalibrate the transmission. The recalibration worked for a little while. Then the stuttering came back again so I brought it back into Ford and they put new transmission seals in claiming it might help, and again it stopped for a little while. But of course it came back and then they tried putting a new clutch in, which also helped for a while. So I finally got fed up with my fiesta and decided to trade it in for a new car, the salesman took it for a spin and was VERY concerned but they also didn't know what was going on and were only willing to give me $3,000 for my car when it booked at $7,000. So again I brought it to the Ford dealership and told them I was concerned about my transmission and the service guy was VERY rude he simply shut down my concern and told me I may need a new clutch, and then I told him that within the last year had already replaced that, then he went on saying that it is to be expected for the car to stutter and make noise while shifting. So DO NOT buy this car unless you are willing to put up with poor service and stuttering!!!
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DO NOT BUY
Rob, 12/13/2017
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
My father bought these vehicle for me as an everyday driver, and I was to gradually pay it back. I am behind on my payments not because of laziness, but instead due to the multitude of problems this car contains that I've paid out of pocket, I could have bought a brand new Toyota Corolla. Within ten thousand miles (now 58,000) the transmission has been replaced twice, the sound system has been replaced (not the speakers, yes the actual sound system). The rear shocks have been replaced. I've taken this thing in several times for minutiae problems. The list goes on and on. Worst decision I have ever made
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I want to love this car...but I just can't
ipman501, 10/24/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
24 of 29 people found this review helpful
Bought the car brand new from the dealership (figured its cheaper to buy a new car and make payments instead of buying used and continually having to make repairs). Everything was fine up to about 8k miles. Then we started noticing weird transmission stuff (more on that later). Noticed weather-stripping on top of car is now coming loose (only 18k miles on the car). Not very comfortable, seats are hard. But I get 39mpg on the highway and 29mpg in the city. That is definitely the redeeming quality of the car. My wife wanted it because of the "Candy Blue" color, haha. No cruise control is kinda a deal breaker for me. Shouldn't that be standard in this day-in-age?
My pony replacement
carmelsmom, 12/04/2011
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
I just purchased my new 2012 ford "puddlejumper". I purchased this to drive during the winter while my Stang is in storage. I cant tell you how happy I am with this vehicle. There has not been on second that I have had regrets about this purchase. The motor isnt even broke in yet and I got 42 MPG driving from my home with is on the west side of Michigan to my daughters home on the east side of the state. It only took 4 gallons of gas! Ford has done a great job on the design of this car. I bought the basic model with manual roll down windows etc. I did install keyless entry and cruise is next on the list. LOVE MY CAR!!!
Shifting/ automatic
ldouglass, 09/06/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in May of 2012 with only 5 miles on it. At first I loved it but after I hit around 4,000 miles I noticed the car wouldn't shift properly. When I brought it into the dealer they said it was normal for this car. I don't care if it is normal or not. It is dangerous. Sometimes it won't shift very well at all. Hesitating and feels like it will stall at any minute. Hills are the worst, very hard to get up them. I feel this car will cause an accident for some. I don't recommend it. Not only does it spit and sputter shifting up but you can also hear the clunking of the transmission when it shifts down. I have a feeling there will be a recall on this car.
2012 Ford Fiesta one happy dude
phillylmbs, 09/27/2011
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
Purchased my Fiesta in Sept 2011...I actually had to order this car because they don't stay on the lots very long. I drove this car from Abilene Texas to Dallas which is a three hour drive and boy does this car zip around. It actually exceeded my expectations on the highway. After three hours it gets a bit uncomfortable driving. I didn't buy the car for long distance anyway. I purchased it to save gas and get back and forth to work... a round trip of 40 miles. It's great on gas and it's a fun car to drive. Very manuverable vehicle...I can now park in tight spots with ease. Ford finally made a vehicle with style, character and zip. It's been two weeks only but I love this car.
Still unhappy with this vehicle
Fran, 06/14/2016
updated 12/14/2016
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
In addition to the other things previously stated went wrong. The compressor on the air conditioner and fan went out. Estimate to repair $1300. For once, I had purchased the extra warranty so this was covered, but if it had not been, I could not afford the repair. Car is definitely a lemon.
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Remember economy
TIm Reilly, 01/05/2016
updated 01/09/2020
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
This vehicle was purchased with economy in mind - I purchased it used at a ford Dealer with 14,000 miles. It has proven to have very good Fuel Mileage (38mpg) highway . I did not expect a soundproof air ride and the car has provided basic transportation as I expected. I do like the fold down back seat as I can carry longer items through the trunk. - The Radio is the worst I have ever seen lucky for the CD player. I have had the recalls reported taken care of at the dealer without incident. I do change my own oil and filter every 4,000 miles with genuine Moto-craft parts. At 45,000 I replaced the front brakes. Here is where I have issue - at 57,000 miles and just a year of ownership I brought the vehicle in for the yearly inspection sticker. I get a call within an hour that the car needs upper and lower balljoints it has a leaking front CV seal and bad bearing. The Ball joints were not available and had to be ordered so three days later I get the car back--- Call Ford and not covered by warranty - That is my issue-- If you build something stand behind your product. with only 57,000 highway miles and serviced regularly this is not abuse or neglect. this is poor quality. This is my review... the vehicle was not cheap I paid dealer price and expected serviceability for at least three uninterrupted years. Tires, breaks, maintenance --- ok, Needed-- However mechanical and operation breakdowns are not acceptable traits to be positive about. 2020, I continue to drive this daily (195,000) miles on the car now. Still changing oil and using motocraft parts. Overall the long haul this has been a terrific economy car for me.
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It's like buying a hybrid without paying extra
raj58, 08/14/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I love the fuel efficiency of Ford Fiesta. It gives me 40-42 mpg on my daily commute and 50-54 mpg on highways. I also like its cute looks, the spacious interior, the safety features like 7 airbags, blind spot mirrors, and capless fule inlet. On negative side, there is no arm rest for the driver, the lights are not automatic and the pick up is somewhat slow.
I HATE THIS CAR
anonymous, 10/02/2017
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
I have been driving this car for 6 years. If I were not in such a tough financial situation, I would have gotten rid of this car a long time ago. It is no surprise there is a lawsuit against Ford because of their Transmission issue with this car. I have had this car in the shop, several times every year I have owned it. The first winter, my heater went out. I have had constant transmission and clutch issues where it's been replace twice. My engine light comes on and goes off due to "Environmental Reading" issues. I have had oil leaks because 3 dealerships can not seem to put the cap on tight enough after an oil change. I am SO done with this car and can not wait to unload it next month. I will never recommend a Fiesta to anyone.
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Impressed so far
mrb1072620, 04/02/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
I traded down to save on gas and overall maintenance costs. So far I am extremely happy with the Fiesta SE automatic. It handles great and has a little pep to it once it gets going. The gas mileage is fantastic, I am averaging 32.5 mpg with 100% city driving. I can't wait to see how it does on the highway in the future. The SE with alloys and sync make it a great little car. The front seat is borderline too small but I didn't expect to have extra space either in a compact car. Ford recommends the first scheduled oil change maintenance at 10,000 miles, that's pretty cool too. Overall, I highly recommend the Fiesta for it's looks, gas mileage, performance and cost.
Run away as fast as you can
Dan, 11/26/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
This has got to be the worst car ever made by any car company, including Yugo. This car should auto qualify for a lemon. If you buy this car, chose a lemon law attorney the same day you drive off the lot. The ford sync system is terrible and never works properly, and i mean NEVER. The transmission is a constant problem. It sound like it's grinding during every shift point and even when no power is applied. It shifts erratically, surges, stalls out and sometimes leaves me stranded at red lights. Don't buy this car, don't even look at it.
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I warn you don't!!!
Nicole, 06/28/2016
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2012 Ford Fiesta SE 30 days ago off the lot. Day 27 the transmission goes goes out. Its at 86,000 miles. Turns out that the type of transmission this is (half manual/half auto) does not last long. So Ford knows its a problem and as a 100,000 miles warranty to fix it. The problem with that is that this car will most likely break down again because its just way the car it built, not just a random malfunction. Do not but any from the year 2011-2015. Actually, most of the fords in those years have them like the Focus. I found out that there is actually a class action lawsuit type thing because so many people are big this problem. The interior is made cheaply because the plastic door handle broke off day 2 of owing it. After a week of buying the car the sun roof started working 50% of the time. The USB connects to the phone so it can change but doesn't connect to play music anymore because the fuse that is the liaison between the two went out. On a bright side it does drive smooth. Though I would rather have bumpy car that lasts
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Great car
SS, 08/22/2016
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great little car. I've kept up with maintenance and had no problems.
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GOTCHA TRANSMISSION.
artii, 06/23/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I loved this car till it had 6500 miles. Car started to act lke the choke was coming on when slowing: car would almost stall out at stops. Took it in for service. they said that was normalfor this yr model. They actually gave me printed "tech notice" saying this was normal!!! I went on a 300 mile trip gas mileage went from 41 to 35 mpg AND it now over rev's to shift. 1st and 2nd fair but reves to 5500 rpm from 3k to down shift. also over revs to down shift when passing and you can feel 3,4,5, gears as a mush bal and takes about 2 seconds to shift. Dangerous on the interstate!!!!!
Throttle Broken at 45K highway miles
jt18, 10/09/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Driven gently, and properly maintained, this vehicle has only given me a few problems. The arm rest broke after one year, I'm not a big person and I didn't abuse the arm rest, it just broke one day when I leaned on it to adjust the seat. The throttle body started failing after about 40K miles, idling erratically, lurching on the highway, stalling at stoplights and randomly racing the engine while idling. Took it to be repaired, of course it is NOT covered under the power train warranty. Cost $900 to repair! Strange, I would have expected the throttle box to be considered part of the power train. It does handle fairly well in rain and snow as long as it's not too deep.
More than what you expect, but know what you are buying
chicoandee, 10/20/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
First, I must say that I've read some horrible reviews on the transmission of this car. It is sold as an automatic, but it is actually a manual with a computer controlled clutching system. It ran well until about 500 miles when after it broke in, some hesitation in shifting and noises could be heard - just like a manual transmission. This is normal but the dealers should be upfront about this. Other than that, MPG is as advertised, it has lots of interior creature comforts, and overall I am very happy with the car.
The worst car i ever had
Sherita, 08/12/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Great fuel mileage, but everything else sucks, had the car for 3years, and i have had to go back to dealership way to many to get repairs made, now my starter is gone out, i really regret buying this lemon
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I love this car more the longer I drive it.
nubile, 06/28/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the Fiesta new and the longer I own it the more I love it. I really appreciate the solid body feel and the handling. This car goes where you steer it and can turn on dime. A make or break issue with me was going to be the 5-speed manual. Several years ago I owned a 2001 Focus and I hated the 5-speed manual because it felt so clunky and cheap. The Fiestas 5-speed is smooth and has an un-American feel that reminds me of an old 89 Acura Inegra I used to love driving. The Fiesta is not as powerful but it feels to be of equal quality. My only real complaints are some of the minor interior parts have a very cheap plastic feel that take away from a plush interior.
Get a different car! Fiesta NO lemon YES
M. C., 10/23/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Do not buy this cute little lemon!!! Recalls recalls recalls !!! And brake trouble, transmission trouble engine light always on , car revs at stop signs the service manager said I'm not letting the engine warm up before driving!!! As hot as it's been in Southern California that's absurd!!! I'm done!! Time for a lemon law lawyer! I took it for a recall repair and they CHARGEd me 300 dollars for a throttle body !!! And threatened to take it back out if I didn't pay! And claimed to give me a 300 dollar Ford discount to offset the 600 dollar price tag!!!! I will NEVER buy another Ford!!! To think I was trying to support American made items!! Well they aren't supporting me!! I drive up hill to my house each nite and my car stalls for a few seconds each time!, that's dangerous!! Shall I die for an American made car??? %#¥ NO!!! I'm done!!! Give me back my Toyota!
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LEMON!!
E. Lucero, 11/29/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I purchased a used 2012 model from my local Ford dealer as a graduation gift for my daughter in 2013. This car has been nothing but trouble almost from the start! We have had to take the car in for constant service due to the ongoing recalls associated with the clutch, transmission and door locks, and still the car is not up to par. Thank god for warranties! We finally had enough and traded this lemon in for a Fusion; hoping for better luck this time around, and peace of mind knowing my child is driving a safer car.
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Not safe to drive on hills!!
disappionted60, 07/25/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 13 people found this review helpful
I have always been happy with Fords - until I bought this Fiesta 2 months ago. I don't drive in the mountains, just some hills. There is a stop light at the base of the driveway into the place I work. The car cannot reach the 35 mph speed limit!! I stay in 2nd gear - the tach is over 3500 rpms - shift to 3rd and it slows down! Same problem on the highway - it's ok if I'm dong 60+ but otherwise, I watch the mph go down. down shifting doesn't do any good. It's a busy road with lots of semi's. Dealer says it's normal, nothing wrong with the car. I need to learn how to downshift. I have a co-worker with an automatic Fiesta hatchback... has the same problems.
Great Entry Level Car for the Value (Sedan, Auto Trans.)
sarah0509w, 06/07/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This was my 1st car purchased new, and I love it. I don't understand peoples huge annoyance w/ the shifting. It's an economy car, so of course it's not going to be as responsive and zoom off like some of the higher level models or like a sports car. Yes, the shifting can seem a bit indecisive and shaky at low gears, but it really depends how you drive it. If you are a shy, offensive, accelerator-tapping driver it will probably bug you. As long as you're not shy and you drive with purpose (I'm not saying to squeal out or be reckless), it's surprisingly responsive and fun. The sedan is pretty spacious, and everyone comments on how big the trunk is. AND I get an avg of 33mpg city, 39-40mpg hwy!
Bought it off the lot with 12 miles when I was 18
Simon Steward, 02/20/2016
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
In 2012 I bought my Fiesta S sedan, with a 5 speed transmission, and 60,000 miles later it's still a decent car. I replaced all for shocks at 50,000 miles and am about to replace my clutch fairly soon since the plates started to slip. If you're over 6 feet tall no one can set behind. It has decent pull in 1st-3rd gear so you can get up to speed on highways. I use cheap snow tires(compaired to my other cars) and never had a problem in mud or snow. I overpaid by buying an economy car new but it would be a good starter car because they have such a low value now.
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Problems, Problems, Problems
ian_labell, 07/11/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After purchasing in May of '12, the first problem arose after only 4000 miles. The clutch was making a squeaking noise when being used. I had to take it to the dealer twice, wasting two days before they would fix the problem, which happened to be an adjustment. Then at 30000 I noticed fluid leaking from the vehicle. Turns out it is the front axle, and the dealer won't be able to get me in until next week, and stated "well it should be fine until then." I thought Ford had made large strides in building better more reliable cars but I was incorrect. Never buy a Ford product, you WILL be let down.
Better than I expected.
tonysf, 03/30/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
We have owned our 2012 Ford Fiesta for 2000 miles and love it. On a trip to Fresno,CA from Bakersfield we received 41 mpg driving 70+ miles per hour. I thought that was great but I knew that I could improve. From Quartside, AZ to Bakersfield I received 48 mpg. I was averaging 65 mph and using coasting techniques in the mountains. I do not have a cruise control so my miles per hour sometimes crept upwards. My last trip from Santa Barbara I got 49 mpg. I know I can get 50 mpg. These are hybrid numbers; amazing. P.S. this a 4-door sedan with a 5-speed transmission. Thanks Ford Tony C
truly so unhappy with Ford Fiesta
mariawat1, 05/31/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my Ford Fiesta in 2012 brand new and brought it back within a couple of weeks with an obnoxious rattling noise, twice I was told that Ford was aware of the problem but they dont know what it is yet, once they figure it out they will fix it. August will be one year I hate this vehicle and the noise it makes I feel as though I am driving in an old rattle car like my sons 1993 Saturn at least he has an excuse the thing is old. How fair is it that I drive around in a vehicle I have to pay for every month when it sounds like a broken down old piece of junk. My third visit they figured out it was the transmission they will get the part in a couple of days that was may 15 today is May 30
Not a good choice !
Christina, 09/25/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2012 Ford Fiesta brand new and loved it . It was cute and drove great! Right when I hit about 30,000 miles , everything went down hill. My 2 rear doors flew open and wouldn't latch [non-permissible content removed] on the freeway (recall) then the clutch needed to be replaced due to is slipping and grinding . This last time , 1 month after the clutch replacement , my car would just start revving while I'm at a complete stop. I should have purchased the extended warranty ! I'm trading it in now , hoping for better luck with a 2016 Ford Fusion.
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On the road again
spikes1gambit, 12/30/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in Feb and have since put over 15,000 miles on it. I've been through the desert, up over the continental divide, over hills, through woods and stuck in traffic. Average Commute is 38 mpg, I've hit up to 44 on the hwy. THe back seat is a little cramped and the arm rest is wimpy, other than that, I love hitting the road in my car.
2 year report
jimd14, 10/25/2014
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've owned my car for a little over 2 years now. I have had no problems with my car other than one of the hub caps having paint peeling which was replaced under warranty and rotors needing to be turned which Ford also replaced under warranty. I was surprised the rotors were covered considering this is a wear and tear item that lasts depending on your driving conditions and habits.
Silly and reliable
Pam, 09/17/2018
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Never had issues! My fiesta is 6 and half years with 52000 miles. The excellant mechanics at the Ford dealership in Pt. Charlotte did recall work on my transmissionwhich affected the gas mileage abit . My transmission dual clutch was replaced because the mechanics found a leak before the warranty ended. This occurred six months ago that this was replaced. I was concerned but the car is running awesome. I don’t drive long distances. Did hear if you take long trips this transmission won’t hold. A gal who use to be a mechanic told me this CVT can’t handle long drives. Ford gave her all her money back with her sedan when she explained problem. Oh well My is fun to drive and the more money I save the more I have so I’ll keep it as long as it is reliable. The acceleration is way better than my old celica and my fiesta turns great. Guess I’ve been lucky with all the bad reviews however there are so many fiestas out there it can’t be that bad a car if ford has fixed the problem.
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Stay Away from Ford!
lrperki, 07/22/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We bought our Ford Fiesta brand new in 2012. Since then we've had multiple issues. The stereo system only operates properly 50% of the time. The car has cut off on us twice and the dealership doesn't know what causes it but after a day or two it turns on again (terrifying). The transmission has always had issues and had to be REPLACED this year after only 2.5 years... And to top it all off the car shut off in the middle of a very busy street this week and the dealership has yet to determine the issue. We are NEVER getting in the car again and buying a new vehicle. We will never buy a Ford again. STAY AWAY!
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My used car purchase on a 2012 Ford Fiesta SEL
Danny Redondo, 05/22/2019
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought a used Ford Fiesta SEL with high miles the price was great ! I have had it over a week! Hopefully no problems in the foreseeable future but so far it is fantastic! Yes you want nor initial power when getting on freeway but picks up nicely! It was a bit of a concern when I would step on accelerator a little to much the transmission didn’t like it ! But I learned to ease off the pedal at first and it runs great! Love the satellite radio nice sound system, Leather bucket seats! Ice cold air conditioning which is a must here in Phoenix Arizona!
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Transmission, radio and electrical problems!!
melinda, 08/05/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
transmission awful it grinds up hills looses power on acceleration ! The radio works when it wants to , only controls 3,4 work on ac and heat 1,2 slower fan speeds do not work . Oil service light and low tire air lights stay on even if oil changed and air put in tires !! This car is a nightmare !! My first and LAST ford EVER !!!
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It's no fiesta.
JustSayNo, 08/16/2015
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is hands down, the worst car ever made. I have made cars with my Lego sets that are more reliable. Constant transmission problems along with a non functioning Sync system makes this car horrific. However, it is cute to look at; but that's all it has going for it. Don't you dare buy this car!
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Would not recommend this car to my worst enemy!
jennillicious, 09/28/2012
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 9 people found this review helpful
This was my very first brand new car. I was very excited when I test drove it. Bought it with only 20 miles on it. At first I truly loved it. I was also sold on it having a supposed Sirius XM radio. (It does NOT by the way! so do not be tricked by the button on the dash labeled "SIRIUS" as I was) I have had it for 10 months and have put a little over 9,000 miles on it. It developed an oil leak and has been to service twice for the transmission. It stalled out on the interstate while I had my children with me and we had to be towed home right after the dealership gave it back to me saying they had repaired the transmission. This car is very unsafe and I am just so disappointed and angry!
stick shift
jimd14, 08/07/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 7 people found this review helpful
After reading reviews from owners on this car I opted to get a stick shift. It's a new trans design so it will have bugs for the first few model years. I've had my car for a year putting on 15k miles. So far no problems. I average 40 mpg but do not do highway driving. Yes the paint chips easily but for 16k new you can't expect the same finish as a mustang. For those who complain about cheap materials...it's a cheap car...don't expect higher priced quality - it's simply not realistic. Overall for the price of this car new you get quite a bit for your money.
Adaptive Transmission and Poor Gas consumption issues
coach_dizzy, 06/26/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We purchased the 2012 Ford Fiesta SE (Auto) in August of last year. Since we have put on over 33,000 km on it. Never had a issue with until last week. While accelerating there seemed to be a slip or clunk in the transmission and there would be no acceleration for a very brief period of time. We also started to notice a dramatic drop in our MPG. The first 8 months of use we would get around 650km per tank of gas on a mixed driving terrain. Now we are lucky to push 425km per tank. Dealer says it was the ATC and said it is fixed now. We will see. I really hope the gas consumption gets resolved.
Transmission Problema
Palmer, 12/25/2022
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought a Fiesta Sedan for a steal back in 2019. Ran very smoothly for about 2 years, when the transmission was suddenly was not working properly. Even getting it fixed, the car was never the same again. Occasional sputtering is what one would experience from this as well.
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Good little car for recent college grad
Griffjd, 01/22/2019
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Owned the car for 2 years. No issues with the car that are outside of normal maintenance. The car was great in the illinois. Traveled well, got greatness mileage and was not too bad comfort wise. We recently sold the vehicle because needed something all wheel drive in as we moved to snow belt. This vehicle was okay in light snow but not the greatest in heavy snow. It was a very good vehicle though.
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Working better after transmission replacement
dtwarterian, 09/10/2016
updated 10/04/2021
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
04/02/21 Final update - While my Fiesta is now running fine (I gave it an additional star), after nine years, and putting in $6k in repairs and maintenance into it, I am getting another car. Oh and by the way, it has another recall on it. Lessons learned: 1. Test drive multiple cars (makes and models) with someone in the car who will ask questions, 2. Know what you want in car before you buy 3. Don't let anyone talk you into something you are not sure of, cars are a tool not an investment. I am getting another car and test drove six of them before deciding on the one I am buying. My best to anyone who owns a Fiesta. 9/30/20 no transmission issues since they replace the crutch assembly back in December of 2018. Seems to be running fine. Had a recall on the battery case and some safety locks but other than that it's been fine. 3/30/20 ever since they replaced the clutch assembly in December 2018 it has been running perfectly, no drags shutters or whistles, slowing learning to trust it once more. 3/28/18 Update - Fiesta is still running fine, it still drags and shutters but I am told that, that is a common thing. Still would not recommend, I keep my road service number handy at all times. 3/2017 update: car is running better after its last fix (3rd time in the shop). they had to replace a dirty clutch in the transmission(still has less than 40K miles on it), still do not recommend it. I bought my 2012 Fiesta new, to date it has less than 40k on it, I do not drive a lot. However, there have been 4 recalls on it and it is currently in the shop for the second time in three months! First, they had to replace the clutch because of shuddering and jerking. Yesterday I had to have it towed to the shop for transmission issues. I am very disappointed in Ford and even though I have been a loyal Ford customer, this pretty much changes my mind. There is obviously as issue with the transmission, yet Ford doesn't want to spend the $$ to make a quality car.
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MY DOORS
adenapathways, 07/26/2017
2012 Ford Fiesta SE 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but problems with my door and now door handles. I was leaving for a cruise and went to close my doo and it would not close. It made for an interesting start to my vacation. They did repair this under warranty and recall. However I had to take it back the following Monday because the driver window wouldn't go down due to something during the first repair. Now my drivers door is not opening from the out side and they are telling me around 300 to repair the handle. I have talked to many people and this door has a plastic piece that attaches to the door handle and it breaks frequently. I was told you cant just buy the plastic part you must repair the whole handle. I guess I'm upset because this drivers door has given me nothing but problems and now it is out of warranty and it seems that this should also be covered under the recall. Now my transmission is slipping I also hear this is a recall and there is currently a Class Action Suit on the transmission.........
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The best car under $18,000
brandonh3, 03/01/2013
2012 Ford Fiesta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the most fun on 4 wheels I've ever had. I let people drive my car and they compare it to a high performance mini-sports sedan. The thing corners like it's on rails, gets over 40mpg regularly, has one of the BEST sounding stereo systems from the factory and has safety features out the wazoo. The up and coming 2014 Fiesta ST will be incredible. My car, with 120hp, accelerates fine. I can't imagine it with almost 200hp!!
Steering Knock
100peter, 10/08/2013
updated 04/11/2018
2012 Ford Fiesta S 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a Fiesta Zetec with a 1.4 TCI engine. I have had this car since 2010 and until early this year I have had no problems. A knock started to appear when I turned the steering in either direction. The vehicle was taken to both a Ford garage and an independent garage but despite changing the tie bar links the knock was still present, and after the vehicle had been lifted off its wheels the knock was more excessive. I discovered the cause of the problem and have informed both garages of what I had discovered. By unlocking the steering when height adjuster and lowering the steering wheel by a very small amount (5mm) the knock has been resolved. Although adjusting the column position will resolve the knock it is not the permanent solution as the power steering pack still moves on the column and still today Ford have not accepted this is an issue and have not resolved the problem Still no resolution to the steering knock 2018
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