Ford Fiesta 2012 Problems

You’re in a situation in which you have to negotiate a settlement with Ford. Obviously you haven’t been able to achieve a satisfactory outcome, so it might be worth considering joining the class action suit that is running on this issue. At least then you would part of a group with the strength of numbers rather than an individual alone. Phone 1300 226 647 for info.

There’s no difference between the petrol engines in the 2011 Fiesta compared with the 2012 model. So, yes, they both require the same timing-belt changes. And yes, the interval is determined by which comes first, the 160,000km or the eight years.

I can feel your frustration. It's bad enough that your car has a problem, it's worse when the car company doesn't appear to care. It would appear you have been treated very poorly. The issue needs to be sorted out with Ford, so keep calling until you get the response you want. You could also take it higher, to Ford's boss, Graeme Whickman, or you could consult a lawyer and send Ford a solicitor's letter demanding they take action to fix your car.

Ford says they now have a solution to your problem. Expect contact soon from Ford after Stephen Kruk got on the job, with a new clutch and a free service.

Ford has been working to help Fiesta owners with gearbox problems but obviously not well enough. This is ammunition for another attack and I hope to have some good news soon.

Thanks for the tip, it's a good one.

The broad rule is that if the indicator light is a yellow or orange one (check-engine light, low-fuel warning) you should be okay to get the car to a mechanic to have it scanned to see what the problem is. Or to get it to the nearest service-station to put more petrol in it.

But, if the light is a red one (temperature, oil pressure, charging system etc) then you need to stop driving the car right now or risk doing further, permanent damage to it. Pull over somewhere safe and call the cavalry. Continuing to drive with a red warning light on the dashboard is almost a guarantee to damage or destroy something expensive, including the engine.

There have been a lot of problems with the auto transmission in that model, so contact Ford and request help with replacing the transmission. I wouldn’t take the transmission out before you get an answer from Ford, as they might ask you to take it to a Ford dealer for inspection. Taking the ’box out could compromise your case.

It’s a fine smear of oil, not a leak as such. It’s not something to worry about, unless it develops into a more serious leak.