Ford Fiesta VII (Mk8) (2017 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The seventh-generation Ford Fiesta (often referred to as Mk8 in the UK and by purists) marks the culmination of the famous blue oval city car, whose production definitively ceased in July 2023 to make way for electrification (Puma EV). Based on an evolution of Ford's global B platform, it corrects the main flaws of the previous generation: the interior is transformed with better quality materials and the integration of the SYNC 3 multimedia system, while sound insulation takes a leap forward. Road handling remains the absolute benchmark in its category, combining dynamism and comfort. A restyling (facelift) occurred at the end of 2021, modernizing the front fascia (logo in the grille) and introducing Matrix LED headlights. Although the market has massively shifted towards petrol, the Fiest

✅ Strengths

Exceptional chassis: the best comfort/dynamism compromise in its class
Extremely economical, torquey, and reliable 1.5 TDCi engine on the road
Responsive and ergonomic SYNC 3 infotainment system (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto)
Significantly improved sound insulation compared to the previous generation (Mk7)
Fantastic ST version (200 hp) and very accomplished mHEV versions (post-2020)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Rear passenger space and boot volume (292 liters) inferior to competitors (Clio V, Polo)
Disastrous reliability of the wet belt on 1.0 and 1.1 petrol engines from before 2020
Quality of some plastics in the lower part of the cabin
DPF and EGR valve very sensitive to clogging on the 1.5 TDCi in case of urban use

🎯 Verdict

The Ford Fiesta Mk8 is a brilliant city car, particularly engaging to drive. If you are targeting the 1.5 TDCi diesel engine, it's an excellent choice for high-mileage drivers. This engine is robust, willing, and incredibly economical. However, it absolutely must be driven on roads or highways to avoid fatal clogging of its DPF and EGR valve in urban use. Note on petrol: If you change your mind to a petrol engine, absolutely avoid the 1.0 EcoBoost and 1.1 Ti-VCT from before 2020 (wet belt issues), and prioritize the 1.0 EcoBoost mHEV (2020+) versions equipped with a timing chain, which are infinitely more reliable.

Common issues

Encrassement du filtre à particules (FAP/DPF) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km (surtout en usage urbain)

💶 600 – 1 500 € (nettoyage ou remplacement)

Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour la régénération du FAP.

Encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 700 € (nettoyage ou remplacement)

Un nettoyage préventif peut prolonger sa durée de vie. Vérifier les symptômes.

Défaillance des capteurs liés au système d'échappement (ex: capteur de pression différentielle FAP) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 200 – 500 €

Un diagnostic électronique précis est essentiel pour identifier le capteur défectueux.

Usure prématurée de l'embrayage (boîte manuelle) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km (variable selon usage)

💶 900 – 1 600 €

Tester l'embrayage lors de l'essai routier, surtout sur les modèles urbains.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 150
Timing belt	£550 – 1 100
Clutch	£850 – 1 500
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.