2004 Ford Fiesta

The 2004 Ford Fiesta was a popular subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. Engine options available for the 2004 Ford Fiesta included a 1.3L Duratec inline-4 engine that produced around 68 horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque and a 1.6L Duratec inline-4 engine that produced around 98 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners typically appreciate the Fiesta’s affordability, fuel economy, and ease of parking, but some common complaints revolve around its relatively small size, basic interior, and potential for certain mechanical issues.

Engine

1.3L Duratec I4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various areas, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may idle roughly or stall, especially when cold. This can be due to a dirty or faulty idle air control (IAC) valve, vacuum leaks, or issues with the engine’s sensors.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve, repair any vacuum leaks, and diagnose/replace faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Duratec I4

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ignition coil packs can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can develop from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include a low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift harshly or erratically, especially between gears. This could be due to worn-out transmission fluid, valve body issues, or solenoid problems.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, repair or replace the valve body, or replace faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip out of gear or hesitate when accelerating. This can be a sign of internal wear or damage to the clutch packs.
  • Solution: In severe cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially first or reverse, can be caused by worn synchronizers, a stiff clutch cable, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Replace worn synchronizers, adjust or replace the clutch cable, or top up the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty engaging gears, or a high clutch pedal can indicate a worn or damaged clutch.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn suspension bushings (especially in the control arms) can cause clunking noises when driving over bumps, as well as vague handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: A humming or grinding noise that increases with speed can indicate a failing wheel bearing.
  • Solution: Replace the affected wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate intermittently due to a faulty window motor, switch, or wiring.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor, switch, or repair the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster may display incorrect readings, flicker, or fail completely.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue, particularly in areas prone to salt exposure. This can affect the body panels, undercarriage, and suspension components.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels or components. Rust prevention measures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric may detach from the roof, causing it to sag.
  • Solution: Re-glue or replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator may fail, preventing the door from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Ford Fiesta can be a reliable and economical car, but it’s important to be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, such as oil leaks and coil pack failures, can be relatively inexpensive to fix. However, transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmission, can be more costly. Suspension wear and electrical gremlins are also common. Rust can be a significant concern, especially in certain climates. Potential buyers should carefully inspect any used 2004 Fiesta for these issues before making a purchase.