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2008 Ford Fiesta

Introduction

The 2008 Ford Fiesta is a subcompact hatchback offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder is also available, which produces 140 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. Both engines can be paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Fiesta is known for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and affordability. However, it has also been plagued by a number of reliability issues.

Engine

1.6-Liter Four-Cylinder

  • Intake Manifold Runner Control Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold runner control valve fails, causing the engine to run poorly and stall.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold runner control valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gasket leaks oil, causing a loss of oil and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder

  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt fails, causing catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt and any damaged components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: 14S08

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Synchronizer Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The synchronizers fail, making it difficult to shift gears.
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission Fluid Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fluid leaks, causing the transmission to overheat and fail.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid leak.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Strut Mount Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount fails, causing a clunking noise and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace the strut mount.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Fuel Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The fuel pump fails, causing the engine to stall.
    • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Condensation in Headlights
    • Description/Symptoms: Condensation forms inside the headlights, causing reduced visibility.
    • Solution: Replace the headlights.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Climate Control Panel Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: The climate control panel malfunctions, causing the heating and cooling system to fail.
    • Solution: Replace the climate control panel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails, making it difficult to lock and unlock the doors.
    • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Ford Fiesta is a vehicle with a number of significant reliability issues. The most severe issues include timing belt failure, transmission fluid leaks, and fuel pump failure. These issues can be expensive to fix and can lead to catastrophic engine damage. While the Fiesta is an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle, its reliability issues make it a less desirable choice for many consumers.

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