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FORD FIESTA MOT Statistics by Year

Select a model year to see detailed MOT results; including pass rates, mileage trends, and the most common defects found for that specific FORD FIESTA.

Defect rate by model year

Comparison of Ford FIESTA versus average car of the same model year.

The Ford Fiesta has been a staple in the compact car segment since its introduction in 1976. Known for its practicality and efficiency, the Fiesta has evolved through multiple generations, gaining a reputation for affordability and reliability. As the years progressed, the model has often been praised for its driving dynamics and user-friendly features, making it a popular choice among city dwellers and first-time car buyers alike.

Analyzing its reliability through MOT inspection data reveals that the Fiesta generally performs better than the average car of the same year. For instance, in 1983, the Fiesta had 97 defects per 100 tests, significantly lower than the average of 180 defects for that year, marking it as a reliable option. This trend of lower defect rates compared to the average continued for many years, particularly in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with the Fiesta consistently showing a 30-46% improvement over average defect rates during this period.

However, certain years did see an uptick in defects. From 1994 onwards, the defect rate began to rise, peaking in the late 1990s and early 2000s, where issues such as worn suspension components and brake pipe corrosion became more prevalent. By 2003, the defect rate had climbed to 378 defects per 100 tests, just above the average for that year. Yet, in more recent years, the Fiesta has shown significant improvement, with the defect rate dropping to just 27 in 2023, well below the average of 36 for that year. This indicates a positive trend in reliability for the latest models.

Recurring issues identified across various years often relate to brake and suspension components, which are common concerns in many vehicles rather than specific to the Fiesta alone. Tyre condition has also been a frequent point of failure, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance regardless of the car model.

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Overall, the Ford Fiesta has established a solid reputation for reliability and efficiency throughout its long history. Its ability to maintain lower defect rates compared to the average car of the same year is commendable, and the recent improvements in reliability suggest that the Fiesta is well-positioned to continue its legacy as a dependable choice for drivers.