2001 Ford Fiesta Zetec S review from UK and Ireland
"No rocket sled, but relatively safe, nippy,solid and economical"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Steering column squeaked for a few months, nothing too serious.
Boot seal let water in, new seal fitted by the dealer.
Engine can pink under load, remedied by using Shell Optimax (higher octane).
General comments?
Mainly bought the car because it was enjoyable to drive, and at 6'2 245 lbs, I couldn't fit in things like Saxo's without jamming my legs under the steering wheel.
I feel I drive the car enthusiastically, but I have 2.5mm left on my tyres at 16300 miles! I have read reports of people having bald tyres by the time of the 1st service (10,000 miles). I would say inspect used models VERY carefully, lots of spoilt kids and reckless fools abuse these cars. Build quality isn't up to VW standard, but outstrips anything French or Italian.
My car has had only the faults described above, and returns over 42mpg. More after I had it chipped, which also netted +10 bhp at the driven wheels. Optimax petrol makes it run smoother too, and the increase in mpg offsets the extra cost.
I have just ordered a new model, (same monthly payment, more free insurance) in Silver, versus the red one I have currently. Highly recommended.
Search for New and Used Ford Fiestas available in the UK
Click here to advertise your car
Recommended reviews
  | 2001 - Fiesta Flight 1.3 petrol Overall, the car gets you from A to B (eventually) with minimal hastle, but I would recommend a 1.25 |
| An all round nightmare |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 DOHC 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 16300 miles |
| Date of Entry | 30th January, 2002 |