Hello, I have had my first car for just over a year now. I wanted to switch to a 1.0 Fiesta as it seems to be faster than most other 1.0 engines with relatively cheap insurance. I keep seeing bad reviews on this engine from people saying that the engine is unreliable, How often does this happen, is it worth it or should I get the 1.3 petrol instead? I am also planning on getting one of the higher level trims but i think its the same 1.0 engine in all of them.

There are known issues with early EcoBoost engines, particularly with a faulty coolant hose, carbon build-up and fuel pressure issues. Ford says that these issues were resolved by 2014. Ultimately there is a degree of risk with any used car, but if an EcoBoost model has been regularly serviced then you are less likely to encounter any issues.

The wet belt is the biggest consideration for any 1.0 purchase that doesn’t have the reversed head and chain (2019 ish onwards). 

Hi,

If you are looking at 2013-ish cars your basic petrol choice is the 1.25 petrol or the 1.0 ecoboost. The later ecoboost engines without the "wet" cambelt issue you have probably heard about did not appear in the Fiesta until 2020.

Bear in mind that an ecoboost of that age (2013-ish) is due a change of the cambelt at 10 years so check that has been done or be prepared to budget for a 4 figure bill. 

The 1.25 is probably a safer bet - obviously not as quick but still fun to drive when you get the hang of it - I used to really enjoy the one we had.

The other petrol engine you may encounter on slightly later models is the 1.0 non turbo which is essentially the same as the ecoboost but without the turbocharger, so shares the "wet" cambelt issue.

 

 

the 1.6 Zetec-S is a good choice, if your insurance budget can afford it.

As Eric says any 10 year old or approaching 10 year old 1.0 Ecoboost needs budgeting in for Cam Belt replacement and a cost of £1500 to £2000

I would steer well clear TBH and get a 1.25 (But they're only Zetec Spec) or a 1.6 or look at other cars