IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2001–2002 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2001–2002 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Coil Pack and HT Lead Misfire

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Later small-capacity Zetec-SE petrols commonly develop misfires from tired coil packs, leads or plugs, especially after damp weather or deferred servicing.

Est. Repair Cost: £60–£180
Warning Signs:

Jerky acceleration, Misfire under load, Lumpy idle or poor cold running

What to Inspect:
  • Drive the car under load in higher gears
  • Look for recent ignition-component invoices
  • Avoid cars with obvious aftermarket ignition bodges
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front Wishbone Bush and Drop Link Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

By now most Mk5s have been through multiple sets of front suspension parts, and worn bushes or links make the steering feel loose and noisy.

Est. Repair Cost: £120–£280
Warning Signs:

Clonk from the front over bumps, Steering wander, Uneven front tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect wishbone rear bushes and anti-roll-bar links
  • Listen for knocks on full lock and over speed humps
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

PATS Immobiliser and Central Locking Faults

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Ageing lock modules, key transponders and damp electrical connections can cause remote locking failures or intermittent non-start issues.

Est. Repair Cost: £80–£250
Warning Signs:

Remote locking works intermittently, Immobiliser light flashes rapidly, Cranks but will not start

What to Inspect:
  • Test both keys and the remote functions
  • Lock and unlock every door from the fob and key
  • Confirm the immobiliser warning light behaves normally on startup
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2001–2002 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift)

  • ✓Carefully check the inner and outer sills, floor pan, and rear wheel arches for rust, as corrosion protection was still quite poor.
  • ✓Listen for a 'tappety' or ticking sound from the 1.25 or 1.4 Zetec engines; they need regular oil changes to prevent top-end wear.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the heater control valve, as it is just as prone to failing (stuck on hot or cold) as in the Mk4.
  • ✓Inspect the front suspension for knocking over speed bumps, which usually points to worn anti-roll bar drop links or lower arm bushes.
  • ✓Check the condition of the red master key (if applicable) and ensure all keys start the car, as the early PATS immobiliser system can be temperamental.
  • ✓Look for signs of oil leaks around the rocker cover gasket on the Zetec engines, a minor but common and messy issue.
2000
Check a 2001–2002 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift) by Registration