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

The 2001–2002 period has 1 more issue than the Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift) average across all year periods.

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.

Most affected: 1.25 Zetec-SE, 1.6 Zetec-S

Estimated cost: £60–£180Affects: 20002002

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Drive the car under load in higher gears
  • Look for recent ignition-component invoices
  • Avoid cars with obvious aftermarket ignition bodges

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.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £120–£280Affects: 20002002

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Inspect wishbone rear bushes and anti-roll-bar links
  • Listen for knocks on full lock and over speed humps

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.

Estimated cost: £80–£250Affects: 20002002

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • 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

Buying Tips for the 2001 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift)

  • The 1.25 Zetec-SE remains the sweet spot, while the 1.6 Zetec-S is the enthusiast choice if it has not been modified on a budget.
  • Check both remote keys, central locking and the immobiliser light sequence, because annoying PATS and lock-module faults are now common ownership irritations.
  • Listen for front-end knocks and inspect the sills and arches carefully; the facelift improved the cabin more than it changed the underlying rust risk.

Browse 2001–2002 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2001–2002 Ford Fiesta Mk5 (BE91 facelift) vehicles.

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