IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Ford Fiesta Mk7 pre-facelift (B299)

2009 added the ECOnetic diesel, a 98g/km 1.6 TDCi that was exempt from UK road tax and became a favourite of mileage-conscious fleets and private buyers.

What changed for 2009

  • •Fiesta ECOnetic launched with a 1.6 TDCi diesel and 98g/km CO2
  • •Aerodynamic tweaks including lowered suspension and rear wheel spats
  • •Offered as a five-door hatch and a three-door van

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !DPF clogging on ECOnetic cars used mainly for short urban trips
  • !Diesel injector seal leaks and rough running
  • !Corroded rear brake pipes and rear drums
2
Known Issues
0
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Front Coil Spring and Top Mount Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Broken lower spring coils and tired top mounts are common on UK-used cars, causing knocks, vague steering feel and repeat MOT advisories.

Est. Repair Cost: £180–£400
Warning Signs:

Knocking over potholes, Creaking while steering, One front corner sitting slightly low

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the bottom coil for fresh breaks or rust
  • Listen for spring or top-mount noise on full lock and over speed humps
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Water Ingress (Boot)

MinorBodywork & Rust

Poor sealing around the rear lamps or roof seam can leave the boot floor, spare-wheel well and rear carpets damp for months at a time.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£150
Warning Signs:

Damp boot carpet, Condensation on windows, Musty smell inside the car

What to Inspect:
  • Lift the boot floor and side trims if possible
  • Check the spare-wheel well for standing water or surface rust
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2009 Ford Fiesta Mk7 pre-facelift (B299)

  • Check the ECOnetic's DPF history and whether it has had a forced regeneration
  • On any TDCi, listen for a chuffing noise around the injectors
  • Confirm the car has been serviced with the correct low-SAPS oil