“Cars transmission went out at 64000 miles car started jerking then showed a message to use brake stop safely I pulled over and then said transmission hot give a few minutes then after a few minutes it said transmission ready then I tried to drive it and it did the same thing all over again. When I got it home I found out the reverse is out”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 10, 2024
“The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle would jerk and would hesitate to respond. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure recurred while driving from a complete stop, and the vehicle stalled in the middle of the road. The check engine warning light was illuminated.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 6, 2023 at 2,500 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2013 Fiesta peaked in 2015, with 138 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 47% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 5 so far.
Filed Jun 8, 20202,147,323 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Risk. A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.
Filed Apr 24, 2015456,440 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on April 23, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013, and 2012-2014 Fiesta vehicles manufactured February 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 119,567 vehicles, including certain model year 2011 Ford Fiestas manufactured from November 11, 2009, to May 31, 2013 and certain model year 2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured from February 1, 2012, to June 30, 2012. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Risk. A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four door latches with an improved part, free of charge. Interim notifications were mailed to owners on June 5, 2015. The recall began on December 18, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S16.
Filed Oct 5, 2012154,471 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Fiesta vehicles, manufactured from November 3, 2009 through September 21, 2012. The vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." The passenger side curtain air bag will not deploy in the event of a side impact collision when the front passenger seat is empty. Although the side curtain air bag system was designed to suppress the side curtain air bag under this scenario, that information is not explained in the owner's guide for these vehicles as required by FMVSS No. 208.
Risk. An occupant in the right rear seating position will not have coverage from the side curtain air bag in a side impact collision when the front passenger seat is empty, increasing the risk of injury to the right rear occupant.
Remedy. Ford will notify owners and dealers will reprogram the vehicle's software free of charge so that it no longer suppresses the passenger side curtain air bag when the front passenger seat is empty, and consistent with the description in the owner's guide. The safety recall began on October 26, 2012. Owner's may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2013 Fiesta.
Door Latch FailuresRecall query RQ19005Closed
Opened Dec 19, 2019Closed Feb 7, 2022Led to recall 20V177000door locks and latches
In December 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation based on 235 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging doors failed to latch when closed, and/or inadvertently opened while driving, on model year (MY) 2012-2014 Ford Fiesta, and 2013-2014 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ. Some VOQs reported the failure occurred after the latch had been remedied under a prior recall which involved fracture of the latch pawl spring tab due to thermally induced cyclic fatigue. Other VOQs alleged a similar failure in vehicles not previously recalled. A latch with a fractured pawl …
Door Latch FailureEngineering analysis EA15002Closed
Opened Feb 27, 2015Closed Nov 13, 2015Led to recall 15V246000door locks and latches
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of doors failing to latch and/or inadvertently opening on model year (MY) 2011-2013 Ford Fiesta, MY 2013 Ford Fusion and MY 2013 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. All of the affected vehicles share the same door latch design.ODI has received 281 unique reports related to the alleged problem, with over 100 claiming that the door(s) opened inadvertently while the vehicle was in motion. There were no crashes reported however three separate injuries were indicated, all caused by a rebounding door striking a …
Door Latch FailurePreliminary evaluation PE14028Closed
Opened Sep 11, 2014Closed Mar 18, 2015door locks and latches
On September 11, 2014 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE14-028) to investigate claims of doors failing to latch and/or inadvertently opening on model year (MY) 2011-2013 Ford Fiesta vehicles. ODI has received 207 unique reports related to the alleged problem, with sixty-five claiming that the door(s) opened inadvertently while the vehicle was in motion. Two injuries were reported, both caused by a rebounding door striking a consumer after they attempted to close it. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR), Ford Motor Company (Ford) responded …
Technical service bulletins
89 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2013 Fiesta. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Due to ongoing limited part availability, program terms have been revised. Vehicle pickup & delivery has been added. Labor allowance table …
14M02 06Warranty extensionNov 7, 2022equipment
Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission; Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Non-Ford Part Usage: Vehicles that are still covered by the 8 years/80,000-mile Emissions warranty coverage MUST be serviced with a NEW Ford …
Ford is extending the warranty coverage on the DPS6 automatic transmission TCM to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. This extended warranty coverage will address intermittent symptoms of loss of transmission engagement while driving, no-start, or a lack of power.
20B22-S4Service campaignSep 2, 2020transmission
This customer satisfaction program updates the TCM software in affected vehicles to provide improved detection and over warning of electrical circuit failures in the TCM. As communicated in a previous Customer Satisfaction Program (14M02), electrical circuit failures within the TCM may develop and result in intermittent symptoms of loss of transmission …
Certain 2011 through 2014 Model Year Fiesta and Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission - Transmission Clutch Shudder / Transmission Input Shaft Seal Warranty Extension
Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission - Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage
Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2014 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission - Transmission Control Module Service Warranty Coverage
Showing the newest 6 of 43 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2013 Ford Fiesta 4 DR FWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
14.3%
2013 Ford Fiesta 5 HB FWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
14.3%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2026IN
My transmission is going out I call ford they tell me there's no recalls on my transmission but I paid for a vin recall check and there is a recall on my transmission
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Jun 2, 202688,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact received the recall notification letter for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V331000 (latches, locks, and linkages). The contact stated that the passenger-side door opened while driving at 30-35 MPH. While her daughter was driving, the passenger side rear door came ajar. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was able to inspect and confirm the failure. The repair was approved then denied. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who referred her to another dealer. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
Power Train
Filed Apr 16, 2026KY
The vehicle experienced a sudden transmission failure while driving. Before the failure, the car began shuddering and hesitating during acceleration. It then started making loud metal grinding noises from the transmission area and eventually lost the ability to move properly when placed in Drive or Reverse. This created a safety risk because the vehicle could not accelerate normally in traffic and became difficult to control. The issue appears related to the transmission and/or clutch system. Warning messages and abnormal shifting behavior occurred prior to the failure. I previously asked a dealership in 2020/2021 to inspect and repair the transmission issues while the vehicle was still under warranty, but they stated the problem was not “bad enough” at that time and did not perform any repairs. The vehicle is currently inoperable due to this malfunction.
Power Train
Filed Mar 31, 2026MO
I was driving down [XXX] . I stopped at a stoplight. When the light turned green I pressed the gas to accelerate when suddenly mid intersection my transmission went out causing me to have no power. Approximately 5 minutes prior to this I did get a message about a transmission malfunction. Due to the transmission going out I was stuck in the intersection. I had it towed to a shop where they have confirmed that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has failed. There are a couple parts of the transmission that they have not been able to confirm whether they are working due to the TCM failing. I believe that the TCM failing can put drivers in a potentially unsafe position like it did to me. I was stuck in an intersection of 2 very busy roads due to this failure. I dont currently have the part that failed with me. It is still currently on the vehicle. The vehicle and component has not been inspected by anyone other than the shop it was towed to. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Exterior Lighting
Filed Feb 16, 2026NY
My low beam heads both stopped working at the same time. Upon investigation I identified the problem came from corrosion of the relay in the battery junction box. This problem exactly matches a Ford recall for some 2013 Ford fiesta manufactured in Canada. My vehicle is not covered by this recall, but the problem and failure point is identical. The text of that recall is as follows: "Safety recall in certain Canadian provinces of select 2012-13 Ford Fiesta vehicles for potential battery junction-box corrosion Ford is issuing a safety recall for certain 2012-13 Ford Fiesta vehicles in the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Quebec. In affected vehicles, battery junction-box relay or fuse corrosion can lead to a loss of low-beam headlamps and daytime running lamps while driving. This action affects 13,564 vehicles in Canada. Affected vehicles were built at Cuautitlán Assembly Plant from June 25, 2011, through April 27, 2013. Dealers will clean the battery junction box, install foam sealing to the cover and replace any corroded fuses, terminals or relays. There will be no charge to the customer for these services. The Ford reference number for this recall is 19S28"
Power Train
Filed Dec 19, 2025131,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, there was a loud rattling sound coming from the vehicle and the vehicle experienced a loss of power and decelerated. The vehicle was driven to a nearby service station. After restarting the vehicle and shifting to drive(D), the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The vehicle was later towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was 131,000.
Power Train
Filed Dec 11, 2025KY
My car has 74,000 actual miles and the transmission is acting up kicking out of gear and loosing coummcation with the tcm and a sensor comes on about bad clutch pack
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 7, 2025CA
Top of the driver side door handle broke free from the door. The car has previously been cleared of any recall defects - but a loose door handle may absolutely have something to do with the inner workings of the door/latch and may be a safety issue.
Power Train
Filed Aug 26, 2025LA
PowerShift dual-clutch transmission, slipping, bucking, and shuddering during acceleration. Subject of a class-action lawsuit.
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 12, 2025TN
Transmission control module failure
Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 21, 2025OK
Request Reversal of Recall Cancellation by the Ford Dealer. RE: Safety Recall Notice 20S30/NHTSA Recall 20V-331 VIN [XXX] ***IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL *** I have been working with the Service Manager, Forest at James Hodge Ford in Muskogee, Oklahoma, (1-918-682-1345) and Ford Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. In March of 2025, an inspection was completed on my 2013 Ford Fiesta in regards to this safety recall. IAW service manager performed an inspection of the door latches and closed out the recall. The issue for this recall states that my vehicle was previously repaired under Safety Recall 15S15 or 16S30. Evidently this was completed by the previous owner but it states that it is possible that one or more of the door latches was not replaced or may not have been replaced correctly. This proved to be true because in April while on vacation I was driving when my door swung open. After grabbing it I was able to find a place to stop. Then, I discovered the latch would not close! I found a rope to wrap around it to keep it closed to finish out my vacation. Ford has recognized and issued a safety recall due to the risk of doors not closing or doors opening while driving. As stated in the letter I received about the recall the risk is: If a door latch is not replaced, there is still a risk that the pawl spring tab inside the door latch could break. This condition will typically prevent the door from latching. Where the door is able to be closed, the door may unlatch whi
Air Bags
Filed Jul 15, 2025NJ
All 4 door airbags spontaneously deployed while driving. The air bag deployment knocked me unconscious and I woke up on the shoulder of the road. The vehicle dialed 911 after the incident occurred.
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed May 27, 202578,000 milesOK
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40-45 MPH, the driver's door unintendedly opened. The contact immediately pulled over to attempt to close the door; however, the door failed to close. The contact used a rope to keep the door closed with the rear passenger’s door on the driver's side door. The vehicle was previously included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V331000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages), and the vehicle was inspected and determined that there was no failure with the doors. The vehicle was not repaired at that time, and the recall was closed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the door latch had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed May 9, 202540,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact stated that the brake pedal was depressed several times before the vehicle came to a stop. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle almost crashed into another vehicle due to the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with brake master cylinder and vacuum brake booster failure. The contact was informed that the brake master cylinder and the vacuum brake booster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that a brake fluid leak was not visible. The contact stated that the low brake fluid warning light was illuminated, and the brake fluid was refilled two days prior to the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included with the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 17, 2025IL
Static through speakers - possible cause, alternator, spark plugs, or faulty wiring. Passenger air bag light - comes on and off on its own randomly. Overheats - with fluids all topped off and car parked and running for 5 minutes it will start extremely overheating with visible smoke. Not sure why. Wire cover - plastic panel on ground towards front of door on driver side needs better coverage. Panel just keeps popping off showing wires. Not sure to what. If gets wet from getting in and out of car can shock you while your driving if touch it just right. Emergency break - don't work Warming indicator - says doors are open when they aren't. Headlights - work when they want to. Theft alarm - don't work Hood pop lever - the lever to pop your hood isn't connected well. The whole lever is just hanging under my steering wheel from the cords. Not latched into anything just kinda floating in the air, makes it hard to pop the hood, can be a distraction while driving with something hitting your knee. Belt buckles - when using seat belts, comes unclicked randomly while driving or won't buckle at all when first trying to put it on. Trunk - unlatches and opens randomly while driving or parked. Shocks? - not sure if it's shocks or what it is. But there is no comfortability while driving. You can feel every bump, pot whole, Crack, anything you drive across. Think it messed up my bearings because of it. But I'm not a mechanic so these are just examples of what's going on and what i think.
SeatsCrash2 injured
Filed Nov 28, 2024FL
The vehicle suffered a direct rear impact from another vehicle traveling approximately 95 mph while this Ford Fiesta was traveling 60 mph forward. Both front seats were positioned upright with a properly seated driver and a passenger seated whilst turning his body behind the seat. The impact was severe enough to trigger the Ford Fiesta's SOS Post-Crash Alert System. As a result of the impact, both front seats of the vehicle broke free of their positions and reclined backwards. This action of the seats cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle as his hands were stripped from the wheel. The airbags did not deploy. The driver's head flew forward and slammed back hard into the headrest. The vehicle was inspected by a police officer at the scene who commented that the seats had failed. The vehicle was also inspected by an insurance inspector. The vehicle is currently in the possession of Progressive and may be available to inspect. The vehicle was in proper working order before the accident occured and provided no sign of issues with the seats.
Engine
Filed Nov 5, 202460,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The vehicle had failed to start. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to reverse. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was not safe to drive. The contact related the failure to Ford Campaign Number: 14M02. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission clutch, the TCM, and the doors needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Power Train
Filed Oct 13, 2024CA
Car shudders with noises on the transmission, not going on reverse and sometimes can not go on driver or forward too, car has codes for transmission clutches
Power Train
Filed Sep 30, 2024MO
Transmission won't move in reverse and goes slow in drive
Power Train
Filed Sep 6, 202474,429 milesIL
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, and while driving up an incline, the vehicle was losing motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle was not responding as needed. The contact stated that while at the top of the hill and driving down the hill, the vehicle regained motive power. The contact stated that no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was occurring while driving up an incline. The contact drove the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the internal transmission seals were leaking and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 74,429.
Power Train
Filed Aug 19, 2024132,000 milesKY
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was shuddering. The contact stated that previously it was difficult to shift out of park(P). Additionally, the contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The message "Turn Vehicle Off - Transmission Overheating" and "Transmission Malfunction - Service Now" were temporarily displayed. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the clutch pads had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.
Power Train
Filed Jul 10, 2024WV
Cars transmission went out at 64000 miles car started jerking then showed a message to use brake stop safely I pulled over and then said transmission hot give a few minutes then after a few minutes it said transmission ready then I tried to drive it and it did the same thing all over again. When I got it home I found out the reverse is out
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 30, 2024WI
Ford Fiesta 2013 had a transmission malfunction warning pop up and the car aggressively jerked back then wouldn’t accelerate past 25 mph. The warning light stayed on. The car a couple miles after the incident wouldn’t accelerate at all even though the engine was on. This type of stopping happened twice. This issue is not related to my driving or accident but due to Ford producing a car with set malfunctions.
Power Train
Filed May 28, 202492,800 milesPA
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the transmission experienced a catastrophic failure. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 92,800.
Engine
Filed May 24, 2024101,000 milesWI
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on three occasions, the vehicle jerked, lost motive power, and failed to accelerate above 25 MPH. The check engine, oil, and ECM warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and restarted. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic where the failure could not be replicated. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the failure persisted. The check engine and ECM warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the Transmission Malfunction message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
Power Train
Filed May 9, 2024160,000 milesIN
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware of a failure with the transmission. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift into second gear and was stuck in first gear. The contact stated that there was transmission fluid coming from the transmission. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence however, the failure persisted. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 16, 2024TN
I have a 2013 Ford Fiesta that I had financed through a 3rd party just right at a year . The ride was rough to begin with and I began experiencing problems such as a loud shrieking/grinding noise under the hood , which triggered the check engine light . Also pressing the gas and the car not accelerating properly which causes jerking , stalling , and etc. I had a mechanic look at it and did minor repairs but this problem is reoccurring. Recently , I was backing out of a parking spot and shifted the car into drive from being in reverse and pressed the gas and it didn't accelerate it just made a loud revving noise and jerked until I proceeded out the parking lot into traffic. The car continued to jerk really ridiculously, and I had to put on emergency lights and pull over into the nearest parking lot. I then had to call someone to trail me home. I recently had it towed to a local transmission shop after it jerked/stalled out really bad on me in heavy traffic again and didn't really want to accelerate to the proper speed. The mechanics at the Transmission shop ran a thorough diagnostic , and other tests and let me know that it's the Transmission Control Module that needs replaced and that it has to go to the dealership. Well I called a Ford Dealership , and the representative said it takes months to get in a new Transmission Control Module and also that even when replaced it really does not fix the problem as per many other similar situations the service representative has dealt
Electrical System
Filed Dec 9, 2023MO
We broke down in hopskinville kentucky at a gas station. had problems with going into drive and reverse. not wanting to shift. got it going on highway. wouldnt shift into gears lost of power. engine roars loudly and has difficulty shifting to higher gears when we attempt to accelerate. It feels like gears ears slipping or catching when speeding up or slowing down.Unpredictable shifting Trouble shifting into higher gear Trouble downshifting Getting stuck in the same gear. yes it has cause it would not shift and be stuck in the road.. took it to lovegreens in kirksville MO back at home. been nothing but issues and problems. they have lied to us and the ford customer service. they never ran a test on my vehicle they told ford that they havent done a test cause i was trying to get a loaner vehicle,. it has not been inspected. none of the lights came on until we experence the breakdown in kentucky. made it to athens alabama then had it trailered back to kirksville mo due to it almost causins a wreck. lovegreens said they have fixed the recall of the tcm but it was never fixed. i asked ford if i can get a diagnostic test if i can take it to another dealership for the recall... they would not honor it due to lovegreens claiming they fixed the tcm. 2 weeks later i went to pick the vehicle up it was stuck in first gear and it would not shift out of 1st gear. put it in L and then back to drive still would not shift gears. i decided to park it and i havent drove it since.
Power Train
Filed Nov 6, 20232,500 milesTX
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle would jerk and would hesitate to respond. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure recurred while driving from a complete stop, and the vehicle stalled in the middle of the road. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband depressed the accelerator pedal and was able to continue driving; however, the vehicle failed to exceed 20 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the TCM was replaced under Ford Campaign Number: 14M02. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop, the vehicle was shuddering. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 2,500.
Power Train
Filed Nov 6, 2023TX
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while his daughter was attempting to reverse; after shifting into reverse, the vehicle failed to move. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission control module and the clutch. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Power Train
Filed Oct 31, 2023147,000 milesMI
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the transmission seemed to have slipped out of gear, and the vehicle decelerated to 10 MPH. As the contact depressed the accelerator, the vehicle was bucking into gear. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated and there was an indicator flashing that the transmission had overheated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the TCM needed to be replaced. Additionally, the TCM failure caused damages to the transmission and the transmission needed to be repaired. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact drove the vehicle from the dealer to her residence; however, while driving, the vehicle stalled and was towed to the residence. The contact researched online and related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 14M02 Automatic Transmission Control Module (Power Train). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.
Power Train
Filed Oct 17, 202337,000 milesWV
The contact’s daughter owns a 2014 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently decelerated while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact then stated that that while the accelerator pedal was depressed the vehicle hesitated. No warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure could not be duplicated; however, the technician found that the clutch was slipping, and the clutch and shift forks failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 6, 2023PR
Transmission keeps having problems. I was told to replace transmission module
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Internal › Clutches/Bands
Filed Sep 13, 2023171,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30-35 MPH, the vehicle was shaking and shuddering. The vehicle failed to move forward and stalled. The vehicle was restarted. The “Transmission Overheating - Service Immediately” message was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where the transmission control module was replaced, and it was diagnosed that the clutch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 12, 2023TN
Car loses power and shudders when driving. I have pulled out into the road multiple times and had the car slow when acceleration pedal was pushed because the transmission wasn't engaging properly. We have also had a message appear on long road trips that says pull over and wait 5 minutes for transmission to cool as car begins to downshift at HIGHWAY speed!!! This has been an ongoing problem. We have been told repeatedly , well that's just how the Ford Transmission was designed by mechanics. I have been waiting for a transmission appointment with my local Ford Dealer since the end of May. The appointment was Sept. 11th. The service agent just called me to inform me the problem is the clutch and pressure plate which needs to be replaced. The car has 104, 000 miles on it. Ford is not willing to do anything to make this safety issue right. I have called them and they say my VIN is not included in their database. Please help me correct this before my family is in a wreck.
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while making a left turn at the traffic light, with her grandchild in a car seat in the rear passenger seat, the rear passenger's side door opened inadvertently. The contact stopped in the middle of the road. A bystander attempted to close the rear passenger's side door; however, the door failed to closed. The bystander was able to keep the door closed by using a cord. The contact moved her grandchild to the rear middle seat. The contact also stated that while driving on another occasion, the front driver's side and front passenger's side doors inadvertently opened. Additionally, the contact stated while driving on a slight incline, the vehicle inadvertently rolled back. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact depressed the brake pedal, but the failed to respond. The contact engaged the electronic parking brake; however, the vehicle rolled to the base of the incline. The contact was able to continue driving on the leveled road surface. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving on an incline. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised to contact the dealer for recall repairs. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact also stated that the seat belts pretensioners of the vehicle were not retracting as intended. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was previously involved in a cras
Power Train
Filed Jul 25, 202352,901 milesTX
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unintendedly shifted into neutral(N). Additionally, the contact stated that the transmission failed to shift into reverse(R) as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who performed a relearn, a visual inspection, and an adaptation test. No failure was found; however, the contact stated that the failure recurred. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Programs: 15N22 (Transmission Control Module), 19N07 (Transmission Control Module), and 14M02 (Transmission Control Module). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,901.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Filed Jul 17, 202378,175 milesVA
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while attempting to shift into reverse, the vehicle failed to shift into the intended gear with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that the transmission control module needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was not under recall and provide no further assistance. The failure mileage was 78,175.
Structure › Body
Filed Jun 2, 2023AL
Rear Passenger Door Latch Failed. We were forced to use a ratchet strap to return home safely due to door swinging open on turns. The safety recall for this was created in 2015 but as of June 2023 there is still not a solution from Ford. They also will not reimburse any repair done after 2017. This is unacceptable.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 17, 2023GA
Intermittent door lock recycling
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module › Software
Filed Apr 10, 2023100,000 milesOH
The contact's daughter owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that while her daughter was attempting to reverse out of a parking spot, the vehicle failed to respond with the engine revving. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that her daughter turned off and restarted the vehicle several times; however, the failure persisted. The contact's daughter shifted into drive(D) and the vehicle responded. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the TCM needed to be replaced and that the failure was related to an unknown extended warranty program that had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. The VIN was not available.
Power Train
Filed Mar 12, 2023NC
I bought a Ford Fiesta in 2013 at Ford Parkway, Winston Salem. I received a letter from Ford to recall this car due to the transmission being defective stating that I can either file a lawsuit or bring the car to Ford to replace the transmission. Ford said they would replace the transmission. After that, I noticed that the noise was a bit less than before and my wife started using the car but not daily because she has been working from home, which resulted in having less than 56K mileage. Recently, I noticed that the car was not running smoothly, and a loud noise started to come every time I drive the car. I went to Ford Parkway, they said the entire transmission needs to be replaced, I told them that they should have done so when they said they did back to 2017. However, the service department informed me that they only replaced the outer shaft and the clutches back then, even though this was a known manufacturer defect issue and Ford stopped making this model because of that. Now, because of not driving this car daily for long miles like most people do, the transmission problem popped up later than expected and after my warranty period has expired which I wouldn't have benefit from it anyway because of the coverage that was for the transmission software only. I talked with the service director at Ford parkway, and explained to him that the warranty period should have nothing to do with the defect issue because lots of people who were lucky enough discovered this fatal issue
Power Train
Filed Mar 9, 2023100,000 milesOH
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate properly. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the mechanic stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the manufacturer stated that there was no recall for the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 100,000.
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving from a complete stop, the vehicle hesitated to respond and was jerking significantly. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while driving at various speeds. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to dealer several times. The dealer replaced the transmission clutch under warranty. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred 6 years later. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission clutch needed to be replaced; however, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under warranty. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 9, 2023AZ
I was involved in a double roll over crash and the airbags did not deploy.
Power Train
Filed Jan 15, 2023WA
I purchased the vehicles from Duffy's Auto in Auburn Washington. After the first week of signing the paperwork I noticed a problem with the transmission that was significant. I brought it into the dealership and spoke to Tim Duffy owner of Duffy's Auto. He took it in and went for a test drive and said to me quote "your transmission is shot". "I hope you got the power train warranty on your loan". I replied yes it was strongly suggested by your sales representative. I paid $1,250 for this warranty. It was suggested by Tim Duffy that I continue to drive the vehicle until the check engine light comes on which triggered a response of why do we have to wait till it completely breaks down? He said it would make it easier on the dealership to get a transmission if he had the codes. My car continues to have issues when coming to a complete stop and starting again it's like a shake rattle and roll. At one time going up a hill and it slipped out of gear is all I can figure. I noticed on consumer complaints that this vehicle is infamous for transmission issues for this year and model. I now have a car that is worth virtually nothing with the transmission having issues and a dealership unwilling to fix it. I need help. I am a consumer who is a caregiver and needs a reliable transportation and I had high hopes for this vehicle to provide that. However after the first week of noticing the problem I have reported it to several individuals at Duffy's Auto in Auburn Washington. They are attem
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 30, 2022CA
COMPLAINT - Request Ford Dealer to honor recall -to add me on waiting list Airport Ford service personal not helpful and abrupt TCM transmission RECALL 14M02 2013 fiesta it has 57000 miles
Power Train
Filed Oct 26, 202254,000 milesAR
The contact’s daughter owns 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while his daughter was driving at 40 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact was unsure whether there were warning lights illuminated. The contact’s daughter was able to continue driving. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission control module (TCM) had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the parts had been on national back order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the parts were not available. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Oct 3, 2022158,000 milesOH
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the RPM increased with the engine revving; however, the vehicle failed to respond. Additionally, the vehicle also failed to reverse as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle also failed to exceed 10 MPH while driving. No warning light was illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.
Power Train
Filed Aug 3, 202235,200 milesNY
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Fiesta. The contact stated that the vehicle would surge while driving and the vehicle was making an abnormal clinking sound. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle was surging significantly and started to decelerate independently. The "Transmission Malfunction. Service Now" message was displayed. The contact released the accelerator pedal and depressed the brake pedal. The contact then slowly depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle responded. The contact was able to continue driving at slower speeds. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that they did not have an early availability for diagnostic test. The vehicle was taken to a transmission specialist where it was diagnosed that the Transmission Control Module needed to be replaced; however, the part was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 35,200.
Complaints 1-50 of 668, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Fiesta years to avoid: owners filed 668 complaints, 2.6 times as many as a typical Fiesta year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (47%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.
What is the most common problem with the 2013 Ford Fiesta?
The transmission: 311 of the 668 complaints (47%) are about it. Owners most often say it jerks, lurches or bucks (31%), hesitates before moving or accelerating (24%) and knocks, grinds or clunks (23%). The typical report comes at 18,890 miles.
How many recalls does the 2013 Ford Fiesta have?
3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 8, 2020. The largest, 20V331000, covered 2,147,323 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2013 Ford Fiesta problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 31,483 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 18,890 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2013 Ford Fiesta?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, RQ19005 ("Door Latch Failures"), was opened Dec 19, 2019 and closed Feb 7, 2022.
Are there service bulletins for the 2013 Ford Fiesta?
The manufacturer filed 89 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (43), the engine (11) and the electrical system (8). They include a warranty extension, 14M02 S7, filed May 4, 2023. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jun 8, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.