Ford Festiva problems
The Ford Festiva is a subcompact car that was designed and manufactured by Mazda for Ford between 1986 and 2002. Festiva was sold in Japan, the Americas, and Australia. The name "Festiva" is derived from the Spanish word for "festive". It was not related to the similarly sized and named Ford Fiesta, and was not replaced by the Ford Ka, which is smaller.
Designed by Mazda using the DA platform and B series inline-four engines, the Festiva continued the trend of Fords built and designed by Mazda for the Asia-Pacific market such as the Laser and Telstar.
South Korean first generation sales began in 1987 under the name Kia Pride, assembled by Kia under license. Australasia and Europe received the first version between 1987 and 1991 as the "Mazda 121". After 1991, Australasian sales occurred under the "Ford Festiva" name, while European sales continued under the name "Kia Pride". Kia ended production of the Pride in 2000. This ongoing production has been in parallel to the second generation Festiva introduced in 1993, sold as the Ford Aspire in North America and Kia Avella in South Korea and other markets. Although these second generation models were withdrawn in 2000, a third generation was sold between 1996 and 2002 in Japan as a badge-engineered version of the Mazda Demio.
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Ford Festiva model years
Common Ford Festiva problems
The Ford Festiva is a compact car that was produced by Ford in collaboration with Kia Motors and Mazda. While many owners have reported positive experiences with the Festiva, there are a few common problems that have been noted.
One common issue is related to the engine. Some Festiva owners have reported issues with the engine, including burning oil and smoking. However, it's worth noting that these issues may be more common in cars that have been abused or not properly maintained.
Another issue that has been reported is related to the transmission. Some Festiva owners have reported issues with the transmission, including hesitation in acceleration and shuddering. These issues have been reported to be particularly common in the 2011 model year.
The brakes are another area where Festiva owners have reported issues. Some owners have reported problems with the brake cylinder, which may require replacement. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the brake pads wearing down quickly.
The interior of the Festiva has also been a source of complaints for some owners. Some have reported issues with the interior accessories, such as the radio and climate control system. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the seats, including wear and tear and comfort issues.
Finally, some Festiva owners have reported issues with the exterior of the car. These issues have included problems with the paint job, such as fading and chipping, as well as issues with the body of the car, such as rust and dents.
It's worth noting that many of these issues can be addressed with proper maintenance and care. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections can help to prevent engine and transmission issues, while regular brake checks can help to ensure that the brakes are in good working order. Additionally, taking care of the interior and exterior of the car can help to prevent issues with the accessories and the body of the car.
Overall, while there are some common issues that have been reported by Festiva owners, many of these issues can be prevented or addressed with proper maintenance and care. If you're considering purchasing a Festiva, it's important to do your research and make sure that you're aware of any potential issues, but with proper care and maintenance, the Festiva can be a reliable and affordable car.
Is a Ford Festiva a reliable car?
My Festiva has been a very reliable little car. It is 14 years old and hasn't needed any major repairs in the first 90k miles. There really isn't anything fancy about it, but it handles well and it gets from point a to point b. All that and 45 mpg on the highway.
What are the main problems with a Ford Fiesta?
Common Faults With Ford Fiestas
- Transmission Issues: ...
- Clutch Issues: ...
- Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Malfunctions: ...
- Coolant Leaks: ...
- Faulty Door Latches: ...
- Engine Misfires: ...
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Problems: ...
- Faulty Throttle Bodies:
How many miles can a Ford Festiva last?
According to carparts.com, a typical Ford Fiesta will last 200,000 miles with excellent maintenance and constant, proper use. Some might push far beyond that point, while others could struggle and fall apart before nearing the 200,000-mile mark. Ultimately, much of it depends on the driver.
What year did the Ford Fiesta have problems?
Some Fiestas manufactured in 2011 suffer from suspension issues relating to the bolts used at the rear, which can snap off. However, this problem is specific to certain models and was identified in a recall.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Festiva years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Festiva cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Festiva model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Festiva model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Festiva years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Festiva car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Festiva , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Festiva vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Festiva model years
A total of 13 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Festiva model years
There were a total of 16 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Festiva model years
There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 206 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Festiva . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Festiva vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Festiva 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-13
- Date Complaint: 2016-01-13
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DELTA AKURET GRIP PLUS STUDDED SNOW TIRES 74S 145/75/12 . THE STUDS IN THESE SNOW TIRES WORE THE INTERIOR OF THE TIRE AWAY AND CAUSED A SWIFT LEAK, AS DOCUMENTED BY A CERTIFIED MECHANIC. TIRE WENT FLAT REPEATEDLY, AND WAS INFLATED TO PROPER PSI SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE COURSE OF THE DAY. TAKING THE VEHICLE TO A REPAIR SHOP, IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LEAK WAS OCCURRING BETWEEN TWO SEPARATE TIRE STUDS. THEY WERE BOTH LEAKING AIR WHERE THEY HAD WORN THE INTERIOR OF THE TIRE AWAY. THIS RESULTED IN THE REMOVAL OF TWO TIRE STUDS, AND PATCHES BEING REINSERTED INTO RESULTING HOLES. NO GUARANTEE IS POSSIBLE AS TO HOW LONG THIS REPAIR IS GOOD FOR. TIRES WERE OTHERWISE ROADWORTHY, SHOWING NO SIGNS OF UNEVEN WEAR OR ROUGH USE, AND HAD GOOD TREAD DEPTH REMAINING, AS DOCUMENTED BY REPAIR FACILITY. COST OF THE REPAIR EXCEEDED WHAT WOULD HAVE BEEN FULL REPLACEMENT COST OF A NEW TIRE. DELTA/AKURET WAS CONTACTED-THEY REFUSE ANY RESPONSIBILITY.
Ford Festiva 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-27
- Date Complaint: 2015-11-05
- VIN: KNJPT05H5M6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 FORD FESTIVA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED TO WORK. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 095V103011 (SEAT BELTS). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE CONTACT WAS TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED NO REMEDY. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.
Ford Festiva 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-04
- Date Complaint: 2014-11-20
- VIN: KNJPT06H8M6
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIDES EXTREMELY ROUGH, LIKE IT HAS NO SHOCKS! *TR
Ford Festiva 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-04
- Date Complaint: 2014-11-20
- VIN: KNJPT06H8M6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT, SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT. IT IS STUCK IN THE WINDOW AND WILL NOT COME DOWN! *TR
Ford Festiva 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2007-12-19
- VIN: KNJPT05H6P6
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 FORD FESTIVA. WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE DRIVER SIDE WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE WHEEL SUSTAINED A DENT IN THE METAL COVERING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FRONT CONTROL ARM FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT PAID FOR THE REPAIR. SOON AFTER THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED, HE LEARNED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96E017000 (SUSPENSION: FRONT:CONTROL ARM). THE CONTACT WOULD LIKE TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIR COSTS. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 126,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,628. UPDATED 02-14-08 *BF UPDATED 02/14/08 *TR
Ford Festiva 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2007-05-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNJPT06H2N6
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FAILURE OF LOW CONTROL ARMS, TIE ROD END ,AND CV AXLES. *AK
Ford Festiva 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-30
- Date Complaint: 2006-01-06
- VIN: KNJPT05H6P6
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY THE LEFT FRONT DOUBLE WHEEL ASSEMBLY FELL OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE LEFT FRONT CONTROL ARM LOWER BALL JOINT BROKE. THE VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL; HOWEVER IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN SEEN BY A DEALER WHO DETERMINED BOTH CONTROL ARMS, BOTH LOWER BALL JOINTS, AND THE LEFT AXLE SEAL NEED TO BE REPLACED. THERE WAS NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 96E017000 REGARDING THE SUSPENSION.*AK UPDATED 02/07/06. *JB
Ford Festiva 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2005-10-14
- VIN: KNJPT06H6P6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DT: CONTACT OWNS A 1993 FORD FIESTIVA . THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER COULD CATCH ON FIRE. THE REPLACEMENT PARTS WAS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT FELT THAT THE DEALER SHOULD MAKE THESE PARTS AGAIN SO THIS PROBLEM COULD BE FIXED.*AK 11/02/05. *JB
Ford Festiva 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2005-08-22
- VIN: 1FMYU03183K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TOGGLE SWITCH ON SUNROOF HAS ALREADY BEEN REPLACED ONCE AND NOW IT HAS GONE OUT AGAIN. DOES NOT STOP ON ITS OWN FOR OPEN AND CLOSE. I DON'T FEEL I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR SOMETHING THAT CONTINUES TO BREAK.
Ford Festiva 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-30
- Date Complaint: 2004-11-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: KNJPT05H6P6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: !993 FORD FESTIVA ENVOLVED IN A NEAR MISS/ AVOIDANCE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH CUT INTO MY LANE. GOING 45 MPH AND HIT CURB A COUPLE OF TIMES. THE PASSENGER SIDE SHOULDER BELT BROKE APART WHERE ATTACHES TO MOVING DOOR ATTACHEMENT. THE STITCHING BROKE COMPLETLY APART. DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT SHOWS EVIDENCE OF STICHING ABOUT TO BRAKE AND/OR LOOSE. PASSENGER SUFFERED BACK INJURY. *AK
Ford Festiva 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-25
- Date Complaint: 2003-08-15
- VIN: KNJPT06HXM6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT STOPPED WORKING, BECAUSE THE MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.*AK *PH *JB
Ford Festiva 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2003-07-30
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED WHILE TRAVELING AT NORMAL SPEED PASSENGER SIDE FRONT TIRE TREAD COMPLETELY SEPARATED. HOWEVER, TIRE STAYED INFLATED. *AK
Ford Festiva 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-20
- Date Complaint: 2002-09-11
- VIN: KNJBT07K1J6
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: JUNE, 2001, TIRE #NPC8 JPHR 169 ON THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE BLEW OUT WHILE I WAS DOING ABOUT 70 MPH IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT (COOL OUT). THE CAR IMMEDIATELY WENT SIDEWAYS TO THE ROAD, IN THE ONCOMING LANE. I BARELY GOT CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND BACK TO MY SIDE OF THE ROAD ONLY A COUPLE OF SECONDS BEFORE AN ONCOMING CAR WHIZZED BY. A COUPLE OF SECONDS LATER, OR LESS DRIVING SKILL, AND I WOULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. THIS WAS ONE OF A SET OF FOUR NEW TIRES I GOT FROM THE LOCAL GOODYEAR STORE. I THOUGHT IT WAS "JUST A BLOWOUT" BUT I KEPT THE TIRE AS A PRECAUTION. I STILL HAVE THE TIRE. IF I FIND OUT THAT GOODYEAR KNEW OF THE DEFECT IN THESE TIRES BEFORE JUNE, 2001, AND DID NOT WARN ME, I AM GOING TO BE UPSET, BECAUSE IT ALLMOST KILLED ME. THE SECOND TIRE THAT BLEW WAS THE SAME NUMBER: NPC8 JPHR 169. IT BLEW OUT IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS OF SEPT. 1, 2002, AT OVER 7000 FT (COOL TEMP). SPEED WAS ABOUT 50 MPH. THIS BLOWOUT WAS ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE, AND WAS UNEVENTFUL, BUT SINCE IT WAS ONE OF THE SET OF FOUR THAT I HAD PURCHASED NEW FROM THE LOCAL GOODYEAR STORE, I BECAME SUSPICIOUS. I BECAME MORE SUSPICIOUS WHEN I FOUND OUT THAT THE TIRE WAS THE SAME NUMBER AS THE OTHER ONE THAT BLEWOUT A YEAR BEFORE. THIS BLOWOUT LEFT ME OUT IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE IN NEW MEXICO WITHOUT A SPARE. I STILL HAVE THIS TIRE. THE OTHER TWO TIRES OF THE SET OF FOUR TIRES HAD THE # NPC8 JPHR 309. I HAVE REPLACED BOTH TIRES BECAUSE OF THE TWO BLOWOUTS. NOT GOODYEARS.*AK
Ford Festiva 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2002-06-21
- VIN: KNJBT06K3J6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AFTER TAKING VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICE MECHANIC STATED VEHICLE HAD A RECALL ON SAFETY BELT BUCKLES. MANAGER INSISTED THAT CONSUMERS VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER RECALL, AND REFUSED TO SERVICE VEHICLE. *AK
Ford Festiva 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2002-04-23
- VIN: KNJPT06H2L6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN. UPON TRYING TO START IT AGAIN, IT WILL NOT START UNLESS IT IS JUMPED STARTED. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER. PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN REMEDIED AS OF YET. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Latest 5 recalls Ford Festiva
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the Ford Festiva.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Festiva 1988
- Report Received Date: 1996-06-24
- Manufacturer: MOOG AUTOMOTIVE
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM MANUFACTURED BY MOOG INDUSTRIES. DUE TO MISPACKAGING, CERTAIN BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WERE INCORRECTLY PLACED IN THE WRONG BOXES.
- Consequence: THESE BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WILL NOT FIT INTO THE FRAME RECESS WITHOUT BEING ALTERED. ALSO THE STUD IS UNDERSIZED AND WILL NOT FIT THE SPINDLE PROPERLY POSSIBLY CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: MOOG WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECTLY PACKAGED ASSEMBLIES WITH CORRECT BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES.
- Model: Ford Festiva 1989
- Report Received Date: 1996-06-24
- Manufacturer: MOOG AUTOMOTIVE
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM MANUFACTURED BY MOOG INDUSTRIES. DUE TO MISPACKAGING, CERTAIN BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WERE INCORRECTLY PLACED IN THE WRONG BOXES.
- Consequence: THESE BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WILL NOT FIT INTO THE FRAME RECESS WITHOUT BEING ALTERED. ALSO THE STUD IS UNDERSIZED AND WILL NOT FIT THE SPINDLE PROPERLY POSSIBLY CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: MOOG WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECTLY PACKAGED ASSEMBLIES WITH CORRECT BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES.
- Model: Ford Festiva 1990
- Report Received Date: 1996-06-24
- Manufacturer: MOOG AUTOMOTIVE
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM MANUFACTURED BY MOOG INDUSTRIES. DUE TO MISPACKAGING, CERTAIN BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WERE INCORRECTLY PLACED IN THE WRONG BOXES.
- Consequence: THESE BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WILL NOT FIT INTO THE FRAME RECESS WITHOUT BEING ALTERED. ALSO THE STUD IS UNDERSIZED AND WILL NOT FIT THE SPINDLE PROPERLY POSSIBLY CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: MOOG WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECTLY PACKAGED ASSEMBLIES WITH CORRECT BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES.
- Model: Ford Festiva 1991
- Report Received Date: 1996-06-24
- Manufacturer: MOOG AUTOMOTIVE
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM MANUFACTURED BY MOOG INDUSTRIES. DUE TO MISPACKAGING, CERTAIN BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WERE INCORRECTLY PLACED IN THE WRONG BOXES.
- Consequence: THESE BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WILL NOT FIT INTO THE FRAME RECESS WITHOUT BEING ALTERED. ALSO THE STUD IS UNDERSIZED AND WILL NOT FIT THE SPINDLE PROPERLY POSSIBLY CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: MOOG WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECTLY PACKAGED ASSEMBLIES WITH CORRECT BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES.
- Model: Ford Festiva 1992
- Report Received Date: 1996-06-24
- Manufacturer: MOOG AUTOMOTIVE
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM MANUFACTURED BY MOOG INDUSTRIES. DUE TO MISPACKAGING, CERTAIN BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WERE INCORRECTLY PLACED IN THE WRONG BOXES.
- Consequence: THESE BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES WILL NOT FIT INTO THE FRAME RECESS WITHOUT BEING ALTERED. ALSO THE STUD IS UNDERSIZED AND WILL NOT FIT THE SPINDLE PROPERLY POSSIBLY CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: MOOG WILL REPLACE THE INCORRECTLY PACKAGED ASSEMBLIES WITH CORRECT BALL JOINT/CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES.
Latest negative Ford Festiva car reviews
Latest positive Ford Festiva car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1993
I love this car! It has never given me any major problems. The only issue I had was with the muffler, as they tend to wear out quickly. However, I purchased a lifetime warranty muffler and now I'm all set. I've seen many people with this car who have driven over 200,000 miles, which is amazing. I bought mine used with only 38,000 miles, so it should last me a long time. I really hope that Ford will bring this car back to their model line someday.
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Vehicle year: 1990
Now the Festiva was made by Kia, and I don't know if the new Kias are as good as this car, but it rocks. This is my second Festiva. I was in the Michigan Rally League and raced a Festiva. That car took more than any car ever should and still runs! Now I have my second one, and it is just great. Even if something goes wrong, it's so easy to work on. I love Festivas!
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Vehicle year: 1992
I have a standard LX and man, it's been so much fun fixing it up a bit! Right now, I'm looking for a manifold and exhaust to get it in tip-top shape. Even with 393k kms, it's still a great car, so I plan on fixing it up even more. Plus, there's plenty of space to put in a bigger radiator. All in all, this car is nothing but good news!
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Vehicle year: 1993
I have a 1993 Ford Festiva L Model with a 1.3L engine and 5-speed transmission, all with less than 60,000 original miles on it. My Festiva is in great condition, with all original parts except for the tires and some new parts for routine maintenance. I keep the air pressure in my tires at the maximum level, which makes for a smooth ride. Despite its small engine size, the car handles well and performs surprisingly well in higher gears. I love the simplicity of the car and its reliability. Considering the cost of transportation nowadays, I strongly believe that the reason they stopped selling this little gem in the US was because it would have seriously impacted the auto industry for sales of new cars. The Festiva was assembled by Kia with all the Mazda parts coming from Japan, and has a Ford badge on it. As a fan of Ford, Mazda, and Kia, I couldn't be happier with my Festiva. Although it's 23 years old, the paint still looks like new. The interior cloth seats have started to disintegrate from the sun, but all the plastics have held up well. I put a couple of seat covers on the front seats and it's like new again. Since I've owned the car, I have replaced a few inexpensive parts and the front windshield. The factory air conditioner works great in the Arizona summer, but can cause power loss and my engine temperature to rise a bit. The engine is bulletproof and if you look online for videos, there are people who document their Festivas turning over some serious mileage (one video I saw showed a Festiva with 500,000 miles). It is really fun to drive and I love taking mine on occasional long scenic drives into the mountains to stretch its legs.Your Festiva is quite the head-turner! It's no surprise that people are always asking where they can get one. Luckily, parts are easily accessible online through sites like eBay. I wanted to share an exciting update with you - I was able to sell my Festiva for $3,000! Despite being 24 years old, it sold in less than 24 hours after I listed it online. The woman who purchased it mentioned that she used to own one in the 1990s and always regretted getting rid of it. It's clear that the Festiva has a dedicated following, especially among those who appreciate its utility and reliability.
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Vehicle year: 1990
This has been a great car! It has more than paid for itself over the years. I got this car just as a joke, but now the joke is on me.
Are you having problems with your Ford Festiva?
Isaias Moen 2025-02-10
Vehicle year: 1992
I wrecked my previous car and bought this one as a temporary solution, but it has now become a part of my life. Despite being a bit cold-natured, it has never left me stranded and always starts up. It does consume a bit of oil, but at $1 a week for a quart, it's a small price to pay for the 600 miles I drive each week. The seats are a bit uncomfortable and it's not the best car for long-distance travel, but it still manages to get an impressive 38 mpg. Overall, I'm grateful for this reliable car that has served me well for over a year now.
Kennith Waelchi 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 1992
I bought my Festiva from a lovely Korean lady for only $1000. It came with all the bells and whistles - AC, AM/FM radio, automatic transmission, new paint, and low mileage of only 40,000. Now, it even has a sunroof! It has proven to be the most reliable car we own, with only a few minor issues such as the vacuum module and quick brake wear. However, it is very affordable to maintain.
Camren Rice 2024-11-18
Vehicle year: 1993
I bought this car from my brother and it has been great! It has good gas mileage and is easy to fix and find parts for (except tires!). While it may not be the best option for families with kids due to its small size and lack of accident safety features, it has served me well for commuting to work. It has even survived moves from Utah to Arizona to Nebraska and to Texas, and has over 170k miles on it. While I wouldn't take it on long trips, I love it for my daily commute!
Francis Abshire 2024-11-17
Vehicle year: 1991
I wrecked my previous car and bought this one as a temporary solution, but it has now become a part of my life. Despite being a bit cold-natured, it has never left me stranded and always starts up. It does consume a bit of oil, but at $1 a week for a quart, it's a small price to pay for the 600 miles I drive each week. The seats are a bit uncomfortable and it's not the best car for long-distance travel, but it still manages to get an impressive 38 mpg. Overall, I'm grateful for this reliable car that has served me well for over a year now.
Jan Lebsack 2024-11-05
Vehicle year: 1991
This car has been a reliable companion for the past 6 years, requiring minimal maintenance and only a clutch replacement in addition to regular tire changes. Although it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, it has proven to be a great runner. The rear wiper stopped working a couple of years ago, but it hasn't been a major issue. The paint is starting to show some signs of wear, but that's to be expected with age. However, I've decided to upgrade to a new car to get a little more power under the hood. Despite this, I'll always appreciate the zippiness of its 63hp engine.