1992 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 Although these second generation models were withdrawn in 2000, a third generation was sold between 1996 and 2002 in Japan as a badge-engineered version of the Mazda Demio.
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Common 1992 Ford Festiva problems
The Ford Festiva, particularly the 1992 model, has several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include:
- Fuel system problems: Many owners have reported issues with the fuel system, including poor fuel efficiency and stalling. This could be due to a variety of factors, including a faulty O2 sensor, a clogged fuel filter, or issues with the fuel pump or injectors.
- Clutch problems: Some owners have reported issues with the clutch, particularly on models with manual transmissions. The clutch may slip or fail to engage properly, which can make the car difficult to drive and potentially lead to further damage to the transmission.
- Wheel bearing issues: After 20 years, the wheel bearings on the Ford Festiva can wear out and cause a slight shake. However, if the bearings are replaced properly, they can last for many more years.
- Suspension problems: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension, including a rough ride and difficulty handling rough roads. This may be due to worn-out shocks or struts, which can be replaced to improve the car's ride and handling.
- Electrical issues: Some owners have reported issues with the car's electrical system, including problems with the radio and lights. These issues may be due to faulty wiring or components, and may require professional diagnosis and repair.
- Transmission problems: Some owners have reported issues with the car's transmission, including slipping and difficulty shifting. These issues may be due to worn-out gears or other transmission components, and may require professional diagnosis and repair.
These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1992 Ford Festiva. However, it's important to note that many of these issues can be addressed with proper maintenance and repairs. Regular servicing and inspections can help identify potential problems before they become serious, and prompt repairs can help ensure that the car remains safe and reliable for many years to come.
Is a Ford Festiva a reliable car?
Air-conditioning was an option. The Festiva is generally quite reliable if well serviced, so it's worth checking for a service history. Most should have had a cam belt replacement (110,000 km), or are fast approaching the mileage where they will need one.
How many miles per gallon does a 1992 Ford Festiva get?
Festiva L 1992
The 1.3L motor could use more punch, but has a BIG deal when fuel mileage is mentioned. 35 city 49 highway.
How many miles per gallon does a Ford Festiva get?
Fuel Economy
| City | 30 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 38 mpg |
| Combined | 33 mpg |
What is the fuel consumption of the Ford Festiva?
6.2 to 7.2L/100km
The Ford Festiva currently offers fuel consumption from 6.2 to 7.2L/100km.
Is a Ford Festiva a reliable car?
Air-conditioning was an option. The Festiva is generally quite reliable if well serviced, so it's worth checking for a service history. Most should have had a cam belt replacement (110,000 km), or are fast approaching the mileage where they will need one.
How many miles per gallon does a 1992 Ford Festiva get?
Festiva L 1992
The 1.3L motor could use more punch, but has a BIG deal when fuel mileage is mentioned. 35 city 49 highway.
What is the fuel consumption of the Ford Festiva?
6.2 to 7.2L/100km
The Ford Festiva currently offers fuel consumption from 6.2 to 7.2L/100km.
What kind of engine is in the Ford Festiva?
Ford offered a single 1.3-liter B3 four-cylinder engine and three trim levels: L, L Plus, and LX. The two base models featured a four-speed manual overdrive transmission, with the LX upgraded to a five-speed unit.
1992 Ford Festiva car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Festiva problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Ford Festiva vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1992 Ford Festiva complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Ford Festiva.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNJPT06H2N6
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FAILURE OF LOW CONTROL ARMS, TIE ROD END ,AND CV AXLES. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS HIT FROM REAR BY A TOW TRUCK, CAUSING DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT TO TWIST AND BREAK. CONSUMER FELT THIS WAS NOT SAFE, FOR SEAT TO GO BACK AND BREAK.*AK *SLC
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2MEPM36X7NB
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-09
- VIN: 2FACP73W1NX
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE LENS COVERS FOR THE HEAD LIGHT ASSEMBLIES (BOTH SIDES) HAVE DETERIOTED TO THE POINT THAT WE ARE NO LONGER GETING ENOUGH LIGHT AT NIGHT TO DRIVE THE CAR SAFELY. THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE MATERIAL THE LENS WAS MADE OFF, AND THE INABILTY TO KEEP THE INSIDE OF THE LENS CLEAN. THE COST TO REPLACE THESE LENS COVERS ARE $75 EACH. IF THIS WAS A TRADITION SEALED BEAM LIGHT, THE COST TO REPLACE WOULD BE $10. THE DETERIATION IS ALSO VERY SUTTLE. YOU DO NOT KNOW THAT THE LUMENS THE LIGHT ARE PROVIDING IS BEING REDUCED BECAUSE OF THE SUTTLE CHANGE IN THE LENS COVER OVERTIME. THE LENS COVER CHANGES SO THAT IT REDUCES THE AMOUNT OF LIGHT THE HALOGEN BULB PROVIDES TO LIGHTING THE ROAD. I NOTICED THIS CHANGE WHEN I WENT FROM DIRVING THE 92 CROWN VICTORIA TO MY NEW DODGE DACODA ON SOME BACK ROADS ON VERY DARK NIGHTS. I BELIEVE THE DESIGN OF THE LENS COVERS NEED TO ADDRESS TO ASSURE THAT THEY WILL NOT DETERIORATE OVER TIME AND CAUSE THIS VISIBITY PROBLEM, FORD SHOULD BE MADE RESPONSIBLE TO INSURE THE PLASTIC FOR THESE LENS ARE AS GOOD AS THE GLASS WAS FOR THE SEALED BEAM LIGHTS. I KNOW THE DOT ALLOWED THE CAR MANUFACTURER THE ABILITY NOT TO USE THE SEALED BEAM TO PROVIDE THE BENEFIT OF THE HALOGEN BULBS BRIGHTNESS, LESS ENERGY USED PER LUMIN, AND TO ALLOW A MORE GAS EFFENTS DESIGNS. THEY SHOULD HAVE ALSO BEEN REQUIRED TO PROVIDE A PRODUCT THAT WOULD LAST AS LONG AS THE GLASS ON THE SEAL BEAMS. PLEASE CALL ME AT MY WORK PHONE TO PROVIDE ME SOME FEEDBACK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THANK-YOU PAUL D'ANDRIES 706-647-7131.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FACP44M3NF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVERS AIRBAG DURING ACCIDENT, RESULTING IN INJURY.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNJPT05H1N6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE GARAGE, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE DETAILS. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- VIN: KNJPTO5H2NG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CONSUMER COULD NOT REPLACE PARKING LIGHT DUE TO INFERIOR DESIGN (NOT ENOUGH ROOM AND SPACE).
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-05
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: REAR AXLE MOUNT BROKE DUE TO MISSING BOLTS, CAUSING ACCIDENT.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FAPP31X8NK
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MOTORIZED SEAT BELT WOULD NOT UNLOCK, TRAPPING PASSENGER.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FAPP31X8NK
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: RECALL NOTICE GIVEN OF A DEFECTIVE IGNITION SWITCH.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNJPTO6H4N6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE ON THE BACK END BECAUSE OF EXHAUST MUFFLER. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-21
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE DIES OUT/STALLS/HESITATES. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNJPT05H9N6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: OWNER HEARD WEIRD CRACK AND VEHICLE STARTED EXPERIENCING OVER HEATING. IGNITION SWITCH NOW SEEMS TO AFFECT COOLANT FAN AND OTHER COMPONENTS ON SAME LINE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
- VIN: KNJPT05H5N6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MANUAL LAP BELT SUDDENLY COMES UNHOOKED/RETRACT. *SD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-04-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNJPT05H0N6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FIRE. *DSH
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-15
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VEHICLES DRIVER SEAT BACK SNAPPED AND IS NOW INOPERATIVE.THIS OCCURED WHILE IN NORMAL USE. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-20
- VIN: KNJPT0GH7N6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THERE IS A GAS SMELL PRESENT IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-22
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHT RELAY REPLACED THREE TIMES DUE TO HEADLIGHT FAILURES, CAUSING POOR VISIBILITY. *SKD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-05-06
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HORN FAILED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-26
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-14
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COOLING FAN MOTOR AND RELAY REPLACED DUE TO BEING INOPERABLE/RUNNING CONSTANTLY.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-14
- VIN: KNJPT05H6N6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RETAINER CLAMP AROUND CONVERTER SHIELD INSTALLED DUE TO NOISE UNDER VEHICLE.
1992 Ford Festiva recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1992 Ford Festiva.
- 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.
Negative 1992 Ford Festiva car reviews
Positive 1992 Ford Festiva car reviews
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My neighbor had a 1991 Ford Festival that I tried to buy about 6-7 years ago, but she wouldn't sell it. Finally, I was able to purchase it and pulled it out with my 88 1/2 Sami 4 x 4. The weeds were over my head! After restoring it, it took a lot of work, but now it's purring! It may even make it into my hall of fame!
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This car has been driven for around 75k miles over the course of 16 years. It's a dependable and fun car to drive, with a regular fuel efficiency of around 33-37mpg. Despite being in a t-bone collision on the passenger side and losing the front right wheel bearing, this car continues to impress by soldiering on. I drive it roughly 180 miles roundtrip every weekend and it never fails to amaze me. The muffler was recently replaced for the second time, and the car windows can be a little 'sticky' after usage in Maine winters. People keep asking to buy it from me, and I suspect it's because of the stylish lines and amazing handling - I can even make U-turns where SUVs fear to tread. Additionally, it has enough power to travel the Blue Ridge trail without breaking a sweat. All in all, it's a good and reliable little car that I'm proud to own.
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This sounds like a wonderful car! You've had it since 1989 and it's been a reliable and fun companion for all these years. It's impressive that it has 338,000 miles on it and has only needed one alternator change and two batteries. You must have taken great care of it! It's understandable that you're considering replacing it now for something more comfortable, but it's amazing that you still average 40 miles per gallon without using heat or air conditioning. And the fact that you've never had to replace the clutch is a testament to the car's durability. Thank you for sharing your story about your beloved 'Car-Car' with us!
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You've found the best vehicle bargain!
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Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share with you that I bought this car used back in 1994 and it's been such a reliable ride. It's got 240,000 miles on it now, but with regular maintenance, it's still going strong. The only thing I've had to replace so far is the radiator fan assembly.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1992 Ford Festiva problems:
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1992 Ford Festiva Bogging Issues
May 12, 2008 ... As soon as you let go of the throttle, to let it snap closed, the needle on the guage should shoot back up to a little past normal, and then ...
1992 Ford Festiva Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
Very reliable, great gas mileage, brakes are no problem and suspension is just fine. After 20 yrs the wheel bearings go bad which can create a slight shake but ...
Fiesta ST Issues Trend Thread | Ford Fiesta ST Forum
Oct 29, 2014 ... ... problem or a common issue. Not matter how ... No issues yet lmao! Matt in VA 2015 Ford Fiesta ST Tuxedo Black 1992 BMW 525iA e34 ... Ford Fiesta ST ...
How do I quiet noisy lifters? | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Sep 18, 2006 ... I have a 1992 Mazda ... It solved my lifter problems RE: Ford Festiva + Mazda 323 ... common problem in the Mazda B3 in the Festiva/Aspire as well.
Starting Issues? | Ford Fiesta Forum
... Fiesta SE, 1992 Ranger. Nov 24, 2020 · #1. My 2011 Fiesta has been having starting issues. When I turn the key to the 'on' position all the ...
Other years of Ford Festiva
Are you having problems with your 1992 Ford Festiva?
Kennith Waelchi 2024-11-19
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.
Domenick Maggio 2024-09-14
Congratulations on buying your first car all by yourself! It's great to hear that your car has been reliable in Alaska, especially with the studs you use in the winter. It sounds like your car can handle just about any terrain in the city, even hills and ice. Although, it may struggle a bit if there's more than a foot of snow on the ground. It's wonderful that you also use it in the summer, especially when friends come up to visit. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Alvah Lakin 2024-06-26
This car is very easy to repair and maintain. The parts are of the highest quality. It's impressive that it has already hit 345,000 miles with the original starter and alternator!
Preston Hudson 2024-06-08
I was a bit hesitant when I bought this little car with 182,000 miles on it. I thought I might get another 10,000 miles out of it before it died. But, to my surprise, it's now at 234,000 miles and still going strong! It's like the Energizer Bunny, it just keeps going and going and going! Who knows, it might even outlast my Toyota Camry with 130,000 miles. Go Festiva!!
Mustafa Bartell 2024-05-07
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 with a little more power. Despite this, I'll always appreciate the trusty service this car has provided me.