Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module (BCM). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Ford Fiesta electrical problems
moderate Owners of the 2013 Ford Fiesta have filed 42 NHTSA complaints about the electrical, typically surfacing around 67,000 miles at roughly $850 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
42
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
| Model year | electrical complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 Fiesta | 51 |
| 2012 Fiesta | 47 |
| 2013 Fiesta (this page) | 42 |
| 2014 Fiesta | 32 |
| 2015 Fiesta | 12 |
| 2016 Fiesta | 19 |
| 2017 Fiesta | 4 |
1fire
When does it fail?
Of the 42 electrical complaints filed for the 2013 Ford Fiesta, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 42 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 9 model years of Ford Fiesta in our records for electrical problems, this one ranks #3 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2011-2019 Fiesta vehicles may exhibit various concerns following IPC replacement. Symptoms may include: no crank, 'Contact Hotline message', odometer displaying incorrect English or Metric units and/or diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U2101 in multiple modules. If programmable module installation (PMI) has been performed on the replacement IPC, disconnect the IPC, start a new session using the appropriate Ford scan tool and perform a PMI on the IPC. Do not reconnect the IPC until after the scan tool states it is unable to communicate with the IPC, then allow the PMI process to complete. This will automatically load the correct configuration and address any related DTCs or symptoms.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA and negative battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-BA are available for this type of repair. Do not cut or shorten the battery cable, instead carefully remove the affected battery cable clamp and clean the cable end as necessary to preserve wire length. Some rework may be necessary for some vehicle environments. Bend the new positive battery cable clamp as needed and crimp it to the existing battery cable. Make sure to use heat shrink tubing over the battery cable
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been developed and is available from Rotunda (339-EVDC100). A tester has been provided to each U.S. dealership free of charge with shipments completed 19-Apr-2019 (reference EFC07013 on FMCDealer.com). This tester will help reduce the potential for misdiagnosis and unnecessary compressor replacement. Make sure that this tester is used for warranty repairs and document the test results in
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2011-2018 Fiesta vehicles may exhibit various concerns following IPC replacement. Symptoms may include: no crank, Contact Hotline message, odometer displaying incorrect English or Metric units and/or diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U2101 in multiple modules. If programmable module installation (PMI) has been performed on the replacement IPC, disconnect the IPC, start a new session using the appropriate Ford scan tool and perform a PMI on the IPC. Do not reconnect the IPC until after the scan tool states it is unable to communicate with the IPC, then allow the PMI process to complete. This will automatically load the correct configuration and address any related DTCs or symptoms.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report a constellation of electrical failures that collectively paint a troubling picture. The radio repeatedly cuts out and emits loud static or popping bursts, sometimes with the key out of the ignition—described as terrifying and dangerous while driving. Low-beam headlight relays corrode severely in the fuse box, with prongs breaking off inside and becoming impossible to retrieve; one Canadian recall (19S28) addresses this but no U.S. recall exists.
Dashboard false warnings—"Critical Engine Failure," phantom door-open messages, "Service Immediately"—appear randomly and distract drivers on highways. Turn signal fuses blow repeatedly within an hour of replacement. Battery warning lights illuminate at startup despite a functioning charging system. The transmission hesitates and shudders (TSB 13-4-5 and Recall 14M02 address this), and some vehicles lose power entirely while driving or stall unexpectedly. Door locks fail to operate reliably—one documented case shows the vehicle can be locked while running with the key in the ignition. Fuse boxes develop rust and corrosion, especially in salt-road regions, causing cascading failures. Post-recall repairs sometimes create new problems, including one instance where an airbag system was left unplugged after service. Dealers often cannot reproduce intermittent failures during test drives, leaving owners frustrated and facing five-figure repair bills after warranty expiration.
Same Ford Fiesta electrical reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Radio/Audio System - Intermittent Failures and Static Bursts
Radio cuts out intermittently, then emits loud static or popping/cracking sounds without warning. The radio may come back on briefly before cutting out again. Static bursts can occur whether the key is in the ignition or not. The noise is described as terrifying and distracting while driving, creating a safety hazard.
When: Intermittent, can occur at any time while parked or driving
Symptoms owners cite: Radio cuts out intermittently; Loud static bursts from speakers; Loud cracking and popping sounds; Radio fails to turn off after engine is shut off; Sound described as startling and distracting
Repairs/costs cited: Radio replacement estimated at $280 without labor. Some owners disconnected fuse as temporary workaround. One owner reported radio was replaced at dealer; another reported short circuit diagnosis.
Dashboard Warning Messages - False or Misleading Alerts
Random false warning messages display on the dashboard, including 'Critical Engine Failure,' door open warnings when doors are actually closed, and 'Service Immediately' messages. These false alerts are distracting while driving, especially on highways.
When: Random, intermittent
Symptoms owners cite: False 'Critical Engine Failure' message while nothing is wrong; False door open warnings; 'Service Immediately' message displayed; Messages cause distraction while driving
Turn Signal/Headlight Circuit Failures
Turn signal or headlight circuits fail intermittently or completely. Turn signal fuses blow repeatedly within an hour of replacement. Headlights fail while low beams are inoperable but high beams work.
When: Intermittent to permanent failure
Symptoms owners cite: Turn signals stop working; Turn signal fuse blows repeatedly; Headlights inoperable while high beams work; Headlights work intermittently while driving at night
Repairs/costs cited: Fuse replacement required but fuses blow again within an hour. Headlight relay replacement needed.
Headlight Relay Corrosion
Low beam headlight relays in the fuse box become severely corroded, causing headlight failure. Corrosion is so severe that relay prongs break off inside the fuse box, making removal and replacement difficult or impossible. Design flaw allows moisture to enter the fuse box.
When: Intermittent at first, then permanent failure
Symptoms owners cite: Low beam headlights stop working; High beams still function; Relay prongs corroded and broken in fuse box; Headlights work intermittently
Repairs/costs cited: Battery junction box replacement at 'great expense'; entire fuse box may need replacement. Prong stuck in fuse box cannot be retrieved with tweezers.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 19S28 exists in Canada (Atlantic Canada) but not issued in USA. Ford USA does not recognize the issue.
Battery Charging System False Warnings
Battery warning light illuminates randomly at startup, indicating a charging system problem that does not actually exist. Light comes on unexpectedly and stays on until the vehicle is turned off and restarted. All charging system components test normal.
When: Usually at startup, random occurrences
Symptoms owners cite: Battery warning light illuminates at startup; False indication of charging system failure; Light remains on until vehicle is restarted; Charging system operating normally despite warning
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replacement attempted ($300 estimated) but did not resolve issue. Problem is intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
Engine Malfunction - Wiring Harness Defect and Loss of Power
Vehicle experiences engine malfunction warnings and significant loss of power during acceleration or highway driving. Ford acknowledges manufacturing defect in under-dash wiring harness but claims it is not covered under warranty. Vehicle loses power, jerks, and hesitates. Requires engine shutdown and restart to regain function.
When: Random, non-stop for extended periods (6+ months reported)
Symptoms owners cite: Engine malfunction light illuminates; Loss of power while accelerating; Vehicle jerks and hesitates on highway or city streets; Check engine light illuminates; Vehicle fails to accelerate smoothly; Vehicle must be turned off and restarted to regain power
Repairs/costs cited: Re-wire harness under dash required; Ford claims not covered by warranty. Repair costs in thousands of dollars. One owner reported throttle body sensor replacement and subsequent wiring replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford acknowledges manufacturing defect in wiring harness but denies warranty coverage.
Throttle Body Electrical Sensor Failure
Throttle body electrical sensor fails, causing vehicle to stall at various speeds. 'Service Immediately' message appears. At 56,000 miles, owner reports open circuit in network wiring after multiple part replacements (throttle body, electrical sensors, acceleration pedal and sensors).
When: At 56,000 miles reported; intermittent stalling
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle slows down and stalls while driving; 'Service Immediately' message displayed; No warning indicators illuminated; Stalling at various speeds
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body electrical sensor replacement, followed by acceleration pedal and sensor replacement. All repairs failed to resolve issue; determined to be open circuit in network wiring.
Power Loss and Acceleration Issues
Vehicle experiences sudden power loss, hesitation, and poor acceleration. Engine almost dies on highway entry, then suddenly surges. Hard acceleration causes vehicle to gun forward unexpectedly. Poor merging power and constant hesitation at highway speeds. After throttle body replacement, hesitation continues.
When: Intermittent, worst during acceleration and highway driving
Symptoms owners cite: Engine nearly dies on highway entry; Sudden surging or gunning forward; Poor acceleration and merging power; Constant hesitation at highway speeds; Engine lights and service lights illuminate
Repairs/costs cited: Wiring under front window and dash replaced; throttle body replaced. Both repairs did not fully resolve hesitation.
Complete Electrical System Shutdown While Driving
Vehicle completely shuts down without warning while being driven. Lights flash and noise occurs during shutdown. Brakes and steering still function but all other systems fail. Vehicle purchased used, failure occurred within 2 weeks of purchase.
When: Random, reported 2 weeks after purchase
Symptoms owners cite: Complete vehicle shutdown while driving; Lights flash during shutdown; Noise made during shutdown; Brakes and steering work but nothing else functions
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer could not diagnose the problem.
Frayed Gas Pedal Wiring
Wires from gas pedal to panel become frayed at 30,300 miles. 'Engine Malfunction Service Now' light illuminates. No explanation provided for how wires became frayed. Occurs just after warranty expiration.
When: At 30,300 miles
Symptoms owners cite: 'Engine Malfunction Service Now' light comes on; Frayed wires from gas pedal to panel
Repairs/costs cited: Repair cost $875.00. Wires frayed with no clear cause.
Door Lock System Failures
Door locks fail to function properly. Vehicle can be locked while running with key in ignition, locking driver out. Doors unlock while driving at various speeds despite dashboard indicating they are locked. Door unlock button fails to work when ignition is off. Vehicle can be locked out of running vehicle, creating safety hazard.
When: Random, while driving or parked
Symptoms owners cite: Doors unlock while driving at various speeds; Dashboard indicates doors are locked when they are not; Possible to lock out of running vehicle with key in ignition; Unlock button fails to work with ignition off; Doors fail to unlock when required
Repairs/costs cited: Recall 15V246000 (Latches/Locks Linkages) performed but failure occurred after recall repair. Dealer unable to diagnose or repair post-recall failures.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 15V246000 (Latches/Locks Linkages) completed, but failures reported after the work was done.
Transmission - Shudder, Jerking, and Gear Shift Issues
Vehicle shudders, lurches, jerks, and fails to engage gears smoothly. DPS6 automatic transmission issues. Ford technicians claim hesitation between gear shifts is normal. TSB 13-4-5 reset performed but problem persists. Transmission clutch replacement needed per recall.
When: Intermittent, ongoing since purchase
Symptoms owners cite: Shuddering during driving; Lunging and jerking; Failing to engage gear shifts; Hesitation between gear shifts; Does not shift smoothly
Repairs/costs cited: TSB 13-4-5 update applied ('Intermittent Transmission Clutch Shudder DPS6 Automatic Transmission') but problem not resolved. Transmission clutch replacement required per recall. One owner reported vehicle overheated and burned under hood after TSB reset at dealer.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 13-4-5 issued for 'Intermittent Transmission Clutch Shudder DPS6 Automatic Transmission.' Transmission Control Module recall issued (Recall 14M02). Ford stated owner must provide proof of fault while faults are being documented.
Airbag System Unplugged After Recall Service
Airbag system left unplugged after airbag recall service at dealer, creating serious safety hazard in event of accident. If vehicle had experienced sudden acceleration or power loss during collision, airbag would not deploy.
When: After airbag recall service
Symptoms owners cite: Airbag system unplugged; Airbag will not deploy in accident
Repairs/costs cited: Plugged in airbag system after discovery.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Airbag recall service performed but technician left system unplugged.
ABS and Traction Control Malfunctions
ABS and traction control warning lights illuminate and flash continuously. RPMs erroneously rev high. Complete loss of power steering occurs. Hill assist warning also illuminates. Root cause not determined.
When: Random, worst while driving on highway
Symptoms owners cite: ABS warning light illuminates and flashes; Traction control warning light illuminates and flashes; Hill assist warning light illuminates; RPMs erroneously rev high; Complete loss of power steering; Lights flicker while driving; TCS OFF message flashes even when car is idle
Repairs/costs cited: One vehicle diagnosed with short circuit. Cause of failures often not determined.
Trunk/Latch Sensor Malfunctions
Trunk sensor incorrectly reports trunk is open when it is closed. When vehicle is unlocked, trunk pops open unexpectedly. Interior lights won't turn off.
When: Random, intermittent
Symptoms owners cite: Trunk sensor indicates trunk is open when closed; Trunk pops open when vehicle is unlocked; Interior lights won't turn off
Repairs/costs cited: Recall 15V246000 (Door Latch) issued but parts not available.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 15V246000 (Door Latch) issued but parts were not available.
Fuse Box Corrosion and Rust
Fuse block inside engine compartment becomes rusted throughout. Poor fuse box design allows sand and water to enter, causing extensive corrosion. Multiple electrical failures result from corroded fuse box.
When: Develops over time; accelerated in cold/salt-road areas
Symptoms owners cite: Fuse box corroded throughout; Fuse box rusted; Vehicle sporadically fails to start; Driver side headlamp does not work; Air conditioning blows hot air; Relay prongs corroded and break
Repairs/costs cited: Entire fuse box or battery junction box replacement required. Replacement is expensive.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No USA recall issued. Canada has Recall 19S28 for similar issue.
Dashboard and Instrument Cluster Flickering
Radio and instrument dashboard flicker intermittently. TCS OFF light flashes continuously. Symptoms occur randomly and are difficult to reproduce for dealer diagnosis.
When: Intermittent, ongoing for 2+ months
Symptoms owners cite: Radio flashes intermittently; Instrument dashboard flashes intermittently; Car loses power intermittently; TCS OFF flashes even when car is idle; Air conditioning cuts out intermittently; Headlights cut out intermittently; Warning lights come on and go off
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers unable to duplicate problem during test drive.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Recall Issues
Transmission Control Module recall (14M02) issued but dealerships have difficulty obtaining parts and scheduling repairs. Recall addresses transmission clutch issues that can cause gear shifting failure while in motion.
When: Ongoing recall campaign
Symptoms owners cite: Hesitation and stall while going through intersections; Hesitation and stall at stop signs; Poor take-off power; Potential for car to change gears while in motion
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission clutch replacement required per recall 14M02. Dealerships sometimes refuse to provide rental cars while repairs are pending.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 14M02 (Transmission Control Module) issued but parts availability is limited and dealers are not honoring rental car requests during repair service.
Synthesized from 42 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 6 most recent
My "engine malfunction service now" light came on. The vehicle has 30,300 miles. Took it in and was told that the wires from the gas pedal to the panel were "frayed." they couldn't give me an answer on how this occurred but that it would cost $875.00. My 3yr/36,000 warranty is up. I did take it in for the check up before warranty expired and was told everything was ok. Today I was told that they…
Over the last 2 months, the radio and instrument dashboard have been flashing intermittently and car losing power. Brought to Ford dealership but they couldn't duplicate the problem during test drive. In addition to the problems listed earlier, now the TCS off keeps on flashing even when car is idle.
On the vehicle there is a flaw in lock out safety system. When key is in ignition and car running it is possible to lock your self out. Here's how. With key in ignition and driver door open. Engage the lock button from key fob. Step out side vehicle and close door. You our now locked out of your running vehicle. This has happen twice. I accidentally touched the lock button while trying to engage…
Ongoing issue - key was not in the ignition, you hear loud static coming from radio/audio system. Please note this happens randomly while the car is moving or parked - key not in ignition. The radio no longer functions - you hear 'cracking and popping' regularly and sometimes the volume is startling driving down the road and the audio system starts blaring static, you jump reacting to the…
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Ford fiesta. When the vehicle was started, the contact heard a loud popping noise near the radio. At times, the radio failed to turn off. The vehicle was not yet inspected and diagnosed by a dealer. The radio continued to stay on after the vehicle was turned off. An independent mechanic suggested that a fuse be disconnected, but the contact needed a permanent solution.…
Bought this car used 2013 on 12-01-2020 had less than 2 weeks and it completely shut down on my daughter driving to work, took to local dealer they said nothing they could find, but this is a very dangerous thing to happen for no reason the car just down thank goodness she was not on the highway! Again, the dealer that sold us the car defends that they have checked it out but we are afraid going…
Had electrical trouble with your 2013 Ford Fiesta?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2013 Ford Fiesta?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 42 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 34 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 34,276 and 90,000 miles, with the median around 67,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 34,276; a quarter make it past 90,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Ford/Fiesta.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.