Nearly new buying guide: Ford Fiesta ST

As always, the devil’s in the detail, with the ST-2 finished in Performance Blue and with upgraded alloys, and the ST-3 in less eye-catching red and standard alloys. The lesson when buying is to look around, compare prices and pay attention to colours and extras. 

Also, be particular about service history and tyres. Being so cheap, many Fiesta STs fell into the hands of those less able to afford to run them. Servicing, tyres and brakes were among the first casualties and that’s assuming the car wasn’t thrashed or crashed to destruction.

Checking shut lines, crouching down and peering along the car’s sides for signs of body repairs and fresh paint, and scrutinising the underside for speed bump damage is vital. And as with all used car purchases, check the car’s finance and ownership status, too. But get a good one, and you’ll be laughing – especially on a B-road.

BUYER BEWARE

Body The thin paint is easily stonechipped. Check the door seals are securely fixed. Make sure all the panels are straight and that the gaps between them are regular. Check for overspray and filler. 

Interior Check the digital radio works because Ford has been known to replace faulty ones.

Engine Be sure the recall concerning possible cracking of the cylinder head has been actioned. Knocking from around the engine may be a failed mount.

Suspension and steering Knocks from the steering or vague operation may indicate worn track rods, a known problem with the ST. 

Tyres Fresh wheel alignment should sort any future, abnormal shoulder wear. 

Security Once you've got it, protect it with a steering lock.

Need to know

The ST was launched as a three-door but a five-door version, costing £585 more when new, became available in 2016. A 31,000-mile 2017 ST-2 five-door is around £12,000 compared with about £11,000 for a three-door. 

In 2018, a recall was issued for early STs. It concerned the possibility of the cylinder head cracking due to localised overheating. Rectification included fitment of a new coolant level sensor with an alarm providing an audible and visual warning. 

Look out for STs fitted with the ST Style pack (£275 extra when new). It brings dark grey alloys, rear privacy glass (standard on ST-2), red brake calipers and illuminated ST sill plates. 

Servicing is every year or 12,500 miles and shouldn’t break the bank. The cambelt requires changing at 125,000 miles.