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Should I buy a high mileage Fiesta?

I'm keen to buy a Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi to commute 18,000 miles a year. I've found quite a few 2012 plate examples in a decent spec well within my price range, however they are mostly between the 40-50k mark on the mileage.

If I were buying a premium brand this wouldn't worry me in the slightest but I've not heard much about this engine/chassis combination. Whilst I'm comfortable with Ford's reputation for reliability is there anything I should watch out for please?

Asked on 24 March 2014 by Sam

Answered by Honest John
The don't have dual mass flywheels, which is a help, but they do have DPFs. That said I've yet to hear of a Fiesta 1.6TDCI clogging up its DPF. I take issue with your assertion about "premium brands". Fords are actually more reliable, as you will see by comparing the record of the 2008-2012 Fiesta with any of the "premium" alternatives in www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar
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