Ford Fiesta ST Mk8 Maintenance Guide
Fiesta ST Mk8 Maintenance Guide
The Ford Fiesta ST Mk8 offers a thrilling driving experience with its 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine and precise handling. However, to keep your car running at its best and avoid potential issues, regular maintenance is key. Whether you’ve recently purchased your Fiesta ST or have been driving it for a while, following the recommended service intervals and maintenance tasks will help ensure that your vehicle stays reliable and performs optimally. In this guide, we’ll cover the main maintenance points for the Mk8 Fiesta ST, with reference to the official Ford service schedule.
1. Oil and Filter Changes
Regular oil changes are critical to the health of your engine. The 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine in the Fiesta ST Mk8 requires high-quality oil to keep it properly lubricated and to prevent unnecessary wear. Ford recommends changing the oil and oil filter every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Using the correct type of oil is important. For the Fiesta ST Mk8, we recommend either Genuine Ford Castrol Magnatec 5w20 Oil or Millers XF Premium C5 ECO 5w20 which can be found in our Millers Service kit here. They are designed to handle the demands of the engine’s performance. Regular oil and filter changes help to maintain engine efficiency, improve fuel economy, and extend the life of your car.
2. Brake Maintenance
As a performance-oriented vehicle, the Fiesta ST Mk8 relies on a well-maintained braking system for both safety and performance. The key components to monitor include the brake pads, discs, and fluid.
- Brake Pads and Discs: Brake pads should be checked for wear at least once a year. Depending on your driving style, you may need to replace them more frequently. Ford recommends that you inspect the brake pads every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) and replace them when the thickness gets too low. If you notice any grinding or squealing noises while braking, it’s a sign that the pads need attention.
- Brake Fluid: Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, which can affect braking performance. Ford suggests replacing the brake fluid every 2 years, regardless of mileage. This is a simple but essential task to maintain braking efficiency, especially in a performance car like the Fiesta ST.
3. Tyre Care
Maintaining your tyres is critical for safety, handling, and overall performance. The Fiesta ST Mk8 is designed to provide excellent grip, but this relies on the condition of your tyres.
- Tyre Pressure: Ensure your tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found in the owner’s manual or on the inside of the driver’s side door frame. Check tyre pressure regularly, as both under-inflation and over-inflation can lead to uneven tyre wear and poor handling.
- Tyre Rotation and Alignment: To promote even wear, it’s recommended to rotate your tyres every 12,500 miles (20,000 km). In addition, if you notice your car pulling to one side, or if the steering feels off, it’s worth having your wheel alignment checked. Misalignment can cause uneven wear and affect handling.
Many owners do opt to install the 215 width tyres to the Fiesta ST for more contact patch with the ground. If you do plan to do this, ensure you select a high performing tyre such as the Michelin PilotSport 5 which we run on our own ST Mk8.
4. Air Filters and Cabin Filter
Air filters play an important role in maintaining engine performance and cabin air quality. Ford recommends replacing the engine air filter and cabin air filter every 25,000 miles (40,000 km), or more frequently if you drive in dusty or polluted areas.
- Engine Air Filter: A clogged air filter can affect engine performance, fuel efficiency, and increase emissions. Replacing the engine air filter regularly helps keep the engine running smoothly.
- Cabin Air Filter: The cabin air filter ensures that the air inside the car remains clean and free from dust, pollen, and other pollutants. A clean cabin filter also ensures the air conditioning system functions properly, especially during hot weather.
We have a wide range of air filters and induction kits for the ST Mk8 - some owners opt to replace their standard filter with something like the K&N Performance Replacement Air Filter whereas some of our customers have opted for the full induction kits such as the K&N Performance Intake System, or the ITG Maxogen Induction Kit
5. Timing Belt/Chain and Water Pump
Although the Fiesta ST Mk8 uses a chain-driven camshaft rather than a timing belt, it’s still important to ensure that the timing chain is inspected during routine servicing. While timing chains typically last the life of the engine, wear or damage can occur over time. Ford recommends having the timing chain checked during major servicing intervals, especially if the vehicle has higher mileage.
The water pump, which is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine, should also be inspected at the same time as the timing chain. A faulty water pump can lead to overheating and engine damage, so make sure it is checked regularly.
6. Spark Plugs and Ignition System
Spark plugs are a vital component of the engine’s ignition system. Ford recommends changing the spark plugs at every other service or every 25,000 miles (40,000 km). This helps to maintain engine efficiency and fuel economy.
If you notice rough idling, misfiring, or difficulty starting the engine, it could indicate an issue with the spark plugs or ignition system. Getting these components checked at the recommended intervals can help prevent larger, more expensive issues down the line.
We recommend swapping spark plugs for Genuine Ford Spark Plugs for ST Mk8 if the vehicle is not tuned. Consider swapping to a "one step" colder plug with the NGK LTR7-IX Iridium Spark Plugs
7. Fluid Checks
In addition to brake fluid and engine oil, there are several other fluids that need to be regularly checked and topped up:
- Coolant: Ensure that the coolant level is correct, as low coolant can cause overheating. It’s generally recommended to check coolant levels every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or whenever the car is serviced.
- Transmission Fluid: The Fiesta ST Mk8 uses a manual transmission, and the transmission fluid should be checked during major service intervals. Ford suggests checking the transmission fluid at 37,500 miles (60,000 km), especially if you notice any difficulty shifting gears or strange noises from the transmission.
- Power Steering Fluid: Power steering fluid should be checked periodically for leaks or low levels. If the steering becomes stiff or noisy, it may indicate a fluid issue.
8. Conclusion
Maintaining your Fiesta ST Mk8 is key to ensuring that it continues to deliver great performance and remains reliable for years to come. Regular maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, brake checks, tyre care, and fluid replacements, are essential to keeping your car running smoothly. By following the Ford service schedule and staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you’ll help prevent potential issues and preserve the car’s performance. Always consult your owner's manual for specific guidelines, and don’t hesitate to have your Fiesta ST serviced by a professional if you're unsure about any aspect of maintenance.
By staying on top of your Fiesta ST Mk8’s maintenance, you can enjoy its sporty performance with peace of mind.