Ford Fiesta Mk7 1.5 TDCi 75bhp — Starter Motor Solenoid / Brush Wear
The starter motor wears out internally. This is particularly common on vehicles equipped with Stop/Start systems.
Severity
SevereDIY Difficulty
Moderate
Est. Cost
£150–£350
OBD Codes
None
Symptoms
- A single loud 'click' when turning the key, but engine doesn't crank
- Engine cranks very slowly despite a fully charged battery
- Whirring or grinding noise after the engine starts
Root Cause
The carbon brushes inside the motor wear down to the copper wiring, or the contacts inside the solenoid burn out from repeated arcing.
How To Fix
- Confirm battery voltage is strong under load (to rule out a dead battery).
- Replace the starter motor unit.
- Ensure main earth straps from engine block to chassis are clean and tight.
- Cost: £150-350
Estimated Repair Costs
| Repair Option | Est. Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | £60–£140 |
| Independent Garage | £150–£350 |
| Main Dealership | £240–£560 |
Other Faults on This Variant
DPF Blockage and Regeneration Failure
ModerateThe 1.5 TDCi diesel Fiesta is commonly used for short urban trips — exactly the wrong usage for a DPF-equipped car. Blocked DPF is the number one complaint.
EGR Valve Failure and Intake Carbonisation
ModerateEGR failure on the 1.5 TDCi Fiesta is a common companion to DPF issues. Carbon deposits block the valve and intake manifold, causing power loss and rough running.
Diesel Injector Failure and Rough Running
SevereCommon rail injectors on the 1.5 TDCi can fail, causing misfires, excessive smoke and hard starting. Injector failure can also result in diesel washing the cylinder walls, accelerating engine wear.
Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.