Mechanical Changes/Improvements to FiST Through the Years?

[rallytaff]

I've been seeing a few 2014 models with low mileage for sale lately. I wonder if it would be worth pulling the trigger on those older models. There would be savings of $3000 - $4000 compared to 2016-2017 models with similar mileage, but is it worth the risk of potentially getting a less reliable car as 2014s are known to have more potential issues than 2016-2017?

My 2014 now has 107,650 miles on it and I've never had any real problems with it. Any small problem I've had I get it fixed immediately. Recently had major work done before it could have problems later at 150,000. Only recall I had was for door locks.

 

[2eggwhites]

Is there a way to inspect the head and see if it is the updated one? I have a 2016 but build date it 11/15, late in the year. I’m hoping it has the upgraded coolant passages seeing as it is a 2016 but I want to be sure as I’ll be boring it’s intake and exhaust and pushing big power out of it.

 

[Intuit]

My '16 is October (IIRC) and while we're not an Arizona or Texas, hasn't had any issues with cooling.

There was a campaign (not a recall) for the cooling fan relay. With some of the vehicles, supposedly the factory inadvertently installed a relay rated for a lower amperage fan. None of the members have reported any relay failures or other issues associated with that.

 

[M-Sport fan]

At what temp is the factory fan with a factory, un-tuned ECU program supposed to activate (without turning on the AC)??

Could the above relay problem (and resultant TSB 'fix') cause the faulty factory relay to switch the fan on at a way too high temp?

 

[Intuit]

The 2016 service manual refuses to mention an activation temp. Thermostat full open temp is 207F.
ECU may vary the fan activation temp based on multiple factors/parameters.
https://www.fiestastforum.com/threads/best-year-fist.32132/post-509402
Probably just shortens the normal lifespan of the relay. Contacts that run hot may corrode faster, leading to an open circuit short. (fan won't turn on)
.