Many days ago the starter in my 2014 Ford Fiesta (88k mileage) failed to function. Being experienced in automotive repair, I conducted several tests and determined the starter solenoid was operating intermittently, and after many attempts, started the Fiesta and took it to my dependable local garage (Wyatt & Son, 600 E. Constance, Suffolk). They too conducted tests and arrived at the same conclusion; replace the starter.

They replaced the starter twice and determined that that the new starters also had an issue with the starter solenoid operation. A third (reman) starter was ordered and five (5) days later was installed. This starter (solenoid) also failed.

Now we are at the 13th day of repair. The technician responsible for the repair noticed an arc (electrical) occurred at the (supposed reliable) ground for the starting circuit on the left (driver's) side of the frame/chassis by the transmission when the starter circuit was energized. Being an observant and inquisitive young man, he inspected the connection and determined that in it's present condition it was totally unreliable for proper starting. This was due to the primer/paint insulating the connection from delivering the direct contact current necessary to initiate the starter motor.

He removed the tiny (5mm) ground bolt, cleaned the Paint/Primer from the chassis ground point, cleaned the connector and the bolt before replacing the connector. After reconnecting the bolt, the Fiesta started on each and every attempt (which were several) before the car was delivered.

This Ford fiasco cost my family time, inconvenience, money (final bill was $462), frustration, anger and worry. It should not have happened.

Having an ($50 deductible) extended warranty, I applied for reimbursement. Their spokesperson investigated (after repairs) and determined that I am entitled to a total reimbursement of $4.50 for the replacement of the ground wire only.

Our conclusion is that the original starter, the subsequent starters and the final replacement were all in good condition and failed only because of this disaster of planning and engineering which began at the engineers' drawing board and wound up at the showroom. A Total Fail!!

Now to my questions for Ford Motor Company Engineers and Builders. Why do you stamp a hole in the chassis for a ground bolt that is supposed to carry 150 to 400 amps of starter current and not tape it to keep the area clear from prep dip, primer dip, and paint? Why do you not clean the area (knowing that it is a vulnerable spot) around the ground after the build? How many other vehicles are plagued with this misrepresentation of a sound electrical ground?

Obvious, outrageous and expensive stupidity displayed by all concerned in the planning and construction of these vehicles!