Is it common for Ford Fiesta coil springs to fracture?

This morning I came to take my wife's 2005 Fiesta auto out of the garage and heard a horrible scraping noise. I called Green Flag and the mechanic diagnosed a fractured front offside coil spring. The car has done 9800 miles. I was informed this is a frequent problem with the Fiesta and was advised to have both coil springs replaced. Given the cars age, but low mileage, would I be fair to asked the dealer from which I purchased the car and who will carry out the repair for some contribution towards what will be an expensive job?

Asked on 8 November 2012 by EB, via email

Answered by Honest John
This is a standard problem with almost all European makes and models of car from the cheapest to the most expensive. Does not seem to be a problem with Far Eastern badged cars, even those actually assembled in Europe.
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