Is the 2016 Ford Focus a good year?

Yes — the 2016 Ford Focus can be a solid used-compact choice for drivers who value engaging handling, a roomy cabin, and affordable running costs. However, reliability varies by history and model specifics, so a careful pre-purchase check is essential.

This article weighs the main strengths and drawbacks of the 2016 Focus, explains what to look for when shopping used, and compares it with some key rivals. It also includes practical tips to help you assess condition, recalls, and ownership costs before making a decision.

What makes the 2016 Ford Focus notable

Here are the standout positives that often attract buyers to the 2016 Focus.

• Engaging handling and solid driving dynamics for a compact car


• Spacious and versatile interior for its subcompact class


• Comfortable ride quality with well-padded seats on most trims


• Competitive fuel economy for its size, depending on engine and transmission


• Available features in higher trims, including contemporary infotainment and driver-assistance tech


• Reasonable price point in the used market relative to some rivals

In short, the 2016 Focus typically appeals to buyers who want a practical, enjoyable compact with a budget-conscious ownership profile, provided the specific car has been well maintained and free of major issues.

Potential drawbacks to consider

Be aware of common issues and trade-offs that have affected some Focus models from this era.

• Transmission quirks in earlier PowerShift (dual-clutch) setups, including occasional harsh or hesitant shifts in some automatic configurations


• Electrical and infotainment reliability concerns tied to the MyFordTouch/Sync system on certain trims


• Interior materials and fit-and-finish that may feel less premium than some rivals


• Resale value and overall maintenance costs that can be higher than some class competitors if issues arise


• Potential recalls or service campaigns—it's important to verify the VIN against Ford's recall database and ensure all campaigns are completed

Overall, these drawbacks are manageable if you inspect the vehicle thoroughly and choose a well-documented example with up-to-date servicing. The impact of these issues varies by individual car and maintenance history.

What to check when buying a 2016 Ford Focus

Use this checklist to evaluate a used Focus before purchase, and to guide a test drive and inspection.

• Vehicle history and maintenance records, especially any prior transmission service or repairs


• Transmission behavior on test drive: smooth shifts, no hesitation, no shuddering or slipping


• VIN-based recall status and completion history; confirm all campaigns are addressed


• Electrical system health: infotainment responsiveness, Bluetooth pairing, and warning lights


• Engine condition: smooth idle, absence of misfires, and no excessive smoky exhaust


• Suspension and steering: listen for unusual clunks, vibrations, or wandering at highway speeds


• Brakes and tires: even wear, solid stopping power, and no metallic grinding sounds


• Exterior and underbody: check for rust, prior body work, or signs of accident repair


• Overall ownership costs: insurance, maintenance, and potential parts availability for this generation

By diligently reviewing these items and having a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle, you can reduce surprises and align your purchase with your budget and expectations.

Summary

The 2016 Ford Focus sits in the middle of the compact-car field: it offers enjoyable driving dynamics, a practical interior, and a favorable price in the used market. Its appeal is strongest for buyers who prioritize driving experience and value, but potential reliability quirks—especially related to transmissions and electronics—mean that thorough history checks and a professional pre-purchase inspection are highly advisable. When well maintained and correctly chosen, a 2016 Focus can be a solid, economical choice among compact cars.

How long does a 2016 Focus last?

As with most vehicles, the Ford Focus can last a lifetime of around 200,000 miles. That being said, many owners have reported their Focus lasting 250,000 miles. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles each year, your Ford Focus can last around 13 to 16 years if maintained.

Does the 2016 Ford Focus have transmission problems?

Yes, the 2016 Ford Focus is known for transmission problems, particularly with its PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, which can experience issues like slipping, rough shifting, and hesitation. These problems are often due to the dual-clutch system, which has been subject to numerous recalls and has a reputation for being problematic. Other potential issues include faulty solenoids, worn clutch packs, and problems with the transmission control module (TCM).
 
You can watch this video to learn about the potential problems with the 2012-2018 Ford Focus transmission and see the car in motion: 58sWatchJRGoYouTube · Jul 26, 2023
Common problems

• Slipping and rough shifting: The transmission may slip or shift roughly, especially at low speeds. 
• Hesitation: The car can hesitate or feel sluggish, particularly when accelerating from a stop. 
• Clutch wear: Premature clutch wear is common, which can lead to a need for replacement. 
• Faulty components: Issues can arise from faulty clutch packs, solenoids, or the transmission control module (TCM). 

Potential solutions and checks

• Check for recalls: First, check for any outstanding recalls for the specific vehicle by using the VIN, as many issues were addressed through recalls and service programs. 
• Software updates: Ford offered software updates to address some issues. This can often be done at a dealership. 
• Transmission fluid: Ensure the transmission fluid is at the correct level and in good condition, as low or dirty fluid can worsen symptoms. 
• Electrical issues: A loose battery cable can cause electrical problems that affect the transmission. Check that the negative cable is tight. 
• Professional diagnosis: If problems persist, a professional diagnosis is needed to check for issues with the TCM, solenoids, or other internal components. 

This video explains the potential problems and solutions for the Ford Focus transmission, including a demonstration of the car's performance: 1mThe Shop World WideYouTube · Aug 2, 2022

What years of Ford Focus are most reliable?

• The 2010 Ford Focus. The 2010 Ford Focus stands out for its dependability and fewer reported issues.
• The 2011 Ford Focus.
• The 2018 Ford Focus.
• The 2007 Ford Focus ST.
• The 2015 Ford Focus ST.
• Explore Quality Ford Cars for Sale at Preston Ford in Burton, OH.

How reliable is a 2016 Ford Focus?

The reliability of a 2016 Ford Focus is mixed, with many sources citing it as below-average due to significant issues with its dual-clutch automatic transmission. While some owners report good experiences, problems like shuddering, slipping, and premature failure are common with automatic models. Manual transmission models are generally more reliable. 
Common issues

• Automatic transmission: The most significant problem is with the PowerShift automatic transmission, which can experience shuddering, slipping, and a tendency to stall. This led to low reliability ratings for many years, including 2016. 
• Other problems: Some owners have reported issues with other areas, including: 
  • Rear door latch failures 
  • Warped brake rotors 
  • Electrical problems 
  • Broken motor mounts 

What this means for a potential buyer

• Avoid the automatic: The biggest recommendation is to avoid the automatic transmission models, especially if you are not prepared for potential repair costs. 
• Consider a manual: If you are considering a 2016 Ford Focus, a manual transmission version is likely to be more reliable. 
• Check the vehicle's history: If you are looking at a specific car, get a detailed history report and have a mechanic inspect it thoroughly, paying close attention to the transmission.