Is the Ford Focus a reliable car?
The Ford Focus has been a popular choice among compact car enthusiasts for years, offering a balance of affordability, performance, and practicality. However, when it comes to reliability, opinions and experiences can vary. In this article, we’ll explore the reliability of the Ford Focus, highlighting its strengths and potential weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Strengths of the Ford Focus
The Ford Focus has several attributes that contribute to its reputation as a reliable vehicle. Here are some of the key strengths:
- Fuel Efficiency: The Ford Focus is known for its excellent fuel economy, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuting and long drives.
- Driving Dynamics: With responsive handling and a comfortable ride, the Focus provides an enjoyable driving experience, especially in its sportier trims like the ST and RS.
- Affordable Maintenance: Routine maintenance and repairs for the Ford Focus are generally affordable compared to other vehicles in its class.
- Wide Availability of Parts: As a widely sold model, replacement parts for the Focus are easy to find, which can reduce repair times and costs.
Common Reliability Concerns
While the Ford Focus has many strengths, it’s important to be aware of some common issues reported by owners, particularly in certain model years:
- Transmission Problems: One of the most frequently reported issues with the Ford Focus, especially in models from 2012 to 2016, is the dual-clutch automatic transmission. Many owners have experienced shuddering, slipping, or premature wear.
- Electrical Issues: Some Focus models have been known to experience electrical problems, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems or faulty wiring.
- Engine Stalling: A small percentage of owners have reported engine stalling or rough idling, which can sometimes be attributed to fuel system issues.
Tips for Ensuring Reliability
If you’re considering purchasing a Ford Focus or already own one, here are some tips to maximize its reliability:
- Research the Model Year: Certain model years are more prone to issues than others. For example, the 2012-2016 models are known for transmission problems, so consider newer models or those with manual transmissions.
- Regular Maintenance: Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for keeping your Focus running smoothly.
- Check for Recalls: Ensure that any recalls for your specific model year have been addressed. Ford has issued recalls for some Focus models to fix known issues.
- Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection: If you’re buying a used Focus, have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to identify any potential problems before you commit.
Conclusion
The Ford Focus can be a reliable car, especially if you choose the right model year and stay on top of maintenance. While it has its share of common issues, many owners find it to be a dependable and enjoyable vehicle. If you’re in the market for a compact car, the Focus is worth considering, but be sure to do your homework to avoid potential pitfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year is the Ford Focus the most reliable?
A Guide To The Best Years For Ford Focus Models
- 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.
Why was Ford Focus discontinued?
In October 2021, the model received a facelift for the European market. In 2022, it was announced that Ford would discontinue the Focus by 2025, as part of a pivot towards crossover vehicles and electrification.
What years did Ford Focus have bad transmissions?
CINCINNATI (Howard Ain) -- Complaints about the operation of two of the Ford Motor Company's top selling models prompted the company to make changes. The problem goes back three years and involves the transmissions. It concerns the 2012, 13 and 14 Ford Focus and the Ford Fiesta.
Do Ford Focuses last long?
Do Ford Focuses last a long time? Yes, with proper maintenance, a Ford Focus can last 200,000-250,000 miles, and with excellent care, some have been driven as high as 400,000 miles. So, it has the potential for a long lifespan.
Why did they stop making Ford Focuses?
In October 2021, the model received a facelift for the European market. In 2022, it was announced that Ford would discontinue the Focus by 2025, as part of a pivot towards crossover vehicles and electrification.
Is a Ford Focus a dependable car?
To offer motorists some real insight into the Ford Focus' reliability, we've scored it against our Reliability Index criteria. The Focus scored a reasonable 59 out of 100, which is slightly lower than some of the other vehicles on the list, but what does that entail?
Are Ford Focus a good buy?
The Ford Focus is still an excellent, do-it-all family transporter if you don't want an SUV. It offers a huge spread of talents, from rear-seat space to easy-to-use infotainment features and fun handling.
Is Ford Focus high maintenance?
The average annual repair cost for a Ford is $775, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Ford reliability include an average of 0.3 visits to a repair shop per year and a 15% probability of a repair being severe.
What year Ford Focus has transmission problems?
Ford's PowerShift dual clutch transmission was used in 2010. Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.
What is a common problem with a Ford Focus?
Petrol Focuses had a fault rate of 18%, compared with 29% for diesels. The 12-volt battery, bodywork, electrics and gearbox/clutch were the most common complaints. Although Ford covered the cost of all repairs, 50% of affected models were in the workshop for more than seven days.
