Was 2009 a good year for Ford Focus?

Overall, 2009 was a mixed year for the Ford Focus. While the model remained strong in Europe thanks to ongoing updates, it did not appear in the United States that year, limiting its global impact. Set against the backdrop of the global auto crisis and Ford's restructuring, the year offered stability in some markets and missed opportunities in others.

Context: the auto industry and Ford in 2009

2009 was defined by a severe global downturn in auto sales and a push by manufacturers to cut costs and focus on core, profitable models. Ford pursued a leaner, more globally aligned lineup and avoided taking a government bailout, betting on a strategy that would support long‑term viability. In this environment, the Ford Focus remained a key piece of Ford's global portfolio, but regional availability and market conditions shaped its performance differently around the world.

Regional performance

Europe

In Europe, the Focus continued to battle in a competitive compact-car segment. A mid‑cycle refresh around 2008–2009 refreshed styling, interior quality, and efficiency, reinforcing the model’s appeal with families and value-conscious buyers. Diesel variants and improved fuel economy helped sustain strong demand in several markets, even as the broader European economy sagged.

North America

The United States did not offer the Ford Focus in the 2009 model year as Ford prepared a new generation specifically for the U.S. market. The redesigned Focus would later re-enter the U.S. lineup for the 2012 model year (introduced to U.S. showrooms in 2011). As a result, 2009 sales in North America did not reflect the global Focus platform and limited its overall impact for the year.

Key 2009 Focus developments (global)

To understand how 2009 unfolded for the Focus, here are the notable product and strategy moves that influenced its position across markets.

• Europe: A continued emphasis on a refreshed design and improved efficiency helped keep the Focus competitive in a crowded market.


• Global platform strategy: The Focus remained a central element of Ford’s worldwide lineup, reinforcing its role as a core, cost-efficient model for multiple regions.


• U.S. market gap: The Focus was not sold in the United States in 2009, as Ford prioritized the next-generation model for that region, laying groundwork for a later relaunch.

Conclusion: In 2009, the Focus benefited from regional updates and Ford’s global platform approach, but its global footprint was limited by the absence in the U.S. market and by the broader crisis weighing on sales worldwide.

Market outcomes by region (2009)

This section highlights how the Focus fared across key markets during the year, illustrating the mixed results.

• Europe: The Focus held its ground as a staple in the compact segment, supported by refreshes and an efficient diesel lineup that appealed to many buyers despite economic headwinds.


• North America: The Focus did not compete in the U.S. market in 2009, constraining its global growth potential and limiting its contribution to Ford’s regional sales totals.


• Other regions: In markets outside Europe and North America, Focus performance depended on local demand, competition, and production availability, contributing to a varied regional picture.

Conclusion: Regionally, 2009 produced a split outcome: Europe saw continued competitiveness, North America saw a temporary absence, and other regions experienced mixed results, culminating in a nuanced overall assessment rather than a single clear verdict on success.

Summary

Was 2009 a good year for Ford Focus? It was neither universally strong nor entirely weak. The model remained a key player in Europe with ongoing updates that kept it competitive, while its lack of U.S. availability that year limited its global momentum. Against the backdrop of a stubborn auto slump and Ford’s strategic restructuring, 2009 established a mixed but stable footing for the Focus, setting the stage for a more globally integrated next generation that would re-enter the U.S. market in the following years.

How reliable are 2009 Ford Focus?

The 2009 Ford Focus has a decent reliability rating, with many owners reporting good experiences, but it does have some common issues. Common problems include potential issues with the paint and trim, engine accessories, and climate control system. Some owners also report warped brake rotors and occasional transmission problems. 
Common issues

• Paint and trim: Fading, cracking, or peeling paint, along with loose exterior or interior trim, are reported by some owners. 
• Engine: Problems can occur with accessory belts, pulleys, engine mounts, and engine knock or pinging. 
• Climate control: Issues with the AC compressor, blower motor, or other components of the heating and cooling system are noted. 
• Brakes: Warped front brake rotors, which can cause a steering wheel shimmy, are a common complaint. 
• Transmission: Some owners have reported transmission problems, including slipping gears or hard shifting, which can stem from the transmission control module. 

Strengths

• High owner ratings: Many owners rate the 2009 Ford Focus highly for its reliability and performance, with a high percentage of five-star reviews on sites like Kelley Blue Book. 
• Good value: The car is considered a dependable and affordable option for new or small families. 
• Fuel efficiency: It offers great gas mileage for both city and highway driving. 
• Longevity: Many models have shown to last for a long time, with owners reporting high mileage milestones if properly maintained. 

What to consider

• Regular maintenance: Consistent maintenance is crucial to prevent or mitigate many of the common problems, particularly with the transmission and climate control systems. 
• Check for specific issues: Before purchasing, it is advisable to have the vehicle inspected for signs of paint damage, rust, or potential brake/transmission problems. 

What year was the best Ford Focus made?

The best Ford Focus years are generally considered to be 2018-present for the latest technology and refinement, and 2005-2011 for reliability, especially with a manual transmission. For performance, the 2007 ST is a standout for its turbocharged engine, while the 2010 is often highlighted as a solid and reliable option from its generation.
 
This video discusses the reliability of the first generation Ford Focus: 1mAVE AutomotiveYouTube · Mar 18, 2022
For reliability

• 2010: Frequently cited as a very reliable year, partly due to its refined engine and basic features. 
• 2005-2011: This generation is often considered the most reliable, with the 2011 model having the fewest complaints in some analyses, particularly when equipped with a manual transmission. 
• 2018: A standout for reliability from the third generation. 

For performance and sportiness

• 2007 ST: A performance-oriented model with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 225 horsepower. 
• 2010 ST: Marked the start of a new generation for the ST model with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. 

For modern features and overall quality

• 2018-present: The best years for a modern, practical, spacious, and fuel-efficient car.
• 2022-present: The best choice for a late-model Focus, as it includes updates like a better touchscreen and a more upscale interior. 

How many miles will a 2009 Ford Focus last?

FORD FOCUS LIFETIME MILEAGE EXPECTATIONS
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.

What are common problems with a 2009 Ford Focus?

Common problems for the 2009 Ford Focus include issues with the automatic transmission, especially with the 4-speed automatic, which can experience slipping or delayed shifts. Other frequent complaints involve warped brake rotors, which cause steering wheel shimmy, as well as broken engine mounts that lead to vibration and noise. Some owners have also reported problems with the rear door latches not staying closed, rough idling, and potential issues with the ignition switch.
 
This video discusses the common problems of the 2nd generation Ford Focus: 1mHOWSTUFFINMYCARWORKSYouTube · Feb 16, 2025
Drivetrain and engine

• Automatic transmission: The 4-speed automatic transmission can have problems with slipping, delayed shifts, and general sluggishness. (Note: The problematic "Powershift" dual-clutch transmission was only available on diesel models and not the standard automatic in the 2009 model year, according to CarsGuide). 
• Engine mounts: Broken or worn engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration and noise. 
• Rough idle: A rough idle, especially at operating temperature, can be caused by a sticking swirl control valve in the intake manifold, which is similar to an idle air control valve. 
• Ignition switch: Some models experience starting problems that can be resolved by replacing a faulty ignition switch or housing. 

Brakes and suspension

• Brake rotors: Warped front brake rotors are a common issue, leading to a noticeable shimmy in the steering wheel, particularly during braking. 
• Suspension: Carrying arms and wishbones can be sensitive, and their liquid-filled mounts can leak, causing noise and uneven tire wear. 

Other issues

• Rear door latches: Some owners report failures in the rear door latches, preventing the doors from closing properly. 
• Cabin noise: Some owners report a high level of road and wind noise at highway speeds. 
• Climate control: Issues with the AC compressor, blower motor, or other parts of the climate system have been reported.