Never buy another
Gas mileage from day one and the handling is'nt as good as when I bought it.
It's cute.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 23rd May, 2006
When things are good, they're great, sadly, that isn't too frequent with the focus
Transaxle ate gears at 20k, 30k, and 55k
Developed massive oil leak at 55k
Brakes don't last long (pads and rotors every 15-20k)
Ignition Lock failed at 59k (expensive repair)
Tires wear quickly (20k-30k is optimistic)
Car won't keep an alignment
Wheel bearings are failing (nasty grinding noise)
When it is working properly, the focus is a wonderful, wonderful car. Unfortunately, keeping this consistent is a costly proposition. It's a great city car, but isn't something you'd want to drive in for more than 3 or 4 hours. Despite claims that the bugs had been worked out of the 2002 focus, they appear to be unfounded. I purchased the car preowned in 2004, a Ford Certified Preowned car. Given the arrogant attitude received from Ford Motor Company regarding the car, and it's less than stellar track record, I can safely say that my next car will be a Honda of some variety.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 11th February, 2006
The best compact of its day, despite a thread of unreliability
I noticed after receiving the car that the sun roof wind deflector had a broken finger that allowed it to vibrate and make a lot of sound. It was replaced under warranty.
One rear wheel bearing was replaced at 56000 km after causing noise. It was covered by the warranty.
At 59000 km some rust appeared under the chrome trim on the hatchback. It was covered under warranty. I think it may be a known problem with the Focus because the dealer reinstalled the trim with some foam strips underneath to stop rubbing.
At 65000 km the turn signals stopped returning automatically. The dealer repaired the problem at no cost. There is a service bulletin about this problem.
I had problems starting the car in the winter of 2005, but the problem was just rust on some relay contacts.
I planned to buy an Acura EL (Honda Civic), but was intimidated by rude dealers and heavy price tags for high mileage cars. I just stopped at Ford to look at the Focus, but found one with luxury level equipment, but in warranty at a couple thousand less than older Acuras!
I find that the Focus handles and rides better than the 2001-2005 Civic. In fact, the Focus would out handle my '95 del Sol, which is supposed to be a sports car. Despite the great handling, the suspension is supple enough to deliver a smooth ride worthy of a larger car.
The engine produces great torque, perfect for the stop and go of Montreal traffic. However, it is slightly rougher than a Honda, and consumes much more gas.
There are occasional rattles in the interior. However, the fit and finish of mine is high.
I know that my list of things that have gone wrong with the car is long, but it has yet to leave me stranded. The problems are also made easier in that they were all covered by the dealer. Lastly, my dealer has been friendly and efficient.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 26th January, 2006
25th Sep 2007, 00:53
I own a 2002 ZX5. Has approximately 98,000 KMS on it.
The seal around the window leaks and the car floods. The rear hatch under the chrome plate rusts. Bad.
Both wheel bearings had to be replaced ($600 / pop) and now... to top it off, the alternator is shot. I had a new one put in at close to $900, since it's a nightmare to replace apparently.
SO, I have shared the same experiences as far as your minor troubles are concerned... not a fan of this car at all, and I saved up for this piece of crap. Quite disappointed.