I’m in the market for a used car and currently drive a 1995 Accord with 205k miles. My coworker is selling a 2008 Ford Focus SE Sedan with 98,000 miles. I took it for a test drive, including on the freeway, and it drove smoothly. No rust, clean engine bay, and it has new brakes and tires.
I’ve always driven Hondas, so I don’t know much about Fords. Online reviews say the Focus is reliable and comparable to cars like the Civic and Corolla. He’s asking $5000, which feels a bit high based on KBB and other sites. However, the car is in mint condition, and he’s the second owner (originally a leased car).
I live in Wisconsin, so winter driving and road conditions are something to consider. I plan to have it inspected before buying. What do you all think? Is $5000 reasonable for a Focus in this condition, or should I negotiate? Any known issues I should look out for?
Three years ago, I bought a 2007 Focus with 48k miles for $5400, so $5000 seems overpriced for a 2008 with almost 100k miles. The 2008 is a different design from 2007, though, so maybe it’s worth it if you like the newer style. Just know that the 2008 doesn’t have a double DIN radio slot for easy head unit upgrades.
@Scout
$5000 feels high for an ’08, even in great shape. One common issue is with the tumble flaps inside the intake manifold. If they go bad, you’ll hear a loud tapping or ticking noise.
Kiran said: @Scout
$5000 feels high for an ’08, even in great shape. One common issue is with the tumble flaps inside the intake manifold. If they go bad, you’ll hear a loud tapping or ticking noise.
Thanks, that’s good to know. Mine does have a tapping noise…
@Scout
If it’s the tumble flaps, you can diagnose it easily. With the engine idling, unplug the vacuum line to the intake manifold. If the noise gets quieter within a few seconds, it’s the flaps. You can just plug it back in after testing.