Found this 2008 Ford Focus with only 80k miles for $3700. It looks clean, but I want to know if it’s a good deal. What do you all think? Any common issues I should look out for?
That’s a nice car with low miles. Probably owned by someone who didn’t drive much, like an elderly person or someone with a short commute. The older models don’t have the transmission issues that plagued the newer ones (2012 and up). I’d go for it.
@Sullivan
Agreed, solid price for a solid car with low miles. I’d grab it.
@Sullivan
I had this same model as my first car. Mine had similar miles but the interior on yours looks way better.
These are super reliable, but they rust bad in Ohio. If rust isn’t an issue in your area, I’d say go for it. Around here, the rocker panels are usually gone on both sides.
Parker said:
These are super reliable, but they rust bad in Ohio. If rust isn’t an issue in your area, I’d say go for it. Around here, the rocker panels are usually gone on both sides.
Are you from Toledo?
@Jory
Cleveland, actually.
Parker said:
@Jory
Cleveland, actually.
Saw your username and thought you were from the 419 area code (Toledo).
Parker said:
@Jory
Cleveland, actually.
Saw your username and thought you were from the 419 area code (Toledo).
Nope, just needed a random number because 420 was taken. Funny coincidence!
Common issues on this model are motor mounts and suspension parts wearing out due to age. Make sure to check those, as well as the transmission fluid. This car has three motor mounts: one under the battery tray, one passenger-side hydraulic mount, and a torque mount on the subframe.
@Riley
Replacing those is pretty simple, even for a beginner.
Brooke said:
@Riley
Replacing those is pretty simple, even for a beginner.
Agreed, but not everyone feels confident working on their own car. For what it’s worth, I’ve worked on a 2004 Focus and found the parts, even OEM ones, to be pretty affordable.
If you need reliable transportation, buy it. I’ve got a couple of cars from the 2000s that I bought in similar condition, and they’ve been as reliable as new cars. Just check for rust and leaks, then go for it.
Looks like solid transportation, especially for that price and mileage. I think this is the best-looking generation of the Focus.
Harlan said:
Looks like solid transportation, especially for that price and mileage. I think this is the best-looking generation of the Focus.
Totally agree! The later models just don’t look as good.
@Caiden
And don’t even get me started on the newer ones with that weird dry double-clutch transmission. What was Ford thinking?
It’s not a car I’d get excited about, but the price is great. From the sounds of it, as long as you keep an eye on rust and are ready for a few common repairs, it’s a solid choice.
Focuses are great cars. The main thing to watch out for is the transmission. Look for signs like shuddering during acceleration (feels like a bumpy road on a smooth surface) or slipping. Those can be red flags.
@Fintan
This generation doesn’t have the transmission issues. That started with the newer models.
Blair said:
@Fintan
This generation doesn’t have the transmission issues. That started with the newer models.
Good to know! Most Fords I’ve owned have been great.