I’m considering two used cars: a 2010 Ford Focus for $6,000 with 86,000 km or a 2012 Honda Civic for $7,500 with 170,000 km. Both seem to be in good condition, but I’m unsure which to choose.
The 2010 Focus has a solid, conventional automatic transmission, not the problematic PowerShift found in later models. If it’s in good condition, it could be a solid choice.
The 2010 Focus still used the Duratec 20 engine, which is reliable, and the automatic transmission isn’t a PowerShift, so it’s not prone to the same issues. Between the two, choose based on maintenance history and condition.
I had a 2010 Focus manual, and it ran like a dream for 12 years. If it’s well-maintained, it’s a good car.
That Focus has the 4F27E transmission and a Duratec 20 engine, both of which are very reliable. I’d lean toward the Focus for the lower mileage.
The Civic has a reputation for reliability and longevity. If it’s been maintained well, 170,000 km isn’t a deal-breaker, but ensure the timing belt has been replaced if it’s due.
The Honda Civic is the safer bet for long-term reliability, but check for rust or any signs of neglect.
The Focus might have the edge due to lower mileage, but the Civic’s reliability history makes it a strong contender. Either way, get a pre-purchase inspection.
Both cars depend on maintenance history. If the Focus was babied and the Civic was neglected, the Focus wins. But Honda tends to outlast Ford in general.
Don’t just look at mileage—get a mechanic to inspect the suspension, transmission, and overall condition. Either car could be a good option if it’s well-maintained.
I’d go with the Civic. Honda has a better track record for reliability, but ensure the higher mileage hasn’t led to major wear-and-tear issues.
The 2010 Focus had some rust underneath, unfortunately. Leaning toward the Civic, but I might negotiate the price down to $5,000.