Hey everyone, my sister (18) is looking at a 2013 Ford Focus with 160K km (99K miles). The seller says it’s reliable and has a roadworthy certificate (RWC), but I’ve heard mixed things about these cars.
We’re checking it out tomorrow, so I need some quick input! Is it actually a good car, or is it a ticking time bomb?
If it’s a manual, you’re good. If it’s an automatic, stay far away.
Thane said:
If it’s a manual, you’re good. If it’s an automatic, stay far away.
This is all you really need to know.
Thane said:
If it’s a manual, you’re good. If it’s an automatic, stay far away.
Yep, my dad’s 2012 Focus hatchback is still going strong at 130K miles, but it’s a manual. Just needed a new clutch, but otherwise, it’s solid.
Thane said:
If it’s a manual, you’re good. If it’s an automatic, stay far away.
Seriously, do not get the automatic!
What’s an RWC?
The automatic transmission in these cars is known to fail, often right around 60K miles. If the dealership has replaced the electronic shift module (ESM), it might be okay for a while, but I wouldn’t bet on it.
@Peyton
I’ve got a 2014 with the transmission repair done under warranty at 170K km. Works fine now, and they even gave me a rental for three months while it was in the shop.
That said, the rust is starting to show, which is annoying.
Avoid the automatic at all costs! I had a 2013 Sport with the Powershift transmission, and it was nothing but trouble until I finally ditched it in 2021.
There have been multiple class action lawsuits over these transmissions—there’s a reason for that.
Avoid the early 1.0 Ecoboost engines. A quick Google search will show you why.
Corey said:
Avoid the early 1.0 Ecoboost engines. A quick Google search will show you why.
You mean the ones with the wet timing belt?
Corey said:
Avoid the early 1.0 Ecoboost engines. A quick Google search will show you why.
You mean the ones with the wet timing belt?
Yeah, total garbage.
@Galen
Yep, I remember now. Junk.
Though, to be fair, proper maintenance helps… but still wouldn’t risk it.
Though, to be fair, proper maintenance helps… but still wouldn’t risk it.
Yeah, but even with good maintenance, they still have way too many issues.
Corey said:
Avoid the early 1.0 Ecoboost engines. A quick Google search will show you why.
What about the non-Ecoboost ones?
Corey said:
Avoid the early 1.0 Ecoboost engines. A quick Google search will show you why.
What about the non-Ecoboost ones?
The older Duratec engines aren’t as powerful or fuel-efficient, but they’re much simpler, easier to maintain, and have a better track record for reliability.
If it’s a manual, you should be fine.
Not all automatics are terrible. Mine has 155K miles, and the transmission is still fine. Just depends on how it was treated.
If it’s an automatic, ask if the transmission has been rebuilt. If not, you’ll likely need to replace or rebuild it in the next 3 months to 2 years. That’ll cost you anywhere from $4K to $6K at a shop—and even more if you take it to a dealer.
Aside from that, the engine is fairly reliable as long as it gets regular oil changes. The car is actually fun to drive when it’s in good shape.