I’m considering buying a '08 Focus SE that was previously a government vehicle. It has 45k miles and has been well taken care of. Normally, I wouldn’t think of paying 5k, but for a car in perfect condition, I’m really tempted.
Government cars are usually well-maintained, but I bet this one has a lot of idle hours. If it’s really in perfect condition like you say, 5k seems like a good deal.
Honestly, in today’s market, that price seems fair. Those older Focus models are known for being very reliable.
Talon said:
Honestly, in today’s market, that price seems fair. Those older Focus models are known for being very reliable.
Thanks for the input! Yeah, it’s pricey, but compared to other options, this one looks better.
If you’re planning to pass on it, feel free to DM me the details.
Mai said:
If you’re planning to pass on it, feel free to DM me the details.
Haha, will do!
I had an '08 SE and it made it to 220k miles before the rust started taking over. If I’d taken care of the rust earlier, I’d still be driving it. I sold it for just $1k with the rust issues. 5k for a well-maintained one is a good deal, you could do worse.
@Denver
Good to know. I’ll definitely keep the rust in mind.
The rust condition is really important. If there’s no rust, it’s a solid choice. These cars are very reliable, almost like Toyotas. But if there’s any rust, I would pass on it for that price. There are probably better options out there.
I had a 2012 Focus that was perfect at first, but then the transmission failed. It cost me $3,500 to fix. I’d be careful with Focuses in general, especially with that transmission issue. If you can find another brand, I’d go for that over a Focus. I’ll never buy a Ford Focus again.
@Sky
I get that you had a bad experience, but the '08 model doesn’t have those transmission issues. I’ve had a few Focus cars and they’ve been great. My '01 Focus lasted forever with no major problems. My 2012 Focus is still going strong at 145k miles.
@Noble
Yeah, I didn’t realize the transmission issue was specific to certain years. I’m not really against Ford, I just had a bad experience with the Focus. If I could afford it, I’d still get a Ford, just not another Focus.
@Sky
By the way, I don’t hate Ford. My first car was a Mustang and I love Ford trucks. Just not the Focus, but I’m glad yours is working well.
Sky said:
@Sky
By the way, I don’t hate Ford. My first car was a Mustang and I love Ford trucks. Just not the Focus, but I’m glad yours is working well.
I’ve had the same issue with the SE. I love my ST now, though!
Sky said:
@Sky
By the way, I don’t hate Ford. My first car was a Mustang and I love Ford trucks. Just not the Focus, but I’m glad yours is working well.
American cars often get a bad rep, but I’ve had a lot of luck with Ford. I actually drive my sister’s '01 Ranger these days, and it still runs great. I’ve owned many vintage cars, but never a Ford muscle car. Would love to have a classic Mustang though.
@Sky
Yeah, the '08 Focus is a solid car. The transmission issue was definitely a problem for Ford, but they didn’t fix it in time. I would say the '08 model is safe, but double-check just to be sure.
My buddy got an '06 Focus ZX5 SES for 500 bucks recently. It had 80,000 kilometers and was in great shape, just a few minor scratches.
If I needed a car, I’d jump on this deal. I bought a 2014 Focus for more than 5k, and it had almost triple the miles. This one is a great deal!
I couldn’t get 5k for my 2013 with 155k miles. Just sharing what I’ve seen in my area.
Don’t do it!!!