I found a 2005 Ford Focus SES ZX4 with high mileage, and the seller is only asking for $2,500.
7 previous owners? Sounds like it’s had a rough life. I’d pass.
Teal said:
7 previous owners? Sounds like it’s had a rough life. I’d pass.
Would you still consider it? I told my grandfather that multiple owners don’t always mean it was treated poorly – could’ve just been repos. The dealer says it came from an auction, and he won’t sell it to me until everything’s fixed, but he needs a month to go over it.
@Sloan
Nah, sounds like it’s been through a lot. With that many repos, it likely didn’t get the best care – probably not even regular oil changes. For 250k miles, a one-owner car would give me more confidence.
@Teal
What exactly is a ‘beater’ car?
Sloan said:
@Teal
What exactly is a ‘beater’ car?
A beater is basically an old car that’s in rough shape – folks drive them till they die. They’re usually cheap but come with their share of issues or wear.
@Sloan
With that mileage and price, I’d be wary. It’ll likely need a transmission soon. The 4F27E transmission is solid but probably due for a rebuild if it hasn’t had one.
Leith said:
@Sloan
With that mileage and price, I’d be wary. It’ll likely need a transmission soon. The 4F27E transmission is solid but probably due for a rebuild if it hasn’t had one.
I’ve got an '08 Focus with nearly 300k miles, original transmission, and it’s still smooth. But I drive it hard, so I guess I got lucky.
@Dakota
Some last longer, but many don’t make it that far without issues. I’ve rebuilt plenty of those 4F27Es on Fords and Mazdas, usually around 200-250k miles. Definitely not bad for a transmission lifespan, especially when most aren’t even serviced.
With 7 previous owners, I’d avoid it. Should be priced closer to $1,000.
Wynn said:
With 7 previous owners, I’d avoid it. Should be priced closer to $1,000.
It’s tough finding a $1,000 car that actually runs these days.
$2,000-$2,500 is more realistic for something that can at least drive. But at that price, you’re not getting something reliable for the long haul unless you’re handy with repairs. This car sounds like it’s been passed around and probably isn’t worth more than a beater.
Once there’s a big repair bill, most people just scrap these cars and move on.
@Rin
I’ve seen similar Focuses in better shape and with fewer miles go for this price, while ones like this usually go for under $1,500. You can still get a decent Focus cheap.
I got my 2010 with 110k miles for $3,300, and that was during the high pricing post-COVID. This one is way overpriced at $2,500.
I’m in need of a car ASAP but trying to avoid a loan. My job doesn’t really justify taking on car payments, so I’d rather pay cash and keep my bills down. The dealer won’t sell it until it’s fixed up and ready, but the high mileage is still a worry.
@Sloan
Remember, buy cheap, buy twice. Can you handle the repair costs if it breaks down? Or can you work on cars yourself?
Griff said:
@Sloan
Remember, buy cheap, buy twice. Can you handle the repair costs if it breaks down? Or can you work on cars yourself?
I’d probably just take it to a Ford dealership each time.
@Sloan
Please, never take a 20-year-old car to the dealership. Go with DIY repairs or an independent mechanic.
Shai said:
@Sloan
Please, never take a 20-year-old car to the dealership. Go with DIY repairs or an independent mechanic.
Sounds like this might not be the right car for me.
Shai said:
@Sloan
Please, never take a 20-year-old car to the dealership. Go with DIY repairs or an independent mechanic.
Sounds like this might not be the right car for me.
If you’re still considering it, maybe have a mechanic give it a thorough inspection. Definitely don’t pay $2,500 – closer to $1,000 is more fair, especially if there’s a lot to fix.
@Jin
Tried to negotiate down to $1,800, but the dealer won’t budge. Says he’s fixing everything before selling. My ride just ditched me at my second job, so I need a car badly, but maybe it’s better to save up a bit longer for a Toyota, Honda, or Subaru with lower miles. I’d rather avoid a loan if possible.
@Sloan
For this price and age, private sales are the way to go. Check Facebook Marketplace instead of dealers. A Toyota would be a good option – less maintenance, though they do cost more upfront.