Older Focus or newer Focus… which one would you choose?

If you had $3,500 to spend on a Ford Focus, would you go for the older generation (2008-2011) or the newer one (2012-2018)? I’ve heard the newer models have serious transmission problems, while the older ones don’t seem to have as many issues. For example, would you pick a 2010 Focus with 100k miles or a 2013 with the same mileage? Let me know what you think!

I’d go with a Mk3, but only if it’s a manual. The automatic transmission is the main issue. Otherwise, the Focus is a great car.

Stay away from any 2012-2018 Focus with the dual-clutch automatic transmission. You’d be better off with a Corolla or Civic.

Kale said:
Stay away from any 2012-2018 Focus with the dual-clutch automatic transmission. You’d be better off with a Corolla or Civic.

If I had to pick an automatic, would you recommend the 2008-2011 generation over the newer 2012-2018?

@Kiran
I don’t have experience with the older models, but I’ve seen people stuck waiting weeks or even months for parts to fix the automatics on the 2012-2018 models. I drive a 2012 manual hatchback and haven’t had any major issues, but if it’s between those two, I’d say go with the older generation. Better yet, look for a Civic or Corolla!

@Kiran
If your only options are 2008-2011 or 2012-2018, go with the older generation for an automatic.

The 2012-2018 models with automatics are a disaster. It’s not a problem you can fix—they’re just poorly designed. It’s honestly one of the worst transmissions on the market, comparable to the older Nissan CVTs.

@Kiran
Don’t get the Mk3 with the automatic transmission—it will fail. I drove a 2010 Mk2 with an automatic for about six years, and it worked fine. That car was tough as nails. It survived a rear-ending, a gunshot through the door, and even a tire flying off on the highway.

@Morgan
How many miles did you have on it?

Kiran said:
@Morgan
How many miles did you have on it?

I had it from new and sold it at 60,000 miles.

If you’re looking at a 2013 with 100k miles, make sure it’s a manual. I love my Mk3 Focus, but I wish I’d gotten the manual version. Aside from the water pump and thermostat issues, I’ve had no major problems—except the TCM, of course.

You’re not going to find a Mk3 with a manual for under $3,500 unless it has sky-high mileage or engine problems. For that budget, you’re likely looking at a Mk1 or maybe an older Mk2.

Hadi said:
You’re not going to find a Mk3 with a manual for under $3,500 unless it has sky-high mileage or engine problems. For that budget, you’re likely looking at a Mk1 or maybe an older Mk2.

That’s true. I paid $9,000 for a 2015 manual SE with under 75k miles and a solid service history. It felt like a steal in this market.

Hadi said:
You’re not going to find a Mk3 with a manual for under $3,500 unless it has sky-high mileage or engine problems. For that budget, you’re likely looking at a Mk1 or maybe an older Mk2.

I guess 130k is considered high mileage, but I managed to snag my 2013 SE manual hatchback for $3,500.

Avoid the 2012-2018 automatics. I’m at 135k kilometers and have gone through two clutch replacements and a TCM replacement. It’s been running fine since then, but I know it’s just a matter of time before something else goes wrong. The stick shift models are solid, though. Great cars aside from the transmission issues.

If you’re looking at an older Focus, make sure the TCM has been replaced. The recall covers it up to 150,000 miles.

Kim said:
If you’re looking at an older Focus, make sure the TCM has been replaced. The recall covers it up to 150,000 miles.

The TCM is only one issue. The clutches are another big problem and aren’t covered under warranty. Best to avoid the automatic Focus altogether.

@Tatum
Fair point. I had mine replaced at 149k, and I’m at 173k now. Other than a fuel pump going out, I’ve been lucky with my 2012 so far.

There’s no such thing as a good deal on a 2012-2018 Focus with an automatic transmission. They’re all ticking time bombs. Don’t buy one—it’s that simple.

I wouldn’t touch a Focus from 2010-2016. I have a 2014, and it’s been nothing but a headache. Can’t wait to get rid of it.

Harlan said:
I wouldn’t touch a Focus from 2010-2016. I have a 2014, and it’s been nothing but a headache. Can’t wait to get rid of it.

To clarify, the North American 2010-2011 models are Gen 2 and don’t have the self-destructing transmission. That started with the Gen 3 in 2012.