I’ve been watching videos and reading up on the first-gen Ford Focus. A lot of people seem to say they’re mostly reliable cars. What do you all think?
It depends on the engine. Avoid the SPI split-port engine at all costs—it has a design flaw where the valve seats can fall out and destroy the engine. The Zetec engines are decent, but the real winners are the 2.0L and 2.3L Duratec engines. They’re super reliable with just a few minor issues like vacuum leaks and burning oil if the oil hasn’t been changed regularly.
If you’re looking at 2005-2007 models, they got a facelift and some trims (like the SES or ST) even have traction control. I’ve owned three of these cars, and while I usually prefer Japanese vehicles, these are basically domestic cars with reliable Mazda engines. Just watch out for rust.
I’ve had mine for three years, and it’s been incredibly reliable. It’s spacious, economical, and perfect as a daily driver. Not the most exciting car, but it gets the job done.
My ‘05 has been running great for over a year now. Solid little car.
They’re generally reliable. I’ve owned several, and none have left me stranded. They’re simple but effective. If you’re buying one, try to find a model with the Duratec engine—it’s the best option and easier to find parts for compared to the older Zetec engines. Rust is the biggest issue to watch for on these cars.
I have a 2002 Focus wagon with the Zetec engine. Bought it in 2010, and it’s been reliable overall—it’s never left me stranded. That said, it does go through parts faster than other cars I’ve owned, but replacement parts are cheap. The wagon version is super practical, great for camping or hauling stuff, and the visibility is amazing. It’s a low-budget car, though, and you have to be okay with that. For what it is, it’s a solid little workhorse, but don’t expect luxury.
We had a 2003 SE sedan that ran for years with almost everything original. It even kept going for a while on three cylinders! We finally parked it in 2011 when we upgraded, but it was a tough little car that served us well for years.