Hi everyone,
I’m looking for a car in the £1.5-2k range, but I only need it for about 1-2 years. I’ve found quite a few Ford Focus models in this price range, and I like the look of them. I need a petrol version (ULEZ compliant) with a manual gearbox and plan to use it just 2-3 times a month, with each trip around 120 miles.
Which engine is the most reliable for this car? And are there any specific things I should check before buying one? Any advice would be much appreciated.
My work bought a 1.6 petrol Focus brand new in 2006. I picked it up for my dad about 7 years ago, and it’s nearing 200,000 miles with no major engine issues. However, the electrics are starting to fail, and rust is becoming a problem. The engines are solid, but everything else may begin to go wrong over time.
Most cheap Focus models in this range might have the 1.0 Ecoboost engine, which has serious reliability issues. If reliability is your priority, you may want to avoid those.
Jem said:
Most cheap Focus models in this range might have the 1.0 Ecoboost engine, which has serious reliability issues. If reliability is your priority, you may want to avoid those.
At your budget, you’re unlikely to find a Focus with the Ecoboost engine, as it’s relatively modern. Most options in this price range will likely have the older 1.6L engine, which is a better bet.
Jem said:
Most cheap Focus models in this range might have the 1.0 Ecoboost engine, which has serious reliability issues. If reliability is your priority, you may want to avoid those.
I’m considering the 1.6 or 1.8 engine but not sure which is better. They come with different power outputs as well.
@Harper
The 1.6 Zetec and Duratec engines have a solid reputation for reliability. I don’t know much about the 1.8 engine, though.
@Harper
The 1.8 has wet belt issues, which can be problematic. The 1.6 is generally more reliable.
For your budget, I’d suggest looking at a Mk2 Focus (pre-2011), which avoids the problematic Ecoboost engines. I bought a 2011 1.6 petrol manual Focus in 2020 for £3k, and it’s been great for occasional use. If you can, go for a Titanium trim for added features, but note that the 1.6 engine is quite slow. Still, it’s been very reliable for me.
At £1.5-2k, I’d recommend focusing on overall condition and service history rather than a specific brand or model. Look for something well-maintained.
I considered a Focus but decided against it due to the Ecoboost engine issues. Ford has faced lawsuits over these engines, which have been known to catch fire. While they’ve addressed the issue in the US, they haven’t done so in the UK. Honestly, I wouldn’t trust Ford at this point.
Fords tend to light up the dashboard with warning lights eventually. Make sure you get one with a solid service history, and hope for the best.
Avoid the Ecoboost engines. If you’re open to diesel, the 1.6 diesel is reliable and fuel-efficient. I understand you need ULEZ compliance, though, so petrol is probably your best bet.
Look for an older model with the 1.6 engine. It’s a safe choice.
For your budget, I’d recommend a Mk1 Toyota Yaris instead. It’s small but far more reliable than a Focus at this price point. Just watch for rust and keep it maintained.
Adair said:
For your budget, I’d recommend a Mk1 Toyota Yaris instead. It’s small but far more reliable than a Focus at this price point. Just watch for rust and keep it maintained.
The Yaris is a good suggestion, but it’s too small for my needs. I need decent boot space with the seats folded down. I had a Mazda 2, which was good for this purpose but still felt a bit cramped.
@Harper
In that case, look at the Toyota Auris 1.4 or 1.6. Avoid the 1.33 engine. An Avensis with the 1.8 engine might also be worth considering.