Replacing my 02 Focus… what’s the best year to go for?

I’ve got an ’02 Focus 1.8, and it’s been the best car I’ve ever owned. It’s reliable, doesn’t give me any trouble, and is just perfect—but it’s starting to show its age.

Since I’ve had such a good experience, I’m thinking of getting another Focus. Can anyone recommend a specific model or year? I’m not after the newest one unless it’s genuinely worth it. What’s your pick?

If you’re considering a newer Focus, make sure you go for a manual transmission model for reliability. The automatics are a headache.

Bela said:
If you’re considering a newer Focus, make sure you go for a manual transmission model for reliability. The automatics are a headache.

I’ve been reading about the 2008-2015 transmission issues. If they’re fixed, do they stay fixed? I do prefer manual models, but they seem harder to find these days.

@Keller
The issues don’t really go away. Repairs might make it driveable for a while, but the problems almost always come back. Stay away from those automatics.

Cedar said:
@Keller
The issues don’t really go away. Repairs might make it driveable for a while, but the problems almost always come back. Stay away from those automatics.

Exactly. They just replace faulty parts with slightly less faulty parts. The TCM might get updated, but that doesn’t fix the root problem. Avoid any automatic with the DPS6 transmission. If you’re looking for reliability, consider the 1.6 petrol or Zetec models—or go for an ST if you can find one.

@Keller
Honestly, the only way to truly fix those automatics is to do a manual swap. Ford claims the problem was fixed after 2015, but you’ll still hear about issues on newer models. If you want reliability, stick to a manual Focus—or maybe even look at a Fiesta.

@Keller
The 2008-2011 models are a safer bet than the 2012 and later ones with the infamous transmission problems. The earlier models use the 4F27E transmission, which has a better track record. If you find a good 2011, you could even consider swapping it to a manual if needed.

Look for a Duratec-engined Focus with the MTX-75 manual transmission. These cars, whether second or third gen, are rock-solid, easy to fix, and reliable. Just steer clear of the automatics and the 1.0 or 1.6 Ecoboost engines, as those have known issues.

What country are you in? Options can vary a lot between the UK, US, or Canada.

@Lior
I’m struggling to find manual models unless I go back to the Mk1. They’re pretty rare these days.

Keller said:
@Lior
I’m struggling to find manual models unless I go back to the Mk1. They’re pretty rare these days.

They’re out there, but you might need to widen your search area. Be prepared to travel a bit to find one.

The real frustration is sifting through listings where automatics are mislabeled as manuals because they have a ‘manual mode.’ That drives me nuts every time.

If your Mk1 is still mechanically sound and not too rusty, I’d say keep driving it!

I’ve owned a 2001 with 400k miles, a 2005 with 300k (still going strong and my grandkid loves it), and now a 2006. These cars are fantastic. The transmissions are silky smooth, and I’ve never had major issues. My 2006 has a timing chain instead of a belt, which is a big plus. Something to keep in mind if you’re looking at older models.

@Shawn
Agreed, these older models are fantastic. I’m just trying to see if any of the newer ones hold up as well as the older gens.

I had a 2002 Mk1 Focus, 1.8 TDCi manual for 10 years, and it was the best car I’ve owned. Now I have a 2012 Mk3 Focus, 1.6 TDCi manual, and I’m super happy with it as well. As long as you go for a manual gearbox and diesel engine, these cars will last forever.