What’s it like to have a Focus ST as your daily?

I’m seriously considering getting a Focus ST. They look awesome, and seem to offer a good balance between performance and practicality for daily driving. However, I’ve heard some people mention they can be unreliable, so I want to get honest feedback. I’m hoping for a neutral take on things, so here are my questions:

  1. Are Focus STs reliable? If not, what problems have you run into?

  2. If you have the ST3 package, how do you like the Recaro leather seats? I’m planning to use it as my daily, and while the seats look great, I wonder about comfort.

  3. What’s your favorite thing about your Focus ST, and how long have you owned it?

Thanks in advance for the help! I’m currently driving a 2012 Volkswagen CC.

I have a 2017 ST1. Bought it at 23k miles for 16k. It’s super reliable. I change the oil every 3k miles, and it still runs like a charm. I don’t know where people get the idea that STs are unreliable. Most Focus trims have issues, but the ST is solid.

@Vail
3k oil changes are crazy. Amsoil recommends 10k intervals. You should really check into that.

Valentine said:
@Vail
3k oil changes are crazy. Amsoil recommends 10k intervals. You should really check into that.

I stick to 4-5k oil changes. I’m fine with it. Some people like to be more conservative with maintenance.

@Joss
It’s unnecessary. Amsoil’s testing shows that oil holds up much longer than 3k miles.

Valentine said:
@Joss
It’s unnecessary. Amsoil’s testing shows that oil holds up much longer than 3k miles.

It’s about peace of mind. I’m just cautious with my car. Everyone has their own approach to maintenance.

@Joss
Fair enough. I’m just not a fan of wasting money on something that’s unnecessary.

I bought my 2014 with 69k miles, now it’s at 102k miles. It makes nearly 400whp and still runs perfectly. I have the ST3 Recaros, and I find them comfortable. I’m slim, though, and they’re a bit tight for bigger people. I’ve taken it on road trips and had no issues with comfort. The key to reliability is regular maintenance. If you keep up with oil changes, spark plugs, etc., the car should last well over 200k miles.

@Van
I have big thighs, so I prefer the ST1 seats. The ST3 Recaros are comfortable, but the ST1 ones are much roomier for me.

I have a 2014 ST3 with 43k miles. It’s been almost entirely reliable. The only issue I had was water collecting in the rear bumper, which I fixed. The Recaros are super comfortable, the best seats I’ve ever had. I’ve had the car for two years now, and it’s been a great daily driver. I love the turbo boost when you put your foot down.

@Stevie
That’s a new one. Where exactly did the water build up?

Remy said:
@Stevie
That’s a new one. Where exactly did the water build up?

It’s the inside of the rear bumper. Water would overflow into the spare wheel area, causing condensation on the windows. A quick search led me to a fix, and it’s been fine since.

I’ve had my 2016 ST3 for a while now. It’s been a blast. I’ve modded it a bit, but it’s still super reliable. I’ve had no major issues, even though I drive it hard. If you’re looking for something fun and reliable, the Focus ST is a solid choice.

I have a 2014 ST3 with 89,000 miles. Had some issues, like electrical problems with starting, and the AC clutch broke off. But overall, the car’s been solid. The seats are comfy, though I’ve had some discomfort after long drives. Still, I would definitely buy another one. The car’s fun and reliable.

@Tatum
I had the same issue with my AC clutch. It was weird—no noise, just suddenly broke off. Had to replace the entire compressor assembly.

I bought my 2017 ST2 with 32K miles, and it’s been great. I daily it 52 miles round trip, five days a week. No major issues, just a small purge valve replacement. The seats are fantastic, and after a bit of adjustment, I love them. The only worry I have is putting too many miles on it too fast, but otherwise, I’m really happy with it.

I’ve had my 2017 ST3 for a while now. It’s been an awesome car, but if you’re new to the platform, make sure to read up on direct injection engines. Keep up with maintenance, and it’ll last. I really like the Recaros, they’re comfortable for me. Just remember, they’re a bit tight for some people.

@Emmy
I disagree. The GTI makes more power and can handle more. The ST is fun, but it’s no match for the GTI in terms of power.

Remy said:
@Emmy
I disagree. The GTI makes more power and can handle more. The ST is fun, but it’s no match for the GTI in terms of power.

That’s not what he was saying. Read more carefully before you argue.

I did a lot of research before getting my Focus ST. It’s been very reliable, and I’ve had no issues so far. The Recaros are great, and I’m a bigger guy (6’1” and 215 lbs). They fit well. I’ve done some fun mods, and the car is super customizable. I recommend it if you’re looking for a reliable, fun car.