Reliability. It’s the one thing most car buyers look for when purchasing a vehicle. Ford Focus is a car widely known to many, but is it reliable, and what should you know about it before looking to buy?
We’ll dive into the key aspects that determine how dependable the Ford Focus is, from engine performance to common issues reported by owners.
We’ll also explore the maintenance costs, longevity, and what you can expect from this popular model over time.
Whether you’re already a Ford Focus owner or thinking about purchasing one, we can provide expert insights for car enthusiasts, some that you may not already know.
What Ford focus models are there?
You may already have your eyes set on a particular Ford Focus model, in which case you can skip over this. If not, there are a handful of options you will want to consider based on your preferences. Such as:
- Ford Focus Trend – The entry-level model. Great value for money. Ideal for those seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly option.
- Ford Focus Titanium – A mid-range model. Adds premium features like upgraded interior materials, more tech, and comfort.
- Ford Focus ST – A sportier, performance-focused model. More powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive styling for driving enthusiasts.
- Ford Focus Active – A crossover-inspired variant. Offers slightly raised ground clearance, rugged styling, and a more adventurous design.
- Ford Focus Vignale – The top-of-the-line model. Luxurious features, premium materials, and advanced tech.
- Ford Focus RS – The high-performance hatchback. Designed for maximum thrills, featuring a turbocharged engine and sport-specific enhancements.
Ford Focus Years to Avoid
While every car owner’s experience is unique, when it comes to choosing a used Ford Focus there are certain years that buyers should approach with caution due to widespread reliability issues. This list serves as a helpful guide to highlight years that have been commonly flagged for issues in the past. We always recommend you go off your own research and opinion but years to be wary of are:
- 2007
- 2008
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
One of the worst offenders is the 2012 Ford Focus, which has earned the “Avoid Like the Plague” designation due to an abundance of complaints.
The most significant problem reported by owners is the sudden failure of the power steering, a dangerous issue that can occur unexpectedly. In addition, the 2012 model suffers from faulty door latches, which can leave the doors unable to close or even open while the vehicle is in motion, posing a serious safety risk.
The 2014 Ford Focus also ranks among the least reliable, with a large amount of complaints and recalls. This model struggles primarily with its dual-clutch transmission system, which causes annoying jerking and hesitation during acceleration.
The transmission issues have been so severe that many owners have reported unreliable shifting and grinding.
2013 Ford Focus is notorious for transmission failures as well, with a significant number of reports regarding a shorted transmission system, sometimes leading to a complete loss of control while driving. This issue often manifests after around 45,000 miles, leading to expensive repairs.
Ford Focus Years To Trust
Away from the negatives, onto the positives.
The older 2011 Ford Focus is considered one of the more dependable choices in the lineup. It is said to perform well and have strong reliability, making it a great option for those on a budget.
The 2018 Ford Focus was the last model before the Focus line was retired, continuing the trend of dependability. This year has strong scores in crash and rollover tests, and the 2018 Focus is a safe choice for buyers looking for a late-model used car.
It has updated features and performance while maintaining the reliability Ford is known for. Whether you prefer a slightly older model or a more recent one, both of these Focus years are among the most trustworthy options on the market.
So, are they reliable?
The reliability of a Ford Focus largely depends on the model year and transmission type. While the Focus has gained a reputation as a good all-around car with excellent fuel efficiency, certain issues—most notably with the transmission control module (TCM) in automatic models—have tarnished its reliability for some owners.
Problems with the TCM (Transmission Control Module) can lead to costly repairs and prolonged wait times for parts, especially given the limited availability through Ford.
For those considering a used Focus, always go for a manual transmission as this will bypass many of these concerns and provide a more dependable driving experience.
If you’re looking to sell your Focus or give the interior a facelift, investing in high-quality car mats is an affordable way to make the often-dated interior of Focus’ feel fresh and appealing.
