Used Ford Focus

What to know before buying: Ford Focus

From 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The Focus is described as robust, affordable and fun, with sporty handling, responsive steering and a comfortable cabin.[4]one source
• The new 2018/2019 Focus was praised for precise steering and confident handling even on uneven roads.[1]one source
• Reviews of the 2018/2019 Focus call it a good everyday car, with a roomy cabin and adequate daily performance from the 1.5-litre engine.[1]one source

Typical faults

• The 2012–2016 PowerShift dual-clutch automatic can shudder, slip and shift roughly; 2012–2014 cars are identified as the worst affected.[3][4]

  2012–2016

• Electric power-steering failure is reported most often on 2012–2014 cars, suddenly making the wheel very heavy; 2015–2016 cars were also affected.[3][4]

  2012–2016

• The 2001–2005 Focus is widely reported to suffer ignition-lock problems: the key may not turn or come out, and the steering wheel can remain locked.[4]one source

  2001–2005

• The Mk2 1.8 TDCi fuel system is sensitive to water; from about 150,000 km its high-pressure pump and injectors may fail, causing hard starting.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2

  150 000+ km · 1.8 TDCi

• The Mk2 1.6 TDCi/DV6 is associated with turbo lubrication trouble, DPF blockage, EGR faults and leaking injector seals.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2

  1.6 TDCi, DV6 1.6 diesel

• Some Focus models with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost develop coolant leaks that can cause overheating if not repaired promptly.[3]one source

  1.0 EcoBoost

• Some Focus models with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost consume excessive oil and may require top-ups between scheduled services.[3]one source

  1.0 EcoBoost

Which engine and version to take

• The Mk2 naturally aspirated 1.4 and 1.6 Duratec engines are described as durable and free of a systemic mechanical fault; timing-belt servicing remains essential.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2

What to avoid

• The Mk2 1.6 TDCi/DV6 is the riskier choice because of turbo lubrication, DPF, EGR and injector-seal problems.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2
• Approach the Mk2 1.8 TDCi cautiously: expensive high-pressure-pump and injector trouble may emerge from around 150,000 km.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2
• Treat the 1.0 EcoBoost cautiously because the source reports both coolant leaks and excessive oil consumption.[3]one source

What to check at the inspection

• On a PowerShift car, check for take-off vibration, shifts through the first three gears, TCM faults and documented clutch replacement.[2][4]
• On an Mk2 1.8 TDCi, check cold and warm starting, injector correction values and exhaust smoke.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2
• With a cold Mk2 1.6 TDCi, listen for whistling, inspect for soot around the injectors, and scan DPF pressure and EGR faults.[2]one sourceFord Focus Mk2
• Inspect corrosion-prone body areas carefully on an older Focus, as excessive rust is reported on ageing models.[3]one source
• Check that every door latch secures correctly and verify that applicable door-latch recall work has been completed.[3]one source
• On a 2001–2005 car, operate the ignition key repeatedly; it should turn and release freely and unlock the steering wheel.[4]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — Ford Focus auto tests, atsauksmes 2018/2019 - Forums · forum
2. [2]autoradars.lv — Ford Focus Mk2 (2004 - 2011): problems and risks · press
3. [3]scrapmycarcompany.co.uk — 10 Common Faults with the Ford Focus · press
4. [4]enginepatrol.com — 7 Most Common Ford Focus Problems (Explained) · press

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