If you want to buy a used car, the Ford Focus is a good choice. It was made for the years 2000 through 2018. This hatchback is a good choice for first-time car buyers because it’s fun to drive and easy on the wallet. Even though the Ford Focus is one of the most popular cars, it has a few problems with its reliability.
The model years from 2000-2003 and 2012-2016 are the worst Ford Focus years. The best model years of Ford Focus include 2004-2011, 2017, and 2018. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book.
What Are The Worst Years Of Ford Focus?
Let’s begin with the worst years of Ford Focus that you should never buy.
#9 Worst Year: 2016 Ford Focus (3.91 Rating)
Despite its last position in the rankings, this model is plagued by numerous flaws, including engine failure, transmission problems, power steering failure, and slipping issues. CarComplaints.com warns, “Beware of the clunker,” referring to the 2016 model year of this car due to widespread transmission issues.
CarProblemZoo.com documented 376 issues only related to the powertrain.
Common Problems:
- Engine failure
- Transmission problems
- Power steering failure
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 6 recalls and 806 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 75/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
#8 Worst Year: 2003 Ford Focus (3.89 Rating)
Many consumers complained about the 2003 model, which Ford Focus could not resolve, and got a “Beware of the clunker” badge. The alternator was the primary source of failure. In addition to problems with the engine and transmission, this model also had trouble with the ignition key.
There were also numerous reports of issues with the car’s exterior and interior. Customers also reported power loss and gasoline vaporization. 2003 Ford’s focus wasn’t on using modern heating fuel and cooling technology. As a result, the EGR value dropped.
Common Problems:
- Engine failure
- Transmission problems
- The key won’t turn in the ignition.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 7 recalls and 1016 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#7 Worst Year: 2002 Ford Focus (3.84 Rating)
The Ford Focus model year 2002 also had a lot of customer complaints. Some buyers were dissatisfied due to engines failing. Because of alternator problems, they also had trouble with the transmission. According to carcomplaints.com, this model should be avoided like the plague.
This car was a source of multiple complaints, including disturbing noises from the alternator, dim lighting, and a prematurely dying battery. This model was less reliable than others because of the numerous electrical problems.
Common Problems:
- Engine failure
- Problems in shifting
- The key won’t turn in the ignition
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 9 recalls and 970 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#6 Worst Year: 2015 Ford Focus (3.70 Rating)
The 2015 Ford Focus is not as problematic as the cars that follow it on this list, but buyers should still think twice before making a final decision. The dual-clutch transmission mechanism in the 2015 Focus is the biggest complaint about this car.
Many drivers have complained of a shuddering sensation while taking off from a standstill. Even after having the automobile checked out, the issue persists. Due to the severity of the problem, Ford was sued and ultimately had to pay a settlement.
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Common Problems:
- Transmission failure
- Shuddering
- Premature clutch wear
- Power steering failure
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 8 recalls and 751 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 4.3 expert ratings.
#5 Worst Year: 2001 Ford Focus (3.39 Rating)
The 2001 Focus performed poorly in Consumer Reports’ annual vehicle reliability surveys, earning below-average reliability ratings. For these and other reasons, Ford recalled the 2001 Focus many times.
This model has been subject to 14 recalls and has received over 1500 complaints, earning it the infamous “Beware of clunker” label from Carcomplaints.com.
The headlight switch for the 2001 focus was recalled because of a fire hazard. Some drivers were pleased by the vehicle’s gas mileage and maneuverability, while others were annoyed by how often it needed maintenance.
Common Problems:
- Engine failure
- Broken power window
- The key won’t turn in the ignition.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 14 recalls and 1815 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#4 Worst Year: 2013 Ford Focus (3.25 Rating)
The 2013 Ford Focus still has serious reliability problems. While it may not have as many issues as the 2012 release, it still has enough to warrant inclusion here.
The 2013 Ford Focus’ reliability rating from Consumer Reports was a dismal 1 out of 5. The 2013 Focus was awarded a “Clunker” rating by Car Complaints, suggesting it is unreliable.
The transmission seems to be the main point of criticism. According to multiple reports, transmission shorted out, rendering drivers powerless. Around 45,000 miles is when people typically notice this issue, and the average cost to fix it is $2,600.
Common Problems:
- Transmission failure
- Jerks while stopping
- Electric power steering fails
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 10 recalls and 1970 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.0/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 70/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 3.5 expert ratings.
#3 Worst Year: 2012 Ford Focus (3.01 Rating)
The 2012 Ford Focus has received the “Avoid Like the Plague” seal of disapproval from Car Complaints, making it the worst model year in the Focus’ history. Power steering failure is the most common complaint from 2012 Focus owners. Users reported that the power steering suddenly stopped working while driving, creating a serious safety hazard.
The 2012 Focus also has a serious issue with the door latches breaking on both the driver’s and passenger’s sides. Once the door is opened, the occupants cannot close it again. Accidents have occurred where the doors opened while the car was moving, endangering the passengers and other motorists.
Common Problems:
- Power steering failure
- Multiple shifting problems
- Shudder, and vibration sounds on takeoff
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 10 recalls and 3599 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 68/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 3.6 expert ratings.
#2 Worst Year: 2014 Ford Focus (2.94 Rating)
The 2014 Focus ranks high on CarComplaints.com’s list of least reliable cars of all time. After receiving over three thousand complaints and ten recalls from NHTSA, it received the “Beware of the Clunker” label.
The 2014 model year Focus, like many others on this list, has serious issues with poor hesitations and jerking. The car’s problematic dual-clutch transmission causes it to grind and shift erratically. It’s not even worth it to buy a secondhand model year 2014.
Common Problems:
- Grinding noise
- Bad hesitation/jerking
- Shudders and jerking
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 14 recalls and 2296 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2.3/5.0 consumer ratings. (very low)
- J.D. Power: 72/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 3.5 expert ratings.
#1 Worst Year: 2000 Ford Focus (2.47 Rating)
With more than 3,000 customer complaints, this model is the absolute worst model in the whole lineup of ford focus. According to Car Complaints, the worst model year of the Ford Focus to avoid is 2000, as it received over 5,000 complaints and the “Beware of the clunker” tag.
A blown engine is a serious issue, and for the 2000 model year, it can occur as soon as 100,000 miles (on average), with a $2,200 average repair cost. The engine and transmission failures and the extremely annoying problem of the key refusing to turn in the ignition have made this vehicle an absolute no-go.
Common Problems:
- Engine failure
- Transmission failure
- The key won’t turn in the ignition
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 18 recalls and 3880 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
What Are The Best Years Of Ford Focus?
Here, I’ll list the best years of the Ford Focus so that you can choose the one you like best. These model years performed the best and are also a solid choice.
#10 Best Year: 2017 Ford Focus (4.01 Rating)
With its sporty driving mechanisms, modern interior accessories, and all-around comfy ride, the 2017 Ford Focus is often considered among the best years. It offers several positive attributes, including a quiet cabin, responsive steering, and an abundance of available advanced technology features, as stated by the experts at Edmunds.
While a brand-new 2017 Focus is unlikely to be available, several used focuses can be found in excellent condition.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 5 recalls and 510 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2.9/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 73/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
#9 Best Year: 2004 Ford Focus (4.26 Rating)
With its intelligent ergonomics, roomy interior, engaging driving personality, and precise steering, the 2004 Ford Focus is the gold standard.
The 2004 Ford Focus, as described by Edmunds Expert, is a fantastic car that’s enjoyable to drive, economical on gas, and available in so many different trim levels that it’s nearly impossible not to find one that matches your needs.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 6 recalls and 386 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#8 Best Year: 2005 Ford Focus (4.40 Rating)
The Focus received a subtle redesign for the 2005 model year, resulting in a more mature and understated appearance inside and out. Regarding compact cars, the 2005 Ford Focus is among the best. However, the 2005 Hyundai Elantra accomplishes everything the Focus does, but for a little cheaper.
Overall, The 2005 Ford Focus establishes itself as a complete, exciting compact by offering snappy handling, a pair of sporty i4 engines, and a wide range of body options.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 5 recalls and 439 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#7 Best Year: 2018 Ford Focus (4.55 Rating)
Ford has discontinued the Focus range, and the 2018 model is the final car in the lineup. You’re in luck if you want to buy the most recent model year of the Ford Focus; they’re generally trustworthy cars.
Consumer Reports found the 2018 Ford Focus reliable, awarding it 4 out of 5 stars, and it performed well in both crash and rollover tests.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 353 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
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#6 Best Year: 2007 Ford Focus (4.60 Rating)
The Ford Focus 2007 is a trendy, exciting, useful, and affordable car option. It achieved a perfect J.D. Power reliability rating of five out of five.
The 2007 Focus’s ride-handling tradeoff is its strongest feature. Thanks to the responsive steering and comfortable suspension, you can confidently direct it anywhere you want to go. Considering its low price, it does rather well.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 388 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#5 Best Year: 2008 Ford Focus (4.76 Rating)
With comparatively low complaints and good reliability ratings from authentic car experts, the 2008 ford focus falls in the category of best Ford Focus years. The reason why they are best is their improved gas mileage.
The 2008 Ford Focus offers better fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and reasonably precise steering. It is a great upgrade and continues to be a blast to drive. As a value-based option, it performs admirably.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 244 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
#4 Best Year: 2006 Ford Focus (4.78 Rating)
This model worked out well for Ford. The steering is off in many Ford Focus models, but that’s not the case here. The 2006 Ford Focus has strong steering for a car in its class.
They tried to ensure their clients were as relaxed as possible because the seat padding was excellent. Compared to similar automobiles, this one has an impressively high fuel economy of over 20 MPG. In general, this Ford Focus model is a wise investment.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 201 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
#3 Best Year: 2009 Ford Focus (4.82 Rating)
This 2009 model offers one of the finest fuel economy and the Sync interface, which allows voice control of MP3 players and cell phones. Their electronic system is reportedly reliable, with lower prices than their rivals. Both a Sedan and a Coupe version of this vehicle are available.
A total of 140 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque may be generated from its 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder and find its four available trim levels. Finally, the available manual and automatic five-speed transmissions are both economical and powerful.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 225 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
#2 Best Year: 2010 Ford Focus (4.57 Rating)
The 2010 Ford Focus is another great year for the popular compact car due to its innovative Sync system, high MPG ratings, roomy cabin, dependable handling, and reasonable price. These fantastic features set this model apart from others and are favored by many end users.
The travel will be more enjoyable thanks to the model’s convenient amenities. The base S sedan has many features that higher trim levels lack, including satellite radio, a tilt steering wheel, and four speakers.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 282 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
#1 Best Year: 2011 Ford Focus (4.59 Rating)
The best of the best car in this lineup is the 2011 ford focus. With only 106 reported problems, earning it the “Pretty Good” rating from Car Complaints, The 2011 Ford Focus is the best hatchback if you don’t mind it being a decade old.
In addition, the reliability of the 2011 model was rated 4 out of 5 stars by Consumer Reports, so you can rest assured that it is a good choice for a used vehicle. Many happy customers attest that you will love every single trip with this car.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 106 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
What Are The Common Problems Of Ford Focus?
From what we’ve learned online, here are the most common problems you might have with a Ford Focus:
- Poor stuttering or jerking
- Shuddering
- Door latch failure
- Engine problems
- Transmission failure
- Problems with the electricity
- EPAS failure
- Problems with the engine and how it cools
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FAQs
1. Are Ford Focus Good Cars?
The Ford Focus is a good and reliable car that, with care, can go as far as 200,000 miles. 2009, 2010, and 2011 are so far, the best focus years to buy. Their fuel economy is competitive, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
2. Is Ford Focus Good In Snow?
The Ford Focus is generally considered a good vehicle in the snow, although it does depend on the year. Its front-wheel-drive layout gives it an advantage in the snow. It should perform reasonably well when fitted with suitable tires, such as an all-season tire, at the very least, preferably with a specialized set of snow tires.
3. How Long Will Ford Focus Last?
The Ford Focus has a maximum lifespan of between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometers. An average Ford Focus will last between 13 and 16 years if driven 15,000 kilometers per year.
4. Ford Focus Vs. Fiesta: Which One Is Better?
Focus is a good option for anyone who often takes long trips or transports numerous passengers or large amounts of cargo. It provides everything the Fiesta does but in a larger package. However, The Fiesta is the more budget-friendly option of the two cars because of its smaller size. The base price of a 2018 Fiesta is $15,000, while the base price of a 2018 Focus is $19,000.
5. What Are The Best Alternative For Ford Focus?
Ford Focus is generally a good car, while some of the best competitors of it can be:
- Chevrolet Cruze
- Kia Soul
- Kia Forte
- Volkswagen Golf
- Honda Civic
- Vauxhall Astra
- Peugeot 308
Conclusion
With this information about the best and worst model years of the Ford Focus, picking the ideal one for you should be easy.
In a market where the 2000 and 2014 models received considerable criticism, the 2011 Ford Focus stands out for its high durability, safety ratings, and many enjoyable amenities that will keep you occupied throughout long drives.
Good Luck with your purchase!
