Common Issues With The Used Ford Focus: Be sure to have any used Focus you’re considering checked over for abnormal suspension and tire wear, as numerous complaints have been made of short tire life as well as faster-than-expected consumption of suspension components. This may be evidenced by a rattling, popping or clunking sound from the front end when travelling over bumps. Once you’ve confirmed the stereo works, turn it off and listen for these warning signs.
Ensure the doors seal tightly and aren’t in need of adjustment, and be sure the vehicle’s alignment is within spec, too. You’ll need a shop for the latter—though unevenly-worn tires can be a warning sign.
Check the interior for signs of peeling paint on trim pieces, and ensure all electronics work properly. Ditto the windows and locks. On SYNC-equipped models, shoppers are advised to confirm functionality with their wireless device, as well as proper operation from the steering wheel-mounted SYNC controls.
Check the rear carpeting for signs of moisture, which could indicate a bad weather seal.
Note that some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, ranging from fluid leaks to hard shifting to in-warranty transmission replacement. This doesn’t seem to be a widespread problem, but test drivers should note shift quality and have the unit checked by a Ford mechanic. Stick with the five-speed manual transmission where possible, just to be safe.
The Verdict Of The Used Ford Focus: A used Focus looks like a fairly reliable used-car buy, especially with the 5-speed manual transmission. Shoppers after a good overall deal on a machine that’s enjoyed for fun-to-drive dynamics and generous interior space should include it on their list of prospective test drives.
Ensure the doors seal tightly and aren’t in need of adjustment, and be sure the vehicle’s alignment is within spec, too. You’ll need a shop for the latter—though unevenly-worn tires can be a warning sign.
Check the interior for signs of peeling paint on trim pieces, and ensure all electronics work properly. Ditto the windows and locks. On SYNC-equipped models, shoppers are advised to confirm functionality with their wireless device, as well as proper operation from the steering wheel-mounted SYNC controls.
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| Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.com |
Check the rear carpeting for signs of moisture, which could indicate a bad weather seal.
Note that some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, ranging from fluid leaks to hard shifting to in-warranty transmission replacement. This doesn’t seem to be a widespread problem, but test drivers should note shift quality and have the unit checked by a Ford mechanic. Stick with the five-speed manual transmission where possible, just to be safe.
The Verdict Of The Used Ford Focus: A used Focus looks like a fairly reliable used-car buy, especially with the 5-speed manual transmission. Shoppers after a good overall deal on a machine that’s enjoyed for fun-to-drive dynamics and generous interior space should include it on their list of prospective test drives.
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