Ford Focus Hatchback 1998

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  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Surprising low second-hand price at 6 months old.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    10,000-mile service at Arnie Clark was £90 - I'm told that this should be nearer £70.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Brilliant for class; puts loads of more exec cars to shame.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Great getaway when you keep the revs up. Surprisingly economical over the distance.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Never failed but niggling knock at front (caused pedal box flexing). Reported under warrant but still not rectified despite 6/7 trips to dealer. Trying again to get this rectified - could be a serious problem?

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Adjustments in all the right places.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Needs an alarm. Central locking is a bit ^^slow^^.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Knock at front pedal box explained as ^^flexing between the bulkhead and pedal box^^ but this still persists despite 6/7 visits to dealer and a bill for £230 - later reduced to £38. Exhaust and headlight problems.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Exhaust, headlight problem and screaming drive belt pulley were all fixed under warranty. Bulkhead problem is unresolved.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes