Ford Focus Hatchback (1998 - 2004) 1.8 TDCi Zetec 3d (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Nothing really.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Initially they liked it but once the problems started and 4 grand later it has an almost mythical status.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Strangly I would buy a Ford again because I had an early TDCI engine and i would hope they've ironed out the problems now.

What are you likely to buy next?

Mazda 6 - they seem good value and reliable but not too sureabout those rear lexus style lights.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,300

When did you buy the car?

May 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted a good compromise between economy and handling.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Considering this wasn't a sporty model the handling and ride wee both excellent. It was very grippy, never violently lost traction and inspired plenty of confidence. When the engine worked fine I found it to be very quick when needed especially at motorway speeds and I was very satisfied. It was the best car I'd had to drive until the problems started...

What's it like to park?

Easy, though difficult to judge the rear end on up slopes.

Have you had any problems with the car?

My god, in term of reliability this is the worst car I have ever owned by some distance. I believe I may have been unfortunate as other owners don't seem to have had as many problems. I had the car for 6 months, and it spent about 3 in garages. Firstly the clutch and dual mass flywheel went (£800), then turbo oil seal went causing engine to run on sump oil and self destruct resulting in a new engine and turbo. I made a mistake here as I bought a recon engine, I should have bought a brand new one. Anyway the car was never the same after that, it was sluggish and the throttle response was bouncy. Split turbo hose. New starter motor. Once I depressed the clutch and the pedal spring just snapped requiring all new pedals and master cylinder. 6 disk in dash cd player broke.

What's most practical about your car?

I'll tell you the least practical thing. I had a 3 door and it was very difficult to get in and out of the back - far worse than Saxo VTR, Peugeot 206 GTI (which are also woeful)and Golf V6 4Motion. Boot was ok but there are a few awkward intrusions.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Heated front screen was very good.