Ford Focus Hatchback (1998 - 2004) 1.8 Zetec 5d (98) (2000/X) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Happy to go with the crowd, not interested in cars or driving.

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

They liked it until I told them of the problems I had with it. Then they said that it was typical ford!

Would you buy this car again and why?

No - unreliable with a gutless engine.

What are you likely to buy next?

After this car I bought a Seat Leon Cupra 20VT which was absolutely superb - powerful, refined, stylish and of much higher quality than the Focus. I now drive a BMW Z4 2.2SE which is different to drive again but everything I expected from it.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,200

When did you buy the car?

September 2001

Did you get a good deal and why?

Shopped around and my best quote was beaten by a friend who works for a ford dealer

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

courteous

What's it like to drive?

Engine needs working hard to keep up with most traffic and runs out of steam very quickly going up hills with 3 or 4 people in although with just the driver it it is fine. Long journeys can be tiring due to the need to work the engine. Handling is superb though and gives a great feel on country roads. It's just a shame that the engine can't keep up.

What's it like to park?

Easy to park

Have you had any problems with the car?

Engine kept stalling which turned out to be a faulty speedo sensor, boot lock kept falling out of position, strange knocking under pedal box, power steering pump needed replacing, as did the brake master cylinder! All before 20,000 miles. A bit of internet research showed all of these to be common problems too. Not good enough.

What's most practical about your car?

Nice sized boot and roomy enough for two people in comfort.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Leather seats.