Ford Focus Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.6 TDCi Ghia (110ps) 5d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Says I have a car people know is good (aside from a few problems I point out).

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

They all seem to like it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. The niggles and Ford have put me off it.

What are you likely to buy next?

Something Japanese. Looking at the new Civic or maybe a bigger Mazda 6.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£11,500

When did you buy the car?

October 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

It was a reasonable deal, though hind-sight is a beautiful, if annoying thing. I brought from a car supermarket. They were ok.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I learned to drive in its forer-runner. Thought the new one could only be better!

What was the dealer like?

Helpful and the car supermarket (Trade-Sales) were not too pushy, though very stingy with trade in values.

What's it like to drive?

Great drive. Ca chuck about, but I would imagine it is only better in the sportier versions.

What's it like to park?

Can be a bit of a pain. Hard to judge where the back of the car is (though I have to say, the bumpers have not cracked!). The side mirrors have to be adjusted each time you want to see the kirb.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes! Lots. I had problems with it cutting out. Supposedly nothing a good charge of the battery could not solve. They did, the car did too. Went back again and the alternator was replaced. No problems since. I have worries about this cars trim quality though: A vent has broken, a hinge on the centre armrest has broken, a hinge on the dash stowage tray has broken, creaks everywhere. Most of which would be a warranty job if Ford had not limited trim warranty to 1 year and not the published 3.

What's most practical about your car?

Boot space. The boot is massive. I would say all the other cubby holes, but seeing as they keep breaking....

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The auto-dimming rear view mirror. You only appreciate when you have one.