2000 Ford Focus SE Zetec

Summary:

Great design, poor workmanship, substandard parts

Faults:

Numerous recalls. Air conditioning system leaked onto carpet after 3000 miles, and was repaired by the dealership three times. The front brakes and rotors require replacement at only 30000 miles. 60000-mile tires have already been replaced. Automatic door lock and security system blows fuses and has been serviced twice. Battery replaced at 30000 miles (maybe due to electrical failure in security system, but as long as the dealer does nothing but put new fuses in it, I'll never know) Driver's side door interior panel fits loosely, and is a constant source of noise.

General Comments:

I was warned about Ford quality before I purchased the vehicle, but was attracted by its price, year 2000 performance reviews in magazines, and the quality of the ride. Since then, everything I was warned about has come true. The quality of parts (brake rotors, weatherproofing, interior) is substandard. My brakes are a constant source of noise, and they wear like an eraser, despite proper maintenance. I would recommend this car only to persons not planning to own the vehicle more than a year.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 16th December, 2002

2000 Ford Focus LX

Summary:

A wonderful car at a wonderful price

Faults:

The only problem that I have experienced was at the car wash, somehow my antenna's seal around the base failed and my car leaked water into the interior through my dome light.

Nothing else has gone wrong, and the dealer had no problem fixing it. I have yet to experience any other problems or difficulty with my car, and I doubt that they will happen.

The Focus' performance is wonderful!

I have just recently bought the vehicle and am enjoying it very much. I feel that it was a wonderful buy and investment.

General Comments:

The Focus is quick and sleek.

I enjoy the tight turning radius and feel in control when I drive the car.

This car can go fast when needed without any hesitation or stalling.

(I know other people with automatic transmissions and they tend to stall.)

The 2000 Ford Focus LX is a great buy for the money and I recommend one to anyone who is looking for a compact sedan.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th December, 2002

2000 Ford Focus ZX3 2.0 DOHC Zetec

Summary:

The best car in it's class and an outstanding value

Faults:

Brake return spring broke shortly after taking delivery. This did not affect brake performance, but the brake light was always on.

Jammed the shifter linkage during a drag race at just over 16,000 miles.

Left rear wheel bearing failed causing wheel lockup at 18,000 miles.

General Comments:

Not perfect, but a great car, performance is above average, handling isn't class leading it's class dominating.

Interior room, design as well as fit and finish are superb.

This car is without a doubt the best in in it's class, I would (and do) recommend the car to others.

I attribute the problems with the car to first year glitches, my next car will likely be another Focus.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th October, 2002

2nd Mar 2005, 15:49

The problem with the Focus line is the same problem with the other two of the big three in North America: Great launches followed by excessive cost cutting. It doesn't help that the US economy tanked around 2000 and Ford and the others went after their supply base with a vengeance to control costs. This contributed to terrible quality problems.

24th Aug 2005, 10:38

The Ford Focus has been around since 1998 in Europe and form it's launch date, there were no problems with the car. There should be no 1st year glitches.

Ford Motor Company should be ashamed of themselves for not building the car to the same standard as the European Focus, but then again most US/Mexico made vehicles are nearly always sub-standard compared to European/Japanese made vehicles. Just look at the Early 2000's Volkswagen Jetta.

I am now considering suing Ford Motor Company through Small Claims to get my money back for a failed Ignition Switch/Cylinder which should have been recalled 5 years ago.