2000 Ford Focus SE 2.0

Summary:

Great value for under 17,000 with taxes and all

Faults:

This car is in perfect shape except for the damn squealing brakes! The sound is almost ear piercing when you are braking. I have talked to many other Focus owners and it is said to be normal.

General Comments:

I keep it in showroom shape and is clean as a whistle. It doesn't have the Zetec engine but I still can make those tires squeal like a pig!

It handles great on turns, is unusually roomy and is such a pleasure to ride. I'd recommend it to anyone who is in the market. Give it a try. I even added a 3000 dollar stereo system to mine to make it sound great as well as look great!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th May, 2001

2000 Ford Focus SE, Sony limited Edition 2.0 Zetec

Summary:

Have you driven a Focus lately?

Faults:

The brakes were squeaking a bit, but this was quickly fixed by the dealer.

General Comments:

The Sony edition is extremely nice and the stereo is worth every penny. Leather seating and steering wheel are very attractive.

I am pleased every time I drive my Focus. It handles tightly around corners and with the manual transmission it makes for a fun ride.

I have not had any rattles etc.. like many others say. Road noise is quiet.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 15th May, 2001

2000 Ford Focus LX

Summary:

Good for the money

Faults:

To date, the only minor problem is the brakes squeak a bit when I let up on them. My braking is not at all affected, this is strictly a noise issue, and a very minor one at that.

No problems with the car, knock on wood.

General Comments:

I bought this car right out of college. In college I drove an Acura Integra that had too many problems to count. I knew this car was a bit of a risk compared to a Jetta or Civic, but I come from a loyal American family.

I have had no problems to date. The car handles well and the steering is responsive. The engine is sluggish, but this is the absolute base model and I got what I paid for.

I love the interior room. Biggest complaint is the engine noise, although this seems typical of smallish sedans. Given that VW's have taken off in price, its main competitors are Saturns and Civics. I think it is better looking than both, although Honda undoubtedly has Ford in reliability.

The Focus is overall quite nice, a step up for Ford.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 24th April, 2001

24th Jul 2001, 15:51

I have the same problem with my brakes, I cannot get rid of the sqeeking, I even put on new brake shoes so don't feel bad.

28th Aug 2001, 18:50

I am updating my post. The car now has 25,000 miles and is still fine. The brakes squeak a bit when I first use them in the morning, but this goes away after a few stops.

I am generally happy with the car, I haven't had any of the problems others have mentioned and feel my car was well made. I'll try to give another update every so often.

25th Jun 2003, 11:42

Sarah,

As far as the stalling when stopping at lights and trying to pull out of a parking space, this can be contributed to the computer chip inside your. A basic engine diagnostic test will be able to reveal what it is.

7th Jun 2004, 15:14

Sarah.

I had the radio problem occur a couple of times, but I found that there is a small switch that, when it is flipped, it will pop out the quick selection numbers 2 through 5. The radio will turn off, until you push the plastic pad back in. Just avoid the switch, and all should be fine.

2000 Ford Focus ZX3 2.0 Zetec

Summary:

Best all around car out there!!!

Faults:

Nothing at all, runs great!!!

General Comments:

The Focus is a great car, it's quick and handles like it's stuck on the road, the ride is so smooth and comfortable.

The interior has a fresh new look compared to the cheap interior look of the Civic. Also the Focus feels very strong and safe. Test drive one, and see for yourself.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd February, 2001

27th Mar 2001, 23:58

I have owned a focus ZX3 for 9 months now and all I have had is nothing but problems with it... it has been recalled 3 times now... the drivers side door broke (cables inside after 2 months of owning it) and now the ignition has locked on it... a tumbler went bad.. I have had nothing but run arounds from ford about getting my car fixed.. its been a hassle and right now I'm done dealing with them... service has sucked... I LOVE my car but the problems I have with it just don't add up..

An unhappy ford owner...

Chad.

31st Oct 2004, 19:13

We have owned our 2000 Focus ZX3 since Dec. 2000. Now with 52,721 miles. We replaced the tires at 36,000 miles. This was after moving to a hot area in So. UT the tires worn down fast. The only other problem we've had is the rear door latch release button no longer works and needs repair. Overall this car has required very little maintenance. Engine still runs great. And it still is so easy to handle. *****