Please before you buy any car available, do your research. So many bad cars out there now... it's endless. Some are new and some are used. Use this format carsurvey.org and carcomplaints.com for information on the car you want. Viewing carcomplaints.com it says electric problems were the number one issue with the 2007 Focus, centering around problems with the alternators. But compared to the 2012 Focus... you got a good one. Also Consumer Reports just came out with their buying car guide in April. Everyone buying a car new or used should read that cover to cover before making a decision. But remember people that abuse their cars buy their recommended cars too, so to be safe take any used car to a good certified mechanic to weed out these abusers who think changing their car oil is for the weak.

I must bring to your attention that: carcomplaints.com is an American Website for American Market made & Spec cars.

My late father was an importer of American cars for 23 years, and he would often say that American quality was poorer than European, and some British cars. Check reviews on American made Honda's and Toyota's in particular. Fit & finish (component's, paint & assembly) was always well below Japanese standards.

The same could be said for Ford, GM, & Chrysler; don't forget they almost went bust during Obama's Administration, hence his Cash-for-Clunkers programme. Many old but more reliable cars were destroyed in favour of current, but poorer quality 'New' cars.

Going back to carcomplaints.com, it confirms what I have said about USA built vehicles in general. You'll find that Euro & Japanese counterparts fare a lot better!

I am glad you said “some” British cars. Which ones are great with maintenance? Then factor in parts cost vs a domestic equivalent.