Faults:

Coolant leakage (50K - 100K) : had problems with this for almost 2 years, went through a major overhaul of coolant system ($$$$) before the problem finally stopped.

Breaks squealing ($150K -current) - went in 3 times, replaced breaks, pads.. you name it.. the problem won't stop ($$$).

Amortizators (20K - 50K) - had to replace, covered by extended warranty.

Carpet wears off quickly.. poor quality.

General Comments:

In general it's a mid comfort, and basic car. It was pretty cheap to maintain until about 150,000 km. It has a 40 litre tank... lasts me for about 425 km of highway+ road driving. Haven't had any major issues (except for the ones mentioned above). Up until this year the only major expense I incurred was replaced 4 tires at 100,000 Km.

Not very comfortable inside, but very easy to drive and relatively small and easy to park.

BUYERS OF NEW FOCUS CARS BEWARE - VERY LOW RESALE VALUE.

I intend to run my car into the ground so I don't have that problem.

The only recall I had to take my car for was the latch on both rear passenger doors.

Faults:

Replaced the resistor controlling the ventilation, cost 20 Eur.

General Comments:

I bought the car because it was rated to be very reliable, and it turned out to be like the reviews promised.

I owned the car for 5 years and there have been no mechanical nor electrical problems except for the vent resistor that had to be changed last year.

The steering is very direct and easy to operate; the car gives you a good feeling for the road without beeing rough to ride.

There is enough space for four people, and even in the back I can sit comfortable (I'm 186cm tall, about 6feet 2 inch).

The only problem is, that you can attach only two child seats in the rear, because the (comfortable) molded/shaped rear seats will have the children seats slide inwards, leaving too less space for a third seat in between.

All over I would never sell that car, but I have need for a 7 seats car.

Faults:

Had to replace the tires, both axles, transmission, and the door locks malfunctioned. Too many others to mention. AVOID.

General Comments:

You are crazy if you buy this car. I spent almost the cost I paid for this on repairs. It is the worst car ever. I bought a 1994 Accord since then, put 200k on it with oil changes only. Never again Ford.. terrible car.

Faults:

Rear Wheel bearings, every piece of the brake system, A/C blower motor, 2 motor mounts, 4 wheels all bent, Popping the front right now, shudders wildly over 50mph.

General Comments:

Can't tell much about a car that spends more time in the garage than on the road. Love the looks,and that's all you get to do is look at it.

Faults:

Persistant Knocking Noise from the front when travelling slowly over rough ground. Dealer said they adjusted the anti-roll bar. No use.

Ignition coil went at 58000 miles.

General Comments:

Good all rounder. Estate is very spacious with the seats down. Was able to fit two wheelie bins in the back easily. Performance is average.