General Comments:
I purchased the Focus with relatively high mileage (190K km), for $1,750 as a cheap commuter.
I have to say that I quite like this car, even though it has required some work. I knew when I purchased the car that the timing belt and water pump would need to be done within the first year of ownership, which I had done within 6 months at $650. I also had the right front caliper replaced at this time, as it was misbehaving. The left front wheel bearing was growling for a number of months, so I had this replaced at a cost of $300. The thermostat housing let go a few months ago ($300), which I understand is a fairly common issue (the housing is made of plastic). Soon to be done are the tie rods (at least the right side) as it is making a noise over bumps the past few months. This will likely be about $300-400.
So, I've spent about $1,200 on the car to bring it up mechanically, with another $3-400 to go in the short term. But I suppose at this age of car, anything can happen anytime.
None of the above listed issues are out of the ordinary for an 18 year old car with over 200K on the odometer. The car runs really well, and the transmission shifts nicely (previous owner had a new clutch installed a few months prior to my purchase).
Cosmetically the car is in very good condition, and I'm surprised at how well it has held up. The body and paint are very good, and the interior shows no appreciable wear with the driver's seat upholstery still in excellent condition.
The Focus is fun to drive. Handling is crisp and responsive and the Zetec with the 5 speed has plenty of power. It can surprise with its acceleration if pushed a little into the higher RPM, although I generally drive it easy due to its age.
I do wish that fuel economy was a bit better. It's very sensitive to seasonal temperatures. I can achieve about 25 mpg city driving in the summer months, but only 20-22 mpg during the colder winter season. But admittedly, most of my trips are only 5-10 km in length, so the engine just reaches proper operating temperature and is shut down again to cool.
My intention in buying this car was to hopefully use it as a commuter for 3-5 years, without it costing too much in repairs. I've owned the Focus for 19 months now, with nothing surprising in terms of maintenance and repairs.
Time will tell over the next year 2-3 years. Given that I only drive about 10,000 km per year, maybe the Focus will take me to 300,000 km and I'll end up keeping it for 10 years. It will depend on its reliability and cost of ownership, but who knows, it may be possible.
