2000 Ford Focus LX review from UK and Ireland
"An outstanding piece of engineering"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Auxiliary belt found to be worn at 100,000 mile service and changed as a precaution.
Front shocks past their best at 110k so replaced (with OEM items).
Original CD player died a few weeks ago.
General comments?
Proof that you don't need to spend big money to get superb engineering.
122,000 miles and only four components have needed replacement outside normal servicing, three of which could be considered consumables anyway over this kind of mileage.
Great to drive still, with a willing little engine which thrives on revs. Handling is still superb too and makes the Golf I had before (and the mk4 I have driven since) feel stodgy and vague. The engine still uses no oil, and has never missed a beat. The car has only had the recommended maintenance at the local Ford dealer.
Servicing is cheap, apart from the 100k "major" which consisted of the dreaded cam-belt replacement and a check of the valve clearances. Despite the mileage, all clearances were still to factory specs which again is an indicator of the quality of the engineering in this car. As the car had been so reliable, I thought this was money well spent.
Fuel consumption averages 32 mpg with 38 on a motorway run, and 28 around town with the air-con on.
The car doesn't feel at all tired, and is still squeak free inside. The exhaust, battery and clutch are all still original, and none are showing signs of requiring replacement.
Seriously impressed, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend a Focus to friends or relatives. Great to drive, reliable, durable and affordable - what more do you need in a car, if you're not a badge snob at any rate?
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Recommended reviews
| Excellent, the early expense has paid dividends over a long and continuing life |
| The Focus is OK, but needs better attention to detail, better engines and much better dealers |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 16v petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 1600 miles |
| Most recent distance | 122000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Golf |
| Date of Entry | 15th July, 2005 |