2002 Ford Focus ZX3 review from North America
"When things are good, they're great, sadly, that isn't too frequent with the focus"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transaxle ate gears at 20k, 30k, and 55k
Developed massive oil leak at 55k
Brakes don't last long (pads and rotors every 15-20k)
Ignition Lock failed at 59k (expensive repair)
Tires wear quickly (20k-30k is optimistic)
Car won't keep an alignment
Wheel bearings are failing (nasty grinding noise)
General comments?
When it is working properly, the focus is a wonderful, wonderful car. Unfortunately, keeping this consistent is a costly proposition. It's a great city car, but isn't something you'd want to drive in for more than 3 or 4 hours. Despite claims that the bugs had been worked out of the 2002 focus, they appear to be unfounded. I purchased the car preowned in 2004, a Ford Certified Preowned car. Given the arrogant attitude received from Ford Motor Company regarding the car, and it's less than stellar track record, I can safely say that my next car will be a Honda of some variety.
Recommended reviews
| Great dependability and affordable! |
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| 2001 - Focus SE Sport - Street Edition 2.0 liter Zetec Best little sports sedan - Just beware of aftermarket lights on a used one |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 zetec 16v DOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 23000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 60000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Contour |
| Date of Entry | 11th February, 2006 |