2004 Ford Focus C-MAX Ghia review from UK and Ireland

Clock on the dashboard has had to be reset numerous times.

Rear tailgate sometimes opens using the button, or you have to resort to using the key to open electronically.

Has some problem within the engine as it drives, as it is being held back/hits a flat spot, then when clears it throws out plumes of black smoke.

Oil deposits in the turbo charger.

Bought the car from local Honda dealer in 2008 as it met family needs. Had a full service history from the previous owner.

Drove OK up until its service at 40000 miles. Highlighted the problem with the engine in relation to its stuttering/driving as if it had some blockage general poor performance. They could not find anything wrong apart from some water in the fuel tank - how that got there they don't know.

Continued driving it, still presenting with the same problem with the engine. Took it back to the dealer, still couldn't find a problem. They passed it onto Ford; found some oil in the turbo, cleaned it out, increased the idle speed, still no improvement.

Another service by local garage; renewal of oil, air and fuel filters, oil found in the filter, performance now even worse.

Tried to part exchange the car; practically worthless since its purchase.

Has anyone had this sort of problem with performance? Still have little niggles with tailgate being temperamental and also the clock and radio.

Would not buy another C-Max. Poor second in comparison to the Picasso in relation to performance.