Best and worst Ford Focus years — which to avoid

Ford Focus is the vehicle for you if you are in the market for a sporty hatchback and are on a tight budget, but not all of the Focus models have been created equal. Through the production run of over 20 years, there have been some Ford Focus years to avoid.

Don’t worry – we’ll decide to go for a Focus worth your while as our team elaborates on the main reliability details such as NHTSA complaints, official recalls, problems, and even the most reliable picks.

Why you can trust REREV’s advice on which car model years to avoid: Our car experts look at official data, ask real drivers what they think, and talk to experienced mechanics to make sure our list is useful. This reliable info can make buying a car easier for you. Want to know how we do it? Find out more about our research methodology.

How we rated the best and worst Ford Focus years

As we crafted this guide, our team experts wanted to give you all the unique pointers on Ford Focus reliability while still staying true to the official reports and NHTSA complaints. So, we focused on Focus reviews and ratings on platforms like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, Consumer Reports, and others.

We also checked the official safety ratings and all the NHTSA scores possible to bring you an objective, yet completely accurate overview of the best and worst years:

Most common Ford Focus problems

The Ford Focus was a popular option among compact cars of its time. And like every other machine, it is not above some model-specific problems. It helps to know what issues to expect, so you can take the proper measures to deal with them when they appear or prevent them altogether.

1. Malfunctioning ignition

Many Focus drivers complained of all or either one of these problems: the steering wheel is locked, the key will not leave the ignition, or the key will not turn in. Most drivers of the 2001 to 2005 models complained primarily of the key refusing to turn in the ignition.

The best solution for this problem is replacing the ignition. Many drivers have had to call a locksmith to remedy the situation, while others claimed that tapping on the key lightly with a hammer after inserting it made it work just fine.

2. Failed power steering

Focus models from 2012 to 2014 were deeply plagued by power steering failure, with the 2012 model year being the worst hit. The power steering was prone to fail at any time, making it extremely difficult to turn the wheel. Many drivers got left hanging in precarious situations due to this issue, sometimes leaving them in an accident or crash.

To resolve the issue, drivers had to replace the power steering or the rack and pinion. If you operate any of the affected models and suddenly find yourself in this uncomfortable situation of failed power steering, use all your might on the steering to get it to respond favorably. Also, put more pressure on your brakes so you can come to a stop, especially if the engine stops too.

3. Powershift transmission faults

Ford faced a class action lawsuit from over 2 million dissatisfied drivers over their powershift transmission faults. The dual-clutch automatic transmission used for Focus had several problems that were expensive to repair.

The two common symptoms most affected drivers notice are shuddering when accelerating from a standstill and a rough upstart that sends vibrations throughout the car. If you were driving any of the affected models, you would feel vibration even through the steering wheel.

Focus models most affected by this issue are the 2012, 2013, and 2014 model years, making them models you should avoid if you don’t want to suffer from the transmission problem. What makes the matter worse is that some drivers believe Ford was aware of the problem but went ahead selling the vehicles as though they were expected.

The problem was so severe that all remedies seemed to only work for a short while. Drivers have replaced the transmission control module, the output shafts, the clutch, and the entire transmission in some cases, only for the problem to reappear after some time.

In response to the issue, Ford extended the powertrain warranty on the affected models to 100,000 miles and offered some forms of repayment to affected drivers.

4. Rough idling

Some Focus drivers complained of rough idling and regular engine stalls, especially when they slowed down in traffic or waited for the red light to give way. While mechanics are still looking for a way to resolve the issue correctly, some drivers reported that changing the throttle body relieved them of the problem.

5. Suspension issues

2008 and 2009 Focus drivers complained the most about suspension issues. They often heard strange noises coming from the vehicle’s rear end. The tires on affected vehicles also wore faster than regular tires, making the entire problem expensive to fix.

There is no definite solution to this problem. Most drivers of the affected models got fed up with regularly replacing the tires that they replaced the vehicle entirely with another since it was swallowing money much more than the value it was dispensing.

6. Stalling engine

2016 Focuses were most affected by this issue. And the annoying thing about it was that it mainly happened when the vehicle was in transit. In severe cases, the engine died ultimately, leaving the driver stranded in the middle of the road.

To eliminate the problem, drivers had to replace the air sensors. Some replaced the fuel pump instead, but the repair only lasted a while.

Worst Ford Focus years to avoid

The Ford Focus is a decent vehicle from which you can get good functionality today. However, when looking for one to buy, you must wonder – what are the worst Ford Focus years? The worst Ford Focus years are 2012 and 2013, but here’s a complete list of years to avoid:

• 2007
• 2008
• 2012
• 2013
• 2015

We’ll now go through the model years by Ford Focus generations and try to further explain why it may not be a good idea to go with one of these.

Second-generation Focus (2007-2008 model years)

Every 18 months, drivers of the 2007 Ford Focus had to replace the alternator as it always died sooner than expected. The model also suffered from excessive tire wear under low mileage. Even new high-quality tires stood no chance against this issue, wearing way faster than they would on the average vehicle. 

The 2008 Focus is more reliable than the 2007 model but inherited a severe tire wear problem. As such, you would be better off steering clear of the model unless you wouldn’t mind changing your tires after every 35,000 miles.

The 2008 model also had climate system problems which caused the air conditioner system to stop working. Sometimes,  it would be a component, such as one part of the fan, condenser, blower, or compressor, malfunctioning or not working.

Third-generation Focus (2012-2013 and 2015 model years)

The 2012 Focus model is the worst Focus you can get. It is notorious for its power steering failure, which made it a huge safety hazard. Worst still, the wheel sometimes remains stuck and unusable whenever the power steering ceases to work.

Aside from the severe power steering problem, the 2012 Focus also had issues with its door latches. Drivers complained of being unable to close the doors to the driver and passenger seats. Others complained of the door opening on its own in the middle of a ride, increasing the risk of injury and accidents for both the vehicle’s occupants and other motorists.

Ford seemingly dealt with the power steering issue in the 2013 model, but it received a ton of complaints, which is why it’s on this list. At around 45,000 miles, the transmission system of most 2013 Focuses malfunctioned,  causing drivers to lose control of the vehicle.

Repairing this transmission issue amounts to about $2,600 on a pretty high average. It also had a complicated infotainment system, making it a model you should avoid buying for any reason. 

Though the 2015 Focus is not as problematic as the other two in this generation, it has one particular problem that makes it stand out as a model you should avoid by all means. It had the dreaded powershift transmission problem!

It would be best if you avoided the model altogether so you don’t get stuck with an annoying problem that will never go away, no matter what you do.

What are the best Ford Focus years to buy?

Some models are more reliable than the others and are your best options in the used market. If you want the best experience with the Ford Focus, you can get one of the following models:

• 2005
• 2006
• 2011
• 2018

Among the used models with a fair price, you can go for the 2011 Focus which proved to be one of the best and most reliable models up to date.

2011 Ford Focus

The 2011 Focus wasn’t clear of any issues, but it was still way better than the infamous 2012 and 2013 models. While those received upwards of 5,000 complaints, the 2011 Ford Focus model was pretty decently rated with just shy of 300. Also, most of those complaints weren’t that serious if handled properly and on time, including interior accessories and electrical issues that were sometimes problematic.

However, the 2011 Focus brought a variety of reliable engine options and had pretty decent transmission which can’t be said for the runner-ups.

Is the Ford Focus worth buying?

The Ford Focus is worth buying and returns the value for money over time. You get superb performance, excellent fuel efficiency, and great handling with the suitable model. And with the proper care and maintenance, the vehicle can last 200,000 miles or more.

Ford Focus is a good option with excellent resale value if you see cars as investments. It fares well in the used market and remains a wise option for those seeking a budget-friendly Ford.

We’ve went through what owners really think and the issues they’ve faced to guide you towards the best years and away from the worst years. Dive into our straightforward guides on the Chevy Cruze years to avoid, Honda Civic years to avoid, and Mazda 3 years to avoid for the info you need to pick a winner.