Used Ford Focus (2004-2007) review

When the second-generation Focus arrived in late 2004, it didn’t create the same stir as the 1998 original – but don’t let that put you off. Improv­ing significantly on its superb predecessor was always going to be tough, yet Ford still managed it. The MkII is more roomy and refined, with a better cabin, and it’s just as good to drive.

History
the model hit showrooms in Septem­ber 2004, offering a choice of three or five-door hatch, saloon and estate bodystyles. Engine options ranged from a 1.4-litre petrol up to a 2.0-litre diesel, but buyers had to wait until March 2006 for the 1.8-litre petrol.

In September 2005, the fabulous Focus ST arrived, with a thirsty 221bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine. A face­lifted version of the latest model has also just appeared in UK dealers.

What to look for
Odd clicking noises on the 1.6 auto can be traced to the path of the gear­shift control cable, although re-routing it is a simple and permanent fix. If you are buying a basic Focus, ensure the seats offer enough support, as higher-spec models have heavier bolstering.

At the other end of the spectrum, if you buy a top-of-the-range variant fitted with big wheels, check the ride isn’t too firm. Even 17-inch alloys on low-profile tyres can affect the ride comfort, so take any potential buy for a thorough test drive on broken surfaces before parting with your cash.

If you are considering a CC coupé-cabrio model (from 2006 onwards), take it through a car wash to see if any water gets into the cabin, and make sure the roof works. All sorts of sealing problems with the mechanism have been reported – and resolving them hasn’t been straightforward.

Alternatives
the great-value Vauxhall Astra is the Focus’s main rival, and there are thousands available. Mazda’s 3 shares its underpinnings with the Ford, so it is worth a look, while other key rivals are also Japanese, in the shape of Toyota’s Corolla and the Honda Civic. While you’ll buy the Toyota for its unfailing reliability, the Civic’s talented chassis and strong build make it a great all-rounder. VW’s Golf is another option, but it’s more pricey than the Focus.
 

Extra Info

Buyer beware!
On estate models, inspect the seals round the tailgate hinges – leaks are common.

Diesel engines can revert to ‘limp home’ mode when the intercooler pipe cracks.

Recalls
APR 2005:
Focuses built between July 2004 and February 2005 might suffer from fuel pipe leaks.
AUG 2005:
The wiper motor could overheat and fail on cars made from April 2003 to March 2005.
DEC 2007:
Examples produced from August 2005 to December 2006 could suffer from a hard brake pedal if the ambient temperature is low.
DEC 2007:
Roll-over protection could fail on any hard-top CC models, due to incorrectly fitted bolts.

Driver Power Verdict:

The Ford has it all: great dynamics, decent reliability and generous spec levels, plus a wide range of engines, bodystyles and trims. It finished an excellent 19th in the Top 100 of our Driver Power 2007 satisfaction survey, with owners generally very complimentary about their car.

One of the few complaints concerned depreciation, but that means the Focus is fine value second-hand. And as it is the UK’s best-selling new vehicle, used supply is plentiful. As if that’s not enough, the launch of the latest, face­lifted Focus will push prices of this model down even further.