Used 2000 Ford Focus Consumer Reviews
I like it, but I won't get another one.
I bought this car after a deployment to Germany, where I got the chance to drive a Focus on the Autobahn. German model had a Turbo-diesel and four wheel disks, which aren't available here but made the highspeed rocket ride more controlable and economic-topped out at 220 km/Hr, approx 140 MPH. Great car! Mine makes noises when going over dips and bumps in the road. There is also a "clicking" noise that comes from the gear box while idling in neutral. Ford build quality leaves much to be desired, and even though I like the Focus I won't get another one.It's still a fun car, fair to good all around. Good stereo, but alas not the best of the Xplode line either.
I drive it - when it's running that is..
This car has been in the shop constantly. Everything from headlight assemblies falling apart, to interior panels from falling off, seatbelts breaking, spontaneous stalling, and the list goes on. My current problem is while driving, all the lights will dim, and the car will try to die, whenever the headlights and heater blower is on. 40,000 miles. I dont recommend buying one, unless you're a masochist.
You get what you pay for
Everybody seems to be knocking this vehicle pretty, the root of the story is that you get what you pay for. I paid 15,000 for my Focus SE and it has given me my money's worth so far. It has 62,000 miles on it, and has never needed additional maintenance other than the recall items that were replaced. I'm am not certain how long this car will last, but remember that it's Ford's entry level vehicle, and if you get 150,000 out of it, it's done it's job. Next time don't be cheap and open up the checkbook
DO NOT BUY!!!
I bought this car with 13,000 miles on it. At first it seemed to be just what I was looking for. Then 6 months later, I had an accident going 25 miles an hour (I couldn't stop the car in time), the air bags deployed and destroyed the dash area of my car. It cost my insurance company $3000 to fix everything. Right after that, I had to have my brakes changed as they were completely gone. MMM..wonder if that's why I couldn't stop the car during the accident?? My ignition switch went out this year and now my starter also had to be replaced. I also found out about a recall on the rear bearings. What's next?? I just don't feel safe in this car anymore.
The Expensive Economy Car
This car has a lot of interior space for a compact car, and leg and head room are a feat of engineering genius. I have no complaints about the simple, ergonomic and functional accessories. Fantastic handling and manouverability, a tough little exterior, and great fuel economy. Problem is $500 rotors that can't be turned and need replacing every 10k miles. The brakes never make a sound so you can't tell when the pads are worn. Why build an economy car with BMW rotors? Remember when Ford used MacPherson Struts on the 1980 Ford Fairmont? The logic of this escapes me. Also if you have a chance, look at the FordFocusBrakeProblems.com site.