Used 2012 Ford Focus Consumer Reviews
Used Focus for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
REALLY!!!!
shebamidnightr, 09/29/2014
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my focus brand new and for the first two years it ran like a dream the gas was good the car is cute then one day my car just randomly starts cutting off while in motion I took it to ford and they didn't and wouldn't fix it I've been to the dealership at least 4 times in the last month just to end of being told that its the fuel pulposion system and that its 2000.00 to fix and by the way it isn't covered under warranty!
At last the europeen Focus
remiguertin, 04/16/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
11 of 14 people found this review helpful
We bought the 2012 Focus for my wife, to replace her 2000 Nissan Maxima. We were there to test drive a 2010 Fusion that they could not locate. While checking the yard, I saw this candy red Focus, showed it to my wife; it was love at first sight! We test drove both cars, the Fusion was really nice but the Focus felt more sporty, faster. Excellant steering feedback, the transmission works superbly. Nice comnination of ride and comfort. Closing the doors produced a solid sound.
2012 Ford Focus for sale near you
Showing 3 of 104 listings
- SEL SedanMSRP: $5,29152 mi away
- SEL 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,901156 mi away
- SE 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,500133 mi away
See all 104 listings
Dont even think about it.
Panos, 04/18/2018
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Huge issues with the transmission. FORD will make the recalls but nothing further up. I had to replace my gearbox with a used one at only 78.000khm. Didnt ven made it for 100.000khm! STAY AWAY!
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
My New Focus SEL
l_wnc, 02/16/2012
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Car is getting excellent gas mpg, better than anticipated--between 35 and 40+ mph on a regular basis. This is why I bought the car! Began to achieve this mileage when I learned to let the transmission do its job and not push the gear shifting or having a lead foot when starting from a full stop. My Sync: it took a little while & reading manual several times to figure out button pushing sequence. Car has great luxurious features and solid feel. Only two complaints: (1) Can't place headrest down flush to seat top or tilt it back; (2) Sometimes feel a small vibration from underneath in 2nd gear--need to get that checked out.
Performance, quality, style & value in high MPG car!
jpaul4, 05/20/2012
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I reviewed and tested many cars in this class including Chevy Cruze, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Toyota Matrix, and VW Golf and the Ford Focus SEL hatchback easily stood out it this class. I continue to be amazed by the handling and quality as I approach 2000 miles. I am averaging right at 28 MPG for mostly in town driving (about 95% in town, 5% highway). I chose the SEL since it provided best value with improved handling, safety and convience features at just over $20k. This car is fun to drive with great balance between handling and smooth ride that easily exceeded anything else I drove in its class. Many buttons are overwhelming at first, but quickly become simple and intuitive with use.
Love my new Focus hatchback!
marymac2, 07/14/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've had my new Focus hatchback for 2 weeks and I love it. It is so much fun to drive and I love the voice and Sync features. The only negative is no surprise, it's not for long-legged people. A tall person might be fine in the front and there's plenty of head room, but definitely no in the back seat. I'm only 5'4 so it's great for me. I do a lot of city driving, so my mpg has been about 28 so far, but that's a lot better than my old car. Looking forward to taking a trip in it next week.
A Transmission Too Soon
fordo2, 02/12/2012
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is my seventh new Ford product and I'm exceptionally disappointed with the engine/transmission. With 7,000 miles on it, the transmission is still shifting very hard and has not somoothed out like the dealer said it would. Quite possibly Ford put this on the street before the bugs were worked out. The engine runs exceptionally rough and another dealership said that all 4-bangers do that - my 2005 Focus didn't. I think dealerships are making up excuses because the quality of the car wasn't quite yet ready to hit the market. The one we test drove was much smoother than the one we ordred. Will Ford Motor Company ever make a car that doesn't rattle? Very disappointed! Fordo2
Bad Decision
denise chiles, 07/14/2015
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've had one problem after another. The door trim fell out, had to buy battery for remote key, Tires had to be replaced, all four in first year. Now my car won't start, no jump works, just won't start! Lights, radio, all electronics work, so far, just won't start-REALLY FORD! This car is a lemon! My sister has same make and model hers stop for no reason also. Ford after 3 times in shop finally told her it's a transmission modular. I hate to find out what mine is.
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
4DR Titanium
jaybar2, 06/16/2012
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
We've had the Focus Titanium for a couple of months now and all I can say is that I cant believe this is a FORD. This car drives and handles like a much more expensive car and the best part is the handling. My wife who is not a car person commented last week that she likes how the car handles. This from a person who doesnt know the difference between a BMW or a Yugo so if she noticed the handling you know it has to be good. The gas mileage is pretty unbelievable and I mean unbelievable, yesterday I was cruising at a steady 65 MPH on the highway and eventually the computer showed 45.2 MPG! In town I'm getting well over 30mpg, the highway mpg is in the diesel range! 40-45mpg.
Worst car I've ever driven "fix or repair daily"
Edward Fuit, 09/24/2018
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Cars should last well over 100,000 miles, but not this one. radio went first, then transmission (the one thing Ford was willing to address). Power steering went out, $ 1200 + repair. Traction control was a joke had to turn it off when it rained. basically it would stay in low gear and buck a lot. not a dependable car. Junk yard ready at 6 years of age and under 80,000 miles. A cheap old beater car is better than this.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Don't bother
km09, 05/20/2015
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've had nothing but trouble since the first month I've purchased this vehicle. The clutch has been replaced 5 times.. yes, the clutch in an automatic transmission. The car shudders, and shakes and doesn't properly drive and hasn't since I purchased it brand new with only 7 miles on it. Please view other options before Ford gives you the run around too. Oh and the seats- the "mesh" option is terrible. Water will stain them and Ford will charge close to $100 to clean them, nothing can really clean them.
This is a Focus!?
richrocks, 09/06/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Ford has really upped their game this new vehicle. The new focus provides a perfect balance between being a fun to drive sporty car and a practical fuel-efficient vehicle. The focus is not as fun to drive as a Mazda 3, but gets much better gas mileage. In turn, it does not get as good gas mileage as a Prius, but is much more fun to drive. The focus finds the happy medium. The handling of the car was much better than I anticipated. It holds corners well and the steering is very responsive. fuel mileage. City 30; Highway 37-38; Combined 34. Coming from a Jeep Liberty which got 17, I am a happy camper!
update on the car
lifeisahighway, 11/20/2011
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I currently have almost 3k on the car. Now that I have spent more time driving it, I think that using the S mode makes the car accelerate better from a stop. I don't know if that is true, but it's just something that I have noticed. I know that in S mode that it holds the gears longer, so maybe that's why. The shifts also feel smoother in S. I don't use the select shift that much, because the location of the buttons on the shifter are awkwardly placed. I mostly drive in the city, and I have been getting an average of 29 mpg. What I love most about the car is how it handles. It just feels so solid and connected to the road!
Wise Decision
flashpic, 02/19/2012
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought my Focus Hatchback SE -5 Speed , w/sport, 201A, and winter packages on 1/3/12 and it has ~2k miles on it now. I love the car and it is an excellent value IMO! I've had zero problems or complaints with the car so far. I am getting just under 36 MPG with about 50% highway driving (w/snow tires) but I try to be light on the pedal & keep highway speeds below 65 . I am getting tons of complements on the car. The Focus is fun to drive, the manual trans shifts flawlessly, has a great drivers seat (sport package) , all of the necessities & then some and has a high quality fit/finish/feel on all of the materials/parts. I do recommend separate winter tires for snow & ice driving.
So far so good
weilo, 10/27/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
So far I am really enjoying the 2012 Focus SE I got with the 6 speed automatic transmission. I did a good bit of looking around and finally settled on this car. I hear some of the other comments and agree that the transmission thing takes a bit of getting use to. They told me to bring it in at 3000 miles to get the first oil change done on them. I have not had any problems. I make an 85 mile round trip every day to work plus some running around town dropping kids off and such. I am getting between 34-36 miles per gallon. I took a 212 mile trip and got 41.6 per gallon.
Focus SE Hatch / A Driver's car
nickinpitt, 10/02/2011
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
Just sold my Nissan Altima (5sp, 2.5L) in for a Ford Focus Hatch. The Focus hatch (manual) is a fantastic little small luxury ride - one that feels like a german sedan w/o the price tag, insurance hike, and worry about part cost. The manual is perfectly paired to the engine, it is quiet @ 80, and option package 203A does a great job for what it is supposed to do (Sirius, bluetooth, MP3 player pairing). If you are in the market for a small to mid-size ride, you owe it to yourself to at least consider this car. I applaud what Hyundai has done - but they are a generation behind when it comes to this small hatch. Good luck in your purchase, Nick
Beats competition, sexy design, room for improvement
humblepatience, 10/07/2011
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I have an SE titanium almost fully loaded, parking package and premium package.
Fun car with some quirks
Old Pony, 12/20/2015
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car new after my 99 Mustang got blown up by a mechanic replacing its thermostat...arg. Didn't want to pay the price for a new Mustang and didn't like any of the used ones on the lot. I chose the Focus because basically I'm a Ford guy and I thought it might tone down my driving style stepping down to something more civil in my old age lol. Pros: This is a great handling car and feels very similar to a '72 Datsun 240Z I owned when I was younger. I live along the coast of Northern California and have taken it through the paces so to speak. It is an automatic, but handles the twisties fine. No mechanical issues to report, but I should mention that I drive this car with the traction control off (when traction control on it is terrible in some situations, but be warned you will need to hold on the wheel if you accelerate hard from a stop if turned off). Cons: I'm not real comfortable with the seat build..kinda like Ford designed it to fit all sizes and I wish it felt snugger. The brakes are great when I'm alone in the car, but found that they could be better with a passenger. My car is actually an SE auto with a few extras. Stereo is barely passable for my taste. Resale value is still pathetic, but I think this is more a mentality. Overall I'm very happy with this car. Allows me to still have some fun and feel comfortable driving. I got a 2012 Honda Civic once as a loaner during some routine maintenance..not even close when it came to driving experience and ergonomics.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
We're Loving Our Focus!
Matthew, 02/12/2016
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 13 people found this review helpful
I'm not sure why everybody hates these cars so much or why they're all having problems. We bought ours used with 36,000 miles on it. We weren't too excited about getting it because of all the problems we had heard about, but this was the only choice we had and we needed a new car. When we first bought it, it was awesome. It drives so smooth. It has an awesome stereo, great interior quality, overall just an awesome car. We've had it for a while and it's a daily driver between my fiance and I. We haven't experienced any problems with it. Nothing with the transmission or anything else, it's still driving like the day we bought it. It's amazing on gas too. It's a great car and I would recommend it to anyone. The only problems I've found in it is that it's a little on the small side, especially in the backseat and the lack of storage sucks. Other wise, it's the best car we have ever owned. We bought it used from a dealership in Ohio and we have a 5 year - 150,000 mile, bumper to bumper warranty so if something does break, it's completely covered, but I don't think anything is going too. You have to remember that this is a Ford Focus and not a sports car. I think some of the people having the problems aren't treating their car the way that they should be. I think a lot of people complaining about the transmission also don't realize that it's a "Electronic Controlled Automatic" but is actually a" Dual-Clutch Manual Transmission". If you've ever driven a manual, you know how it feels, BUT we haven't noticed it feeling like a manual. It feels exactly like an automatic should. I came from a 5-Speed Mitsubishi Eclipse before this Focus so I know what a manual feels like and our Focus doesn't drive anything like that so I don't why everybody seems to be having problems. If you're looking for a good car, quick and nimble, great on gas, and an awesome stereo, check out the Ford Focus.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Terrific Car
topcat20, 11/22/2012
2012 Ford Focus BEV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD)
12 of 16 people found this review helpful
After being an early fan of the Leaf, this was clearly a better decision. Better acceleration, better 40-60, and a "gas" to drive. Continue to drive past gas stations and smile. The cost of switching from the old truck to the car, makes the car payments for me. The car is super quiet, fast, and a dream to drive. Take one out for a test drive, you will be so glad that you did. No more tuneups, oil, gas, time, and energy wasters. It is a great car, the only other consideration was the Tesla S. Honestly, quite driving your grandfathers cars, and evolve to an electric. After driving one for 6 months, you look at the gas cars as all antiquated and pat thier time. There is no reason...
I love this car
praveen75, 05/05/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
11 of 15 people found this review helpful
Took delivery 2 weeks ago and this car (SEL version) has got everything I needed. Technology apart, I am completely sold on the handling and performance of this vehicle. I already see a 30 MPG on my dash with 900 miles on the odometer - mostly city driving. Haven't gone on a long drive yet and I am sure the vehicle can deliver on the 35 MPG promise on highways. I went with 10 speaker Sony Audio system and it is a mind blowing stereo experience. My Ford Touch is a little buggy but works with all my USBs and voice commands - cool. The vehicle strikes a perfect balance on the performance, afforadability, technology, fuel-efficiency and handling. The interior has a very clean finish. We love it!
should be a class action lawsuit against ford
Beezies3, 07/15/2016
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
Ford has known since 2003 that the dual clutch was no good yet they put it in my 2012 Ford Focus.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Don't buy this car, it sucks
David Woomer, 07/10/2016
updated 07/15/2021
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
I usually keep a car 10-12 years, but this piece of junk was gone in less than two, at a big financial loss. All electronics suck, won't keep my Android phone synced and it's a real pain to re-sync it. Whole Ford myTouch and Sync systems really poor. Naviagation hard to use. Worse yet is the tranny, 80% of the time when I put my foot down it will go, but 20% of the time it sits there and shakes like its gonna fall apart. Dangerous car to drive, you can't rely on getting out of a bad situation. Front wheel drive, but REALLY poor in snow. Grew up and learned to drive in the snow belt - this is the FIRST vehicle I was actually afraid to drive in bad weather.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Happy, Happy
finesse1, 09/30/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for over a month now (1250 miles) and love how well it handles. I love the manual trans and I'm comming from a BMW 328 CI manual! Gas milage is edging up with every fill up. Now avg 29 - 30 mpg only because it is fun to push it around corners and thru traffic. Very comfortable, quiet and user friendly. Sports package is a must! It's still new enough in my area to draw stares, smiles and an occasional nod. So far looks to be a great choise!
Drives good. Dash set-up sux. Synch Sux. Forced loss of privacy really sux..
dez88, 02/25/2015
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Handles great. Stops ok. Has been reliable. Shifting is good once you learn to let it shift like a manual. Gets nowhere near the mileage it claims. Synch absolutely sucks eggs. Controls for blinkers /wipers /doorlocks /windows/ sound system/phone....it all is really bad...comical in some cases. Ford FORCES agreement to sharing your info with their "marketing partners". It is really BAD BUSINESS! I get sleazy, liar, cold callers saying things like "I am with the warranty department for your Ford Focus" when they are not...trying to sell me an aftermarket warranty. I have Ford's extended warranty. Ford does not allow you to opt-out. You will need new phone number if you buy a Ford.
Buyer Beware
junk7, 01/09/2012
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is a very nice car in concept but not in execution. 2500 miles and nothing but problems. The transmission is very troubling; very noisy, shakes, vibrates and hesitates at low speeds. The Mytouch system with navigation works very sporadically. problems - volume will suddenly go up to full blast, system will lock up (nothing works), Navigation system will report card not found and several other issues. Had to replace front seat covers as they creased and stretched ridiculously, the center of the steering wheel popped off 2x. Very frustrating as Ford insist that transmission is normal - very sad if this is normal. MyTouch system is soo poor, all they say an update is coming? Sad
worst car I have ever owned!
Melissa, 08/13/2015
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have had problems with this car since I bought it in 2012. It first started with electrical problems, then transmission and now it just won't start. The parts to fix car are expensive. Ford charges 150 just to look at it. I will never buy another Ford! It is by far the worst car I have ever owned.
- Performance
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
My wife says "It's adorable"
crazydave55, 09/22/2011
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought a SE Hatch with Sports Package, and the beautiful Tuscany leather interior. I wanted to park my 07 Shelby Mustang GT (preservation and better mileage) and get something cheaper to wear out commuting to work every day here in Houston. I could not be more pleased, and my wife says it's cute and adorable. It's a win-win. I see some new owners with issues and problems posting here. Those should be taken in context, this car is a brand new design (for the US) and coming out of a brand new (reconfigured) plant. There's always growing pains related to those two things. I highly recommend the 2012 Focus. Read the magazine reviews, almost always picked #1 over the competition.
Great Car
gris1969, 04/21/2012
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I went from a Fusion to the Focus to save money and I don't feel like I down sized. I'm a tall guy and I always get crap about driving small cars but I put my money into my son and not into the tank or payments. I got the 5-speed manual with regular sync system and I just love it. Not much room behind me but I don't have to ride back there so I don't worry about it. I have lots of room up front.
Buyer beware!!!
scotty, 01/10/2018
2012 Ford Focus S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Transmission is no good
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Buy
focusfanatic1, 10/27/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I could not be more pleased with this vehicle. Materials appear to be great quality, excellent ride for a small car and gas mileage is incredible. It feels good to drive an American made vehicle that feels of great quality like this one. Hatchback offers adequet room. A lot of people are complaining about the transmission, but nothing about it bothers me yet.
2012 Ford Focus SEL Hatchback
kej3, 10/18/2012
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Purchased car in January 2012 and now have 21K on vehicle. No problems with anything so far. Last week I set the cruise at 100Km for 30 Km and then at 82 Km for 18 Km and when I stopped the average liters/100 Km were 5.0 This works out to 56.5 MPG (Imperial) or pretty close to the 58 MPG rating on the sticker. I wish there were more storage places in the front/dash for cell phones/change etc. Most people that ride in the car are impressed with the interior fit and finish. I think it would be too small for a family but for 2 people it's just fine. One pet peeve is that my acoustic guitar won't fit in the back unless the seatbacks are down.
Think twice before buying
TH, 03/25/2017
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Focus used but with only 6k miles. Think twice before purchasing one used. The car has several great attributes. Even 5 years later, the styling is still great. For a small car it looks fantastic and accelerates, brakes, and handles much better than most economy cars are supposed to. Plus, the fuel economy is excellent. Around town, i routinely average 28-32 mpg and have seen as good as 38 on the freeway. All of these great traits are ruined however by very shoddy reliability. Its mainly highlighted by a horrible transmission that shudders, slips, and bangs at all speeds but mostly at initial acceleration. The dealership will do nothing for you except a reflash of the computer and tell you its within Ford technical specs. My car had a major radiator failure at 26k miles and had to have it completely replaced. I also had to have all the weatherstripping replaced before 20k miles. With 38k miles currently, the car has huge amounts of rattles and squeaks and the front suspension feels like a school bus over bumps.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
Not safe.
Clarissa M., 03/20/2017
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My grandparents bought the car when it first came out in 2012 so that it would have miles on it by the time I got my license. Before I had inherited the car, they had taken it in for faulty transmission problems (gets caught in 2nd gear, hesitation when accelerating etc) three times with no fix, just a resetting of the computer for it to go back to the same way it was in three days or less. I got it in August of last year, had some jerking after a full stop, rolls back in drive at some stops. I took it into Ford in October, no fix. Now, my heater and defroster have gone out completely, in the mornings if it's foggy, I have ask for a ride to school & work. It has been having trouble starting, I've had to try four times to even get it to start a couple days ago. I am barely pushing 30,000 miles, there is no reason why there should be this many problems with the car, especially it being only 5 years old. This car is not safe to drive. I definitely expected more from a Ford. I can say that I am very disappointed and very hesitant and scared to drive the less than an mile I have between school and home everyday.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
Satisfied Driver
ave345, 08/03/2012
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I am a college student and my Ford Focus now has 1000 miles. What can I say, I absolutely love my car. I am a car enthusiast and come from a family who has owned Fords since the 1980s. The transmission takes getting used to but once you know how it performs the ride is good. I got my Focus in silver and let me tell you it is a head-turner. Learn how the transmission shifts and you will see the power and economy work.
Not worth it
Jenn, 01/27/2018
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I regret buying this car. I bought it used with less than 36,000 it broke down and had to be towed. Computer problem with transmission. Then under 60,000 Power Steering goes out $2000 to fix. Over the 5yr mark but under the 60,000. This should be covered. They need to recall this problem. The worst computer system. Blue tooth is horrible.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
It was fun to drive when it ran
gris1969, 09/04/2013
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have not had my car in a while. Seven weeks ago it broke down and Ford can't seem to fix it and they are on there 3rd try. I have had loaner after loaner waiting. It was a nice car until hitting around 33k miles and then it turned into the joke of my workplace. Maybe I'll get a new one out of the lemon law. I have the manual transmission and the problem with the car is when you go to start it, it tries to start but shuts right off.
DO NOT BUY THE "AUTOMATIC" version --
sirhawkeye, 10/30/2020
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Mechnically (engine-wise) these are fine. Plenty of pep and power. However, DO NOT buy one with the automatic (automated manual, dual-clutch design). The 2012 model year had a lot of problems. They may have fixed this in later years, but the 2012 (and probably 2013) was the worst years. Enough so that there was a settlement for 2012/2013 owners. BAsically the cluthces would fail prematurely and cause the car to jerk and hesitate along with a lot of "grinding" of clutch plates. Any way you look at it- it didn't sound good and is not good for the transmission. If you do want to buy one of these, get a manual. Those are fine. Traded mine in after 28k (2 years; had a 2012 model) and got something else. There's a reason Ford stopped making these in the US market. The transmissions are horrible. Didn't have any other issues though, and so I give this 3/5 stars, mainly for reliability and driveability issues with the "automatic" transmission. . Same goes for the Ford Fiesta (2011-20??) don't buy them. They use the same type of "automatic" transmissions with the same problems. I know my dealer tried multiple reprogrammings of the transmission and it didn't really help. Avoid the Focus and Fiesta (from 2011-??) car if you want an automatic.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
My Second Focus
flyboyike, 06/22/2012
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my second Focus, having previously owned a ZX3 Hatchback that I loved. This car is light years ahead of the old one in every way. It feels like a car costing at least twice as much, very refined, very quiet and comfortable. I bought the car in Minnesota and promptly drove it over 1,400 miles home to Florida, and in over 26 hours of driving my back never bothered me, which is about as big an endorsement for those new seats as I can come up with (I get back pains very easily). The steering is very precise, the shifter is BMW-like without any slop, the brakes (even though I have drums in the back) are excellent.
Wow
facelessdrone, 04/28/2012
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have driven my Focus about 4000 miles now, and I've gotten to love it better than when new. This is a very solidly built car made out of high quality materials. It handles great and I enjoy flinging it around corners with abandon. My other car is a Porsche and around town the Focus is at least its equal in handling. I also use the Focus for my 50 mile r/t commute and on the last 3 tanks it has gotten 33, 35, and now 37 honest-to-goodness mpg. I have noticed that the mileage and smoothness of the transmission improved greatly over the last 1000 miles. The upgrade to MyFordTouch solved virtually all the issues with that, not that I had many to begin with.
Nimble and Thrifty
rholzman, 10/12/2011
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Have put 3000 miles on an SE with the sport package. Yes the transmission takes some getting used to and perhaps some wear in on the part of the car - it feels a little like a novice driving a manual transmission at first. The car handles well with even less body roll in the corners than the Acura Integra I drove and loved years ago. The brakes are superb and I suggest going with the sport package to get discs on the rear wheels if you get an SE. I am 6'5" and there is plenty of room up front for me. Averaging 32 mpg in mostly suburban driving. Overall this is a fine car.
Lovin My Focus
liguy631, 08/27/2012
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have my 2012 Focus SLE Hatchback for about a month and a half now. I absolutely LOVE this car. Having an SUV for the past 11 years, I wanted a change. Originally went down to Ford to look at the Fiesta, then, I saw this Focus. I needed something that got good gas mileage as I was recently transferred with my job, and am now driving 60 miles a day, versus 10! I loved this car from the minute I saw it. I have the Tuxedo Black (Great color) with Black Leather interior. My only regret is getting the Black interior, should have went with the Stone Color Leather , as the Black is very HOT in the summer in this car until the A/C cools it down. I am averaging 31 MPG right now in mixed driving.
Dual Clutch Trans shifting problems
thomasln, 11/10/2014
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My trans kept dropping out of gear. No pattern - interstate, intersections, totally unpredictable. Would leave me stranded & the car would not go into gear. Ford dealer couldn't find the problem until I made video. They said I needed a $200 software patch that didn't work. I drove it 200 feet & it died in the dealers lot. After 8 days in the shop, they found a loose ground wire in the Transmission Control Module inside the transmission. I have driven about 450 miles with no recurrence of the problem. If you are having trans problems, let your dealer know to check the grounds on the TCM before you spend $. I regard it as a manufacturing & design flaw.
Worst Car I Ever Owned
Mark , 02/22/2020
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I owned the 2012 Focus for several years, and cannot think of a purchase I have regretted more. I had several issues with the infamous dual clutch transmission, including several instances of stalling on the highway. Every time I took it in, the dealership applied a software patch that did absolutely nothing. The body of the car did an extremely poor job withstanding the elements after a couple of extremely rainy summers and at least one blizzard. I had to take the car in for several safety recalls, and features such as the back-up camera sporadically stopped working (literally a month after my warranty expired). All of these issues were well-known at the Ford dealership, yet the mechanics seemed wholly unable to do anything about them. Apparently Ford was warned by engineers about the faulty transmissions and pushed them into production for several models years anyways. Never ever buy this death trap.
There's a Reason For the Lawsuit
S Clark, 11/06/2017
2012 Ford Focus SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I had a lot of problems with this car after buying it from Carmax, mostly because of the original build on the transmission. I was stuck holding most of the bill for botched warranty repairs. I had the car for only 9 months and had to get the entire transmission harness replaced because someone at a certified Ford repair facility shoved the plug in and wrecked it. The stutter was another thing I should have immediately noticed but it didn't always happen. I had issues with the battery three times which affected the Transmission Control Module and I was left with a semi repaired vehicle, a bill, a handful of excuses. By some divine providence we are out of it after two years. So glad i had GAP on that thing, but thanks to this car I am still under a mountain of debt.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Fantastic ford focus
Lucas, 10/31/2015
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car is great. I got it used (only 20k miles) from carmax about 6 months ago. Before it I had a hyundai which was a complete lemon. This car has given me no trouble, except for a few small issues. First, one time I unlocked the car and this loud thudding noise came out of the speakers. Started the car and it went away. Second. Sometimes sync freezes for a few seconds. Third. There is a small vibration when you back up and sometimes the car is sluggish when on a hill. If you can deal with some minor bugs, this car is great. I like the way it drives and looks. Its fantastic quality. I average probably around 30 mpg with a mix of highway and suburb driving. Its great for the price!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
No problems and efficent
mark1951, 07/22/2013
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have 31,000 miles on my 2012 Focus. I have owned 25 new cars in my life and this was one of only a few Ford products. The transmission is "clunky" but the dealer told me it was the way it was designed and not to worry when it feels different. It was exactly that; a little different but not a problem. I get about 38-42 MPG on the highway (more in the summer, less in the winter) and 34-36 MPG in the City. It has good power and is a nice ride but is a little hard to get in and out of for a big person like me. I am considering buying another one when it is time.
WOWOWOW
ritchie19047, 01/02/2012
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
27 of 41 people found this review helpful
My new Titanium with the handeling package is an amazing value for money! The car is rock-solid in every driving situation, especially so on secondary roads with those choppy sections where heavy trucks tear up the surface on curves. My '10 Focus SES was very jumpy in those spots, and this car just glides through. It is "scary quiet" on the open road. The summer tires are the stickiest things I've ever driven; but I live in NE Pennsylvania, so I got a set of winter tires for the cold season (Mich Pilot Aspins), and they are just as amazing. The transmission is first rate (I don't understand all the negative chatter I've read). Pleanty of power; gutsy acceleration. Cont'd below...
2012 Ford Focus SE 200A Package Review
mdallen22, 01/24/2012
2012 Ford Focus Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
11 of 16 people found this review helpful
My review after two months of being an owner and an aggressive driver: Overall I think you get a great car for the price. It drives great, gets the advertised gas mileage, great sound system, I assume it's as safe as the reviews say, although i haven't been able to test that (knock on wood) and it looks sharp. There are a few suggestions/improvements i'd like to see Ford make to send this car to the top of its class, but overall I would recommend this car to a potential buyer.
Pleased owner
mementomori, 07/09/2013
2012 Ford Focus SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 6AM)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
33,000 miles on it & no problems. Fun to drive, comfortable & excellent fuel economy. The car has a very upscale feel. Those complaining about the transmission- you have to understand it to appreciate it. It's not an automatic transmission; it's an automated dual-clutch manual. It's GOING to act like a manual transmission (some rolling, hesitation, shudder- a result of the "dry-clutch" design). These are not "problems," they're characteristics. Did you not notice these things on the test drive? I'm loving the car; my worst tank has been 28 MPG, which included all city driving with lots of idling and sitting in traffic. Easily exceeds 40 MPG on the highway. Power/acceleration was surprising.