Ford
Ford Focus
Discover the Ford Focus, a reliable hatchback with a strong reputation for practicality and performance across its generations.

In short
The Ford Focus is a compact hatchback known for its blend of practicality, performance, and comfort. It appeals to a wide range of buyers, from families to young professionals. Currently in its fourth generation, the Focus continues to be a popular choice on UK roads.
Generations and engines
The Ford Focus has evolved through four generations since its debut in 1998. The first generation (1998-2004) offered a variety of petrol and diesel engines, including the 1.6-litre petrol and the 1.8-litre TDCi diesel. The second generation (2004-2011) introduced more refined engines, with popular choices being the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre petrol options. The third generation (2011-2018) saw the introduction of the EcoBoost engines, known for their efficiency and performance, while the fourth generation (2018-present) offers a range of engines including hybrid options, catering to modern environmental concerns. Most models come with either a manual or automatic gearbox, providing flexibility for different driving preferences.
Honest reliability snapshot
The Ford Focus has a solid reputation for reliability, often ranking well among its class rivals. While some models have faced specific issues, overall, it stands as a dependable choice for buyers looking for a compact car.
What to read first
Start with our common-problems article to understand the typical issues you may encounter with the Ford Focus.
Guides for the Ford Focus
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Buying guide
A complete used-buyer checklist before you part with cash.
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Common problems
The faults this model is most known for.
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Top fixes
Practical fixes for the issues you will meet.
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MOT failure rates
What fails MOT most often and what each fix costs.
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Reliability
How dependable it actually is, by year.
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Selling guide
Selling yours? How to show buyers the full history and close the sale faster.
Ford Focus by year
Generation-specific problem guides.
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