Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Buying Used 2010 Ford Focus 1.6 - Petrol or Diesel?

Buying Used 2010 Ford Focus 1.6 - Petrol or Diesel?

After 20 years, I am finally downshifting from a company car, currently Honda Accord diesel. A used late 2010 or early 2011 1.6 Ford Focus would seem to do the trick for mostly country driving, with 500 mile motorway trips every couple of months.

Most people seem to reckon that the 1.6 TDCi is the sweeter engine. However, I am well-aware of the diesel engine issues (DPF and DMF) which seem to be rearing their heads on many manufacturers engines after 3 or 4 years.

So would you recommend steering clear of the diesel engine on a used 1.6 Focus (2010/2011) or would you still be inclined to recommend it over the petrol model?

Asked on 3 May 2013 by NotAnEmmet

Answered by Honest John
That engine was awful in 2004-2008 Focus, but by the Mk II facelift they seemed to have fixed it. I did 8,000 miles in 2008 in a 1.6TDCI 110 Econetic with no problems at all.

Our Fuel Cost Calculator shows you which will be the best choice for you.

Compare the running costs of petrol, diesel and electric cars to make the right choice for you.

Petrol or diesel ... or even electric?
Similar questions
We will be replacing our 2001 Focus Estate Ghia 1.8 (85,000 miles, average condition) soon. We’ve been quite happy with the Focus, so will by another Focus estate. We’re looking to spend £7 – 10K for...
My son is starting his first job and needs something to use to commute 35 miles each way via the M25. His budget is £2000. I expect him to drive about 15k miles per year as we expect him to work from home...
I'm a young first-time driver who's looking for a 10 to 12-year-old car with low running costs. Insurance should be as cheap as possible and the tax possibly £20-30 a year. What cars would you advise?...
Related models
Much improved 2004 Focus. Great to drive. Comfortable and well laid-out interior. Wide range of engines. Low emission ECOnetic versions offer 55mpg +.