Ford Focus (2004 – 2007) Review

Ford Focus (2004 – 2007) At A Glance

3/5

+Superb blend of keen handling and ride comfort. Seats five in comfort. five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

-Bland styling. Estates lack sufficient sound proofing. Turbo failure increasingly common on high mileage 1.6 TDCIs. DMF and DPF failures can also make a cheap Focus diesel very expensive.

On average it achieves 86% of the official MPG figure

The original Ford Focus set the benchmark by which all future hatchbacks will be judged for many years to come. So with such high expectations, replacing that car was no easy feat, but Ford managed to deliver with the second generation Ford Focus. Nothing else combines practicality with such a fine driving experience.

Even Volkswagen admitted that the qualities for the original Focus were its goal when designing the 2004 Golf. This Ford Focus moved the game on even further with improved refinement and quality, while the cabin has a more upmarket feel.

There were criticisms when it was first introduced. Mostly to do with the looks as many people thought it has lost its cutting edge styling and was bland as a result. But the spacious cabin and great handling more than made up for this and when Ford replaced this model with the new Ford Focus in 2008 (essentially a facelifted model) it freshened up the design up, giving it a much sharper look.

There's a great choice of engines available, both petrols and frugal TDCI diesels, plus there's the superb performance Ford Focus ST version. But whichever model you opt for, you'll be rewarded with a car that's enjoyable and easy to drive, whether it's in town or on the motorway.

The all round abilities of the Ford Focus are what has made it so popular and as a result there are no shortage of examples on the second hand market, so you'll be spoilt for choice.

 Ford Focus 2005 Range Road Test

 

Real MPG average for a Ford Focus (2004 – 2007)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

86%

Real MPG

25–65 mpg

MPGs submitted

1394

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

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Ask Honest John

What's the best family car to buy on a budget?

"I am looking at buying a medium-sized family car. I have been looking at the Honda Jazz, Fords and Vauxhalls. My budget is around £2000 but I'm looking for something that is reliable and on the cheaper side to run and for parts. Any recommendations and any to stay away from?"
If you're looking at a medium-sized family car, then the Honda Jazz is probably a bit small for your needs, although it is very spacious for its size. For £2000 you'll find lots of examples of the Ford Focus, which is cheap to run and repair with plenty of parts available. Go for a car with a good service history that has been well cared-for and it should make for a reliable family car. Alternatively we found a few examples of the Toyota Auris within your budget, which has a very good reliability record, or the Skoda Octavia, which is even bigger inside.
Answered by David Ross

Ford Focus Mk2 - timing belt or chain?

"I have just bought a 60 plate Ford Focus Mk2 1.6 TDCI and I was wondering if it has a timing chain or belt and when this would need replacing. I do not have any paperwork to show the timing belt has been changed, so is there any way of determining myself if this has been done as I do not want to change it unless I need to?"
This engine uses a timing belt. I'd suggest changing it every 60,000 miles or five years (whichever comes first). If you don't have any history paperwork for the car then I'd assume it hasn't been done.
Answered by Dan Powell

What should I buy to replace a Ford Focus?

"Our Ford Focus 1.8 Edge has just passed its MoT with 160,000 miles and still goes like a rocket - everything works. The engine has never been apart and it has the same clutch, exhaust, alternator etc. At the end of this year it will be goodbye. What should we buy next? "
Most conventional Focus buyers are now looking at crossover SUVs. The Ford Puma is one of our favourites – could be a good choice if it's big enough (it's more Fiesta than Focus-sized, although it does have a surprisingly big boot thanks to a 'megabox' storage bay in the boot). If you'd rather stick with a family-sized hatch, a Toyota Corolla Hybrid ought to be a very reliable choice with low running costs.
Answered by Andrew Brady

Should I pay for a gearbox oil change?

"I own an 2007 Ford Focus. It's done 150,000 miles and never had an oil change, should this have been done? Is it too late to do this? "
This version of the Ford Fiesta uses a four-speed torque converter auto transmission, which has a very good reputation for reliability. Unless the car is in mint condition, I'm not sure it's worthwhile spending £300 - £400 draining and replacing the gearbox oil.
Answered by Dan Powell
More Questions

What does a Ford Focus (2004 – 2007) cost?