2003 Ford Focus Review: Not the Best Family Car, but the Best at This Price

Gilbert Smith
Jan 5, 2023

The 2003 Ford Focus is a pretty good all-around daily-driver at a parts-car price. It might not be quite as reliable as a Civic or as roomy as an Explorer, but starting at well under two grand, it’s punching above its rank.

Front angle view.
likeFilled The Good
The entry level starting price is under $1,700, the car is more reliable than its reputation suggests, and the hatchback is roomy and comfortable.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Lots of electrical hangups, and the back row might be a bit tight for adults. Not quite as reliable as that year’s Toyotas and Hondas.

Is the 2003 Ford Focus a Good Used Car?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – Objectively speaking, the 2003 Ford Focus is a decent car. But for the price, it’s excellent.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – It’s very comfortable for up to four adults, and the wagon can pack about as much cargo as you’re likely to need for any road trip.
  • Reliability 7/10 – The Focus gets a bad rap because it’s used as a daily-driver family car, but most drivers report 200,000+ miles on the original powertrain.
  • Safety 6/10 – Decent crash test ratings and outdated tech add up to a mediocre safety score.
  • Gas Mileage 8/10 – The 130 horsepower entry-level engine is surprisingly potent for something that gets 26/34 miles to the gallon, city/highway.
  • Value 8/10 – For 2003, the Civic and Corolla might be the best value cars overall. But, starting at under $1,700, the Focus might be the very best car on the market at this price.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Mary R
It does It's best to help me.
Although it's now old, it has been dependable. It has - so far - survived lots of back road driving for my job. It replaced a really unreliable car, so I feel like it saved me.
accountCircle Donna S
Excellent service and reliable.
I have replaced tires twice on car but rarely have any major repairs. I have had the car checked, oil changed and other maintenance work done every 3000 miles. In the 15 years I have had it, I have spent less than $2000 on the car. 800 was tires. It has exceeded my expectations.
accountCircle Chelsea S
2003 Ford Focus review sw model.
I have not had any issues with this vehicle to date. It has great gas mileage, a ton of room (I have the station wagon model), four doors, a CD player and automatic windows. This is an extremely reliable family vehicle for my daughter and I and I would definitely recommend this vehicle to any young mom out there looking for a fashionable and reliable car.
accountCircle Joyce F
My favorite friend - my non-fancy Ford Focus.
My car is not the most beautiful to others but she, however is the love of my life! I have had very few problems with her which makes her extremely reliable. She is so small but can transport many as we zip in and out of traffic when necessary. She can sneak in and out of parking spots with ease. "Fordy" is so special that she is easy on the pocketbook. She gets lots and lots of miles to the gallon so we do not visit our enemies, the awful gas stations, very often. Try a Ford Focus se. It is for the fancy and the non fancy folks!
accountCircle Ruth B
It gets me where I am going I starts every time great on gas
Reliable gets me where I am going low maintenance great gas
accountCircle Erin W
Nice little car that gets you where you need to go.
Haven't had any problems. It is a nice little car that is super comfortable. I like that it has child safety locks on the back doors. We bought it used and it had issues but it kept driving really good so we could get it fixed. Took a road trip in it and we felt safe and comfortable the whole to and from.
accountCircle Kate H
It's comfortable and handles well, I will miss it.
Some of the newer cars have such small rear windows, I don't like that. The 2003 Focus has a decent-sized rear window. It also handles very well.
accountCircle d b
It's a good performing car, and does well in all types of weather, including snow.
I like my vehicle, it has served my needs for many years. It is the right size for my family needs. It is low maintenance and uses less gas compared to other vehicles.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Brandi J
That they should have great insurance.
It's been a POS since I bought it. Everything that could break has broke.
accountCircle Abigail B
2003 Ford Focus, getting old and dangerous.
The car has rusted out, is extremely loud and just does not feel safe to drive. We have done regular oil changes and for some reason my windshield fluid does not work. I had to change a tire when one popped and the wheel had like melded to the frame, it took a lot to get it off.
accountCircle Samantha F
It's a reliable and safe vehicle that you know you can count on.
It's comfortable, but its getting old and has some problems with water leaking into the back. It runs great, it's quick and great on gas, and very reliable. It feels very small so, you can run out of room easily, however with that said the trunk is a good size and a lot can fit into it.
accountCircle deby m
I guess the only good thing is the care is small and gets reasonably good gas mileage.
The headrests are out of proportion to my body There isn't a clock in the car.
accountCircle Dennis H
It is very reliable and doesn't require much upkeep.
It's great on gas and handles pretty good in bad weather. Very reliable and doesn't require much upkeep. Not the best looking car. Would like awd or 4 wheel drive.
accountCircle sean W
I feel like this car has to many little issue to recommend
Get me from i point to another just fine. There are many parts that seem to break easily.
accountCircle Breanna W
It is silver and has four doors. It runs decently, but has some issues. I bought it used so I can't really complain.
It doesn't run very well. It jerks a little when it drives.
accountCircle Patti F
It overheats for no reason.
Electrical problems, no air conditioner, hatchback will not stay up, the handle came off the glove box.

What Do Critics Say About the 2003 Ford Focus?

  • Consumer Reports praised the smart design and fun driving feel of the 2003 Ford Focus. Abundant road noise and inferior trim materials cost the car a perfect score.
  • Kelley Blue Book users liked the car for the most part, with 80% of reviews awarding the Focus 4 and 5 stars. Positive reviews praised the reliability and storage space. Negative reviews knocked the cheap-feeling materials and some drivers report making one repair after another.
  • Edmunds loved the “thoughtful ergonomics,” the spacious interior, the smooth ride, and the great handling. In the cons list, they noted reliability issues and that some drivers might not find the seating so comfy.

What Common Problems Does the 2003 Ford Focus Have?

With 534 reports on file, electrical issues make up more than half of the 1,015 total complaints registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These problems date back to the first year of the car’s release, with one of the most common complaints being for ignition lock.

There are 57 powertrain complaints on file at present, with drivers complaining of random stalling while driving. This is roughly in line with what you would expect of after twenty years of wear and tear.

The most concerning recall was issued in 2006 for a potential engine fire stemming from a fuel leak. An aftermarket Purolator brand fuel filter could potentially come loose, leaking gasoline all over the engine. The recall affected 58,640 units.

There have been 7 recalls for the 2003 Ford Focus, a fair number for a car that launched in the early ’00s.

How Long Will the 2003 Ford Focus Last?

According to data from RepairPal, you should expect to spend around $300-$400 a year in maintenance costs on an older Ford Focus.

Long-time Focus drivers typically report a lifespan of 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Considering that so many of these cars are used as daily-drivers by busy families, those numbers aren’t bad.

accountCircle Martin G

I just explained that in the last question which seems to be asking me basically the same thing as last question

accountCircle Stephanie S

The only issues I have come across were issues with the alternator, it wasn't working but it was very hard to diagnose because it was coming back that it was perfectly fine

accountCircle Sandy R

Yes. But it is having electrical problems. Not expensive to fix, but because it is older ford quit making certain parts so it is difficult to find a mechanic that will fix it.

accountCircle Irma J J

With regular maintenance my Focus is extremely reliable. I have had no problems with it. I am in it almost everyday and I feel stress free.

accountCircle Joe D

I bought mine used so yes it has a few problems because the maintenance hasn’t been kept up with but they shouldn't be that expensive to solve .

accountCircle Austin C

Yes it's reliable... it's been a very good car. I've replaced the battery, brakes, alternator and brake lights

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is decent but basic, with tape players in the lower trims and CD players in the higher trims. If you can find one with the European Appearance Package, that comes with a subwoofer and six speakers. Standard models have four speakers.

Safety technology is likewise adequate. Anti-lock brakes and a full airbag system are about as fancy as it gets. Good for 2003, but not exactly ahead of its time.

Is the 2003 Ford Focus a Good Value?

The 2003 Ford Focus is a good value, if you’re buying an entry-level trim. A used Focus is unlikely to ever reach 300,000 miles, like a Civic or a Corolla might, but an SE with under 150,000 miles on it starts at around $1,631. You’re not going to find a lot of cars at that price that still have 50,000 miles left on them.

At the higher end, a ZX3 may cost as much as $4,148, although typical listing prices are closer to $3,885. At that price you could do better than a 2003 Focus. At around two grand or less it’s a steal.

What are the Different Models of the 2003 Ford Focus?

The 2003 Ford Focus is offered in a wide range of trim levels, from the base ZX3 to the top of the line SVT.

ZX3 is an entry level two-door Hatchback trim, featuring:

  • 15″ silver aluminum wheels
  • AM/FM stereo
  • Cloth seat trim

The LX is the Sedan entry level trim, featuring:

  • 14″ steel wheels

The SE is a third entry level trim, available in Sedan and four-door Wagon models, and adding:

  • Keyfob and remote keyless entry

The ZX5 is a mid-range four-door Wagon model, adding:

  • CD player
  • MP3 player

The ZT, another mid-range model, is available in Sedan (ZTS) or Wagon (ZTW), and adds:

  • Front fog lights
  • Driver lumbar support

The high-end SVT is available in two-door or four-door hatchback, and adds:

  • Heated mirrors
  • Cloth and leather seat trim
  • 17″ silver aluminum wheels
  • SecuriLock anti-theft
  • Stainless steel pedals
  • CD player
car
ZX3 Base
130-145 HP 29-29 MPG
car
car
LX Fleet
110-145 HP 29-29 MPG
car
LX Premium
110-145 HP 29-29 MPG
car
ZX3 Premium
130-145 HP 28-29 MPG
car
ZX3 Pwr Premium
130-145 HP 28-29 MPG
car
SE Comfort
130-145 HP 28-29 MPG
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ZX5 Base
130-145 HP 28-29 MPG

What Engines Come In the 2003 Ford Focus?

  • The base engine in the 2003 Ford Focus is a 2.0L SOHC inline-four, delivering 110 horsepower and 125 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 4-speed automatic and configured in front wheel drive.
  • Next up is a 2.3L DOHC 16-valve engine producing 130 horsepower and 149 lb.-ft. of torque. As with the 2.0L, the 2.3L is paired with 4-speed automatic in front wheel drive.
  • Available in the SVT trim is a 2.0L DOHC 16-valve engine producing 170 horsepower and 145 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission in front wheel drive.

What Colors Does the 2003 Ford Focus Come In?

How Comfortable Is the 2003 Ford Focus?

The hatchback model has gotten high marks for comfort and spaciousness from reviewers and drivers. Rear hiproom maxes out at around 51 inches, which is comfortable enough for two adults and a kid, but may feel a bit tight with a whole crew on board.

There have been a few reports of the suspension giving out after twenty years on the road and leaving the car sinking and sagging around corners. You won’t know until you get it out there for a test drive.

How Much Storage Space Does the 2003 Ford Focus Have?

Wagon models go up to 55.8 feet of storage space with the seat down. The Sedan has 13.8 cubic feet of trunk space and the hatchback stores 35.1 cubic feet.

The wagon will pack about as much cargo as you can expect of any vehicle that isn’t specifically a pickup, SUV, or moving van, but even the sedan will easily store three large suitcases in the trunk.

Centered wide dash shot

What Are the Differences Between Years?

In North America, the 1st Generation Ford Focus ran from the 2000 model year to the 2007 model year.

2000: The first-year Focus introduced the standard 130 horsepower 2.0L engine and “New Edge” styling the nameplate has made iconic.

2001: New for 2001 was the AdvanceTrac vehicle dynamics system, basically a whole overhaul to the car’s traction control.

2002: A revamped suspension system saw the addition of stiffer springs and a more durable anti-roll bar.

2003: Ford redesigned the cabin to reduce road noise, and they added higher quality interior fabrics.

2004: The biggest change for 2004 was the addition of leather seats as an option in the ZX3.

2005: For 2005, Ford gave the exterior a modest redesign and added a pair of 136-horsepower Duratec engine options.

2006: Other than some minor changes to panel designs, the 2006 Focus is basically a 2005 Focus.

2007: Every Ford Focus with a CD player is now MP3-capable. That’s about it for changes to the final first-gen Focus.

How Does the 2003 Ford Focus Compare to the Competition?

Comparing a 2003 Focus to a 2003 Hyundai Elantra, performance stats and prices are comparable at the entry level, but the Elantra doesn’t offer anything like the 170 horsepower SVT trim. If you’re looking for a little more muscle on a budget, the Focus wins hands down.

An entry level Honda Civic isn’t quite as powerful as a Focus, maxing out at 115 horsepower. But it is one of the longest-lasting vehicles on the market, typically going at least 250,000 miles on the original powertrain. It’s also priced to match, running at least a thousand dollars over the Focus on average.

The Focus isn’t the best 2003 car in the world, it’s not even the best overall value, but it sits at a perfect crossroads of price, performance, and reliability. If you need something that will last another 100,000 miles, get a Honda or a Toyota. If you have $1,600 to spend and you just need to get to work on time, get a Focus.

Ranks #16 Small Cars by Owners

1
car
4.5
2
car
4.35
16
car
3.85

Do Owners Recommend the 2003 Ford Focus?

accountCircle Amanda M

Yes, it’s good for a small family. And great space in the back of the car for traveling and groceries.

accountCircle April S

It's nice and dependable. I haven't had any problems with it even though it's 16 years old. I also drive it out of town quite a bit.

accountCircle Alexis B

Yes, it is still running and doesn't have many issues. I like most things about it except for the alternator issues I have had,

accountCircle Leanne B

Yes. The engine and transmission are in good shape for its age. The only issue I am having is electronic issues.

accountCircle Emma G

Yes, very good. It gets great gas mileage and is low maintenance. Holds steady on the road and is pleasant to drive. It zips around the city with the greatest of ease.

accountCircle Ed J

No it has too many complications when auto work needs to be done, the vehicle is not all that good on gas

accountCircle Juan A

Yes it was a very popular and reliable vehicle. It had all the bells and whistles and the stereo sound system was state if the arts

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Donna C on March 24, 2021
It is very flexible with uses and has been very reliable.
I love the reliability and adaptability of the vehicle. In the 15 years I have owned it I have spent less then $2000 in maintenance and repair. I take good care of it and the body looks like a newer car.
accountCircle Ariel P on March 22, 2021
Perfect car for everyday use.
This car gets great gas mileage, and runs smoothly. The car has needed little maintenance and had practically no issues thus far. There is a lot of room on the interior, and fits four people comfortably. Interior does heat up quickly, and makes car very hot easily.
accountCircle Laura T on March 17, 2021
It is blue-green and pretty nice.
Its blue-green. It is pretty good. My dad bought it used so I do not know much about it. Oh but I need to write more. It is smaller and low to the ground than other cars, which is nice, but the nose is kinda long which makes parking sort of difficult cause sometimes I do not realize how close to the curb I am, but that's probably just because I am a new driver..
accountCircle Alfred M on March 16, 2021
It goes where we want to go. It has standed the test of time and is enjoyable
It can hold my wheelchair. It has space for groceries. JIt has good gas mileage
accountCircle Angela s on March 16, 2021
It's roomier on the inside than it looks.
I like the size of my car. It feels very roomy inside but It's still fair small and is very easy to navigate tight streets, turns and parking spaces. I don't like that the alternator has needed to be replaced every two years.
accountCircle danielle m on March 9, 2021
It's good on gas and its compact and comfortable and
I like the gas and how it drives i wish it was a little bigger i have three kids i need a little bigger
accountCircle Zach C on March 7, 2021
This vehicle is compact but has plenty of room. It has fantastic gas mileage.
Works great! Coolant leaks a bit though. The biggest problem would have to be the fact that the stereo does not work so well.
accountCircle George B on March 6, 2021
It is a beauty and runs good.
Car is a 4 door sedan red in color with a sunroof, am/ FM CD player radio. It has power steering, brakes, windows and mirrors. I bought it used and have done minor repairs so far. A new battery and cables and a new alternator. Tuned it up and changed the oil.
accountCircle Jennifer E on March 4, 2021
That it's reliable and good on gas. It's a small compact car. Not that roomy
I love that it's economical and good on gas. I hate that it's older but it's very reliable
accountCircle Bo Y on February 21, 2021
Great little car for basic commuting!
It gets me where I need to go reliably despite the fact that I do not get it serviced often. The gas mileage is good and the cargo space is spacious enough. However, it's a bit noisy.
accountCircle Mary L on February 20, 2021
Very family friendly and great for bigger families and road trips.
I like the small size and that it is easy on gas it runs good and I have not had any real issues with it.
accountCircle Mark W on February 16, 2021
I should note that because the Ford has such a wide frame, I don't have to worry too much about serious injuries in case of an accident.
My Ford currently has minor issues with the heating but it's extremely reliable as far as mileage and speed and the seats are comfortable enough for a smooth ride around the city or when I need to go handle business. It comes with built-in navigation so I never have to worry about getting lost on any trip and it's very easy to use. However the actual model of the car isn't as pleasing to me on the eyes, but it gets me from point A to point B which is all that matters to me at the moment.
accountCircle Israel N on February 13, 2021
It runs like champs I couldn't sell it even if I had.
I love my car so much even though I got hit from behind I still drive it like if it was the most luxury car in the world yes it can gives me problems and big headaches but I will fix it no matter what many people thinks is just a old ugly car but when you have worked hard and accomplish to get your own car by yourself then you will feel so proud of yourself.
accountCircle Nd J on February 12, 2021
It is a good and efficient car.
My car drives well and is in good condition and that is the reason I like it. However, I feel the model is old, and wear and tear is beginning to catch up with it. It therefore needs a replacement.
accountCircle Leticia C on February 9, 2021
Ford Focus review- great car just old model
To start of my vehicle is very old and outdated compared to a new car. When I first got this car it was great and there was nothing for me to complain about. However, I have had this car for a long time now and it didn't have much problems as expected from an old car. It is very reliable. Problems that my car has had includes a non functioning air conditioner, a stiff steering wheel, and a door that was not opening. All the problems mentioned are fixable. This car looks a little rusty now, but it looked great when I first purchased it.
accountCircle Rebekah T on February 9, 2021
Ford Focus, overall good car
Pretty good first car. Unfortunately it has had some transmission problems since I got it 3 years ago.
accountCircle Margaret H on February 7, 2021
Drives great, very roomy.
I love my car. I like Fords. The only thing I dislike is that it is old. Wish I could buy a newer one.
accountCircle Katherine C on February 2, 2021
It gets me from point A to point B. There's no bells and whistles because I don't want any
It's a sturdy, straight-forward car that's served me well over the last 7 years. It is getting old, however, and the need for repairs is adding up, nor does it compares to newer cars as far as MPG goes.
accountCircle Joe J on January 24, 2021
Nothing, as I don't care about it. It's a means of transportation.
It's small and easy to drive. I really enjoy it's good gas mileage. I don't like the color and it's image.
accountCircle Crystal W on January 24, 2021
Great gas mileage. Drives smoothly. Very quiet.
Comfortable, reliable, it's a nice vehicle. Good car for a small family. It's great on gas. I really like my car. It is a good travel vehicle. It rides smoothly. Lots of safety. It's not very good for tall people my dad has a hard time getting in and out of it and he is 6' tall.
accountCircle Brent G on January 23, 2021
It is definitely not a sports car.
I like the good gas mileage it gets. It is surprisingly comfortable for a taller guy. I wish it accelerated better.
accountCircle Carrie R on January 15, 2021
Ford Focus; a comfortable and fun car
I own a 2003 White Ford Focus ZX3 Hatchback, and it is truly a great vehicle. It's zippy, fast, and it handles corners with ease. It's great on gas, and comfortable to drive.
accountCircle Fonda W on January 14, 2021
The Ford focus has great mileage and saves money on fuel.
Has good gas mileage. Is safe, has side airbags. I have no complaints.
accountCircle Matti A on January 10, 2021
Focus must be on the blue.
Reliable car, my drivers side window has stopped working but other than that, it is drove perfectly. It is just not the best to look at. I haven't had any engine problems since I have had the car. It is wimpy trying to climb up hills but it definitely gets me from point A to point B without issue.
accountCircle Kim B on December 26, 2020
It gets good mileage about 22 mpg city.
Stick shift constantly needing repair. But small and gas friendly. Economical. Cheaper parts to fix it.
accountCircle Zach F on December 22, 2020
That it is a decently cheap, reliable car.
I don't like how bulky it is. I enjoy It's decent gas mileage. I didn't like the steering wheel too much.
accountCircle Valerie W on December 14, 2020
I've had it since 2004. I traveled an hour to look at it.
It's been a fantastic car since 2004 I love the sunroof. My window doesn't roll down.
accountCircle Melinda C on December 11, 2020
It has required a lot of maintenance over the years for issues common with this vehicle. For being a small car, it can actually hold a lot.
My vehicle is small and cute. I like that it's short because it makes parallel parking easier, however, it's wide which can make it hard to get into spots sometimes. I've also had several problems with it, which after researching the problem, discovered they're just common problems with this model of cars that were made during a time range of this vehicle.
accountCircle Christie J on December 10, 2020
Small, compact, nicknamed the skittle because it is bright blue.
Runs like a champ, just not pretty no more. Cracked windshield, hail damage from 3 storms. Mechanically sound. Love how I can zip through heavy traffic with it. Wish it got better miles per gallon like it used to. Has 144, 000 miles and needs tires. A/c works great.
accountCircle Kay J on December 7, 2020
Good car, but not incredibly reliable.
The car is incredibly comfortable. The visibility is good, I like the features in the vehicle (adjustable headlights, 8 speeds on windshield wipers). Gets decent gas mileage, good gas capacity. It does need to be serviced much more than other cars, ford reputation holds true here.
accountCircle Meagan U on December 1, 2020
Living in Florida my cars a.c. Works really well and fast. Even though it is starting to mess up and make sounds once It's fixed again it will feel like brand new.
I like my car because it is very reliable, it gets me to point A to B. It's the perfect size for me and my kids, but It's starting to have problems. It's starting to make a funny sound and my husband said it was the ac going out. Once that messes up It's going to mess up other things on the car.
accountCircle Brittany D on November 28, 2020
Saves you money to and from work.
Locks you out. Steering wheel airbag clock was broken to begin with. Great gas mileage. Long lasting car. 6 CD holder. Comfortable. Fog lights. Hatchback can fall apart. Windshield wipers on back window. No heated seats. Great speaker quality. Pay 30 to fill up car and as low as 10 on pick n' save card.
accountCircle Jen M on November 26, 2020
Long lasting, reliable, good gas Mileage, easy to drive
I have had my vehicle since 2007, no MAJOR issues, mostly wear and tear items. Waiting for it to die
accountCircle Mary M on November 4, 2020
It is a 16 year old car that only had one owner before me.
Because the car is 16 years old and it wasn't driven since may 2018, the car is a little shaky and hesitant. Once the car gets a tune up the car will run as good as new. The car is silver and is a very good car for a first car for me. The inside is very cozy as well.
accountCircle Megan L on November 1, 2020
Good love it so good very nice.
Nice and good car I like it nice to drive handles well gas mileage is great. Sears are comfortable very soft and supportive I like the music system all the controls buttons and knobs. Tires are great smoky ride great breaks quiet nice smooth. Car is very good.
accountCircle Niki S on October 29, 2020
Fast Focus a great car for quick, cheap, easy, traveling.
It's a very reliable car. I love it! It's great on gas, easy to drive, and you can pack in a lot of stuff if traveling. It handles great on the highway, parts are pretty cheap and very easy to fix. It has air conditioning! I have only had to fix the water pump since I owned it and that was hard because they don't make the part anymore so I had to go to a junkyard to find the piece I needed.
accountCircle Melanie L on October 29, 2020
Ford focus review! Getting a ford will be the best choice you have ever made!
I have had my ford focus for over 4 years now and it has been a reliable car. Of course it is a car, so things do happen (battery dies, pop a tire,etc.) I have taken my car for long distance trips when I went to visit family in Houston (I am in Dallas) and it held up nicely.
accountCircle Andrew M on October 28, 2020
It gets great gas mileage so you don't need to spend much to get around.
It is a small car with very low cost of ownership, repairs are inexpensive as is the cost of gas due to the high gas mileage. It's nothing sporty.
accountCircle Jean H on October 17, 2020
Red 2003 Ford Focus se, a good buy for me.
I have kept up standard maintenance and have had no problems with my 2003 Ford Focus. While it is not the luxury sedan, it is comfortable for long trips with the adjustable driver's seat. It now has over 150000 miles on it and still runs great. The paint has not faded and the interior is still in very good condition. I have owned my car since 2004 and have been happy with my purchase.
accountCircle dan r on October 16, 2020
It's really reliable and gets me a to b every single time
I dislike how small it is i wish it was a bit bigger
accountCircle L W on October 14, 2020
Decent choice for commuting.
Ford Focus is a decent small sized vehicle. It is pretty reliable, cheap to maintain and service when needed, as well as good on gas. Mine is simple and unfussy, great for daily commute to work. Perfect for what I use it for. Definitely a solid economic option.
accountCircle Abigail B on October 11, 2020
2003 Ford Focus, getting old and dangerous.
The car has rusted out, is extremely loud and just does not feel safe to drive. We have done regular oil changes and for some reason my windshield fluid does not work. I had to change a tire when one popped and the wheel had like melded to the frame, it took a lot to get it off.
accountCircle Morgan B on September 18, 2020
Ford Focus: Friend or Foe?
Overall, my car is very comfortable to drive and is good on gas. The car is used and has had quite a bit of problems since buying. This could be due to the previous owner or the car itself. I do enjoy driving this car though and would consider buying a newer model
accountCircle Char B on September 14, 2020
Perfect vehicle for a busy mom.
My vehicle is extremely reliable. I have been able to successfully take it on a 70 plus mile drive from Los Angeles to Redlands. It is very good on gas, I can fill up the tank with $40 and it has plenty of space for groceries. Cost of maintenance is fairly inexpensive as well.
accountCircle Kris H on September 14, 2020
My car is a red Ford Focus and she is great.
My car does not have any issues. I have had this car since college and it is still up and running. I have taken this car all up and down the east coast and there has not been any issues for me. In addition, it's a great starter car for younger drivers.
accountCircle Yasmin A on September 13, 2020
White Ford Focus SE 2003 cloth interior gray
It's a white 2003 Ford Focus SE. Pretty old car but is reliable. Bought it used for $1300. Only problems it had when I bought it was; it shook when driving, the tires weren't that good, the radio was crappy and the breaks were crappy too. But I got it all fixed and it drives perfectly fine. Haven't had an engine issues or oil leaks
accountCircle Melissa S on September 12, 2020
It handles well while driving.
I love the style and handling of my car.
accountCircle Roosevelt P on September 1, 2020
My vehicle rides very smooth and is easy to handle.
The Ford Focus has a 2. 0 four cylinder and is very strong at 123000 miles it does not use any oil and runs very smooth. The body inside and outside is very well kept. The engine also has twenty four valve, it was well cared for in that it is service at the recommended mileage which is every three thousand miles, I am well pleased.
accountCircle Dan F on August 20, 2020
That it performs well, for the most part, but doesn't stand up to rust.
Like the way it handles.size is good.radio went bad.didn't stand up to that very well.
accountCircle Gary Barlow on August 19, 2020
A great car
The focus is have is nice. Bought it used with about 150k miles and a few nicks and dents in the body. Owner said it was bought in 2003 and still runs 17 years later. An all- round great and reliable family car
avatar Gilbert Smith
Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.