The 2008 Focus lasts around 200,000 miles with only some suspension and ignition switch issues. At $4,207 – 4,381, it’s a good bargain for a dependable compact car.
Is the 2008 Ford Focus a Good Used Car?
- Yes, 2008 is a good year. Owner reviews like the dependable engine, comfortable seats, and efficiency.
- Reliability ratings are average. Focus models from 2005–2011 are all good with a surge in problems in 2012.
- Performance is average for a compact car from the 4-cylinder engine.
- The Focus is reasonably safe, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is good at up to 28 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Focus?
- Consumer Reports finds the Focus to have a composed ride and roomy interior while having average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Focus a 4.6/5 liking the responsive steering, but disliking the bland interior.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the focus 4.6/5 and enjoy the SYNC infotainment, but dislike the older safety tech.
What Common Problems Does the 2008 Ford Focus Have?
Problems found with the 2008 Focus include rear suspension noise, ignition switch failures, and the transmission slipping out of gear.
Rear suspension noise is the most common complaint showing up at around 40,000 miles. The problem is caused by worn out rear shocks and springs, replacing the parts costs roughly $1,000.
Ignition switch failures show up on a lot of cars at about 75,000 miles. Replacing the ignition cylinder fixes the problem, costing only around $400.
Transmission problems, including slipping out of gear, are another issue at roughly 40,000 miles. The shift solenoids in the transmission are known to go bad, costing about $1,200 to replace.
There are only 3 minor recalls covering the airbags and side reflectors and are not a big concern once they’ve been replaced.
How Long Will the 2008 Ford Focus Last?
A properly maintained 2008 Ford Focus will last around 200,000 miles, which is about 100,000 less than top competitors like the Toyota Corolla. Maintenance costs are high for a compact car, according to Repair Pal, at $426 per year.
Most 20008 Focus models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the timing chain tensioner for $800, camshaft sensors costing around $100, and brake hoses which cost around $150.
For me, it has been very reliable. I haven't had any major repairs and have not had any issues getting it serviced when it needs to be. One thing I notice is that the ride is not very quiet. The interior is pretty noisy and some of the interior plastic feels cheap.
The focus is very reliable. As far as getting me to work and back home everyday. There has not been any problems.
It is very reliable. The only drawback I have discovered is that some larger than average people find the front seat a bit too narrow.
It is reliable and I haven't run into any problems besides those from any wear and tear on the vehicle.
Yes, my 2008 ford focus is a reliable vehicle and I have not had any issues with my vehicle since I've purchased it.
My ford focus doesn't really have any problems, but I take care of it really well me and my husband does.
Yes it has problems, little things like the handles, doors, and door frames are very flimsy and break rather easy. I have had to replace 3 of my handles and only have had the car for about a year and a half. The tire pressure light turns on quite a bit too.
The only thing I do not like about it is the trunk space. And we've had to have the motor mounts replaced a couple of times.
How Much Is the 2008 Ford Focus Worth?
Blue book values range from $4,207 – 4,381, making the Focus about $1,000 cheaper than a Mazda3 or Honda Civic. When new, the price range was $14,395 to $16,295. Depreciation is similar to other compact cars, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Focus?
There are three models of the 2008 Focus available. Technology was just updated for 2008, with the next redesign coming in 2012.
S is the entry-level model with:
- 15-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Air Conditioning
- AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5MM AUX Jack & 4 Speakers
SE adds features including:
- 15-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Power Windows
- Remote Keyless Entry
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Optional SYNC Infotainment System With Bluetooth
SES is the flagship model and has:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Improved Sport Suspension
- Sunroof
- Optional Leather Seating
What Engines Come In the Focus?
The only engine available is an average 2.0L 4-cylinder with 140 horsepower that gets up to 28 MPG combined.
What Colors Does the Focus Come In?
How Big Is the Focus?
The 2008 Ford Focus is an average size compact car similar to the Honda Civic or Hyundai Elantra. Passenger space is a bit cramped with limited legroom for adults in the backseats.
Cargo room is similar to rivals with a 13.8 cubic foot trunk which will fit 3 to 4 suitcases.
How Does the Focus Compare to the Competition?
The Ford Fusion is another rival from Ford costing about $800 more. Passenger room is much better in the Fusion, but the Focus offers a better driving experience. We recommend the Fusion since it’s only slightly more expensive and offers better practicality.
The Toyota Corolla is a competitor costing about $1,200 more. Ownership costs are lower on the Corolla, but the interior materials are nicer in the Focus. We recommend the Corolla, which lasts longer and is cheaper to repair if something does go wrong.
Do Owners Recommend the Ford Focus?
Yes. It's a small car that gets good gas mileage, and I have had good luck with no major repairs necessary in the 6 years I have owned it. I also like that it looks sporty.
Yes. It is very efficient on gas and compact enough for a small family. I have had this car for over a year and still drives perfectly.
Yes. It is economical, great on gas mileage, and has enough room for two adults and a dog to go on a long trip.
Yes, it is reliable and gets very good gas mileage. It is very versatile, good for a first vehicle or any vehicle!
Yes my 2008 ford focus it is a very good and reliable vehicle. I have had it for almost 5 years and have had no issues.
Yes it is actually a great car for me and my family. I barely ever have any problems with it. I love the car.
The 2008 ford focus is an alright vehicle. It runs but it is very small inside the car and the handles and things like that break very easy. When you are driving the door frames shake a lot and are very loud. It could be better but all in all at least it has an aux cord so you can play your own music.
Excellent. It gives good gas mileage, comfortable riding, and is in as good a shape as it was brand new, needing few repairs.
