2011 Ford Focus Review: A Plain Reliable Compact Car

Alex Showalter

Nov 7, 2021

The 2011 Ford Focus is a compact sedan available from $4,804 to $7,465. It is an average car in nearly every category, and is one shoppers should try out if they need a simple daily driver.

The Good

Long-term reliability is good with few complaints from owners.
Fuel economy is above average for its class.
It is nimble, steers well, and easily fits into tight parking spots.

The Bad

Excessive road noise compared to other compact cars.
The engine is underpowered for its class.
Interior materials and overall fit and finish are below average.

2011 Ford Focus: Quick Overview

Changes for the 2011 Focus include remote keyless entry and a discontinuation of the coupe. It is the final model year for the 2^nd generation of the Focus.
Reliability ratings are above average for its class.
One engine is available, powerful enough for everyday driving, but it is a slow car.
The Focus ranks 6^th out of 29 compact cars for fuel efficiency, getting up to 29 miles per gallon combined.
Safety is above average for its class In tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, it scores “good” in most categories.
The 2011 Focus ranks near the middle of the compact car class. It has nothing that makes it stand out as a leader, but there are no serious problems either.

Expert Ratings

KBB

4.6/5

US News

8.0 /10

Cars.com

4.5/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Diane H

It runs well, Have had few problems. The gas mileage is good.

I like that I feel safe driving it. I feel I am in charge of driving the car and the car is not driving me. I dislike that it has some blind spots in viewing traffic. I wish the back of the car, trunk, was slanted down instead of up

Levi H

Ford Focus: the economy man's car.

I have had my Ford Focus for a little over a year now. It runs great and has been very reliable. I had to replace a rotor in the front passenger side after about 6 months of owning it, however. The seats are comfortable. Highway driving is also smooth compared to other sedans. I was commuting weekly between Michigan and Chicago for about two months and I was never disturbed by the road noise. Fuel economy is great. Acceleration is fine. I personally like the body style as well.

Mary T

Reliable first car, still runs great after four years.

My car is a reliable and efficient mode of transportation. It was my first car that I got at 17 years old, and now at 21 I still drive it. The ford focus still runs great after driving 140,000 miles. I rarely ever have issues other than regular maintenance. I like that it is small and compact, making it easy to park. I also like the compatibility with my phone so that I can listen to my own music while on long car rides.

Bradley M

Some issues, however a easy car to drive.

I have recently had AC Problems, but that might just be from the fact that is an older car, it is a really easy and nice car to drive.

Wally V

Great investment and low maintenance.

I just reached 128,000 miles and this car runs excellent. Just keep up with regular maintenance and you will be fine. I highly recommend ford focus to anybody that is looking for a car with great mpg. Currently is giving me 29 miles per gallon. I have a short commute and I got gas 30 days ago.

Marina P

Ford focus my review in small detail.

Runs great gets great gas mileage. On long trips I don't become tired of driving this car. I has a smooth ride not at all cramped. The trunk space is great also and I haven't had to pay if the car sputtered out. They give you a choice of colors and options also.

Kaitlyn C

You can change the color of the interior lights with a knob on the ceiling.

It's a red 2011 ford focus with a gold trim. Leather interior. Drives smoothly and silently. New tires, and an oil change is due. Sports model. Can hold up to 5 people. Bluetooth capability. Large trunk. Cup holders in back seat. Storage compartment in front seat.

Mariah M

It is reliable as long as regular maintenance is performed.

I like how reliable it is. I haven't had any serious problems with it since i've bought it. It easy to used as far as technology goes and it has a good amount of features

Negative Owner Reviews

Jessica P

2011 ford focus se 4 door.

The car over the years has been very reliable. Until I got into one accident with it and now everything is breaking. There is some sort of electrical issue and random lights turn on and off all the time. The battery dies quite easily even though it is new battery.

Richard owner

Transmission slips

I drive my car 4 blocks a day to and from work and the transmission has a slip. I don'trun my 2011 Fordfocus hard. All the fluids are checked regularly and changed regularly.

Katharine M

Ford Focus: a terrible vehicle.

My car almost never works as expected. The doors are broken, the windshield wipers do not work. My check engine light will never turn off and the air condition has not worked in years. The thermostat is broken and causes me to fail smog checks. Gas mileage is not as expected, also the inside lights do not turn on all of the time. I hate my car.

Kilian H

Bad ford vehicle will probably not buy again.

No notice of a brake controller issue that was later recalled. Bad parts used throughout the vehicle. Brake and steering issues. Flat tire warning always on or is completely broken and useless. Trunk rusting and the finish warping off in weird way.

Kirstie M

Ford focus is good for single person.

No problems. Just is too small for my family of 4. It seems reliable and when I do not have my kids or husband with me it is fine. But my husband is 6’4” and my children do not fit comfortably in the back seat with him in the car. Plus when he is in it the car looks too small for him.

Diane M

Comfort. Leather interior. Amenities.

I like gas the mileage. I dislike how low it sets. The seats are low. I do not feel like I can see as well as I do when driving our truck.

Sarah B

It's good on gas, so it's good if you have a long commute or travel frequently.

I dislike the durability of my vehicle. I keep up with the general upkeep, but random things inside the vehicle have fallen off. The air conditioning stopped working less than a year after I got it. Would not recommend.

Sarah F

The gas mileage is really good. I can get over 400 highway miles on a full tank.

The car drives fine, but I am only 5ft tall and the seat does not raise up quite as much as I would like. This creates blind spots that are irritating to deal with. My model also does not show the outside temperature on the dash, which is not a big deal, but my last car did, so not having it is annoying. All in all, I get great gas mileage, so that is a huge plus!!

What Problems Does the 2011 Ford Focus Have?

With a lower number of complaints compared to other years, the 2011 Focus is a good choice. The 2011 Ford Focus problems are few and far between, and even after 10 years on the market, not a single recall has been issued. Problems increase substantially for the 2012 model year. The most common problem reported with the Focus is that the power locks will not lock or unlock. Commonly, a failed actuator causes it, and can be expensive to replace. Transmission problems, a rare issue with the Focus, are caused by either a damaged computer or gears. Owners have also reported issues with the paint on the wheels. It can chip off, and the only fix is refinishing the wheel.

Over the years, Ford has issued several service bulletins to address smaller issues including software updates to the engine and infotainment computers. The bulletins allow dealerships and mechanics to fix common problems more easily.

What are the Prices, Models, Trims & Specs?

The 2011 Ford Focus is one of the most affordable compact cars, available from $4,804 to $7,465 depending on mileage and model. When new, it had a retail price of $16,640 to $19,670. The Focus depreciates faster than average, losing 60% of its value in the first 5 years. From the basic S to the basic-plus SES, the Focus is affordable but not exciting.

S is the base Focus model. Features include 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, remote door locks, and a CD player with 4 speakers.
SE is above that. Added features are 15-inch alloy wheels, power windows and mirrors, and a satellite radio.
SES is next in the lineup. Improvements include 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, Bluetooth connectivity, and SYNC voice control.
SEL is at the top of the range. The upgrades continue with leather seating, heated front seats, USB connectivity, and a high-fidelity stereo system.

136-140 HP 28-29 MPG

View Details

136-140 HP 28-29 MPG

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SES

136-140 HP 28-29 MPG

View Details

SEL

136-140 HP 28 MPG

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How Long Will the 2011 Ford Focus Last?

The 2011 Ford Focus has an average life expectancy for a compact car. With proper care, it can last 200,000 miles or more. Maintenance costs are more expensive than average, with Repair Pal estimating it will cost $540 per year to keep a Focus running.

Barbara S

It is very reliable. I have not had any problems with this vehicle. It is also economical to run. It gets good gas mileage.

Abigayle W

Not many problems over the years. Over the last few months the tire pressure sensors have been going bad and the light comes on the dash at random times. Mechanics can't find a problem with this to fix.. It's kind of annoying.

Kira F

It is very reliable, it holds up great even with a few bumps. The only problem I notice if I am unable to get up hills without accelerating a good amount.

Tina G

Yes it is and no I haven't. All I have had to do is regular maintenance. I love it and have had no problems with it.

Joanne N

It on has 39,000 mike's on it to date. But up to this point, no I have not had any problems with it.

Casey B

My 2011 ford focus s is reliable. The brake pads are squeaky but still work very well. All of my windows are manual. In the three months I have had it I have had no issues.

Kirsten B

Yes, the 2011 Ford Focus is reliable. I haven't had any issues that prevent the vehicle from being safely operated.

Sally L

I have found my Ford Focus to be reliable. In addition to the great gas mileage, I have had no problems with the car if it’s well taken care of.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

Technology feels dated in the 2011 Focus since it was the final model year for the second generation and has technology from 2008.

Standard technology includes a single-disc CD player, and a stereo with 4 speakers.
Upgrades include Bluetooth connectivity, a SYNC infotainment system, and an upgraded stereo.
For safety, there are anti-lock brakes, airbags, traction control, and stability control.

What Engine Options are Available?

The 2011 Ford Focus features a naturally aspirated 2.0L I4 engine that’s efficient but lacks performance. Performance in the 2011 Focus is weak for its class, going from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 9.7 seconds. Only one engine is available, a 2.0L 4 cylinder producing 140 horsepower.

What Colors Options are Available?

How Big is the Focus?

The 2011 Focus is a compact car and feels small inside. Rear legroom is limited, and best suited for children. Cargo space is average for a car in its class, with 13.8 cubic feet of room in the trunk. Enough room to carry up to 4 suitcases.

How Does the 2011 Ford Focus Compare to Other Cars?

Based on owner reviews, the 2011 Focus ranks 18^th out of 29 compact cars, putting it close to the middle of the pack. The highest-rated is the Subaru WRX, which has much more power and a more refined interior. Fuel economy is better in the Focus, and it is more affordable to own. Between the two cars, the WRX is the better vehicle since it offers a better driving experience, and is a more versatile choice being a hatchback.

Another rival to the Focus is the Nissan Versa, which is much closer in price to the Ford. The Focus has more power, better reliability ratings, and scores higher in crash tests. Fuel economy is similar between the two cars, but the Nissan is more comfortable to drive. Overall, the Focus is the better choice simply because it will last longer with fewer problems.

Ranks #18 Small Cars by Owners

2011 Subaru WRX

4.68

2011 Volkswagen Golf

4.58

2011 Ford Focus

4.16

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Ford Focus a Good Car?

After looking at all the data, we say that yes, the 2011 Focus is a good car. It scores well in long-term reliability and is a safe car to drive. Performance in the car is weak and the technology is obsolete, but it still covers the basics. Overall, if you are in the market for a budget-friendly compact car, the 2011 Focus is a good one to check out.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Bob O. on October 24, 2023

Dependable, affordable, easy driving, modest performance

Paid $9K for 2011 Focus S w/34K mi. Currently has over 88K mi. Perfect daily driver, and zero mechanical issues. Routine oil changes at 7500 miles (more or less) per mfg spec. Tires and battery replaced. Clutch ready for replacement, which I presume is original. That's certainly respectable lifespan for the part. Gas mileage averages 26-27 combined in a hot humid environment where AC is in use 6 months of the year. It's generally a bit sluggish to accelerate at lower engine speeds, but if you want/need it, there's a respectable amount of torque above 3K RPM. In that regard it's nice to have the 5 speed manual, as I can drop a gear or two and put on the gas for instant power to get out of a tight spot. But don't have to waste money on gas redlining it just to get on the freeway.

Amanda L on June 24, 2021

I loved this car at first, but problems arose soon after.

My car worked for a few years, then when the warranty went out it began experiencing issues. I have been told that now my car value is only $500. I spent years paying it back. It pretty much just gave up. The mechanics told me it would cost more to fix the problem than my vehicle is worth.

Hannah A on June 23, 2021

Not a horrible car just miss my ac.

Decent driving and reliable. Haven't had too many problems. The only problem I’d say I have with the car itself is that my ac no longer works and barely worked when I first bought the car. I tried ac charging it but about a year after I bought the car the compressor itself went completely out. Once in awhile the Bluetooth does not always want to connect but when it does I do not complain.

Riley C on June 14, 2021

Ford focus: a stylish car.

This car is nice and compact but can still fit things in it. Mine has been with us since the year it came out (2011) and is still functioning well. The seats are comfortable. Not many problems with it other than it makes rattling noises now. Not sure why. Otherwise a nice car.

Kori K on June 14, 2021

My vehicle has a nice spaced trunk.

The vehicle runs great, I have not had any problems from the driving aspect of the vehicle. The only issue I have is that the driver side speaker was blown out and I can only hear music on the passenger side. My seatbelt has issues staying in the lock sometimes. I struggle getting my seatbelt to click in the lock.

Ashlee H on May 31, 2021

I love my red ford focus se.

I love my car. I only really drive to work and back especially now. It handles pretty well in the snow too. It has all the features I need. I love that I can play my music from my phone through my radio. I love all the alerts when I need gas or a door/ trunk is ajar.

Melody C on May 30, 2021

The trunk space for a little car is huge, you can fit two people in the trunk.

It is a great little commuter car. I have had mine since 2012 and have had no big mechanical issues. Just brake and battery replacement. I have driven it cross country with no issues as well. All these years and she has not let me down. First car and I hope it stays drivable much longer!

Rachel I on May 3, 2021

Affordable, dependable, and sensible is how I would describe this vehicle.

I went from driving an SUV to a midsize car. I didn't think I would like it, but I love my focus. I always shop American made cars, and ni needed something that wasn't super expensive. This car fits me and my 3 kids comfortably and drives great! I haven't had any issues with it at all. It is a great car!

Kim G on April 7, 2021

My current car is a ford focus.

My car is quite comfortable. No problems are involved, it runs sweetly and I have had it for a little over 6 years. It is a reliable car with no problems, I'd recommend it to people who need a car that is easy to pay off. The car I own is a ford focus, it is lasted me for years and is a dependable car.

Marisa G on April 4, 2021

Reliable and affordable. Haven't had many problems with this car.

The steering wheel will lock up which hinders you from turning on the vehicle, must use some force to move the steering wheel in order for the car to start.

Angela P on April 4, 2021

Best Friend on Four Wheels

I adore my Ford Focus. I named her Charlotte. She was my first car at age 16 and continues to be my primary care. Very reliable, have never had problems with the ignition or the battery, EXCELLENT gas mileage (when I was a commuting student primarily highway driving, got 39 miles/gallon). Is not great in ice or snow, gets stuck easily, even in the driveway. The wind tends to catch it on blustery days and tries to drag it off the road. Car is slow to accelerate. Motor is a little on the noisy side.

Brittany T on April 3, 2021

The reliable and comfortable car.

I love my ford focus! It is a small car which makes it perfect for parking in almost any parking spot imaginable, even the smallest of spaces! It is very reliable and I have never had a problem. This vehicle is very comfortable with both air conditioning and heat that keep me just the right temperature all year round. I love to listen to the radio in this car and I can even plug in my phone through an auxiliary cord to listen to my own music! This car performs well for normal day to day tasks such as driving to school/ going shopping.

Sara M on April 2, 2021

Relaxing, reliable, has not let me down.

My car is a little bit on the older side now, being about seven years old (that can be a lot for technology!) And during that time it has been on 3 1/2 hour drives coming home from college, and 7 1/2 hour drives from my new home to see family. In the time I have had the Focus, I have had no problems with performance. I also enjoy that I can sync my phone to the car with Bluetooth for safe, hands-free calling on the road.

Florence T on March 26, 2021

Fun-shaped smooth transportation.

My car runs alright for a used car. It handles well in the city and gets fairly good mileage. The features I love is the audio, available space, and the air conditioning. The exterior shape of the vehicle is very appealing, especially as opposed to the square shaped Kia. I hate odd shaped cars.

Lori B on March 23, 2021

Comfort and performance of a luxury car.

I have had no problems with it at all. It's the perfect size for 5 people. Rides smooth and exterior sound is blocked very well. It goes up the steep grades where I live with ease. Has plenty of power and gets about 30 miles to the gallon. The steering handles very well. It takes corners like a little sports car. Sound is muffled well when on the freeway.

Ryan M on March 22, 2021

The highlight to me is the gas mileage and the trunk space is massive.

The ford focus is amazing, one of the best parts is the gas mileage it gets on average 29 miles to the gallon. Then steering wheel has the finger grips on it which are extremely comfortable while driving. Lastly one thing fords are known for is the engine and sometimes it vibrates. It does not affect the car in a negative way it is just a comfort factor.

Ashley M on March 21, 2021

2011 ford focus is a decent car when it is been taken care of.

We've not owned the car for long, but it seems a common problem is the motor mounts needing done. I don't really know what other common problems the 2011 ford focus usually has, but it is an okay car. I am just thankful that it is been reliable. Our friend kept it in pretty good condition (we bought it from him).

April A on March 19, 2021

Ford is the way to go! American made 'built ford tough'.

I love my 2011 ford focus se! Second ford I have owned in my life. The gas mileage is amazing. 32 mpg. It is small but big enough for my family of four. My ford focus drives very smooth. The steering wheel has audio controls, cruise control and window controls. The radio/Bluetooth has wonderful sound from the speakers. Transmission is automatic though I'd prefer a standard. It is of silver color. Not easily dirtied but also a nice color for the vehicle. I can put $25 dollars in the tank and fill it up! While gas is almost $3 a gallon where I live. Since it's so small I can easily parallel park. I am on the shorter side so getting in and out of the vehicle is a breeze. Taller people may have a slight problem! Overall it is a pretty amazing car.

Susan N on March 16, 2021

Great mileage, built with quality.

Best car I have ever owned. Yes, it had transmission issues, but they were fixed. It gets great gas mileage, has a lot of technology, and has stood the test of time.Almost 190,000 miles and still rolling! Super comfortable to drive, too. It has been perfect for city and highway driving.

Lexi S on March 16, 2021

My ford focus is a great car and would recommend it to family members.

For the most part my vehicle is very reliable. The only problem that I have had with it was a sensor go out which caused my car to act like it was overheating. It does great driving except in the snow. Since it is not 4wd or all wheel driving in the snow can be difficult. Some great features about my car is that it has Bluetooth, so you can connect your phone to your car and be able to talk with hands-free.

Elena C on March 16, 2021

2011 Ford Focus, grey, sports style.

My 2011 Ford Focus is an extremely reliable car. It gets approximately 33-25 miles to the gallon. I have not had any maintenance problems on it since purchasing it in 2012. I have only had to purchase new brake pads. It does not have too many fancy features (no back-up camera or GPS, which I wish it had).

Laurel S on March 14, 2021

Ford focus is a reliable car.

It performs well, does well with gas mileage, and has a great trunk space. I like the fact that even when I turn off the engine, music still plays until I open the car door. It is very reliable. I have not had any problems in the three years I have owned it.

Rodney W on March 12, 2021

White lightening navigating the neighborhoods around the town!

Smooth ride, good gas mileage, modern, Wifi, phone charging, great breaks, love the color, easy to maintain gas, oil, other fluids. My mom loves that she can get into the car easily. I can fit 3 healthy friends lolls, long rides are fun and during the snow, I feel safe.

Kayla C on March 7, 2021

I love this compact sedan! Ford focus is the way to go!

I love my 2011 ford focus! I have had it for a few years now and it has held up pretty well. I just had the engine replaced last year since I didn't take the best care of it but now with regular maintenance and oil changes it is doing great! It is plenty big enough for me and my two dogs. My partner is 6' 7' and even he has enough space.

Brock H on March 5, 2021

Small car but can get up and go plus enough room for the family.

Great mileage, low maintenance, smaller car but gets the job done. Very few problems other than regular maintenance. 35+ miles to the gallon. Pretty spacious for a small car, trunk is rather large. I have a manual not automatic, but I love shifting. For only 4 cylinders it can really get up and go.

Lesley H on March 3, 2021

If you take care of it, it will take care of you. I don't treat my car like transport, I treat it like a family member. I give her what she needs when she needs it.

Her name is Betsy. She has never failed me. Have had few problems with her. The only complaint I have is she doesn't do so well in the snow. She is dependable, affordable and easy to maintain.

Ashley G on March 2, 2021

I love my ford focus, best car I have owned.

I haven't had any major problems with my car. It is pretty reliable. It gets great gas mileage. I have put a lot of miles on it and it still runs great. I have had to replace the battery once since I have had it. Tires are relatively cheap when getting new ones.

Mary T on February 27, 2021

Reliable first car, still runs great after four years.

Elisa H on February 20, 2021

It has heated front seats.

It shakes sometimes and the cool air went out all summer last summer. It overheats sometimes and the radiator broke. But otherwise it is a pretty good car and has lasted me a while it is small but good and affordable I’d recommend the car to someone who uses it just for themselves.

Andrew G on February 17, 2021

It hides stains very well.

It had problems with the air conditioner at 36,000 miles. The plastic trim broke very easily. It does get great gas mileage though. It looks like it was cheaply made. The dark interior does hide stains well. I have a small child and things have been spilled it in.

Henry M on February 14, 2021

The gas mileage is really good even with inflated gas prices I never pay much more than 40 dollars to fill up.

Great gas mileage and overall performance. Handling is excellent. Nice family vehicle to take short trips in. Good trunk space.

Jae J on February 13, 2021

Its affordable on gas. A full tank only needs about $20 dollars.

I like that the vehicle is reliable. It is good on gas and runs smoothly. I dislike that the parts are expensive to get fixed and replaced.

Katie H on February 12, 2021

One word: reliable. I have never had a ford breakdown.

I really love this car, especially compared to the earlier models of the ford focus. The recurring problems I have are minimal and quick fixes. I get incredible gas mileage. I have never had a ford breakdown. I also love the 10 radio shortcut options, and being able to use Bluetooth without an aux cord. The most common issue I have with every ford I have ever owned has been the fact that the air conditioning is always the first thing to go. It never lasts more than a few years, for some reason, and it is super expensive to replace. It always gets stuck on defrost (this has happened 3 times). This is a minor issue for me, as I like to drive with windows down in nearly any weather anyway. Comfy seats, it has skid protection (which is great because I am a hard breaker), and I also just like the look of the car.

William P on February 11, 2021

Focus is not what I thought it would be.

Small car. The pickup is not what I thought it would be. So far it is been pretty reliable but there are some minor things. One of the windshield washer nozzles broke and the dealer wanted a completely outrageous amount of money to fix it. It is almost 10 years old and I need new tires and the body is rusting underneath.

Kasey J on February 11, 2021

Overall dependable vehicle.

I have experienced very little problems with my 2011 ford focus se. It has been a very reliable vehicles and has proven to be dependable in all situations/weather. I have had problems with the panels besides the windows on the inside falling off on both sides and had to replace both. The regulator in the driver's side window went out but was covered by my warranty but was an inconvenience. Sync system often disconnects from my phone and will not work unless I take out the spark plug and reset it.

Vangie S on February 8, 2021

Gray 2011 ford focus, still running well.

My car makes a loud noise when going from a complete stop to moving. The air vents do not work properly. Other than those issues, my car is extremely reliable. My car has only been in the shop for oil and filter changes. It is comfortable for me being 5'2'. My boyfriend is 6'2' and he also is comfortable in my car.

Leann W on February 8, 2021

I love that it's a smaller vehicle. I do actually get a lot of trunk space.

I enjoy my Focus very much. I haven't had any major issues with it since I got it five years ago. The only thing I have to do was fix something related with the air conditioner. I can talk on the phone through the car. Something I do wish was that the highlights were automatic. The car gets great gas mileage.

Aisling M on February 7, 2021

Great first car for someone new at driving.

Not the greatest in snow and get stuck in parking spots. Great on gas and a great first car for a new driver. Trunk space is big and fits a lots of tools. Parts are easy to get if you have any problems with it. Could have more leg room in the back seat.

Amanda H on February 5, 2021

Love that it is Bluetooth capable.

I have no issues with my car. It is very reliable and great on gas. The only downfall is I wish it was a little bigger since I have to put a car seat in my back seat. There’s really not much legroom in the back. That is the only thing I do not like. I love that I am able to sync my phone to the car and that it has heated seats.

Lekeitha W on February 4, 2021

Economic buy for beginner car owner.

My ford focus is great on gas and has a spacious trunk, which is efficient for large grocery runs and traveling. Buying tires and getting routine maintenance is affordable since it is a smaller vehicle. It is not very spacious if you have children in car seats. I do love the black interior and cloth seats. They are comfortable and easy to clean. I wish my focus came with cruise control to make driving over the highway a bit easier.

Kristin M on February 1, 2021

Fantastic Fords. I summarized that I like the Ford Focus model of vehicle

It never gives me any issues. Zippy and low maintenance. I would describe y car as reliable and quick. I love Ford model cars. And the Ford Focus is my favorite small car. I would most definitely purchase this car model again. I also like Chevy models. American cars have been successful for me.

Tara A on January 31, 2021

Ford focus basic edition 2011.

Great little car to get you from one destination to the next. Has good gas mileage and speed to get you there quickly. Power steering, windows and seats for easy mobility. Sirius XM radio option and an aux cord hook up for easy music options. Heat and air conditioning work great as well.

Fred H on January 30, 2021

A good car with a long life.

My vehicle has over 118 thousand miles on it and runs perfectly. I have never had any problems and do regular oil changes. Have replaced tires, battery and brakes twice which is normal. I bought the car new and would do so again. I have rented a focus 4 times and always pleased with the car.

Treasure E on January 25, 2021

The inside lights up blue.

The ford focus is a great car. It can fit up to four people comfortably. It sounds good and is design like a race car and can drive like one to and it is a nice looking car. It is small. I would not get it if you have a big family and it is good on gas.

Alison K on January 24, 2021

A good starter car for new drivers.

Really good as my first car, comfortable, more trunk space than expected. Back seats fold down for more space in addition to the trunk. Have had to take it in a few times for a power steering issue. Decent gas mileage. Bluetooth connects to phone for music and phone calls.

Jennifer C on January 24, 2021

The ford focus is an extremely reliable car.

I have had very few issues with this vehicle. I have had it for 10 years and overall it has been very good to me. With the exception of normal wear and tear items like tires, brakes, oil changes, batteries and wipers I have not needed to spend very much money on this vehicle.

Melody K on January 21, 2021

My strong and noble steed.

This car is incredible! Very sturdy, as I have been in a few fender benders and my car is hardly damaged. I did have a slight issue with the air system when I first bought it - cannot remember what it was, but it was between $100 and $150 to fix. This car gets great gas mileage. I often go on long trips, and can go between 5 1/2 to 6 hours before having to fill up.

Zach Z on January 19, 2021

It has a dent on the side caused by a deer

It's a very reliable car. Gets great gas mileage and the air-conditioning still runs like a champion!

Tracey C on January 19, 2021

In summary I have been very pleased with the performance of this car.

For the most part the car drives really well I haven't had too many problems with it other than normal upkeep such as I always keep the oil changed as needed I replaced the brakes as needed which is not been not too many times since I have owned the car which I have owned the car right off the lot brand new it drives really economically as far as gas goes it is great on gas I have not had to have any major work done on the car such as a transmission blowing or the engine blowing that I can recall it is been all minor stuff belts replaced tune-ups as needed everything has been as scheduled maintenance has always been done on time or give or take a few weeks in between but it is always been kept up from day one so because of that I never had any major problems I have replaced the tires as needed I do not think I have ever had to replace the rotors overall this car has been great since day one and because I have done all the scheduled maintenance from day one I have had no major problems I recommend this car at least this year make and model it is been great economically and it is not a bad looking car.

Mallory W on January 19, 2021

2011 ford focus sel most reliable car I have owned!

I am the second owner of my ford focus and I have owned it for 6 years. It is definitely the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Not one time did I ever have an issue with it breaking down or not starting. The only parts I have ever needed to replace were tires, battery and windshield wipers. As a female having a car that is dependable is super important. I love the Bluetooth capability, the fact that the inside lights change colors and that it has a sunroof/moonroof. Only complaint is that the leather seat interior wore pretty quickly and easily.

Gabriel C on January 18, 2021

Great gas mileage. Great on highway.

I like the Bluetooth features and sunroof. And the fact you can change color of the inside lights. I wish it had touchscreen and bigger cup holders.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.