2012 Ford Focus Review: An All New Version Of The Focus With More Problems

Jan 12, 2022

The 2012 Ford Focus is a compact car offered as both a sedan and hatchback with a price range of $5,164 to $9,410. Questionable long-term reliability and expensive problems make the Focus a car buyers should avoid.

The Good

Interior materials are higher quality than a lot of the other budget-friendly cars, the cabin is quiet, and the handling is very good for the class.

The Bad

There are a lot of mechanical issues including transmission problems, the back seats are cramped in the sedan version, and the infotainment system is difficult to use.

2012 Ford Focus: Quick Overview

The 2012 Ford Focus is the first model year of the third generation with all-new styling, engines, and interiors.
Reliability ratings are fair, according to J.D. Power, with more complaints than any other model year.
Only one engine is available, and is a four-cylinder with average power for the class.
Fuel economy is good, tying for 4^th place out of 36 compact cars with a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
Safety ratings are above average with four out of five stars in government crash tests and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
The 2012 Ford Focus ranks 32^nd out of 36 compact cars, based on owner reviews. There are just too many problems with the redesigned 2012 model to recommend it over better compact cars.

Expert Ratings

KBB

3.6/5

U.S. News

7.9/10

Cars.com

3.8 /5

Positive Owner Reviews

Alexis M

With SYNC voice activated features and automatic updates, my car is trustworthy!

I chose my 2012 Ford Focus based on what I was getting in the interior. It has black, leather, easy-to-clean seats. Not to mention, the SYNC features it offers: navigation, Bluetooth, USB port, hands-free phone, etc. After driving my car for a while, I was impressed with the safety and maintenance. My car gives me automatic updates on it's health. It also provides voice-activated 911 support. I have been driving my vehicle for well over 100,000 miles and I have had no issues with it. However, there have been many recalls on Ford Focuses. For example, there was a recall on a possible defect that could lead to stalling. Luckily, Ford will have your car in for free for any recall notice.

Chase S

My focus is a deep blue, with the stock wheels and an aftermarket air intake.

My ford focus se is heaven sent. Although it was previously owned, it still runs great. Functionality is astounding. For a compact car, the power to weight ratio is good. I have had it for more than a year now and the only issue I ran into was oil so far. I love that I can adjust the driver seat to improve comfort for my legs and arms. The rear seat space is snug, yet comforting. The trunk storage is great, I can fit two suitcases (one large one medium) next to each other.

Clifford C

My new 2012 ford focus sedan sel.

Just bought my car a couple of months ago. After it was in the shop getting a new transmission due to a recall. It is been very reliable since then, it gets good gas mileage and I have been enjoying driving it. It is a very comfortable car. It handles very well and is a comfortable drive.

Brian K

Great gas mileage for road trips.

The 2012 Ford Focus is an all around great car very comfortable. When your driving all the controls are in easy reach not to distract driver. Also it's a great car for trips very good gas mileage at almost 40 mpg hwy that is makes a trip less stressful on the pocket book.

m s

Be careful when driving, I would like to keep it.

I like everything about this vehicle. The only dislike I have is that the seal on the sunroof leaks occasionally.

Jasmine D

Family/student reliable car.

I love my vehicle because its been reliable to me and it has lasted me for many miles. The car rinds good and gas mileage is excellent. This car is spacious for a small family and has space in the trunk for many things. This car is perfect for college students that need a reliable car. Also, this is a cheaper car.

Tom L

Great gas mileage. Full tank will get at least 450 miles or more

Love our Ford Focus. We have owned the car for 4 years and have done only scheduled maintenance. Rather have an automatic

Micaela F

Reliable car for everyday use. Gets you a long distance for not a lot of money.

This car gets really good mileage and is cheap to fill up. It is a very reliable everyday car. Drives well and pretty cheap to repair. It is smaller so not as much space in the back for passengers. Has a really roomy trunk that can be made bigger with foldable seats.

Negative Owner Reviews

Noah N

Pains of owning the Ford focus.

Tires wear down to east, transmission is always acting up, headlight has moisture in it, battery is in such a bad spot that car shops are not allowed to test it.

Kayla B

2012 ford focus se hatchback.

This car is not very reliable and it has not been since I purchased it in February.. I had to replace a wheel bearing and now the transmission is out causing the car not to run! It is a very cute little white car but honestly they are not very reliable cars as mine has had a lot of problems!

Kelly P

Do not do it. You'll regret it.

Bad transmission in years 2012-2014. Have had to have clutches replaced every 10k miles. Shutters when driving, like it is going to stall but it is an automatic. A manual transmission ran by a computer, nothing but problems since day 1. Good on gas, but that is about the only good thing.

Johnson K

Bad car sales have been here since the start of this year and the price of a.

Had to replace transmission. They said they would buy the same thing. Then for a response from the company and say that the company cannot afford to pay for the rest of the repairs and it was a lot more expensive than the other set price.

Kendra R

Terrible for a snowy area parent.

The horn has gone several times. It drives terrible in the winter with the snow. The black plastic that is under the cover has torn off (makes horrendous noise while driving down the road, having the plastic scrape). There is not much space between the back seats and the front. Making car seats a pain in the butt if you have kids.

Bailey B

It sucks; I do not like it at all.

Always breaks, there's always problems with it and the problems are the same that are the same issues. I was more or less forced into buying the car. As soon as I am done with this payments I will never have another Ford again. It is not a car I would recommend to anyone ever.

Teresa O

No worth the money not a safe car to drive a total rip off

Lots of problems brought it back at least c 3 times transmission blew twice

Karen

Transmission garbage

The error came up transmission malfunction service due. Called 4 dealers, a independent shop and a transmission only place and nobody can fix it since the parts are not available due to this stupid pandemic. So at 33,722 miles I have to get a new used car. No very happy right now, but I am a nanny and this is the only car I have. So having a reliable car is a big need. I know I am probably not going to get a lot for a trade in. Also the radio started snap, crackling and popping last August 2020, ended up pulling the fuse at the end of April 2021. This car has so many problems and nobody wants to help unless I leave it until it can be seen in July, August, or September and as I said that just will not work. NO MORE FORDS FOR ME. This was my 3rd Ford. The first lasted 11 years, the second lasted 12 years and this one is 8 years and 11 months wasn't expecting to have to get another car this quick since I took out the Ford extended warrenty just for the transmission and I can't even use it.

What Problems Does the 2012 Ford Focus Have?

The 2012 Ford Focus has more problems than other compact cars in the same price range. Significant quality improvements are missing until the 2015 model year. The 2012 Focus problems include transmission failure, stiff power steering, and broken door latches.

Transmission problems, including shuddering and vibrating when starting, are extremely common. Usually, the problem is caused by the dual-clutch assembly or the rear main seal. Replacements cost about $1,650 depending on local labor rates.

Power steering failures are another frequent problem. The electronic power steering motor is a weak component in the Focus, and the only solution is to replace the assembly with a new one. A complete replacement costs about $2,000.

Stereo problems are also mentioned by owners. There are software problems with the head unit which cause the system to lock up frequently. If there are hardware issues causing the system to lock up replacing the head unit costs about $400.

There are 10 recalls, which is worse than other cars from 2012. The recalls include the passenger-side wiper motor, rooftop rack, side lights, door chime, sudden loss of power, door latches, charge cord, and the canister purge valve. Most serious are problems with the canister purge valve, which can cause the vehicle to stall.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2012 Ford Focus is more affordable than other compact cars with a price range of $5,164 to $9,410, depending on mileage and model. The price range when new was $16,500 to $22,700. Depreciation is faster than average, dropping about 50% in value over the first five years of ownership.

S is the entry-level model with 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power locks and windows, and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX input.
SE is next in the lineup and has 16-inch steel wheels, fog lights, automatic headlights, cruise control, and rear disc brakes.
SEL adds features including 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, leather steering wheel, exterior trim improvements, and a six-speaker stereo system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
Titanium is the flagship model with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, improved suspension, keyless ignition, as well as an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a 10-speaker Sony stereo.

160 HP 30-33 MPG

View Details

160 HP 30-33 MPG

View Details

SEL

160 HP 31 MPG

View Details

Titanium

160 HP 31 MPG

View Details

How Long Will the 2012 Ford Focus Last?

A properly cared for 2012 Ford Focus will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than the competitors. The regular annual maintenance costs are much more expensive than other compact cars. Repair Pal estimates them to be $604 per year.

A S

The 2012 ford focus sel is very reliable. My only complaint is that mine has a few minor issues which include the radio and speaker function. Other than that, I have no complaints.

Paola M

Yes, it is reliable. I haven't had any issues with it. I drive long distances sometimes and no problem.

David S

Yes, it is very reliable and does not have any problems. The only thing I noticed about the car is that it does not do great going up hilly areas.

alexis m

Hasn't has any problem since the day I got it brought it used but drove like it brand new I would buy another one.

Holly R

Yes it is very reliable. The only problem is it takes a while to go from 0 - 60 from a dead stop. Rides very well, windshield is extra wide so there are no blind spots. Good on gas and does not require much other than normal maintenance.

Connor W

My 2012 ford focus se has been very reliable for me in the few months that I have owned it. No it does not have any problems other than the occasional transmission shudder.

Shane V

Yes it is very reliable. I have never had any serious issues with it. I have only had to do the routine car things like oil change and tires.

Lisa R

It has been a very reliable vehicle. I have liked this vehicle so much this is the second one I have purchased.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

Technology is average for a budget-friendly compact car, but is not impressive on the base models. There are decent upgrades available on the higher-end versions.

Standard technology features include an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input port, and four speakers.
Optional upgrades include an improved stereo system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, Sync app integration, an eight-inch touchscreen with navigation, and six- or 10-speaker stereo systems depending on the model.
Standard safety features include antilock brakes, airbags, stability and traction control, as well as Ford Sync crash notification. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera, parking sensors, and an automated parking system.

What Engine Options are Available?

There’s only one engine available in the 2012 Ford Focus, and is a 2.0L four-cylinder with 160 horsepower. Performance is average for a compact car, taking 8.7 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Focus?

The 2012 Ford Focus is a compact car, available as either a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback. Passenger room is good in the back seats of the hatchback, but is more cramped in the sedan. Cargo space is good for the class with 13.2 cu. ft. of room in the sedan. The hatchback offers 23.8 cu. ft. of room with the seats up and 44.8 when folded flat, which is better than the rivals. There’s enough room for three suitcases in the sedan, and five in the hatchback.

How Does the 2012 Ford Focus Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 32^nd out of 36 compact cars, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Ford Focus is near the bottom of the class.

A higher-rated competitor is the more expensive Honda Civic. The Civic offers substantially better reliability, and is more responsive to drive. Where the Focus comes out ahead is with more horsepower on the entry-level model, and higher-quality interior materials. We recommend going with a Civic though, since they are much less of a headache to own.

One close competitor is the Nissan Versa, which is available in the same price range. The Versa has a bit more room in the backseats of the sedan, and fewer steering problems. The Focus offers better optional technology, and more cargo space in the hatchback. Overall, both cars have expensive transmission failures, and are bad choices.

Ranks #32 Small Cars by Owners

2012 Volkswagen GLI

4.8

2012 Volkswagen Eos

4.76

2012 Ford Focus

3.84

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ford Focus a Good Car?

No, the 2012 Ford Focus is not a good car based on information from 1,207 verified owner reviews, and 17 government and automotive websites. Where the Focus wins some points is with a better interior than a lot of rivals, and more cargo room than competitors with the hatchback. The Focus loses out, though, with a lot of mechanical problems, and less passenger room in the backseats of the sedan. Overall, if you’re in the market for a compact car, there are much better choices than the Focus.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Lisa A on June 20, 2022

Recalls, recalls, no help

Purchased in July 2018. Has to replace transmission in October, 3 mos later. Since then we have replaced the clutch in 2020, needs to be replaced again not even 2 years later. Fords “ warranty “ on the repair is 12 months, 12k miles. The car hasn’t even been driven 3k miles, but because of the 12 month BS timing, (they won’t honor the 12k warranty in between the 2nd clutch we had to wait 4 months for a recall on the TCM, replaced the water cooler, fan, and coolant reservoir. Brought the car in several times and also called regarding the shuddering upon acceleration and we’re told that the car hasn’t been driven enough to break in the clutch. Now…..we are told that we have to pay for another (3rd) clutch in less than 4 years because Ford will not warranty the part, even though we had expressed our concerns shortly after the clutch, then upon awaiting the back ordered TCM ( this was the excuse given to us why the car constantly shuddered, they never checked the clutch. My daughter loves her car….but we will never ever buy another Ford. They do no value their customers, especially when it’s the manufacturer that is responsible.

Michael K on May 5, 2023

2012 Ford Focus S

My 2012 Ford Focus S with manual 5-speed at 168,000 miles and shows plenty of life still under the hood. I had to replace the steering stabilizers (passenger worn out) and Coolant reservoir (cracked and leaked) in 2021, which is expected with this many miles on it. I did a 2200 mile trip last year with no issues and even got as good as 41mpg highway on the trip. This year I had to take it in for the driver door latch failing - but luckily this was a recall from 2016 so I got it serviced. My number one complaint is the rear seating, 33" leg room is fine for our 5 year old son, but anyone older than 12 doesn't really fit in the back. However for a daily driver this still meets my family needs.

Stephen on July 4, 2022

Unfixable power steering and transmission

I am done with Ford. I cant believe they keep patching these cars up long enough to sell them to other people. We fixed the power steering 3 times so far, and every time it lasts about 5 months before going out again. Fixed the control module or had it replaced 4 times, and its gone out again. Problem is, not everyone can afford to get a diff car to drive. Ford has a transmission and power steering system that they know will work for these cars, they just want me to pay for it, which is thousands of of pocket. STAY AWAY FROM FORD FOCUS!

A.S.K. on April 14, 2023

Worst Car Ever

Bad electrical system. Had to pay it off even though it stopped running after 2 years and literally EVERYTHING went wrong with it. Transmission, steering, hill assist, shifting into D, N, or Reverse, AC started leaking and pooling in the floorboard making the interior mildew and mold, windows wouldn’t roll up or down, even the dang horn stopped blowing.

M. Sarazine on January 17, 2023

Great car, fuel economy

122,000 miles, no issues. Still getting 42 mpg highway. Overall fuel economy 36 mpg. No rabbit starts or stops. Care and gentle use pays off.

Tiffany J on June 25, 2021

It is an amazing car that I would totally buy again.

I do not have any problems. It has been amazing and I absolutely love it! It is very comfortable and I love all the features in it with the Bluetooth. I use the Bluetooth everyday to make phone calls and so get great mileage which is great with my job.

Bonnie H on June 25, 2021

Comfortable and easily controlled.

My ford focus is a great car, small enough for me to feel comfortable in its maneuverability. The inside is well designed for controlling the various functions available. Seating is comfortable. The only things it does not have that I would like are heated seats and a back-up camera. I'll look for those features on my next focus!

Brian E on June 22, 2021

Great car for road trips with great gas mileage.

Ford focus is an all around great car. I use it for work and time spent driving is very uncomfortable. The focus is a very reliable car with great handling and ease of controls such as climate or radio on steering wheel so you can keep your focus on the road instead of being distracted.

Karen on June 21, 2021

Transmission garbage

Bethany D on June 21, 2021

Great gas mileage but bad transmission design.

It gets great gas mileage but has transmission problems. Had to replace clutch before 150,000 miles. Gets about 35 miles to the gallon. I have a school bus yellow colored car and everyone loves the color. The oil ring leaks onto the clutch and soaks it down and that it was ruined the clutch.

Eileen V on June 20, 2021

Cute car for single and first time drivers.

Small backseat area, no ac/ heater in the back. Not for big people or with many passengers. Also, if having a baby, stroller might not for in the trunk. Otherwise easy to drive. I would recommend it for first time drivers and single people. Good on gas.

Bethany M on June 16, 2021

Great car, but check for transmission recall!

Overall, I love this car. It is roomy, comfortable, gets great gas mileage. My main problem has been the transmission. My car's transmission stalled and sputtered since I got it, some days horribly (to the point of difficulty accelerating) and some not at all. Ford recalled the transmission in the 2012 ford focus, but would not pay for the repair on cars over a certain mileage. I found this to be pretty unbelievable, especially considering the defect was the company's fault and because the car works perfectly otherwise, despite being almost twenty years old. I'd definitely advise looking into any recalls before purchasing, but overall I really do love this car and find it extremely reliable.

Jennifer phillips on June 16, 2021

This car is the worst car. So many problems!

There are 6 recalls, not only that the car can't be fixed! The "Duel Clutch Transmission" has been more then a problem but a nightmare! My 2012 and many other owners have had this same experience with the breaking down. No start losing power, and shifting really hard and completely unexpected and sometimes scary situations. On the highway and leaving you stranded. Isn'ta good car. It's not safe or reliable. And more and more people are talking about it. And FORD is NOT taking ownership or responsibility for the fact they kept selling these lemonsto consumers all while still purducing them from 2012-2016 I believe. What a DISGRACE and I WILL BETAKINGTHIS CASE ALL THE WAY. I AMWITHOUT MY CAR NOW FOR 2 WEEKS AMD FORD WONTHELP PAY FOR ANYTHING.THANKS FORD FOR SELLING ME A TRUEPIECE OF SH*T/LEMON. SINCERELY JENN A REALLY PISSED OF CONSUMER!

Zoe M on June 15, 2021

All in all it is a great vehicle.

Issue with clutch which makes check engine light appear. Gas gauge is messed up inside the tank which sometimes it says I have gas and other times it says I have none. My sensors went out granted it is a used car so some things are expected but it says I have low tire pressure even if I just filled my tires.

Robyn K on June 15, 2021

Excellent looking efficient vehicle.

I love it good gas mileage, very comfortable ride. Excellent performance, not any problems just maintenance. Highly recommended.Am/FM radio,Bluetooth. Seats 5 people comfortably, hatchback, very spacious trunk. I would highly recommend this vehicle and definitely purchase ano.

Michaela D on June 14, 2021

Love my car, it is tiny but it is been a huge help to many ppl.

I bought the car used a little more than a month ago. I love the space availability in the back. Having the capability to fold the back seat has come in handy in a number of occasions. The only thing that has disgruntled me since purchasing it was my mechanic thinking I had a problem with my alternator when it was a faulty, old, rusty wire that was causing my problems. Overall I haven't had problems since and I really do love the car!

Lisa R on June 14, 2021

Focus: f for comfort but, great mileage!

The double clutch is terrible and shutters all the time. Also, the tires have to be replaced super often since they’re low profiles and wear out quickly. But, it gets really good gas mileage which is great. I drive a lot to get to my company’s different plants and it at least gets decent mileage for that.

Romel C on June 13, 2021

Great features for the cost of the vehicle!

The great thing about my vehicle is that you can change it to sport if you feel like speeding on the highway and the features that come with it are great, you can even change the color lights of your interior, my girlfriend loves that. Great mileage compact car.

Ashley H on June 9, 2021

The ford focus of 2012 keeping my family and I safe in rain, sleet, snow.

My daily driver is a 2012 ford focus. The vehicle is white and has four doors. It is a car and gets me around as well as my boyfriend. It has black interior and has had no issues besides minor wear and tear. Nothing special about the stereo. Safety is not an issue as it performs great on the road and in all weather conditions, snow, rain, sleet. The car is extremely reliable and we take care of it is usual maintenance to keep it in great condition. The car has sensors to let us know if we have dimmed bulb, low tire pressure and other issues. It's a blessing.

JJ W on June 7, 2021

Powerful gas saver that's fast.

Decent car. Good gas mileage and fairly reliable. Main complaint is electrical issues. My Bluetooth works intermittently, I had 3 bulbs go out in the last month. I truly enjoy it though. Have a cold air intake, custom exhaust and a decent tune that gives me a lot of power. Handles well and is very comfortable.

Kyler R on June 6, 2021

Amazing first car; would recommend.

The ford focus is a great car but it has some issues I have noticed with the breaks and also the sensitivity of them as well. It is very quiet but does not have a good 0-60 speed. It is a great first car and I am happy with the performance it has given me. I do enjoy it.

Michayila T on June 3, 2021

Reliable and fuel efficient ford focus.

Very comfortable, has all the amenities you need but not to crazy, does not have a USB plug inside the 2012 though. Otherwise, rides super smooth and is a great car all around. I have not had any issues with it, just general maintenance such as oil changes. Very reliable and has fuel economy, temperature, and miles left till empty.

Annastasia W on June 2, 2021

I enjoy the blue of my ford focus.

A few times a year I receive letters about my car needing to be taken to the shop due to something faulty about my car. Not mine specifically, just the make of it they keep finding problems and send out to have the customers check to be safe. Unfortunately, about half the time there is sometimes wrong with my vehicle. Luckily they allow those specific issues to be taken care of for free, but it does not reassure me that I have a safe vehicle.

Daniel R on June 1, 2021

Ford focus se honest review.

It is a little too small but sporty which is nice. You definitely have a limited time before everything starts to break on it and it has been recalled twice which is not very convenient for the user. Like I said right around 100k even with regular maintenance everything begins to die on you..

Anastasiia S on May 31, 2021

Soft and smooth to operate. This a hatchback that looks very stylish and beautiful.

This is the most beautiful car that I have ever had, it is very comfortable and reliable, there have never been any problems with it. All perfectly! It is a pleasure to drive it, very smooth steering wheel, good gas mileage, automatic transmission works perfectly.

Sylvester B on May 28, 2021

Ford focus is a good car because the price is very reasonable.

As is the tradition with the third generation of focuses the cabin is well-insulated and makes for a quiet ride. Even when going at highway speeds there is little in the way of intrusive road noise to be heard. Sporty steering. Comfort. User-friendly infotainment system. Generous cargo space. Excellent handling. The cold weather package.

osmata S on May 27, 2021

It is white and small. It has bad seats.

My vehicle is a 2012 ford focus. It is white. I have had it for 3 years. It is a lease. It has some problems. It had transmission problems. I feel like it is going to get worse. I already had it fixed a few times but it is going bad again. I lie it but it is too small. It has very little space. It doesn't have good lighting and I don't think I would buy again.

Krystal W on May 26, 2021

Ford focus truly honest review.

I bought my car used and haven't had any major issues, other than the trunk rusted a bit and I had that replaced last year. It gets excellent gas mileage, I only fill up every two weeks and am on the highway around an hour every single day. It also has great trunk space and room for 4 friends to ride with you! It is a great reliable vehicle. I did have some problems with the Bluetooth but it turned out to be a faulty fuse and was an easy fix for very minimal cost.

Sierra J on May 25, 2021

The steering wheel has buttons to answer calls and it has cruise control.

Front is spacious backseat is a little on the smaller side but overall it is a great car for someone who’s single or a couple with no kids. It rides really smoothly and it is quiet. It has good miles per gallon especially on the highways. And the model I have has blue lights in the floorboards of the front seats.

Jacob L on May 24, 2021

Hatchback is the way to go.

Nothing. Runs great hauls 2 kayaks. Recommend it to anybody who needs something good on gas. I really love the hatchback features rather than a regular truck. Way more room to put stuff. You will not regret your decision to go with this car. Really cheap and good on gas.

Sara H on May 24, 2021

Favorable vehicle with minor quirks.

I love my ford focus in many different ways. The audio quality on the speakers is pleasant, and I can appreciate the high-tech aspects of the vehicle, such as the stereo's Bluetooth options, the touch start button, the inner lights, etc. The gas mileage is also pleasing. The only quirks of this car include how touchy it is; I can go to turn gently yet the car jerks. The windshield wipers are also glitchy.

David C on May 22, 2021

My vehicle is a big car that fits about eight people and it is black.

The performance of the vehicle is amazing no problems. This is because it actually works and I can use it whenever and I have had to for a lot of time and it is always worked. And I have gone to do many trips like Disney world with it and I had such a good time driving it was comfortable and it fits a lot of people.

Carolyn B on May 22, 2021

Fun to drive with a good amount of storage for a small car.

It gets great gas mileage. Seats four comfortably. Has very low maintenance cost. Has more storage than you would think for a small car. Drives really smooth and is just fun to drive. Safe too which is great to put children in. If you are considering a good vehicle, I highly recommend the focus.

Sean O on May 19, 2021

5 speed manual is great.

I have had no major issues with the car. I bought the five speed manual transmission gearbox and love it. I want to upgrade to the focus rs one day soon hopefully. My only complaint is about the color, but that is personal preference and it was considerably cheaper than the other options at the time.

Gabby N on May 19, 2021

Wonderful car with great features!

My ford focus is an extremely dependable car, always getting me where I need to go. The car gets great gas mileage and works great through the tough, cold winters. This car is a classic, modern sedan mixed with a few old fashioned features like crank windows for the back seats, which is not that great.

Brianna H on May 17, 2021

It is a nice car look wise but engine and transmission wise it is horrible.

Transmission sucks, I have only had it for a year and I had to put it in the shop because the transmission is gone. It is red with black interior big o tires. Windshield wiper is kind of broke just put a new catalytic converter on and got the transmission control module replaced.

Katie H on May 15, 2021

Good vehicle for the price point.

It handles terribly in the winter. It gets stuck, and the tread control just causes the tires to not move at all so I turn it off typically. Otherwise, it is a good little car for the price point. I wish the car would automatically sync up to your phone instead of going through 5 menu options to get to Bluetooth every time you start the car.

Kyle S on May 13, 2021

Great build quality and reliability.

I have owned this ford focus for the past seven years and have not had a single issue. I have done all regular services to it and have had an amazing experience with this car. I currently have 135,000 miles on it and continue to drive it everyday without issue or hesitation. I would highly recommend buying a ford focus for superior build quality.

Klayson R on May 10, 2021

I absolutely love my ford focus!

I love the color of my car, it is very unique and I only see other fords with it. I love the size of the car, it a good balance between being an SUV and a compact car. I have had a lot of recalls on this car though from manufacture errors, but once fixed, I do not have any problems with it. The gas mileage is amazing and it really helps because I drive a lot.

Jean storm on May 8, 2021

Getting whats wrong fixed.. And done correctly

What recalls are in order for this automobile?

Heather B on May 7, 2021

2012 ford focus se great family car and is amazing for short people.

I love my ford. I am short and the sit just do not move forward it also moves up so I do not have to have a booster sit like my little one. I also love that if the check engine light comes on I do not have to run to autozone to check you can check the light yourself on the dash it tells you what the check engine light is on.

Blake S on May 6, 2021

Overall a great car, it has Its faults but I would buy from ford again.

For the most part my car has been very reliable. It is good on gas etc. I do have alloy rims which are great for durability in regards to potholes hit this specific kind of rim has cause a recurring slow leak in my tire. With that being said I have two manufacturing recalls and two extended warranties on my car due to manufacturing errors.

Lisa S on May 5, 2021

My car is great when it wants to be.

I love my car but I am having problems with the transmission right now it is great on gas and is comfortable. It is great for traveling or just around town. I have a hatchback four door silver with black and gray inside with under 150,000 miles on it great car when it acts right.

Kiyana M on April 25, 2021

The most reliable car I have ever had.

I bought my ford focus used in 2013. And I love it. I have never had any issues with it and it's still going strong. It always starts up and has never stopped on me. The only issues I have had with the car is the radio does not work anymore unless I hit a bump but I am sure that's just a wire issue. I have driven this car across multiple states and back without an issue. I love it.

Danielle B on April 25, 2021

Runs well with more advanced maintenance.

I bought my car used two years ago, originally it was amazing with zero problems. While my car still runs, it was not without maintenance. We have had to replace the radiator and water pump. I also had to replace the transmission which was very pricey. From my understanding that happens with a lot of older ford focus's. Although, other than those problems I have loved my car. Lots of space, kid friendly, does well on gas, and great features!

Jackie N on April 22, 2021

Ford focus se: a great and reliable car!

It is a very reliable car that has great gas mileage. I have had it for 8 years and have yet to have any problems. Been on many roads trips with it- plus I attend university across the state from where I grew up so I am constantly going back and forth. Save money on gas!

Anna D on April 8, 2021

Decent car to get you where you need to go.

Has a few difficulties with maintenance and I have had to take it to the shop at least once a year since I have had it to get it fixed for some problem or another. It is fairly reliable though and saves me money on gas. Has good mileage. It also looks good and gets me where I need to go. Fairly comfortable layout and has some decent features. The Bluetooth works fairly well, although I have had issues connecting it to my phone. It did have a recall issue, but I got that fixed for free.

Nathan D on April 8, 2021

The reliable-but-nothing-fancy car.

The sealant on the doors is coming off and the brakes wear down easily. It also needs oil changes a little more frequently than I would like; frequent oil changes can get rather expensive. Also, the paint is coming off. Other than that, the car runs just fine.

Dylan G on April 7, 2021

My car does what it is supposed to do and never causes me any real problems.

I actually love my car a lot. It is small so I do not have to worry much when it comes to parallel parking or things like that and for its size it moves well and does the job right. I get it checked maybe every 3 months and it is just enough and gas is never a problem and literally takes 20 dollars to fill up the tank. It is honestly a great car to buy.

Stephani C on April 7, 2021

2012 ford focus: comfy and drivable, but needs more technology.

My ford focus runs quite well. I wish it had more technological features, such as a video screen, built-in GPS, and USB access. The hatchback makes it incredibly easy to take road trips, as hatchbacks store more than trunks. Overall, it is easy to drive, and it gives you signals if service is needed.

Jacob B on April 4, 2021

Edgy, sleek, and well kept.

Needs to be maintained, close eye to gauges, take good care of it. Interior is easily well kept, and performance is spectacular. Steering is sensitive, as are the brakes and gas, rather than most vehicles. Car is affordable and can be good if taken care of.

Stormy S on April 3, 2021

Ford Focus is great reliable and easy to drive.

My vehicle works great. Sometimes the radio just goes out without warning, but that is the only issue. It is reliable, good on gas, and simple. I have never had any trouble out of the engine or anything. I actually do not know a whole lot about cars so I am running out of things to say.

Kyle C on April 3, 2021

Excellent vehicle for everyday use (so long as the transmission holds up).

This make and model is notorious for issues concerning the dual automatic transmission. Previous owner took the car in to have it serviced in compliance with a factory recall regarding the transmission. I, however, have not experienced any problems with it. Engine noise is a little loud inside the cabin, but all in all a great vehicle to own.

Emilia F on April 3, 2021

Excellent mpg for highway and city driving.

Goes through tires quickly, but excellent on gas as long as you keep up with the oil changes. I am over 200,000 miles and nothing major has been replaced. The paint has stayed shiny except for the headlights which have gotten discolored over the years.

Samantha G on April 2, 2021

It is small compact And affordable

A lot of recalls I have had to replace transmission at thirty thousand miles, the clutch sticks. The seats are not comfortable and there is not a lot of trunk space. I like the gas mileage and that I can use E85 gas, which is often more economical than regular gas

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.