2016 Ford Focus Review: Unreliable Compact Car Which Still Has Widespread Engine Problems

Nov 10, 2022

The 2016 Ford Focus only lasts around 150,000 miles with serious engine failures and transmission issues. At $9,525 to $27,325, it’s cheaper than other compact cars, but not worth it when repairs get very expensive as they age.

The Good

Steering is more responsive than other compact cars, the available Sync 3 stereo system works great and the RS model is one of the fastest hatchbacks on the market.

The Bad

Rear visibility is worse than in other compact cars due to the small windows, the back seats have less leg room and the base engines are weak.

Is the 2016 Ford Focus a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 6/10 – 2016 is still a bad year for the Focus unless you’re looking at the high-performance RS model, giving the regular models a low overall rating. Owner reviews complain about high repair bills, engine failures, as well as electrical issues.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 5/10 – Interior materials are basic on most Focus models, the seats are not very comfortable, although cargo space is great in the hatchback.
Reliability 5/10 – There are engine & transmission problems found on the 2016 Focus. We recommend avoiding models from 2012-2016 while 2017–2018 are both better years.
Performance 9/10 – Performance is average from the base motors while the RS model is an extremely quick hatchback.
Safety 8/10 – The 2016 Focus is a safe car, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard safety technology includes Ford’s MyKey as well as a rearview camera. Blind spot monitoring along with lane departure warning are both optional.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 35 MPG, giving 486 miles of range from the 13.9 gallon tank. Gas costs are $40 cheaper than average, at $176 per month.
Value 6/10 – Although the Focus is cheap, it suffers from a lot of mechanical problems, making it expensive to own long-term.

Positive Owner Reviews

Carolyn D

It gets great gas mileage -

It gets great gas mileage, good turning wheel base, needs little maintenance -

Tiffany B

Great gas mileage. Fill my car up on 25.00 and lasts me a week

Love the size of my vehicle. Get great gas mileage. Car is comfortable.

julius L

That it is faster than what it looks.

I like how fast it is. I also like how comfortable it is. I dislike the fact that it has a small engine. I dislike the fact that it not that reliable.

Andrew S

Great car for long distance traveling and city driving.

Very economical, gets great gas mileage even when driving in the city. Any time I drive to Florida, it averages about 50-60 miles per gallon of gasoline. For the price I paid, it was very worth it. I recommend the vehicle for anyone who drives long distances for employment.

Melissa D

Bright red gorgeous and reliable car.

Very reliable, bright red and gorgeous. Great mileage and features. Bluetooth is great for talking hands free. Lots of space. I get a lot of compliments on it. Audio system is great! Lots of USB ports for charging multiple phones and devices. Comfortable seats and headrests. Very updated. Feels like a luxury but is all basic.

Deborah V

Loved so much we now own two.

This car is very sporty, seats are very comfortable, the car has everything you can ask for in it. Mine is silver with black leather seats. The only thing you have to watch is your speed because the car has pep. I love that it has a CD player in it. We love the Ford Focus so much we own two of them. Happy driving.

MIKE D

That it is a RS model. Most people have no idea that it is special or why it is special.

I have a Focus RS which is a very limited edition model. I love the car because it is comfortable, has good power and handles great. The ride can be a little jarring on bad roads, otherwise, no complaints.

Rae S

Ford focus, safety and mood lighting all in one.

My 2016 ford focus, is really comfortable to drive. I like how smooth it is. My favorite feature is the backup camera. It makes backing out of a parking spot safer for me and everyone else. Another cool feature I like is the lighting under the dash board, and on the doors. You can change the color with the turn of a nob. I call it my mood lighting.

Negative Owner Reviews

Kerrie Holiday

Engine seized

Awful car- belt in engine blew apart at 64,000 miles and seized the engine- it had extended warranty and ford won't replace the engine - never again will I own a ford- took it in three times in three months before it happened for engine being loud- they did road tests and said all was good !!!

Danielle C

I would not recommend to anyone due to the numerous issues.

It constantly breaks when it is only 2 years old. We have had it in the shop for multiple large repairs.

Gail H

Focus = lemon. Buyer beware. No more fords ever.

Numerous focus transmission problems. Ongoing after 9 repairs so far. I am involved in a mass action to get ford to buy back car. I will never buy another ford because they were aware of the problem and still launched it with the bad transmission.

Ashleigh H

Fords will always have transmission issues.

My car is only 2 years old and I have already had to replace parts in the transmissions twice and something is wrong again. It is shakes when I try to accelerate and when I get to a certain speed on the interstate it shakes and it makes me feel unsafe. I am constantly having issues. I plan on getting rid of it soon.

Ashley J

Unfortunate issues on a could've been great car.

It has a recall on it due to the clutch. I have had it serviced 3 times due to this problem. It is not able to be permanently fixed. When the air is running it also feels like it is going to stall. You have to drive it real slow when starting from a stop to get it going or it will rev up.

Dumbo

Run. Fast.

Piece of s**t with endless recalls that never fix the problem. Junk. Lemon.

Steve

Junkyard

I just purchase a 2016 Ford Focus and first month of owning it has a transmission issue can’t use command start if it’s on in -40 sucks, my 2001 Pontiac sun fire did just as good on fuel as well with 3 timeskms don’t touch this model with a 10 foot pool you will regret it

Riley S

Ford focus is the iPhone 5c of cars.

The problem with this vehicle is its very small, there is a lot of unnecessary problems such as tire rods, it has cheap lug nuts and a weak transmission system. I have had the car for 3 years and I've never drove a car that cheaply made and designed, it was a waste of money on my end.

What Do Critics Say About the Ford Focus?

Consumer Reports says the 2016 Focus has a lot of flaws, which bumps it down to the lower half of their rankings, with low owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Focus at 3.4/5, praising the nice suspension, but doesn’t like the cramped back seats.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Focus a 3.7/5 enjoying the nice stereo system, but owners don’t like how basic the interior is.

What Common Problems Does the 2016 Ford Focus Have?

Common problems found on the 2016 Ford Focus include the transmission shuddering, engine failures, as well as issues with the power steering system. Overall, these problems are more severe than in other compact cars, leading to expensive repair bills when parts fail.

The transmission shuddering while shifting between gears is a widespread complaint from owners at around 35,000 miles. The transmission control module has some electrical issues, causing it to wear out quickly. Replacing the transmission control module costs around $1,200.

Engine failures are another problem in the first 75,000 miles, although they’re not as widespread as in some earlier years. Many owners replace the engine if it fails, costing around $4,500. Others have problems with the engine diagnosed and repaired, which costs around $3,000.

Power steering system failures also show up on many Focus models at around 40,000 miles. The rack and pinion wear out quickly, requiring replacement. Changing out the rack and pinion is a time-consuming process, which costs around $2,800, depending on local labor rates.

There are 6 recalls on the 2016 Ford Focus, which is similar to other cars its age. The most serious recall covers the clutch slipping, which can also lead to a fluid leak. Ford will replace the clutch and update software free of charge on affected models. Another serious recall covers the canister purge valve, which can cause the engine to stall. Ford will replace those valves as well.

How Long Will the 2016 Ford Focus Last?

A well-maintained 2016 Ford Focus may last around 150,000 miles before it becomes too expensive to keep running, which is half as long as the top-rated Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than other small cars, at $543 per year, according to data from Repair Pal.

Since many used 2016 Focus models have over 100,000 miles on them, buyers should be prepared to replace the axle shaft seals for $250, the water pump costing $475, as well as the door lock actuators, which cost $375.

Lannie V

There is a slight jolt in the transmission. I have gotten it looked at a few times and they say nothing is wrong. So I am very unsure of what the issue is.

Olivia B

It's a super reliable car, there was a recall on a part of the engine but once that was fixed there were no problems.

Edna S

It tend to have a lot of transmission issues. There were several recalls on the car due to parts not functioning correctly. Once you make sure all that is handled its a good car to have.

Vickie S

I haven't had any problems with it. I keep it well maintained. It has been reliable for me. These have been no major problems. Just maintenance upkeep.

Evan O

I have never had any problems with the vehicle. I have had the check engine light on but when I try to get it fixed there's supposedly nothing wrong.

Devon A

I have had an issue with my transmission in the ford focus. That is the only problem I have come across with this vehicle.

Debra D

As I said I had my transmission replaced. It is newer transmission design has been a problem for many people.

Nancy S

It is not a smooth ride. We feel bumps in the street a lot. It handles decently in the snow, but not as well as our Buick did.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment tech features are good with a standard 4.2-inch central screen, while an optional 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 3 is an optional upgrade. Standard safety features includes a rearview camera and Ford MyKey parental controls. Optional upgrades include blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors as well as lane departure warning.

Is the 2016 Ford Focus a Good Value?

No, the 2016 Ford Focus is not a good value since there are a lot of mechanical problems which show up. Blue book prices range from $9,525 to $27,325, making it cheaper than a Honda Civic or Mazda3. The large price range is due to the more valuable RS model. When new, the price range was $17,225 to $35,900. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 14% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Ford Focus?

There are five models of the Ford Focus offered in 2016, from the base S all the way up to the high-performance RS.

S is the base model with:

15-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Keyless Entry
2-Inch Central Display
Bluetooth Connectivity
4-Speaker Stereo System

SE is a step up, adding:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cruise Control
Power Rear Windows
Rear Air Vents
6-Speaker Stereo System

Titanium is next in the lineup with:

17-inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Upholstery
8-Inch Touchscreen With Sync 3
Remote Start
Heated Front Seats
Satellite Radio
10-Speaker Sony Stereo System

ST is sportier with:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Performance Brakes
Limited Slip Differential
LED Lights
Sport Body Kit

RS is the high-performance model with:

19-Inch Alloy Wheels
Adjustable Suspension
Xenon Headlights
Recaro Sport Seats
Rear Spoiler

159-160 HP 30-31 MPG

View Details

123-160 HP 30-35 MPG

View Details

Titanium

159-160 HP 30 MPG

View Details

252 HP 25 MPG

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350 HP 22 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Ford Focus?

The base engine in the 2016 Ford Focus is an average 2.0L 4-cylinder which makes 160 horsepower while getting up to 31 MPG.
An available upgrade is the more efficient 1.0L 3-cylinder which makes 123 horsepower at up to 35 MPG.
The ST model comes with a more powerful 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo which makes 252 horsepower and gets up to 25 MPG. Performance is good, taking 6.4 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH
The RS model offers a very strong 2.3L 4-cylinder turbo which makes 350 horsepower while getting up to 20 MPG. Performance is great, taking 4.6 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Ford Focus Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Ford Focus?

The 2016 Ford Focus is not a very comfortable compact car with enough seating for 5 people. It’s offered as either a 4-door sedan or 5-door hatchback depending on the configuration. Seating is worse than other compact cars with some thin cushions.

Passenger room is great in the front seats, while the back seats are cramped for taller passengers due to the limited legroom.

How Much Storage Space Does the Ford Focus Have?

Cargo space is okay in the sedan, with enough room for 2-3 suitcases in the trunk. There’s more space in the hatchback model, which offers enough space for 4-5 suitcases behind the seats, and around 8-10 with the seats folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The third generation of the Ford Focus was launched in 2012, and it was discontinued after 2018 as Ford restructured to build trucks and SUVs.

2012: Fully redesigned for the third generation with new engines, interior, and exterior styling.

2013: SEL model and SE Sport packages discontinued.

2014: No major changes.

2015: Exterior styling changes, more efficient engine available, and updated stereo.

2016: Automatic transmission offered on 1.0L EcoBoost, Sync 3 stereo system added.

2017: No changes from 2016.

2018: No major changes, the final model year of the Ford Focus in the USA.

How Does the Ford Focus Compare to the Competition?

The Ford Focus is a car buyers should avoid since there are still a lot of mechanical problems. The only model we recommend is the high-performance RS since it’s more reliable and fun to drive, although it’s much more expensive than other compact cars.

The Ford Fiesta is another compact car offered by Ford which costs around $1,500 less. Reliability ratings are better in the Ford Fiesta, while the Ford Focus has more room for passengers. We recommend the Ford Fiesta since it’s more affordable to own.

The Chevy Cruze is a competitor which costs around $1,000 more. Where the Chevy Cruze stands out is with more passenger room, while the Ford Focus offers a sportier driving experience. We recommend the Chevy Cruze since it’s a more reliable car, although neither of them are leaders in the compact car lineup.

Ranks #28 Small Cars by Owners

2016 Volkswagen Beetle

4.9

2016 Scion tC

4.71

Tie

2016 Ford Focus

4.14

Do Owners Recommend the Ford Focus?

Lannie V

Yes. It is reliable. Tells you when you need something done on it. Has a good technology system. Overall I love it.

Olivia B

Yes very good, besides the engine recall they had. Otherwise they have a good amount of space. It's definitely not a family car, but for a couple or young drivers it a safe and reliable car.

Edna S

Yes it is. Although you should consider having it thoroughly checked before purchase if it's used. The best part about the car is gas mileage which is awesome. If you have 3 or less kids it's enough space in back seat to hold them safely. Even if you have a baby amf 2 older it's enough space for car seats. The front seats have a little more space but if you are tall I'd consider something a little bigger.

Vickie S

Yes it is a good reliable vehicle. It gets great gas mileage. It provides a comfortable, smooth ride.

Evan O

Yes I think the vehicle is a very good vehicle for me. I drive it back and to school quite often. Great on gas as well.

Devon A

The ford focus is a reliable vehicle. It gets great gas mileage. The sound system is average. The space is enough for me. The trunk is average.

Debra D

No, it is not, I already had to have the transmission replaced, the radio sometimes stops working or skips to another channel, and it is small inside without enough convenient storage.

Nancy S

Love the beautiful red color and charcoal interior. Roomy enough inside, but not a smooth ride and we wish we'd not bought it as the trunk is way too small for us.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Megan on October 27, 2023

DO NOT BUY IT

This car is known to have transmission issues, but no transmission shops will work on them because of their reputation. Do your research online and see the endless comments from people who are having issues with their Ford focuses around the same year. It looks like a nice car but what's under the hood is not. The company knows it they are bad but will not recall the transmissions or their parts.

Graham Billington on August 26, 2023

1.0 ltr eco boost

Fingers crossed never had a issue every mot passed so I keep up with the service and brakes I did have the exhaust manifold cover done cos it had a cracked in it but had car 4 years it's not huge millage at just under 30 thousand but I love her running cost are low at £20 a year road tax I did ook into it cos people said keep away but that was 2014 models anywaylovee mine

Brenda on April 17, 2023

2016 ford focus ha

I have had 2 ransmission replaced under warranty now i is going ou again an i have no warranty why isn ford made o do righ on these cars this is so unfair HELP_)

Brie T on June 24, 2021

Good college/city car but not good for me.

As a personal preference I hate a 4 cylinder and the way it drives, the only plus side to a 4 cylinder is the gas mileage. The focus is known for issues with the double pump clutch but as far as I know, no recall has been made. I am not a fan of small vehicles so as soon as I am done with college I will be switching it out. However, for college it was a great little car.

Alexandra P on June 24, 2021

The amount of space it has.

I love my car the inside is leather and have many compartments to store things in and super comfy. The seats are very adjustable to anyone. There is also a ton of space that you can use and fit a lot of people in. I did have a brake problem a while back but it was just a easy fix. All I have to do was go to the shop and they fixed it. My car is also very safe so even if I get in a accident I will be not injured.

kellina B on June 23, 2021

My vehicle is a 2016 ford focus and it gets good mpg and it's pretty fast.

My 2016 ford focus is great! The only critique I have is that it does stall sometimes but when it does it's manageable and great! I love how many miles per gallon it gets and also the Bluetooth feature is pretty handy. The speakers are just okay. I wish they were louder.

Lindy S on June 20, 2021

My ford fusion; high performance, quality an awesome on gas.

I love my ford, it is good on gas and mileage. Maintaining it is cost effective, tires, oil change eat. I will definitely purchase another ford for my son. Since I had my ford I haven't change my brakes it still work great. I have no engine, light or any trouble. It is great in the snow, driving up mountains which I once lived up a mountain and managed to go up the hill with ease during winter with snow on the ground. I fill up my tank once every two week $25 the most if I am going to work and back home 10 miles each way. Overall I think everyone should definitely have a ford in their homes it is a must have, performance, quality it is a must have.

Stephen G on June 19, 2021

Need advice for the focus St?

The focus St model is great! If you want speed and performance, this is the care for you! Premium sound system, leather bucket seats, heated steering wheel are just some of the features. The seats fold in the real for maximum capacity. A great car for car enthusiasts!

Andrew R on June 18, 2021

Ford focus great on gas and comfortable with great features.

I haven’t had any issues with my focus. It runs good and gets good gas mileage. It is really reliable. Love the Bluetooth capability and very comfortable on road trips. It definitely has the get up and go. Been a good car overall. Just make sure to keep the oil changed. It will last for a while.

Tristan L on June 17, 2021

My beautiful vehicle, I call her beauty and the beast.

Other than the place we lease it from, it is a beautiful and a amazing car. It performs well and all the parts and mechanic work is very easy. So I am able to mostly work on it on my own or with little help. As well as the parts are relatively easy to find and affordable for our budget.

Amanda D on June 14, 2021

Ford focus review of one of the best cars I have driven.

This car is a safe reliable vehicle. I drive it every-day. It gets great gas mileage. My car can also be driven in sport mode. The seats are comfortable. If they were leather then I am sure heated seats would have been an option. Overall the ford fusion is a smart investment for me and my family.

Tatum C on June 11, 2021

Great gas mileage! Bluetooth, backup camera and voice assistance capabilities.

Has transmission issues. Other than the reoccurring transmission problems, it's a great car especially for a teenager and/or college student. Very comfortable for a trip. Has lots of features including a backup camera, Bluetooth and voice assistance abilities.

Peter S on June 10, 2021

Good affordable option for an everyday commuter.

Stereo/Bluetooth system is very slow and laggy, transmission gets slippery very easily. Very nice comfort and room for adjustments, steering wheel/seat warmers a plus and the speaker systems is not top notch but it is very good for the price of the vehicle.

Kevin D on June 8, 2021

One of the most reliable cars on the market!

I have had really no problems at all with my ford focus St. I have over 144000 miles on it and it is still as strong and fast as ever. It is one of my favorite cars to drive and I'd never want to give it up. If you do good upkeep and take care of the car it will stay in fantastic condition. It is very reliable!

Julie D on June 7, 2021

2016 ford focus review and opinion.

My ford focus needs work on the clutch more often than most. Sometimes it is a bit jerky and feels as though it does not shift gears in time. Very comfortable, though there is very little leg room in the back seats. Huge trunk space though. Pump adjusted seats, are a bit of a hassle. Only two cup holders.

Dustin H on June 6, 2021

It is great on gas! This makes a huge difference.

The vehicle only needs an oil change about every 10,000 miles. This is helpful to cut down on costs of car maintenance. I have had to get two tires changed but the tires were affordable, ford also offers warranties on their tires. The car is comfortable, easily seating four people with an option for one in the middle in the backseat.

Jessica J on May 31, 2021

The focus and how it works.

This vehicle has been reliable. The main problem I had was the battery going out and almost exploding. The car lets me know when something is wrong. The focus is a bit small so if you have kids and car seats this is not the car for you. Fast and sturdy.

Joseph L on May 31, 2021

The vehicle is very comfortable with great music and great driving features.

What I like about the ford focus is the rear view camera for backing up and parking. Although the screen is slightly too small. The car has an issue where it does not speed up very easily and there will be almost like a grinding noise when starting. The seats are very comfortable and it is very spacious in the backseat of the car. The side mirrors have a smaller corner mirror that makes it very easy to check your blind spots. The cars speaker system is very nice, although sometimes it takes a while to find my phone through Bluetooth.

Madison P on May 28, 2021

I like how it looks and the leather seats are easily cleaned.

I love my car it is small but I like small it is also sporty looking in my opinion. I call it red riot. Unfortunately mine was apart of a recall apparently the doors could have opened while I was driving it was a free fix though. I'd prefer if the sound system was louder so when I roll the windows down it would be louder. But the base is awesome.

Madison L on May 26, 2021

Great car for a growing family.

I really love my car! I just had my baby boy and we have so much room still. I love my back up cameras and the trunk. My boyfriend and I travel and we have never had any problems with our car. We are able to pack up the car with ease. And we both love the remote start. We get about 30 miles to the gallon with our car which is awesome! I also love the heated seats as well.

Angeles R on May 23, 2021

4 door hatchback, it's just like a sedan with the benefits of an SUV.

Reliable, mid size, great gas mileage, spacious. No mechanical problems, runs quiet and smoothly, automatic. Perfect for long trips. Bluetooth enabled, power windows. Plenty of cup holders, expandable trunk space. Only thing I wish it had was a sunroof.

Scott B on May 19, 2021

The car does have a sunglass holder.

Notorious transmission issues! Stalled once, since then my car skips first shift and makes my car jerk! Other than the notorious transmission the car is a good car. Just a tad too small for me. However, if you need a small car good on gas this car is the one!

Savannah H on May 18, 2021

I like all the compartments and the touch screen.

When I drive my 2016 ford focus I can feel every single bump and dip on the road, it is not a smooth vehicle. There really is no point in putting a backseat in the car because it is so small, there is no leg room for the passengers in the back. It is not a car to buy if you have small children, or even big children for that matter. However, it is really good on gas and it gets good mileage. I would recommend this car to a college or high school student, it is a good starter car.

Kimberly C on May 14, 2021

The car is a great gas saver.

Car is small from what I had in the past other than that it is ok and I have to get a oil change that is higher than I normally do. I pay almost a $100 for a oil change. I have to get a tune up for the first time and then I was told it is not time yet but I am going to get it done.

Valerie J on May 9, 2021

AWD to get around in bad weather.

I like my Ford focus. It has enough space for my son and i. I bought this vehicle new in september 2016 and have had no issues with it.

Alex B on May 5, 2021

Red 2016 ford focus with black rims.

This is my second car! The car is a comfy ride. It gets decent gas mileage. It has pretty good shocks, I barely feel any bumps! However, I do have very bad issues with my internal clutch. Every time I accelerate the car screeches and kicks back. That is a $2,000 fix.

Susan K on May 1, 2021

The fun and fabulous ford focus.

I love the ford focus especially the hatchback features it is easy to get my groceries in and out it is easy to fold the seats back when I have lots of things to carry. The only downfall I have had with this car is the transmission issues otherwise the car runs perfectly great on gas mileage and I would highly recommend it. The other amenities I love about the car or a great sound system easy connectivity with my cell phone.

Barbara L on April 24, 2021

Overall, it is a decent car and not bad on gas.

I have had a recall on my vehicle due to the passenger air bag. My car only has 52,000 miles on it and has an oil leak. Currently, there is something wrong with the fuel system. Because of the amount of cylinders in this car, it does not have much get up and go. The speakers are not that great but the car is comfortable and roomy enough.

Mason W on April 24, 2021

Large white ford truck that is decent on fuel. Breaks down a lot.

Has too many maintenance issues, but the fuel rate is good and it can carry a heavy load. The seats are comfortable but the heating and ac units are placed weird so that people in the back seat cannot get cooled off or warmed up. The USB chargers are really finicky and only work half the time.

Nic L on April 23, 2021

It is an average rated car.

There is a kickback stutter when it shifts gears. Otherwise overall decent car. Could have better gas mileage but it is not bad. There were also several recalls related to the car that should be checked out. Decent sized trunk. I am still happy with the car.

Kirsten S on April 22, 2021

Reliable and multi-use car.

I love the backup camera it is very helpful for parallel parking and backing up in general. It is spacious so I can travel with another person and bring luggage. I have not had a single vehicle malfunction so it has been low cost maintenance and I do not have to worry driving long distances. The seats are comfortable to sit in for short or long trips, they are not too cold in the winter like leather seats are.

Kelly C on April 21, 2021

My details and experience with my ford focus.

Back seat is pretty small. Backwards facing baby car seat was already touching front seats. Cannot put seats to lay back. If you are taller than 5ft 3in I do not recommend you driving this car. Your legs will be cramped in the driver seat/passenger. But it does run great.

Erin H on April 19, 2021

A good reliable car for a single person or for a family.

I really like the comfort of my vehicle. I have three children and they all got well in the back, although my oldest child is getting a bit bigger and may outgrow the back seat soon since it is not super large. I have used this vehicle consistently to take long trips multiple times in the past two years and it has been reliable with no real problems.

Christopher H on April 17, 2021

Speedy little hatchback that carries your family and puts a smile on your face.

My 2016 focus st is amazing. When it comes to practicality and performance it is hard to beat at the price. It is little turbocharged engine delivers exceptional power pressure especially in the mountains of colorado. It has all the room of a focus hatchback and can fit a surprisingly large amount of items. With the seats folded down I have transported numerous pieces of furniture and even a chest freezer. It is handling it is hard to match with it is precise steering and low curb weight. My only complaints are that the engine is not the most reliable and if you read through the community online you’ll see the same issues over and over. Although this is common for most “performance” cars it is still a let down.

Elizabeth N on April 17, 2021

Car's great except for the tires.

2016 ford focus is a pretty reliable car. My past two cars were ford focuses. My current one has had quite a few problems with the tires thought. I feel like at least one of the four tires' pressure is always low or unbalanced. Other than the tire pressure problem, I cannot think of anything else wrong with it. Gas is great.

Me N on April 13, 2021

Details of my ford, great style car.

The only problem I have is that it has some bad blind spots and I am shorter, so it makes it challenging to always see properly. I like the way that the car handles, quick response and safe feeling response. I like the color and style of the car. I would like to see the back seat a little bigger, not a lot to f room but still comfy.

Alex L on April 12, 2021

Ford focus St that is reliable and drives very smooth. Happy customer.

Great car, reliable and comfortable. Performance is sharp! Quick throttle response and moves swiftly. Many features like heated seats, heated steering wheel and sunroof. I have not experienced any problems with my ford focus St. I will continue my business with ford motor company.

Ben H on April 8, 2021

2016 ford focus in depth review.

The transmission stutters sometimes when accelerating. Other than that, it is good on gas and I have had no major problems. I like the flex fuel option since it is often cheaper and there is not too much of a difference in gas mileage. It is not a bad car if you so a lot of driving.

Janna E on April 5, 2021

Recalls and to it is expensive.

Lots of recalls and water pump broke. Do not get the car unless it is brand new! Overall I like the feel! It is a small car a little to low to the ground. The lighting is great! You can change the colors, which is cool! I paid to much for it really and overall had to buy a lot of parts.

Crystal M on April 5, 2021

Fiscal focus. Sporty yet luxurious and still practical to accommodate a family.

It has a 'sporty' feel but without the big price tag and definition is safer than most 'sportscars'. The back has a lot of space for my daughter and her friends as well as multiple drink holders to accommodate them. Great gas mileage is definitely another positive point for my car.

John G on April 5, 2021

The ford focus, cheap to buy, cheap to drive'.

Well its cost efficient car, cheap to own, cheap to drive gets good gas mileage, the heater the a/c all work well, its got satellite radio as a option. I do not usually have passengers so it's a good car for me. The main problem is I think the 2016 model has a underperforming transmission.

Michelle D on April 4, 2021

It is economical and reliable.

I like it overall. It needs a little pick up & go. It's comfortable to ride in. Trunk is big to store stuff in. Runs nice.

Rusty P on April 3, 2021

My 2016 ford focus titanium.

The car is comfortable. Lots of legroom. Loaded with extras, Sirius radio, dual heat air controls. Gets great gas mileage, 45 mpg on the road, 35 in town. Drives good. Plenty of power. Sunroof, controls on the steering wheel. Fold down back seats.

Linda K on April 3, 2021

Good gas m8leage and smooth ride

No complaints...just a simple car to get to work. Good gas mileage

Maya L on April 2, 2021

2016 nice silver ford focus.

We have had my vehicle for a couple years so it's not brand new but it does work pretty good, but I do want a bigger vehicle with more space. But it does work good and it is pretty reliable. My only thing is, there isn't much space but I just like bigger cars so that's my opinion. If you want an affordable car and don't need a bunch of space than a ford focus is for you! I haven't got into any wrecks or anything.

Karla C on April 1, 2021

The ford focus is a great car for college students.

The ford focus have some transmission problems, which if they do, ford will take care of it really quickly and exchange it or repair it. Besides of that is a great car with a good performance if you are looking for something simple but with a good performance.

Trent R on April 1, 2021

Great car for anyone to purchase!

Very comfortable car. I enjoy all the features that is has to offer especially the cruise control and backup camera. The car is very easy to drive and rides smoothly. The trunk is also spacious and able to fit large objects. It also performs very well and gets good gas mileage. I also like that I can fill my car up with e85 fuel which is cheaper than regular fuel.

Jill P on March 31, 2021

It is great on gas and reliable.

Reliability is sufficient. There is a slight stutter at acceleration 75% of the time. The brand new battery they installed in the car upon purchase only lasted 2. 5 years. Gas is phenomenal. Back-up camera is a huge benefit of this car.

Chelsea J on March 30, 2021

It is a good car that gets you anywhere you want to go.

I like that it is a pretty new vehicle and does not have too many miles on it and that it gets me places. I do not like that it skips and how much gas it uses.

Aaron M on March 30, 2021

2016 ford focus car review.

The car is very reliable, comfortable. Love the Bluetooth capability and able to connect with just USB. The features are awesome. The problem is it is a little on the smaller end and can be tight with a full car. Space is limited. But comfortable for a travel car.

Kelsey E on March 29, 2021

It is not something you want if you are looking for luxury.

I do not have many problems with my vehicle. In mine, it has a hard time gaining speed when I hit the gas pedal. It also makes a very loud noise that I do not think is supposed to do but it does not affect me driving it. My radio also glitches sometimes but it is not a huge deal.

Jennifer J on March 29, 2021

2016 ford focus se hatchback.

Really great gas mileage. Sport mode. Sunroof. Low profile tires and aftermarket rims. Low mileage. Extended warranty. Leather seats. Hatch version with fold down seats. Sync hands free. Cruise control, volume controls on steering wheel. Back up camera.

Heather M on March 26, 2021

2016 focus ecoboost review.

It has good gas mileage, it is small (which I like), does not have any mechanical issues, it is sporty. It is an ecoboost, so it is good pickup, acceleration when needed. The interior is comfortable but not busy with all the titanium features. Wish it had remote start.

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.