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Ford Focus Owners-Meet the Members

2

Comments

  • silver_bulletsilver_bullet Member Posts: 1,339
    Hope you enjoy both Focii - you should give us your impressions of driving & comparing these two cars. Gas mileage figures would be of great interest. I think a Zetec equipped wagon with a five-speed would be a very cool car, but I'd guess you have an automatic?
  • jjc5jjc5 Member Posts: 16
    Well, after 36 hours with the new hatchling, I'm so happy. It does have a slightly tighter handling than the wagon, but otherwise, it is not much different! I will say that it is nice to get into a "new" car and know the layout completely by heart!

    The seat belt is a bit farther back, but that's because the B-pillar in the hatchling is farther back on the car being a two-door.

    I find the brakes a bit more responsive; however, they are new and we (my fiance and I) have the 4-disc brakes with the advance trac. I'm not too certain to what extent either contributes. Twice as much brake dust, I suppose.

    The hatch is a twilight blue, fully-loaded automatic. We had the option to order it with the manual, but for some reason we decided not.

    As for gas mileage, the wagon was obtaining 25-27 mpg until the winter when it became not so good. I'm not certain if that's the winter-blend gas or my driving habits degraded, but I'm getting 21-25 now. I think I may need to have a talk with my Ford dealer about this if it doesn't improve in the next few months.

    I have no data on the hatch yet.
  • pcleveland2pcleveland2 Member Posts: 516
    Sorry!! Been busy and haven't got back here for a while. Mud flaps do not appear to help on the snow build-up, but I sure like them for protecting the side of the vehicle from sand spraying up and messing up the paint. I have to admit that the focus seems to attract a lot of snow in the wheel wheels. Maybe it is because there is a lot of tire is a small wheel well. My Nissan, Escorts, Rabbits did the same thing. The Ranger Pick-ups seem to do better in this regard, but there is a lot of room in there wheel wells.

    Besides, summer is just around the corner.

    Pat
  • jnmartinjnmartin Member Posts: 36
    Ha! Syracuse is 1.1" away from record snow fall this year (192") and the weather guys say we may still get some to beat it.

    I talked to a guy at my dealership and he said the same thing about the snow, wheel wells and mud flaps. He recommends them anyway as they will help with stones and anything else bouncing up (again, like you said). Do you know if there are "bras" that fit the focus - and don't cover the lights - to also prevent damage from flying road debris? I saw some "clip-on" light covers, but I want something to cover the whole front and not cover up the lights as they are part of the "look" that attracted me to the focus.

    Dropped off my baby this morning for a 10,000 mile check up and to fix the back seat recall. They are also going to look into my brakes (squealing) and the peeling clear coat on my hood. Miss her already. :-)

    I'm really grateful to you and all the other ZX3 owners for giving me advice and heads up about my ZX3.

    Jessica
  • jnmartinjnmartin Member Posts: 36
    Does one get both the hood and fender kit AND the bumper kit? The installation difficulty has average to low ratings, does this mean that I can do it myself, or will I have to take it somewhere?

    thanks
    Jessica
  • vadpvadp Member Posts: 1,025
    I never purchased their product so I can't talk from my experience.
    I'm not planning on keeping my Focus for a long time.
    Anyway, I went to their site and it seems clear to me that the hood/fender and the bumper kits are two separate items that need to be purchased separately.
    Also their FAQ section says that the installation procedures are very simple and don't need any special skills. The kits come with all the instructions.
    I suggest you e-mail them just to be sure.
  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    Please take a look at Owner's Club Changes to offer your opinion.


    KarenS
    Host
    Owner's Clubs

  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    Some of you will notice that your messages from yesterday no longer exist. There was a major hiccup in the system last evening. Edmunds.com apologizes sincerely for the difficulties this situation poses. Please rest assured that every effort is being expended to rectify this matter as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience.

    KarenS
    Host
    Owner's Clubs
  • comedyactorcomedyactor Member Posts: 14
    Re: Mileage...that's my ONLY disappointment with my 2000 ZX3...I now have over 7,000 miles on it...did all the recalls with no hassles...and I still LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!!! But...I get only about 20 mpg / city, and about 28 mpg / highway (2 trips up 'n back to San Francisco).
    But, all in all, it's the BEST little car for the $$$$ I've ever had, and I still get stopped all the time, and asked where I got it, how much, how do I like it, etc.

    Greg Johnson
    Hollywood, CA
  • fdthirdfdthird Member Posts: 352
    Why is it that someone get 28 mpg and is very happy while others get 29 mpg and are upset?

    How many people drive their cars the way they are driven (and in the environment they are driven on the tests)for the EPA mileage tests?

    Is good mileage in the eye of the beholder???
  • silver_bulletsilver_bullet Member Posts: 1,339
    fdthird, I think comments about MPG vary depending on a person's expectations, and what they're used to from past vehicles. If someone is dumping a gas-guzzling SUV for the more practical roominess of a ZX3, my guess is they will be astounded by the Focus' fuel efficiency. If another ZX3 buyer is coming from a series of 1.5 to 1.8 liter (or smaller) econocars weighing around 2000 - 2200 lbs., they are going to be upset with the ZX3's mileage. I can't account for the reports of Focii getting 40+ MPG, or mileage in the 'teens. As the disclaimer says, "your mileage may vary". Manufacturing variation? Auto vs. manual? Level terrain vs. hills? Hot shoe vs. Aunt Mildred driving styles?... all of the above, then add in factors such as reformulated gas, and you get fuel economy numbers all over the chart.
  • fdthirdfdthird Member Posts: 352
    I must agree with all you say Silver Bullet plus factor in AC use.

    Here in the NY Metro area even suburban driving is a lot more that the city cycle measures. As to highway driving, what do they use 55 mph? Isn't it also done on a dynomomiter in perfect atmospheric conditions?

    You're right too about expectations. Just like our friend at the hatchback board who compared the Focus to an Outback costing thousands more, some peoples' expectations are very different.

    For one, I am happy that on our first trip (with just about 500 miles on the car) we averaged about 29mpg. Considering there were hills, the ac was on, and our speeds were all over the place from 50 to 80, I'm happy.
  • vadpvadp Member Posts: 1,025
    Comparing the Focus to the Subaru IMPREZA Outback or to the TS, maybe?
    The difference in price would be around $3K.(TS)
    Would I pay extra $3K or even $4K for better quality and performance plus AWD?
    ABSOLUTELY!!!
    As you see I finally learned something from my Focus experience.
    BTW, prior to the Focus I used to drive: the Moskvich 2140, the Lada 2105, the Ford Pinto, the 3 cyl. Chevy Sprint/Geo Metro.
    Out of those only the Pinto and Moskvich gave me more headaches than the Focus.
  • ckeemckeem Member Posts: 6
    I am currently looking at a used 2000 Focus wagon, I was quoted $11400 for a 2000 focus wagon with 24,000 miles, automatic, side air bags and ABS. Is this a good price? or should I look some more? Thanks for your response.
  • kebbatkebbat Member Posts: 41
    Hello All,

    I am a the proud new owner of a Twilight Blue ZX3. Charcoal interior with power, premium, and moonroof. I got it yesterday and I LOVE driving it. I had my last car for a very long time (a major clunker) so going from that to my Z is like night and day.

    Drum Hill Ford in Lowell, MA was fabulous to work with. I'd highly recommend them to anyone in the Boston area. No BS and very friendly, efficient service.

    I got a lot of great information from the various ZX3 boards here - thanks to all of you for so much great information.

    Kerrie
  • silver_bulletsilver_bullet Member Posts: 1,339
    Here's hoping you have many fun miles ahead of you - did you get a 5-speed or auto? What is the build date of your car (check the VIN sticker on the driver's door post)? Keep us posted on how your ownership experience goes.
  • kebbatkebbat Member Posts: 41
    Thanks Silver Bullet

    I don't know the VIN off the top of my head, but I believe the "born on date" is December, as the dealer had the same model but in Pitch Black that was $200 cheaper than my Twilight Blue. The reason for the difference was the black car was made in September and after that there was a minor price increase.

    I chose a 5 speed as I basically just prefer manual over automatic. The only time that might not be true is if I were stuck in Boston traffic on a regular basis. Since I live and work in the 'burbs I don't worry about that. I also thought that the engine might be too slow to suit me using an automatic transmission.

    I'm at about 350 miles now after my first weekend with the car. So far, I love driving it. I find the car to be very quiet while idling (I've read lots of posts to the contrary). It does make a bit of noise on the highway, but to be honest my radio is usually turned up so loud that I can't hear any "outside" noise.

    My friends/family/coworkers were all very surprised to see what my focus looked like. I think they were all expecting something a bit "cheaper" looking since I had been raving about what an excellent deal I got. The first thing out of their mouths was "I can't believe how much room there is in here." The next thing was "this is NICE".

    Here's hoping my love affair lasts a long long time.
  • silver_bulletsilver_bullet Member Posts: 1,339
    When I got my ZX3 (silver with medium graphite interior and a 5-speed), my fiancee said the same two things :) She had just purchased a new 2000 VW Passat, and actually preferred my Focus. To make a long story short, she sold the Passat and I sold her my ZX3 - she still loves the car, and really enjoys the extra $9K she was able to put back in the bank.
  • petedopetedo Member Posts: 27
    I own a yellow 5 spd with the premium group added. It has about 600 miles on it now and I'm lovin it. Mine was "born" in November. It gets positive responses from everyone that looks at it. I've seen a few other Foci around but noone ever waves. We need to get something going with that.
  • kebbatkebbat Member Posts: 41
    .....or should I say Non-ZX3 Focus drivers tend to look at my car with a "why didn't I get that one?!?!" look.

    I'm almost at 500 miles - tomorrow will be 1 week of ownership. I have a problem though ... I fear I'm being a bit obsessive about keeping the car clean. Every night after work I'm doing something to the interior or exterior - my neighbors think I'm a nut. My serious problem is there is SO much information here on how to properly wash/wax your car that I'm worried I'll make the wrong choice and end up with a messed up paint job. I've read everything I can think of and am still concerned that I'm going to make a mistake.

    My current plan is to hand wash the car using Meguires, dry using a synthetic chamois (I belive it's Absorption or Absorb or something similar to that) and then apply Meguires #26 and then Meguire's #34 (Final Inspection). I'll let you know how I make out.
  • silver_bulletsilver_bullet Member Posts: 1,339
    Drying the car is much easier if you use a California Water Blade first, then follow it with old 100% cotton towels or an Absorber. Your other products picks should work well - just stay away from machine buffers unless you have been trained how to use them. Check out www.carcareonline.com for more tips than you'll ever need... and don't worry about what the neighbors think, they're just jealous :)
  • sourgirl77sourgirl77 Member Posts: 2
    Hi I'm getting a ZX3 soon as my first car! I rarely ever drive, so I'm hoping this car won't be that hard! I'm excited about owning this car, I want it in Silver - but we'll have to see since I think we have to order it because our dealer doesn't have side inpact bags on none of the cars in the lot! :(

    Does anyone know where I can get some cool accessories?
    Thanks!
    Jenny!
  • kebbatkebbat Member Posts: 41
    Congratulations .... I'm a bit of a "new gal" myself. My ZX3 is been parked in my driveway for 1 week and I love it. :)

    I'm not sure what you mean about the car being "too hard". Are you getting a manual without being experience, or are you just in general an inexperienced driver? I would say that the ZX3 is pretty easy as far as shifting goes .... the clutch is great and it's really easy to get into gear. I find the steering to be very responsive and the brakes seem just fine to me. I think you'll find it's a great car to drive.

    If you have your heart set on CD Silver and your particular dealer doesn't have it, look around! You don't want to end up driving a color you don't really like, especially since you'll be looking at it every day.

    Good Luck!
  • sourgirl77sourgirl77 Member Posts: 2
    Well I'm just kinda inexperienced since I hardly ever drive. All the reviews say it's a "fun" car to drive.... I can't wait to get mine, I'm going today to dicker with the salesman. I don't want any other color than Silver, all the other colors I don't like. Thanks!

    Jen
  • vadpvadp Member Posts: 1,025
    Want to make your buying experience as pleasant as it could be?

    Use the X-plan and save in the process.

    If your dealer accepts the X-plan, ask to see a copy of the invoice. Also, the X-plan price is a no haggle, very fair price

    Don't allow yourself to be intimidated by the salesman. You HAVE to bypass them and go directly to the fleet manager or its equivalent.

    Have fun!


    http://www.eaa.org/communications/eaanews/ford_partner.html

  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    This week's topic:


    My vehicle is better than yours because....


    Brag about your ride on Tuesday, May 8, 5-6pm PT/8-9pm ET in the new News & Views Weekly Chat

    KarenS
    Host
    Owner's Clubs

  • tgrcubtgrcub Member Posts: 22
    it's day 3 of life as a Focus owner, and I'm still on a giddy new car induced high... had been driving a big beastly Acura Legend which finally needed to be humanely put down ( oh, the memories when it came time to let her go )... this car is so much fun to drive, that darned if I just didn't create a few chores that necessitated my leaving work early to enjoy drives in the fine spring weather up here in NH... :)
  • njzx3njzx3 Member Posts: 170
    so this is where everyone is posting now... been a long time, how goes it everyone?!
  • njzx3njzx3 Member Posts: 170
    Hey everyone, some of you may remember from a ways back, but for those of you who dont... I bought my Twilight Blue, Fully Loaded Z just over a year ago now and to this day I love it to death. I havent had any problems with it (except for the MAF Sensor crappin out a week after i got the car... but that was an easy fix... the dealer experience is another story...) When I first bought my Z, I had a lot of "dreams" i guess you could call them, about doing some aftermarket work to my baby... well, I'm well on my since that time... this is what I've added and or bought and have yet to install:

    STERIO:
    -Kenwood CD/MP3 Headunit
    -Dual Fusion Encounter 10" Subs
    -Power Acoustic Gothic 540watt Amp

    APPEARANCE:
    -Window Tint
    -->Accent strip on windshield
    -->3 Rear windows
    -Clear Side Markers
    -Xenon Full Facia ground effects kit (to be installed)

    PERFORMANCE:
    -Borla Catback Exhaust System (to be installed)
    -Ice-Man Cold Air Intake (to be installed)
    -Progress Sport Springs (1.8" Drop) (to be installed)

    WHEELS/TIRES: -Primax 618 17x7 wheels
    -Falken FK-04-GRB 204x40x17 Tires
    -Chrome Locking Lugs
    -->3 of one pattern 1 different per wheel

    all the work should be completed within the next few weeks... the springs, intake and exhaust won't be a problem... the body kit hasnt been painted yet, im still looking for a good body shop to do it for me...

    anyways, glad to see that you all are all still around and enjoying your Z's as much s I am!! and welcome to those of you I dont know...

    Kevin
  • madmanmattmadmanmatt Member Posts: 1
    For the past 12 years I have used economy cars to commute 40 miles each way to work. I had 2 used colts and then in 1996 I bought a new 1995 aspire. It was the last on the lot and with a $600 rebate I paid $6900 for it. Aside from replacing the center exhaust pipe, it only required routine maintenance. I just sold it 3 days ago for $1700. Let me add that I am 6'5 and 230 pounds. With the seat reclined back 1 notch, my head just cleared the roof even though the aspire has more leg and head room than many larger cars. My new ZX3 has more than 4 inches of head clearance! It has an outstanding amount of cabin space.
    My ZX3 was the last on the lot. I bought it 10-19-01. It is black with power and premium groups. Since I got the 0% financing for 5 years, they wouldn't go below invoice but I feel I got a good deal. It drives like a sports car. Of course going from an aspire (hey I liked it !) to a focus doubled my hp too but I really notice the difference in comfort now. The only regret I
    have is losing the 42 mpg that the aspire delivered. I think I am averaging 28-30 with the focus so far. Will keep you posted !
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Hey you guys don't have an events area or I would have posted it there :)


    Just wanted to invite you guys to join the Tri-state group of Subarus from http://i-club.com to join us for a Drive-a-thon. We are driving 48hrs, 1200miles from NYC->Newark, DE->Philadelphia->Pittsburg->Buffalo->Rochester->Albany->Nyack, NY on a weekend in January to raise money for the WTC relief fund. Details are at http://isuzu-suvs.com/events/48hrsoftristate/index.html or e-mail me 48hrs@iace.com for details.


    -mike

  • fgaydosfgaydos Member Posts: 319
    I feel there is too much money being raised and it is not being accounted for properly. Did you know the head of the Red Cross gets $400,000.00 a year?
    Not many realize it is a for profit company.
    Besides, there are Millions already out there and the folks involved cannot get it.
    Then there is the lady sueing the goverment because she thinks 3 million is not enough!?
    It is way out of control.
    When my parents died no one offered me money. Stuff happens, deal with it.
  • jazx3jazx3 Member Posts: 3
    I purchased my Sangria Red ZX3 in June 2000 (mfr May 2000): dark charcoal seats, manual, ABS, side impact airbags, speed control/tilt steering, AC & power windows/mirrors. The odometer currently reads over 56,800 km (35,500 m).

    I moved to this vehicle after leasing an Olds Aurora (3 years) and owning a Buick Century (14.5 years). I got the full Ziebart protection with 50% window tint and intend to keep the car for at least another 12-15 years.

    I averaged 36 mpg on a trip to Florida last year; upshifting early and not trying to always win an Indy race does it. However, I like speeding up and merging at cars speed on entering highways and find the ZX3 is only slower than the Aurora (with its V-8) by a few tenths of second.

    While the Aurora had an unnerving tendency to sway sideways over bumps, the focus just glides over them, isn't as plush but has almost the same seating space, more headroom, more practical space, and is more than 3 feet shorter.

    I had all the recalls done and get it serviced every 5000 km. The car is wonderful and the 4 season tires have a good grip in snow although I may consider moving to Michelin Pilot XGT H4 at some point. I have driven front-wheel drive cars for over 33 years (3 of which on sandy African roads) only with 4-season tires with very little problems.

    It does not compare to the smooth and road holding capability of the Citroën ID I once had but I have never encountered one that did anyway.

    Good to connect and I will be pleased to exchange on tips and ideas.
  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    The Ford Focus ZX3 club has been edited to include all owners of Ford Focus.

    Hello and welcome new members!

    KarenS
    Host
    Owners Clubs
  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    Last week, Edmunds rolled out new pricing pages. Along with this is a new "consumer ratings & reviews". This functionality lives in the "consumer opinions" area of the new vehicle detail page, and allows users to rate a vehicle on a number of different criteria (1 to 10 scale), as well as add his/her own free-form comments.

    If you have some time, we would really appreciate Town Hall members writing a review of their current auto, or a favorite make/model. It takes approximately a week for your review to appear on that make/model.

    If you have any questions, please let me know!

    Thanks!

    KarenS
    Host
    Owners Clubs
  • zx3dynamozx3dynamo Member Posts: 17
    Hi there! I'm the proud owner of a 2002 Liquid Grey (love that color) Focus ZX3 in the Pacific NW. My older car was a '88 volkswagen fox so the mileage is worse but the upgrade was worth it. I've gotten several thumbs up on the car (which never happened in the VW, wonder why?) and the 4 passenger test passed with flying colors. I still haven't taken the engine above 5000 RPM yet as I only have 2200 miles on it but the engine seems to want to :) Happy motoring!

    -Rob
  • nancjunenancjune Member Posts: 2
    (I'm new here, and first posted this to Wagons/Newcomers. Hope it's OK to post here, too!).

    My name is Nancy and I live in Southern California, in the foothill area north of
    Glendale and west of Pasadena . This looks like a great group to hang out with!

    On Tuesday, October 22, 2002 I became the proud owner of a new 2002 Ford Focus
    ZTW Wagon. My 2000 Explorer was coming off lease on the 26th, and I wanted to
    downsize so the Focus wagon seemed perfect.

    So far, I *love* it! It's the Sangria Red (my first red car!) with gray leather. It's pretty
    loaded; about all it doesn't have is a sunroof and the "Advance Track" traction
    control system.

    Want to hear something funny? For the last two-three weeks, my boyfriend and I
    have been independently searching the 'net, reading reviews, checking prices, etc.
    as we each tried to decide what to buy. I was replacing my Explorer, and he was
    replacing a 1995 Escort Wagon that was beginning to have one problem after
    another (at 128k, that's probably not surprising).

    Anyway, we *both* narrowed it down to one car: the 2002 Focus ZTW Wagon! He
    bought his on Saturday, and it's the Twilight Blue. Other than color, both cars are
    identically equipped. We both got our respective Focii (sp?) for just under 20k,
    including the alarm system. We feel it's a *very* nice car for the money.
    Comfortable, solid, holds the road like a pro, adequate get-up-and-go, and looks
    good to boot (in our opinion, anyway ;-) As far as reliability, time will tell. We figure
    after two years most of the bugs should be ironed out, and if not, we have the
    warranty to take care of any problems that might arise.

    I can't wait to take a picture of them (and us) side-by-side :-)

    Nancy
  • boaz47boaz47 Member Posts: 2,747
    we had four cars. A coupe, a sedan, a jeep and a B-2500 pickup. I sold the coupe and then traded the sedan in on a PT Cruiser. My wife felt a bit left out and wasn't all that fond of driving the truck. So I went down and traded in the truck for a Blue ZTS and put a red ribbon on it and parked it in our driveway. Needless enough to say she is delighted. She loves the deep blue and more than likely doesn't know a ZTS from the man in the moon. I am lucky that she has been driving a stick pretty much steady for the last few years. I like the sound system, the handling and the way it shifts, once I get used to pulling up to get it into reverse. I was surprised that I would like the Focus and it won out over the P-5, with help from a friendly dealer. I guess we are a member of the club and I am sure we will enjoy it. I have to admit the magiznes were right, it is a blast to drive in the mountains.
  • flasvtflasvt Member Posts: 64
    Hi, I am Simon from Miami Beach, Florida. Last Saturday I traded in my liquid gray 2002 ZTW for a pitch black 2003 5-door SVT. The ZTW played a big roll in my decision since it was such a remarkable handler and reliable car. I just wanted (needed?) more power and a stick shift. The test drive was pretty convincing too.
    I was a little annoyed that I had to buy a car with the winter package in Miami, but the deal was good enough to dissipate this sole spot in an otherwise great little rocket. Bottom line, after a year and two Foci I am still very much in love with this car.
    As for SVTs, this is my second one. My first one was an SVT Contour, a whole different beast. Lets just say I really like SVTs.
  • nickpsnickps Member Posts: 18
    Hi, i recently purchased a Focus in November 2004. I love the car to death. It's surprisingly solid. I got it with leather, heated seats, heated side mirrors, auto trans, remote stereo controls, and a six cd changer. The car has just about every option. It is sporty but sort of luxury at the same time. My sticker price was 18,525 or so. I ended up paying 15,500. I couldn't be happier with it. This car is like my baby. It handles great with its Perelli tires that came with it. I got it in cd silver metallic. Its got a grey interior. This car was the best thing i have ever did. It is very peppy. This is by far one of the best cars Ford has ever built. I have just about 6,000 miles on it now. I clean it very often about every weekend. I wax it monthly during the winter because the salt used on the roads eats away at the wax. This car is my pride and joy. I never thought i could like a car this much that didn't burn a hole in my pocket. The reason why i bought this car is because it reminded me of my 1998 Mercury Mystique GS SPREE. These cars are my two favorite out of all the cars i have ever owned.
  • basiliskstbasiliskst Member Posts: 55
    I've always had at least one light weight four-cylinder manual transmission car in the family. This 2005 Focus ST is my latest addition. So far I'm very pleased. It currently has about 25,000 miles.

    The ST is not tuned or geared for all-out fuel economy but still is reliably delivering 30 mpg at west of the Mississippi Interstate speeds (70 mph+). I'd guess that the 2.0 liter will do better and even the new 2007 ST appears to have some changes to rate better fuel economy than the 2005. No complaints though. I've never had a more flexible four-banger. The usable torque band for acceleration is wide and deep. The ST feels sportier than a lot of sports cars I've driven. The clutch is easy. The shift throws are short and well-defined with decent feel. The ST has very direct steering and a controlled, compliant ride. An occasional stretch of road with just the wrong expansion joint interval betrays the short wheel base and light weight, but on most surfaces the ride is smooth and the handling tight.

    Since I started in Volkswagens, the upright seating position feels just right, and is comfortable and commanding.

    The interior you touch is very good, with comfortable leather seats, leather-wrapped wheel and leather gear shift knob. Even the door handle is nicely sculpted and backed with perforated suede to match the seat inserts. What you see of the interior betrays more of the economy car origins, but is functional if somewhat plain. I personally liked the original interior better than the 2005 update. My least favorite feature of the interior is the too-small rectangular vents. My favorite feature is the door, with well-placed arm rests and door grab handles, a very functional door pocket with an extra drink holder, and high-quality feeling switch gear for the windows and locks. It looks good and works well in practice.

    I'd like more sound dampening material in the trunk and underbody to reduce road noise. The sweet exhaust note can stay.

    We also have a 2002 Mercury Cougar 2.3 liter 5-speed manual. The family resemblance is noticable. I hope the ST will have the same reliability as the Cougar (now approaching 77,000 trouble-free miles). The Cougar's interior is more upscale, with the exception of the seats. The Focus has far better shaped seats, with the only sorely missed feature being no lumbar support adjustment.

    I'll keep you up to date on the ST's reliability and fuel economy. So far, it is a gem with a very sporty personality disguised as an economy car.
  • gerry100gerry100 Member Posts: 100
    I'd like to get my recent college grad daughter a reliable, economical used car to last her at least 4 years (60-70 miles) without excessive maintenance costs.

    I'm also a bargain hunter. The usual suspects , Honda Civic Toyota Corrola etc are all proven choices but the asking prices tend to offset any advantages ( real or percieved).

    My feeling is that the advantages in reliability and quality between a Focus and a Civic/Corrolla etc are mostly percieved.

    This leads me to believe that Civics and Toyotas are over priced in the used car market and that Foci are probably underpriced, and therefore a potential good buy.

    I've also done a lot of car research on this and other websites and realize they tend towards the negative as a significant majority of people post to research,complain or vent about a problem.

    So I'm here asking for objective inputs from the group.

    Thanks in advance.
  • quietspiritquietspirit Member Posts: 27
    How about keeping us posted on the 2002 Mercury Cougar and the Volkswagen, also? I'm researching for my first car and would like to know the pros and cons of each brand.
  • mschmalmschmal Member Posts: 1,757
    The Focus was rated by a consumer mag as the best car to buy used for your college student. Not only is it above average in reliability, it is Fun to drive PLUS it has one of the highest rates of depreciation, accordingly they are readily available at descent prices.

    Go for an 05 or newer. They have the Mazda designed 2.0L engine. You may even find a 2.3L with PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle)

    IF you get a Certified Focus from a Ford dealer, you also get a warranty up to 75,000 miles on toe odometer or 6 years from the in service date. Plus to be certified, the car has to have a clean title history, 50% on brakes and 50% on tires at least or new and freash oil/filter.

    Certified cars can also be financed at new car rates.

    Mark.
  • jschmidt05jschmidt05 Member Posts: 4
    i have a ford focus and have read lots about focus'. they are the worst car and i dont know how people say it is reliable. i have had so many major and expensive problems with the focus and have gotten NO help from ford. i wil never buy or even let someone give me a focus. i have had the same problem over and over and taken it to the dealer and they cant find what is wrong and just keep guessing at the problem at my expense. and there are problems with the focus that ford knows about, but wont fix even if you have all the symptoms that its about to break but not totally yet.I WOULD NOT GET A FOCUS UNLESS YOU ARE RICHAND CAN CONTINUALLY PUT TONS OF MONEY INTO REPAIRS AND BE WITH OUT A CAR FOR LONG PERIODS AT A TIME.
  • basiliskstbasiliskst Member Posts: 55
    jschmidt05, every manufacturer can have a bad dealer or an individual lemon vehicle. Your post would be more useful to others if you would share the specifics of your problem (transmission etc.). Right off the bat I'd suggest trying another dealer and talking with a regional Ford representative . Anecdotes are not a perfect substitute for statistically significant surveys. The Ford Focus does well in such surveys for reliability and owner satisfaction. It sounds like Ford could and should be doing a better job in addressing your specific issues, but it's a jump to assume that the same is true for any Focus or all Ford dealers. If you share the specific issue or symptoms, the forum may be able to help diagnose the issue.
  • zxwzxw Member Posts: 10
    have had 3 Focus wagons, nary a problem ... best car ever ... or as one of our previous posters seems prone to caps, I should say "EVAH" !

    'nuff said.

    ZXW Robb
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