See the Best Cars in 2022 as rated by Australians on ieatwords.com.au.
MichaelPerth, WA
- 2 reviews
Good enough that I traded it in for another Focus
Bought it at 50000km, traded it in at 260000km, by which time it was admittedly a bit tired (burning oil and pinging a bit, probably due to valve seals, clearcoat suffering from a dozen years of sunlight).
Thumbs up:
- engine smooth and quiet (certainly compared to the ZZE122 Corolla it replaced). Did have to wind the lacky up to get the most out of the engine though.
- audio system was reasonable for a stock system. Too much to expect bluetooth in 2005 I suppose.
- reasonable fuel economy (averaged 7.2l/100km).
- fold-flat rear seats
Thumbs ...Read more
down: - alternator failure. I read somewhere that proximity to hot parts of the engine is often a contributing factor. To be fair, I did have plenty of warning of this failure (whining noise, both audible and electrical). Amongst other things, I discovered power steering becomes unhappy in the presence of power supply problems.Purchased for $17,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Rubbish from new
I owner this care from new it handles and drives well howeever for me it has been an unreliable car. Right from new I had non stop issues with the Engine warning light coming on. The dealer looked at this issue every time and it this sensor or that sensor as the excuse. Then they always charged me a code reading access fee, what a service rort. Its like charging customers for tool rental its such a gouge. There was never an explanation to why this light kept coming on. They replaced "wiring" but it never fixed the fault.. The final confirma...Read more
tion that this car had design issues when i got a repair bill of 1200 dollars plus labor for the replacement of the ECM(electronic control module) unit that failed for no reason. Just drove to the shops stopped and started a couple of times and then the engine warning light came on again. What made matters worst is that the Ford dealer ripped me off, the module over the counter was something like 540 dollars and they charged me 1200 dollars for ordering the part plus labor to install the unit. You would think the dealer and service center would supply the part at the over the counter price. This module rarely fails and consider how lightly the car was used I think i just got ripped off. I got a lemon of car since this engine warning light coming on for no reason has been a constant issue. I will never buy another Ford again and in particular the Focus model considering all these issues that we have had in our family with owning 3 of various focus models. Even though this was the manual version of the car I also had the issue with the manual clutch plate cracking that was replaced under warranty. These cars were really design lemons.Purchased in January 2021 for $32,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Cloe B.Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC
Flimsy interiors
The interior is flimsy plastic with inner door being able to be pulled off easily, lower seat area breaking ans basically feeling like the whole thing can fall appart. Ive never had a car with such flimsy interiors. Otherwise drives nicely with enough power for a small car.
Purchased in December 2021.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
SamhillyPerth
- 4 reviews
Very good carto U
On 12000 on my 3rd Focus . No Problems Current model L W Focus 2016 M K 11 Diesel. Travel to work every day.All services carried out.No problems from mechanic.Dont bother.
Purchased in June 2021.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
RebeccaPerth, WA
Lemon car and bad customer service
Brought Ford Focus trend 2014 as brand new in November 2014. Nightmare started then:
1: Power transmission issue: excessive shudders and jerk repeated after recall fix
2: water pump broken in 2018 just right after 3 years warranty
3: air conditioner compressor failure in 2018 just after 3 years warranty
4: oil pump broken in 2018 just after 3 years warranty
Encountered the news that ACCC unforced 10 millions penalty on Ford for this transmission issue and requested Ford to cooperate for refund or replacement claim. So I submitted refund requ...Read more
est in September. Although dealer diagnosed car twice and confirmed the excessive shudder and have report for all other issues, the claim has been rejected by Ford Australia with the reason that my car has damage.The damage confirmed by the case manager is the painting scratch on side door. Though consider the reason is not acceptable, I still offered to fix the painting myself, but Ford confirmly advised that the case has been closed and no more further discussion. Dont know what criteria for refund. Has the car to be as brand new after years? Have to seek for further help from Consumer Protection and hope some remedies can be provided.Purchased in November 2021 for $21,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
JboyFar North Queensland, QLD
Ford Focus Trend 2012 LW
Hi, bought a Ford Focus 2012 Trend LW with 115,000kms on it. The car had been fantastic. Had no issues at all. Too all the people who don’t even own one yet have an opinion to ‘Stay well away from them’ maybe you should spend your time on issues you actually know about. Obviously some Ford Focus cars 2011-2016 had problems, but that doesn’t mean all had problems. There are good ones around and the technology of this car is ahead of its time. Cheap to buy, runs extremely well, smooth ride and comfortable interior with all the mod cons and cold a/c. I would buy another 5 of them. Don’t listen to the naysayers. Problems on these cars should have been fixed so if you are looking at one don’t hesitate as they are well priced. J
Purchased in June 2021 at Auction.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
MegNortheast, VIC
- 5 reviews
- Focus LW Mk2
- Verified purchase
Amazing car, so many extras, solid and plenty of zip
I use my car daily for myself and a 3 and 8 year old. On weekends my partner of 6 foot also fits in comfortably. Obviously with two substantial car seats the middle rear seat is best used for the fold down arm rest (with cup holders!) rather than a seat. I do have large car seats though, the slimline versions may be better.
As a car person I am in love with the purr the engine makes especially when heading out onto the freeway. It has so much zip even my Dad who is a mechanic can’t believe how quick it is!
Styling wise it’s absolutely gorge...Read more
ous, the kind of car you enjoy walking up to in the car park, I have the S so It has the extra body kit which does help it to look even nicer than the entry level Trend. The feel and features and finish feel very high end for a price tag of under 30k. It has that great solid thud when you close the door, none of that awful tinny plastic feel you get with the Mitsubishi rivals. 5 star safety rating, looks great, drives great, fuel economy is great, about $60 a tank for nearly 700kms, $310 to service at ford (cheaper if you go to jax etc) So from a fussy picky mechanics daughter to future owners.. go for it you will not regret it.Purchased in April 2021 at Ford Dealers.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
BelindaGreater Melbourne (Outer), VIC
- 2 reviews
Fabulous little zip around car
Great little car to commute to family gatherings, sporting matches and work every day. Comfortable material seats, power steering is easy to use, great sound from the stereo speakers and so easy to drive and park. Reverse camera is easy to follow and use, lights up well. Drivers dashboard is well lit and has all the information you need to ensure your drive is relaxed. Etheridge Ford were super helpful in negotiating a deal, allowed me plenty of space to make my decision and couldn't have been more helpful with my purchase. I love the car, ...Read more
only negatives are that it lacks front sensors and there are no cup holders for kids in the back but that's it. It's zippy and quick to overtake, has lots of power and is the engine is nice and quiet on a long road trip. I'm so happy with my purchase!Purchased in May 2021 at Etheridge Ford .
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Jeremy DAU
- 2 reviews
an OK get around car
brought a 2009 focus 170,000 km on the clock started off a pretty smooth ride. very spacious hit the 180,000 mark & the engine mount collapsed & has started jumping out of gear with a flutter in the clutch.not great on fuel on short trips a lot better on the hwy.overall it does the job that can be expected of a $4000 car.
Purchased in February 2021 for $4,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Trudy M.Perth, WA
Optional extras ~ power steering
Bought my 2011 Ford Focus Sports brand new from the day of purchase had issues but it was all in my head or my driving apparently...
3 clutches replaced, TCM module replaced and 1 week after the TCM was replaced power steering went.
It is a money pit and according to Ford unroadworthy.
These days my focus sits in its parking bay and never moves.
I can't afford to pay out the finance which is not even mine on it so I can't even sell it... So I pay the rego and just sit and look at it... Hate Ford.. Never again
Purchased in July 2021 at Rangeford for $22,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
RobGreater Melbourne (Outer), VIC
Power Steering Malfunction
My Ford Focus (thank God I got a Manual - the horror stories on the Automatic sound disgusting) has just clicked over 100.000kms and at around the 99,000 mark the power steering malfunctioned and I was without power steering. I took it to Ford and they said to me it was the power steering rack and that to change it over would be just under $4500!!! I can't believe that to change the electric rack was going to cost almost half the price of the car, I chuckled to myself and said your joking right? The service advisor said no, that's what it cos...Read more
ts and then he preceeded to tell me they could a secondhand one in for under $1900! I left because I knew I could do it myself for less than a quarter of the price. How the hell can it be malfunctioning with less than 100,000kms on the clock. That is a safety issue and they completely ignored it. Something is fishy is going on here, I had then turned to google and youtube and there are many cases like mine and a few cases here in Oz. It can't be anything we are doing wrong, and sure enough it looks to be a cover up. In the USA they also tried to fight it and eventually succumbed to the wave of complaints. It seems Ford Australia still thinks they can get away with here. I asked the Ford dealership (Ringwood, Victoria) about other cases, and they said they haven't had many of these cases at all. Looks like I too will need to contact Ford Australia and probably also ACL about this.. wish me luck!Purchased in January 2021 at Ringwood Mazda.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Ben AshHunter Region, NSW
- 6 reviews
- Focus LS
- Verified purchase
2009 Ford Focus sedan -Ford Australia uninterested
At 92,000 Km the 2009 Ford Focus developed an alarming intermittent habit of dropping into 'limp mode'. Per error readout a new throttle control body was installed by our local Ford dealer - though the problem persisted and could not be found. Despite several requests Ford Australia refused assistance and since the car remained unreliable I was unable to sell the car in good faith. The local dealer was courteous throughout the 6 months saga and ended up buying the car for $500 - a loss of around $3.5 - $4k. Disappointed that Ford showed no int...Read more
erest in sorting out the issue or at least meeting some of her loss. Despite its age, the car had been well looked after and only travelled 92,000Km. The main problem seems to rest with the electronics (CPM) which when faulty destines the car to scrap and Ford Australia are unwilling to back their product.Purchased in September 2021 at Private for $5,400.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Young GrandDadSouth East Queensland, QLD
I find this car great. Know your rights to have car fixed.
I had same steering malfunction. Given the car had 65000k on it and car was serviced by ford each time and cost over $30k new i simply told Ford i would lodge complaint with Qld fair trade, such low kilometres is unreasonable given your own warranty is for 100 thousand kilometres. They offered to cover 40%. I told them your parts, your labour marked up and only 40%? Kept calm, filed as i said and Ford paid 100%. Do not believe ford customer care. You are covered by consumer laws.
Purchased in April 2021 at Bryan Byrt Ford for $32,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
BenzevWhangarei
- 4 reviews
- 10 likes
Pleasantly surprised!
I would normally never consider a European Ford but when I managed to buy my current car for a very small amount(a third of what it's worth!) I was pleasantly surprised by an amazing handling and very responsive car. The car is a bargain basement version of the Focus and so has very little in the way of luxuries or conveniences. There is a great lack of storage in general. Only 2 shallow cup holders in the centre console. It has very little space in the boot although the back seat does fold down to create more. The leg room for the rear passen...Read more
gers is great and tall adults are very comfortable back there. Only the front windows are electric but like my wife says it's good to have two that will open no matter what, in case of the electrics failing. It has a tiptronic gearbox which is backward in operation compared to our Nissan Elgrand so it takes focus :) to get it the right way around. I would definitely keep this car because of its economy and its great handling zippy drive! I however need more than just a daily to work kind of car so I need something with a little more space. I have 3 cars at the moment so at least one has to go. I will keep either this one or the RAV4 and as I prefer a manual the RAV4 might win but the Ford is making me doubt because of its great drive and economy something the RAV4 lacks a little.Purchased in April 2021 for $2,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Good Things
- 2 reviews
So disappointed!
Here's my lemon 2013 Ford Focus (diesel) with just 43,000 kms on the clock (!) being towed to the Ford dealer interstate because the power steering died! Fortunately, the vehicle was parked at the time, not driving up bends on a mountain, or crossing a busy intersection.
Needless to tell you that neither Ford Australia nor the dealership I bought it from would help me with the $5,000 cost to replace the steering rack on this six-year-old vehicle. (The new car warranty had expired, and the "Harrier" warranty... not worth the paper it was print...Read more
ed on... was declared void when I moved away from the city of purchase). Is that even legal?!!!! I did manage to find a company who completed the work for a few hundred dollars cheaper, but that incurred yet another towing fee. With transmission issues already looming, I decided to sell. I will never buy another Ford. I know I'm one of many, many thousands of angry and disappointed Focus owners. I'm currently in contact with the ACCC and Fair Trading in the ACT.Purchased in June 2021 for $22,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
GrantFar West, NSW
- 3 reviews
- 1 like
Get the Diesel LT TDCI
I brought a one owner (local government) 2.0 liter diesel 6sp manual with 155K on it for $3000 from a dealer in Adelaide. Its been a fantastic buy. I do a mix of small city driving at 50km/h (←6l/100km), 100-110 km/h (5.3l/100km) and 130ish km/h in the outback (7.1l/100km and yes its still legal in our more cultured territories). Amazing highway acceleration... Better than a Falcon for overtaking road trains. The turbo comes in smooth and strong from about 1500rpm with heaps of torque ... Its so nice. Excellent handling and a comfortable ride ...Read more
( although not Fairlane standard ). Its simple to do basic maintenance such as oil changes. Easy to park etc and can tow a good sized trailer or mid sized caravan. Unfortunately it has a stupid "emergency" spare tyre and no reversing camera from the factory. Overall the 2008 diesel Focus is such an underrated car and wonderful second hand value if you don't mind changing gears.Purchased in February 2021 for $3,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
ShonaSouth East Queensland, QLD
- 2 reviews
- 2 likes
My Ford experience
After seven years of using this car every day I can honestly say it has been a dream car. Still looks amazing and drives well despite quite high Kms, so much so we bought a second had one for my daughter's first car.
Purchased in May 2021 at Denmac Ford.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
lovehouses1992South East Queensland, QLD
Wouldn’t buy another one ever again
When I first got this car it was great until I had to get engine mounts replaced.
Then my Bluetooth stopped working and I was told it would be $1200 to replace the whole system.
My car actually came with a scratch in the interior and nobody did anything about it.
I paid extra for paint protection however now my paint is fading on the top and on the bonnet and around the whole car. I have called ford numerous times and have always been transferred to different people every time. The paint protection company is MING and they need a c...Read more
Purchased in January 2021 at Ford Dealers for $26,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
ConcreteangelGreater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC
- 4 reviews
Dodgy transmission, electronics messing up
Bought my car new, had no steering wheel fluid cap. When I went back, dealer just rolled his eyes and gave me one.
Car shakes and jolts due to a dodgy transmission and is currently in a class action.
USB port fails in hot weather and cigarette lighter port no longer functions.
Interior is badly designed, there’s nowhere to put anything, I’m forever trying to balance my bits and bobs in the cup holder.
Boot cover snapped off not long after purchase.
Don’t think I’ll ever buy a ford again.
Purchased in March 2021 for $26,000.00.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
LaurenPerth, WA
DONT GET A FORD FOCUS
Last year I purchased a late 2011 Ford Focus titanium. It had at the time only done 60,000kms. It had a full service history, but hadn’t been used frequently over its lifetime. I started to use it as my main car and nearly immediately i experienced jerking, high revs and no take off speed. I put my car in to a ford dealer in January, the extended warranty had ran out the month before. They have wiped their hands clean and not given me a cent of contribution. It is really disgusting that you can wipe a car off that has done that amount of kilometres. It is now going to cost roughly $6000-$8000 in repairs and I am struggling to see that this gorgeous well looked after car is nothing but a ride off!!!!
Purchased in October 2021.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
- ‹ Prev
- Next ›
Questions & Answers
tlaasked
is there a factorty design fault in this car, my heatercore blew coolant into front drivers side .Carpet is saturated with coolant.USA have recalled focuses to fix asap this ways two days ago.Either the hoses are faulty or the whole heatercore itself.
No answers
mahesh r.asked
Car is having jerks during moving and sudden acceleration And no acceleration during the start of driving
No answers
Mark P.asked
Are dealerships still addressing the problem of powershift transmissions, and what was the outcome of the class action against FORD . Do i still have cause to have transmission fixed. Thanks for any help MARK.
No answers
ieatwords.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ieatwords.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.