Used Ford Focus Estate 2004 - 2011 reliability review

Name: Used Ford Focus Estate 2004 - 2011
Rating: 4
Author: Stuart Milne

A great estate at a great price

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The list of known faults is short, so far, but it does include tailgate hinges that may let rain in. However, Ford dealers should cure this at no cost.

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Water can also get into the wiper motor and can cause it to overheat, but Ford has issued a recall notice and will fit a modified unit if need be.

Owners also report engine software glitches, causing poor starting and misfires, but this is another one that dealers should fix easily.

The What Car? Reliability Index not only shows just how seldom Focuses break down, it also proves just how cheap they are to fix. Average repair costs are half the average for that type of car.

As with any estate, check before buying that the load area is undamaged, because replacing trim can cost plenty.

Tips & Advice

Don’t miss a recall

If your car is to be recalled, you should arrange the work to be carried out quickly. Sign up to our recall alerts to ensure you’ll not miss a thing

Check for outstanding recalls

Many cars are recalled so that faults can be put right. Recall work shouldn’t cost you a penny, and they’ll make your car safer or more mechanically robust. Checking if your car has been recalled is easy

Choose the right breakdown cover

You may already have a breakdown policy through your home insurance or new-car warranty so check to avoid paying twice

Ensure you have breakdown cover

Thousands of What Car? readers deliver their verdict on the best breakdown companies helping you to choose the best cover

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About the writer

Name: Stuart Milne

Title: Digital editor

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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.

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