2000-2004 Ford Focus: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2004 Ford Focus and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Handling/roadholding
- Cargo room (wagon)
- Control layout
- Fuel economy
Cons
- Engine noise
- Acceleration
- Rear-seat entry/exit (hatchback)
Vehicle Highlights
Named Car of the Year in Europe in 1999, Ford's subcompact premium Focus arrived in North America as a 2000 model. Slightly larger than the fading Escort, the Focus came in three body styles: hatchback coupe in sporty ZX3 trim; four-door sedan in LX, SE, and top-of-the-line ZTS form; and as a 4-door SE station wagon. Compared to the Escort, the new Focus was 3 inches taller and about 4.5 inches longer, in both wheelbase and overall size. A 110-horsepower version of the Escort's single-cam 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine went into LX and SE models. Standard in the ZTS and ZX3, optional for SE, was a 130-hp twincam 2.0-liter four, as used in the Escort-based ZX2 coupe. Both engines teamed with either 5-speed manual shift or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Rear child-seat anchors were installed, and head/chest front side airbags were optional. Antilock brakes were standard on the ZTS, optional on others. Head/chest front side airbags were optional. During the 2000 model year, a special Sony Edition joined the Focus lineup.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Ford Focus LX sedan Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2004 Ford Focus. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2004 Ford Focus.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Ford Focus:
Ford's AdvanceTrac antiskid control system became optional in the Focus's second season, intended to counter skids in turns. Combined with all-disc brakes, it was available for the ZTS and ZX3. The ZX3 got a newly optional Premium Group, and its Power Group added power locks and remote entry. Powertrain choices were shuffled a bit. The 110-hp engine remained standard in LX and SE sedans. The 130-hp twincam four was standard in the SE wagon as well as the ZTS and ZX3, and optional in the SE sedan. Previously offered only with automatic, wagons could now have a manual transmission.
2002 Ford Focus:
Focus added a new body style, a sport-trim wagon, and a sporty SVT variant for 2002. The SVT came only as a 2-dr hatchback with manual transmission and included a sport suspension and 17-inch wheels. A new ZTW wagon had standard leather upholstery, fog lights, and 16-inch wheels. Newly optional on higher-line models was an antiskid system that included ABS and traction control. A sunroof and 6-disc in-dash CD player were other new options.
2003 Ford Focus:
Ford added a 4-door hatchback version of the sporty SVT. New options included an MP3 player and hi-intensity discharge headlamps on the SVT.
2004 Ford Focus:
Standard on top-trim models was a new 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine that made 145 horsepower. It mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The optional antiskid system that was added in 2001, was no longer available.
Our road test for the 2000-2004 Ford Focus includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2004 Ford Focus and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2004 Ford Focus is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Any Focus tackles twisty roads with linear, communicative steering, well-controlled body lean, and outstanding grip from the 15-inch tires that are standard on most models. Firm suspensions yield a flat, wallow-free highway ride, but bumps register with a thump. Honda's Civic rides softer and is quieter. Antilock braking feels strong and stable, with only moderate nosedive in simulated "panic" stops. Sporty SUV tackles twisty roads with the tenacity of a sports coupe, but suffers from too much body lean and an overly firm ride. Base 4-cylinder provides tepid acceleration with either manual or automatic transmission. Dual-camshaft engine has adequate power, running from 0-60 mph in 9.3 seconds with manual transmission. The larger 2.3-liter engine added in 2004 feels more energetic--especially with automatic--reaching 60 mph in just 9.1 seconds. Zippy SUV model has best acceleration, racing from 0-60 mph in just 8.1 seconds, but delivers best go above 3000 rpm where engine noise grows annoying. Base engine with manual transmission averaged 26.2 mpg. A 2.3-liter four with automatic averaged 22.3 mpg. Wind rush is noticeable, but noise is acceptable otherwise and engines are tolerably smooth. Few subcompacts are roomier than a Focus. Occupants sit comfortably upright on Charlie cushions, enjoying bountiful head clearance and plenty of rear leg space, though rear head room is less generous. Controls are conspicuous and smooth-operating, and the air conditioner operates in all vent modes. No gauge is unobstructed, but the tachometer in the ZX3 and SSTs lacks a redline. Large front-door frames ease entry/exit, but rear doors don't open all that far. Cargo holds are generous, and rear seats flip/fold flat. Liftover are low, and the sedan's trundled hinges don't intrude into luggage space. Some test models have had poor-fitting interior panels.
Value for the Money
Less refined than a class-leading Honda Civic and not as polished as the more conservative Toyota Corolla, the Focus offers more room, style, and body types than any competitor. Despite timid engines, it's also fun to drive. Word of advice: Don't buy a small car without checking out the Focus, but avoid trouble-prone 2000 models.
Less refined than a class-leading Honda Civic and not as polished as the more conservative Toyota Corolla, the Focus offers more room, style, and body types than any competitor. Despite timid engines, it's also fun to drive. Word of advice: Don't buy a small car without checking out the Focus, but avoid trouble-prone 2000 models.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Ford Focus LX sedan Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Ford Focus includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Focus .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Climate control:
The ventilation system may make fluttering noises when using the panel/defrost setting due to a problem with the linkage or whistle when the blower is running due to a gap on the resistor mounting. (2000)
Engine noise:
Engine vibration while idling in reverse may be due to stones lodging in the rear, engine roll restrictor. (2000-05)
Fuel pump:
The fuel hose between the filler neck and tank may flake and clog. In-tank fuel filter and hoses are being replaced under a recall. (2000)
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (2000-2002)
Vehicle noise:
The right motor mount could break due to defective hardware resulting in noise, vibration, and possible driveshaft damage. Redesigned mounts were being installed under a recall. (2000)
Water leak:
Rough engine running in wet weather caused by water leaking onto wiring from gap near center joint in cowl grille. (2000-02)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $650 |
| Alternator | $410 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,200 |
| Brakes | $455 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $410 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $850 |
| Exhaust System | $650 |
| Radiator | $475 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $130 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $350 |
Our price chart for this generation Ford Focus details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2004 | |||
| Focus SE, ZTS, ZX5, ZTW | $6,100-7,300 | $5,300-6,400 | $2,600-3,100 |
| Focus SVT | $8,200-9,000 | $7,400-8,100 | $4,200-4,600 |
| Focus ZX3, LX | $5,300-6,200 | $4,600-5,300 | $2,200-2,500 |
| 2003 | |||
| Focus SE, ZTS, ZX5, ZTW | $5,000-6,000 | $4,300-5,100 | $2,000-2,400 |
| Focus SVT | $6,800-7,500 | $6,100-6,700 | $3,200-3,500 |
| Focus ZX3, LX | $4,300-5,100 | $3,600-4,200 | $1,500-1,700 |
| 2002 | |||
| Focus SE, ZTS, ZX5, ZTW | $4,000-4,700 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| Focus SVT | $5,500-6,200 | $4,700-5,300 | $2,300-2,500 |
| Focus ZX3, LX | $3,500-4,200 | $2,800-3,400 | $900-1,100 |
| 2001 | |||
| Focus SE, ZTS | $3,400-4,000 | $2,700-3,200 | $900-1,000 |
| Focus ZX3, LX | $2,900-3,600 | $2,200-2,700 | $700-800 |
| 2000 | |||
| Focus SE, ZTS | $3,000-3,600 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-800 |
| Focus ZX3, LX | $2,600-3,200 | $1,900-2,400 | $500-700 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Ford Focus include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door hatchback | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.0 | 103.0 | 103.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 168.1 | 174.9 | 178.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.9 | 66.9 | 66.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.3 | 56.3 | 57.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2551 | 2564 | 2707 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 18.5 | 12.9 | 55.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.2 | 13.2 | 13.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | 39.3 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.1 | 43.1 | 43.1 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.7 | 38.5 | 40.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.6 | 37.6 | 37.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||
Powertrain Options and Availability
In 2000, two engines were offered, both 4-cylinders: A 110-horsepower single overhead-cam 2.0-liter, and a twincam 2.0-liter that produced 130 horsepower. Both engines could have either a 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. Focus SVT hatchback carried a 170-hp 2-liter 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual transmission. Added in 2004 was a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder with 145 horsepower. It could be had with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.3 / 138 | 145 | 149 | 5-speed manual: 25/33 4-speed automatic: 24/30 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 22.3 |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 170 | 145 | 5-speed manual: 25/34 | 5-speed manual: 22.8 |
| ohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 110 | 125 | 5-speed manual: 28/38 4-speed automatic: 27/35 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 130 | 135 | 5-speed manual: 25/34 4-speed automatic: 24/32 |
5-speed manual: 26.5 4-speed automatic: 23.2 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Mexico
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Ford Focus include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 Focus |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2000-2004 Ford Focus directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000 w/speed control:
Control-cable core wire could catch on sleeve at cable end during wide-open throttle acceleration, preventing throttle from returning to idle.
2000:
Decklid wire harness on certain cars can fatigue and develop broken wires, resulting in loss of individual lamp functions or electrical short.
2000:
Hub retaining nuts can loosen, allowing left rear wheel and brake-drum assembly to separate.
2000-01 wagon and hatchback:
In certain vehicles with folding 60/40 second seat, when the 60-percent portion is folded down and load is applied to front edge of load floor, outboard-hinge pivot could disengage.
2000-01:
A switch located in the plastic cover of the wiper-motor gear case could malfunction and overheat, potentially resulting in loss of wiper function or fire.
2000-01:
Cars equipped with Zetec engines may have faulty battery cables, causing a short to occur, and possibly resulting in the illumination of the check-engine light and fire. Dealer will inspect and replace affected part.
2000-01:
On certain cars, bolts in the steering knuckle may become loose, resulting in vibration and eventual decrease in steering control. Dealer will inspect and tighten all loose bolts.
2000-04 four-/five-door:
Build-up of corrosion at pawl pivot area of rear door latch on certain cars sold or registered in specified states can cause binding; if not latched properly, the door may open while vehicle is moving.
2001:
Contanimation of fuel-filter delivery module can block fuel flow to the engine, causing stalling.
2001:
Seatback recliner handle spring on some vehicles could be damaged, causing seatback to be loose or to recline unexpectedly.
2002 SVT:
Throttle may not return to the closed position when the accelerator is released. It may be necessary to depress the clutch and apply the brake to stop the vehicle.
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