Isn't there an issue with the instrument cluster on early Focus'?

Is your budget to include Insurance? Possibly for a new driver? More facts needed.

1.6 petrol was about the best petrol engine in the Mark 1 Focus. Is smooth, quiet, will average about 40mpg, maybe 45 on the motorway. Has reasonably high top gear (pulls 23mph/1000rpm) for relaxed cruising. Low insurance. Goes quite well when revved over 4k. Good handling/ride balance, etc. Also good underbonnet access with the 1.6 engine for easy home servicing etc...

Look for:

i) Pollen filter housing at base of windscreen not sealed properly against the 'screen - water can get in.

ii) Corrosion of suspension components - the springs on my Focus were very rusty at 3 years old. Also check spring pans on lower wishbones as these are a rust trap. Check dampers for oil seepage/leakage.

iii) Check all electrics work OK. Check AC works cold if fitted (best if not in this price category).

iv) Check for service history and if correct oil (5W/30) used, as tappets used to gum up if thicker oil used.

v) Check instruments all working and no erratic lights/needles if buying circa '03 model, as well-known issue with dry solder joints in instrument pack at this time - mine failed but was £100 subsidised repair by Ford (aware of issue).

vi) Check for tailgate corrosion around bottom of rear window (under wiper), and around chrome trim on Ghia models. Check rear wheelarch lips for rust.

vii) Check wear on brakes, esp. front discs. Brakes fitted to Focus aren't great and need working hard.

viii) Does remote control key work?

ix) Usual stuff for any car: Service history? timing belt / tensioner changed? alloys bubbling/peeled (if fitted)? condition and tread depth of tyres, blue smoke from engine on cold start (& how well it starts), also when revved when warmed up? check underbonnet for fluid leaks,is stereo code provided and does stereo work? Test all lights, etc...

My experience with my Focus was that a number of smallish things failed (rear tailgate struts, CD player, drivers door handle, cam sensor, but they were generally cheap to fix and there were lots of cheap parts available new and from breakers on eBay. An advantage of buying a Ford.

HTH,

Ben