For more than two decades, the Ford Focus attracted consumers through its affordability and fuel efficiency. But this economy car said its farewell to the U.S. market in 2022. The automaker decided to concentrate on more profitable SUVs and trucks, leading to several cars’ discontinuation.

So, is the Ford Focus reliable? Like any vehicle, this compact car isn’t immune to issues and requires regular maintenance to avoid problems. If you’re a current or prospective owner, here are the three most common Ford Focus problems you might encounter.

1. Broken motor mounts are the most common Ford Focus problem

When the motor mounts in used Ford Focus cars deteriorate or become worn, drivers might notice increased noise and vibrations, especially when the vehicle is idling. It’s one of the most common Ford Focus problems owners report on the consumer site RepairPal.

Owners have reported broken motor mounts in 12 model years from 2001 to 2013. The issue occurs between 10,700 through 464,114 miles, but the average mileage for this problem to strike is around 115,000.

The average cost to diagnose Ford Focus problems is $88 to $111. The technician will devise a diagnostic plan based on observed symptoms. According to RepairPal, a situation where the engine starts but stalls shortly after is a “start and stall” problem. The technician will follow a diagnostic process to uncover what’s causing the issue. And that’s just one possible cause.

If the motor mount must be replaced, the average cost is between $126 and $137, depending on the model year and other factors.

2. Engine hesitation/stumbling

Ford Focus owners have reported that the engine hesitates, stumbles, or loses power while driving. According to RepairPal, the exhaust gas recirculation valve (aka the EGR valve) could be damaged in more severe instances. In all cases, the check engine light will turn on, and the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) will generate and store diagnostic trouble codes. One commonly reported cause for this issue is the differential pressure feedback EGR sensor (DPFE), which can inaccurately measure the pressure of recirculated exhaust gases.

The problem has been noted in 14 Ford Focus model years from 2003 to 2016. While it can happen anywhere from 1 and 174,000 miles, on average, the problem shows up around 84,000 miles. Fixing the issue requires a diagnostic scan and figuring out which is the faulty sensor. Owners might have to replace the sensor and/or the EGR valve. RepairPal explains that in some Ford Focus models, the DPFE sensor is integrated into the EGR valve, meaning both must be replaced.

EGR valve replacement in a Ford Focus costs $205 to $232 on average.

3. Warped front brake rotors

The last of the top three Ford Focus problems are warped front brake rotors. One symptom of this issue is a steering wheel shimmy or vibration while driving. The brake rotors or brake discs are behind the front wheels and work with the brake pads to slow and stop the car.

When the rotors become warped, the contact surface between the brake pads and rotors becomes uneven. Then, whenever the driver applies the brakes, the uneven surface causes the steering wheel vibration. It could also be noticeable in the brake pedal or throughout the vehicle. 

The problem affects 12 Ford Focus models from 2000 through 2012. Owners have reported the issue from 17,100 to 299,000 miles but strikes on average at 115,000 miles. The repair involves replacing the brake pads and rotors, costing between $185 and $212.