Ford Focus Problems

There are four generations of Focus, built since 1998. If you cross-shop parts in between those four broad generations you stand a better chance of finding interchangeable parts.

The generations are, 1998-2005, 2004-2011, 2011-2018, and from 2018-on.

Whatever battery your particular model comes with, which should be written in the owner's manual.

The different engines used in Ford's differing Focus models require different specification batteries so I can't answer that question without more information.

It has a claimed average fuel consumption of 5.5 L/100 km, which is quite good. It would be fine for long trips. The only concern would be the problems associated with its dual-clutch automatic transmission.

A Trend hatch comes in a 1360kg while the Sport hatch is 1380kg, the Titanium models range between 1403kg (hatch) and 1409kg (sedan), the ST2 hatch is 1425kg, and the all-wheel-drive RS is 1575kg.

The RS because it has the biggest spoilers and makes whooshing noises when you drive fast. Of course, if you can't afford an RS buy the highest spec model you can afford.

The best times to buy are usually the end of the financial year, or at model run-out times, that's when the specials are on. The CVT and dual-clutch autos are both still unknowns in terms of long-term reliability, but either should be ok over the five years you plan to keep the car. Any of the cars you list, and the list is a long one, would be ok. It really comes down to what you like.

If you have a non-turbo Focus model I'd suggest looking to trade it in on a turbocharged ST or RS model Focus. These models can be easily upgraded to be made much faster, however before you modify your car you should talk to an engineering signatory in your local state to ascertain if the modifications are legal.

Press the start button with your foot on the brake, while you wiggle the wheel to the left and right.

Press the grooved buttons on the side of the smart key, then lever the raised centre section on the rear off. Pop the metal key out and, using a metal screwdriver split the key in half by inserting the screwdriver into a slot inside the end of the key. You can then access the battery, prising it out and replacing it.

Ford changed from the LW model to the LZ in 2015. The LW had a dual-clutch automatic, which was very problematic and should be avoided; the later LZ had a regular automatic transmission and has none of the problems that beset the LW. In short the LZ is worth buying, and can be compared to the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla for reliability.