2001 Ford Focus

The 2001 Ford Focus was a popular compact car known for its European-inspired handling and fuel efficiency. It came in various body styles, including a sedan, hatchback, and wagon. Engine options included a 2.0L SOHC inline-4 producing 110 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L DOHC Zetec inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praised its responsive steering and sporty feel, but common complaints included issues with reliability, particularly with the automatic transmission, and the quality of some interior materials.

Engine

2.0L SOHC (SPI) Inline-4

• Cracked Flexplate
  • Description/Symptoms: A cracked flexplate can cause a rattling or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially during idle or acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the flexplate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Vacuum Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy due to vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the vacuum leak by replacing cracked or damaged hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC (Zetec) Inline-4

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and a check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting/Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, and difficulty accelerating.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change can resolve the issue. However, more severe cases may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush and filter), $1,500 - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower on one side, clunking noises coming from the suspension, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken coil spring, often recommended to replace in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn struts/shocks, often recommended to replace in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic gauge readings, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster or repair of faulty wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, and a battery warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and lower door panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted panels, followed by painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (per panel, depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaching from the roof and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replacement or re-gluing of the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Ford Focus, while praised for its handling and fuel efficiency, is prone to several common issues. Engine issues are present in both engine options, and transmission problems with the automatic transmission are relatively frequent and potentially expensive. Suspension and electrical problems are also common. Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues, especially the condition of the transmission and the presence of rust.