2002 Ford Focus

The 2002 Ford Focus was a popular compact car known for its sporty handling and European-inspired design. Engine choices included a 2.0L SOHC 8-valve inline-4 engine producing 110 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L DOHC 16-valve Zetec inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0L DOHC 16-valve SVT inline-4 producing 170 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque was also available. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praised the Focus for its fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and affordability. Common complaints included issues with reliability, particularly with the automatic transmission, and some interior trim quality.

Engine

2.0L SOHC 8-valve Inline-4

• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder head due to weak threads, leading to a misfire, loud popping noise, and potential damage to the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the cylinder head. Some owners have successfully used thread repair kits (Heli-Coil) as a temporary fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Zetec Inline-4

• PCV Hose Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The PCV hose deteriorates and cracks, causing a vacuum leak. Symptoms include rough idle, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV hose.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC 16-valve SVT Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4F27E)

• Erratic Shifting/Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, complete transmission failure. This is a common issue on the 4F27E transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (MTX-75)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Coil Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear coil springs break, leading to a sagging rear end and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster may malfunction, displaying incorrect information or failing completely.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator fails to provide enough power to vehicle, resulting in battery light, dimming headlights, and eventually a no start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles break, particularly in cold weather, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner begins to sag and detach from the roof.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Focus, while offering good handling and fuel economy, suffers from several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most serious issues relate to the automatic transmission, which can experience premature failure. Spark plug blowouts in the SOHC engine and electrical failures, particularly with the instrument cluster, are also significant concerns. Suspension and interior issues, while less severe, can also contribute to overall ownership costs. Repair costs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like PCV hose replacement to more substantial expenses like transmission replacement. Be sure to carefully inspect a prospective purchase for these issues and factor potential repair costs into the overall budget.