2002 Ford Focus

Introduction

The 2002 Ford Focus is a compact car available with several engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 2.0L Zetec inline-four, which produces 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 2.3L Duratec inline-four (145 horsepower, 155 lb-ft of torque) and a 2.0L Duratec HE inline-four (150 horsepower, 140 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options include a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

The Focus is praised for its fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and affordability. However, it has received criticism for its cramped interior and lack of features.

Engine

2.0L Zetec

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak from the intake manifold area, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Sticking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Clean or replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Duratec

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine failure if belt breaks
  • Solution: Replace timing belt according to manufacturer’s maintenance schedule
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Duratec HE

• VCT Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, reduced power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace VCT solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Hydraulic System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, clutch pedal goes to the floor
  • Solution: Replace clutch master or slave cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fails to engage gears or slips between gears
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise, vibration, and handling issues while driving
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, particularly after sitting overnight
  • Solution: Test for parasitic drain and repair as necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Locks Freezing:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks become inoperable due to moisture freezing in lock cylinders
  • Solution: Apply de-icer or lubricate lock cylinders
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Recline Lever Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat recliner lever breaks or becomes inoperable
  • Solution: Replace seat recliner lever
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits develop on the dashboard
  • Solution: Cover the cracks with a dashboard cover or replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Focus has several common issues, ranging from moderate to severe. Engine problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and timing belt failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, like slipping gears, may also require significant repairs. Electrical problems, such as alternator failure and battery drain, can cause inconvenience and frustration.

While some issues, such as door lock freezing and dashboard cracking, are relatively minor, they can still affect the overall ownership experience. It is important to weigh these potential problems against the Focus’s strengths, such as its fuel efficiency and affordability, when considering purchasing one.