2003 Ford Focus

Introduction

The 2003 Ford Focus is a compact car available in sedan and hatchback body styles. It comes with multiple engine and transmission options, including a 2.0L Duratec HE four-cylinder with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, and a 2.3L Duratec HE four-cylinder with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The Focus is praised for its handling, fuel efficiency, and affordability, but criticized for its cramped interior and lack of features.

Engine

2.0L Duratec HE Four-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Runner Valve Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, stalling, and rough idling. Solution: Replace intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+ Recalls: N/A

• Timing Belt Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine timing can be skipped or lost, causing catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Replace timing belt and associated components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: N/A

2.3L Duratec HE Four-Cylinder

• Overheating Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating due to a faulty thermostat or radiator. Solution: Replace thermostat or radiator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: N/A

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Transmission Noise Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noises during shifting. Solution: Replace transmission bearings or gears. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ Recalls: N/A

Four-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, erratic shifting, or no engagement. Solution: Replace shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure Description/Symptoms: Noises while turning, clunking sounds, or loose steering. Solution: Replace control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: N/A

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure Description/Symptoms: Poor handling, bouncy ride, or uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead prematurely. Solution: Check for parasitic draw and repair or replace faulty components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ Recalls: N/A

• Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions, or no charging. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Sunroof Panel Leaking Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof panel. Solution: Replace sunroof seal or panel. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: N/A

• Trunk Lid Alignment Issues Description/Symptoms: Trunk lid does not close or align properly. Solution: Adjust or replace trunk lid latch or hinges. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: N/A

Interior

• A/C System Malfunction Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not cooling properly or blowing hot air. Solution: Replace or repair compressor, condenser, evaporator, or other A/C components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: N/A

• Cruise Control Failure Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not working or engaging properly. Solution: Replace or repair cruise control switch or module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: N/A

Summary

The 2003 Ford Focus is a reliable and affordable vehicle, but it has a few common issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems, such as intake manifold runner valve failure and timing belt failure, can cause serious engine damage if not addressed promptly. Transmission noise and shift solenoid failure are also potential issues, especially in higher-mileage vehicles. Owners should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used 2003 Ford Focus and factor in the cost of potential repairs.