Average Reliability
2008 Ford Focus Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Known Issues — 2008 Ford Focus
CRITICAL
Driver air bag module may have been improperly assembled and fail to deploy properly
MODERATE
Door latches fail or doors open on their own, including front door latches that will not open from outside
MODERATE
Throttle problems: accelerator sticks or does not respond, sometimes with a wrench or reduced-power warning
What to Inspect
- Ask for proof the driver air bag recall was completed and confirm the air bag light behaves normally
- Open and close every door from inside and outside several times; each should latch with one firm push
- Press the accelerator through its range and watch for lag, a stuck pedal or a wrench or check-engine light
- Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open campaign has been repaired
- Ask for the full service history and match it to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule
Maintenance costs to expect
| Service | Interval | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Oil change | every 7,500 miles or 6 months | $35-$60 |
| Tire rotation | every 7,500 miles | $25-$50 |
| Engine air filter | every 30,000 miles | $20-$40 |
| Fuel filter | every 30,000 miles | $60-$120 |
| Spark plugs | every 90,000 miles | $80-$150 |
| Engine coolant | at 105,000 miles or 72 months, then every 45,000 miles or 36 months | $100-$180 |
| Transmission fluid (4-speed automatic) | every 60,000 miles | $120-$200 |
| PCV valve | every 105,000 miles | $25-$60 |
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