2016 Ford Focus Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Powertrain issues, especially with the automatic transmission (shuddering, slipping, stalling), are the primary concern and a significant ownership risk.
- Despite a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, the vehicle has 8 recalls, indicating potential manufacturing or design flaws.
- Inspect the transmission system meticulously; a history of early-life failures suggests potential for costly repairs.
- The 2016 Focus is rated 'Below Average' for reliability, making it a purchase that requires a high degree of buyer diligence.
2016 Ford Focus
Critical Failure Risk
The most prevalent issue reported for the 2016 Ford Focus involves the powertrain, specifically the transmission. This includes problems with the dual-clutch (DPS6) automatic transmission, often referred to as PowerShift. Complaints range from shuddering and slipping to complete failure. Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) address clutch issues, software glitches, and potential transmission control module (TCM) problems. Early detection and addressing software updates or clutch wear are critical.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 350HP
- Torque
- 350 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and small boot.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Mechanically inclined buyers comfortable with diagnostics and repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Shoppers seeking a dependable, low-maintenance vehicle.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Ford Focus Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Ford Focus.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 350 hp
- Torque
- 350 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 22
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 602 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 222 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Synthetic 5W-30) (Parts: Synthetic 5W-30 Engine Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Ford Focus reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Ford Focus is 5.0/10. Reliability score is 5.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 1,518.
How practical is the 2016 Ford Focus for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and small boot. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 260 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Ford Focus?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Ford Focus is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Tuning 8.0/10. Practicality 4.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Ford Focus?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Synthetic 5W-30) (Parts: Synthetic 5W-30 Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Control Module (TCM) (typical at 65,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).
What engine is in the 2016 Ford Focus?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.3. Output is 350 hp • 350 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2016 Ford Focus use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Focus, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2016 Focus require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Ford Focus?
EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Ford Focus?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2016 Ford Focus?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Focus, fuel economy range is 19-25 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2016 Ford Focus?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Focus, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2016 Ford Focus?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Focus, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Ford Focus use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Focus, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Ford Focus?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2016 Ford Focus good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 8/10. The 2016 Ford Focus RS is a performance-oriented hatchback that presents a compelling platform for enthusiasts seeking to enhance its alread... Popular platforms: Ford Focus RS.
Should I tune the 2016 Ford Focus?
The Ford Focus RS is a performance-oriented hatchback with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, making it a prime candidate for tuning. It has a strong aftermarket presence, a dedicated cult following, and is known for its tunability, especially with its EcoBoost engine. The RS model is specifically designed for performance enthusiasts, aligning with the criteria for a \
How to get more than 350 hp out of a 2016 Ford Focus?
Tuning potential is rated 8/10, indicating headroom beyond the factory 350 hp output.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2016 Ford Focus?
Top complaint category: power train (602 reports, 39.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Ford Focus?
This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.