2018 Ford Focus Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The dual-clutch transmission is a frequent source of problems, leading to shuddering, slipping, and harsh shifts, often appearing early in the vehicle's life.
- Engine issues, including oil pump failures, are critical and have led to recalls with potential for engine replacement.
- Fuel system problems, such as issues with the canister purge valve, can cause stalling, posing a safety risk.
- Despite a strong safety rating, the prevalence of powertrain and engine failures elevates ownership risk and potential repair costs.
2018 Ford Focus
The 2018 Ford Focus presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts a top-tier 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, its reliability is a significant concern, earning a 'Below Average' verdict. This is largely due to a high volume of complaints and recalls, particularly those affecting the powertrain and engine cooling systems. With 4 recalls and over 1000 complaints logged, potential buyers should be aware of the elevated risk of costly repairs, especially concerning the transmission and engine oil pump. The fuel economy is respectable, achieving a combined 22 MPG.
Critical Failure Risk
Hesitation, shuddering, violent shaking during acceleration, transmission slipping, grinding, harsh shifting.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy shoppers who are mechanically inclined or have a trusted mechanic willing to thoroughly inspect the **powertrain** and **fuel system** before purchase.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Anyone seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or who cannot afford unexpected, potentially costly repairs.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Ford Focus Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Ford Focus.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 22
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 277 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 213 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: N/A
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Ford Focus reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Ford Focus is 5.5/10. Reliability score is 5.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 1,054.
How practical is the 2018 Ford Focus for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Ford Focus?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Ford Focus is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 4.1/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Ford Focus?
Base MSRP is $21,470.
What engine is in the 2018 Ford Focus?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.3.
What transmission does the 2018 Ford Focus use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Focus, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 Focus require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Ford Focus?
EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Ford Focus?
7 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Ford Focus?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Focus, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Ford Focus?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Focus, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Ford Focus use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Focus, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Ford Focus?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2018 Ford Focus good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2018 Ford Focus (US market) is a compact car that, while offering decent fuel economy and handling, is plagued by significant reliabilit... Popular platforms: Focus ST, Focus RS.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2018 Ford Focus?
Top complaint category: power train (277 reports, 26.3% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Ford Focus?
This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.