While trucks and SUVs remain the heart of its volume and profits, Ford is currently moving to reassert its presence in the car-based side of the market. To that end, its smallest and most fuel-efficient U.S. entry, the Focus, receives a major revamp for 2008 that enhances its appearance, dynamics, safety and features while helping it shed roughly 30 pounds in the process. Although basic platform engineering carries over, new sheetmetal and cabin appointments make a far bolder visual statement that’s suitably complemented by an improved roster of standard equipment in all three trim levels: S, SE and SES. The chassis and powertrain also receive some functional massaging aimed at raising the appeal of this affordable and efficient car as it faces off against prime competitors, such as the Chevrolet Cobalt, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Used 2008 Ford Focus Pricing
Ford’s aggressive pricing schedule has both the Focus S coupe and sedan with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of less than $15,000, including destination fees. Even a fully-loaded SES four-door will just touch the $22,000 mark. Ford’s efforts at improving both the features and driving experience have helped bolster residual values across the entire Focus line. However, while it’s now virtually equal to a Chevrolet Cobalt in that department, the Focus is still not on par with Japanese foes, such as the Honda Civic, Mazda3 or Toyota Corolla. In the long run, expect SE and SES models to do slightly better than the S when it comes time to sell or trade.
Driving the Used 2008 Ford Focus
Handling has always been a Focus strong suit, and the comprehensive revamp of its fully independent suspension, coupled with a stiffer body structure, adds even more poise and control in that department. A rear anti-roll bar, Euro-style chassis tuning and larger 16-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in premium Pirelli tires make the SES the standout player as the roads get twistier, but all of those items are also included in the SE Deluxe Package. Larger, lighter front disc and rear drum brakes improve stopping power, and all models also offer an available anti-lock system with traction control. Improved sound proofing and better overall isolation help cut cabin noise levels by eight percent, helped by a new acoustic windshield and thicker side glass. While not the quickest car in its class, the 2008 Focus does deliver decent gas mileage, which should please those who favor efficiency over exhilaration.
Interior Comfort
Inside, the Focus gains functionality and boasts upgraded materials. The old "organic" dash contouring gives way to a more traditional—and more attractive—design, netting improved storage spaces, better-positioned controls and attractive ice-blue backlighting. Gauge faces are black on the S and white on SE and SES models, and a dash-top display graces the interior of all models. The large central accent panel, tan or black on S and SE, has an upscale brushed-nickel finish on the SES. Redesigned bucket seats provide more comfort and support up front, while the 60/40-split rear bench can handle two average-sized adults or three kids and adds utility to the 13.8 cubic-foot trunk.
Exterior Styling
The restyled Focus borrows design cues from the more angular Edge and Fusion, gaining crisply-chiseled character lines and a chrome bar grille that help align it more closely with other Ford vehicles. Base S models come with 15-inch steel wheels; the SE gets alloy rims of the same size while SES variants move up to 16-inchers. Chrome faux side vents add a bit of bling to the front quarter panels of SE/SES models and the top-line Focus also swaps black door handles and side mirrors for body-color alternatives and gets a subtle rear decklid spoiler.
Favorite Features
SYNC In-car Communications System Optional Leather Upholstery
Developed in conjunction with Microsoft, this state-of-the-art in-car hands-free cell phone and personal media player interface is remarkably functional and amazingly affordable at $395.
Available on SES models, with or without heated front bucket seats, it adds a touch of class to the interior of either the coupe or sedan.
Standard Features
Even the Focus S boasts a respectable basic roster of features, including new high-efficiency air conditioning, a tilt steering column, dual 12-volt powerpoints and front, front-side and side-curtain airbags. It also includes an AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system with auxiliary audio input. Both SE and SES add power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless remote, driver information center and unique alloy wheels (15-inch on SE and 16-inch on SES). Moving up to the SES adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control switchgear, upgraded interior trim, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, fog lamps and the slick SYNC in-car communications system.
Factory Options
All models can be fitted with anti-lock brakes and traction control, an electrochromic rearview mirror—with or without Homelink and compass—remote starting for cars with automatic transmission and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The SE offers the Driver’s Group Package (cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls, electrochromic rear-view mirror) and Deluxe Package (SES-level suspension/wheel/tire and interior trim upgrades, chrome door handles/mirror caps/exhaust tip). Premium (80-watt) and Audiophile (290-watt) sound system upgrades—each with a six-disc CD changer—a power moonroof and factory-installed ambient interior lighting are SE and SES options. SE buyers also can add SYNC while the SES alone offers leather upholstery.
Engine & Transmission
The Focus offers two variations on the existing 2.0-liter twin-cam Duratec 20 four-cylinder engine. In Federal form, an improved intake manifold and cooling system help bump output from 132 to 140 horsepower—whether it’s paired with the standard five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. The "California-spec" engine, mandated in five states, makes only 132 horsepower but qualifies for Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) status. While both engines get similar fuel economy numbers in the city, the manual gearbox raises the official highway number from 33 to 35 mpg. Choosing to shift for yourself also results in a bit more spirited acceleration; but even with the automatic, any Focus can cope with in-town traffic and freeway on-ramps. 2.0-liter in-line 4
140 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
136 lb-ft of torque @ 4250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/35 (manual), 24/33 (automatic)
2.0-liter in-line 4
132 horsepower @ 6000 rpm (PZEV)
133 lb-ft of torque @ 4250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/33 (manual), 24/33 (automatic)
KBB Vehicle Review and Rating Methodology
Our Expert Ratings come from hours of both driving and number crunching to make sure that you choose the best car for you. We comprehensively experience and analyze every new SUV, car, truck, or minivan for sale in the U.S. and compare it to its competitors. When all that dust settles, we have our ratings. We require new ratings every time an all-new vehicle or a new generation of an existing vehicle comes out. Additionally, we reassess those ratings when a new-generation vehicle receives a mid-cycle refresh — basically, sprucing up a car in the middle of its product cycle (typically, around the 2-3 years mark) with a minor facelift, often with updates to features and technology. Rather than pulling random numbers out of the air or off some meaningless checklist, KBB’s editors rank a vehicle to where it belongs in its class. Before any car earns its KBB rating, it must prove itself to be better (or worse) than the other cars it’s competing against as it tries to get you to spend your money buying or leasing.
Our editors drive and live with a given vehicle. We ask all the right questions about the interior, the exterior, the engine and powertrain, the ride and handling, the features, the comfort, and of course, about the price. Does it serve the purpose for which it was built? (Whether that purpose is commuting efficiently to and from work in the city, keeping your family safe, making you feel like you’ve made it to the top — or that you’re on your way — or making you feel like you’ve finally found just the right partner for your lifestyle.)
We take each vehicle we test through the mundane — parking, lane-changing, backing up, cargo space and loading — as well as the essential — acceleration, braking, handling, interior quiet and comfort, build quality, materials quality, reliability.
More About How We Rate Vehicles
FAQs
What is 2008 Ford Focus worth? ›
2008 Ford Focus Value - $1,006-$4,939 | Edmunds.
How many miles does a 2008 Ford Focus last? ›The Ford Focus is a reliable vehicle that can, with proper maintenance, last up to 200,000 miles.
What are the main problems on the 2008 Ford Focus? ›What Common Problems Does the 2008 Ford Focus Have? Problems found with the 2008 Focus include rear suspension noise, ignition switch failures, and the transmission slipping out of gear. Rear suspension noise is the most common complaint showing up at around 40,000 miles.
What are the most common problems with Ford Focus? ›- Engine Misfire. Problem: ...
- Engine Cuts Out. Problem: ...
- Air-bag problems. Problem: ...
- Brake hose problems. Problem: ...
- Oil filler cap problemOil filler cap problem. Problem: ...
- Door latch problem. Problem: ...
- Alternator problem. Problem: ...
- Key Stuck in Ignition. Problem:
Ford's DSP6 PowerShift transmission, first installed in 2012–2016 Ford Focus and 2011–2016 Ford Fiesta cars, had numerous engineering flaws and defects that its resulting problems caused several lawsuits and a federal investigation.
How much should a Ford Focus cost? ›The base price for a 2021 Ford Focus is $29,990.
What is considered high mileage for a 2008 car? ›The average amount of miles put on a vehicle every year is between 10,000 and 15,000 miles. Anything above this is considered high mileage.
What is a good mileage for a used car 2008? ›To determine whether a car has reasonable mileage, you can simply multiply 12,000 by its age. That means good mileage for a car that's 5 years old is 60,000. Significantly more or fewer miles could indicate a problem or trouble in the future.
How often should a Ford Focus timing belt be changed? ›| Ford Model | Cambelt Change Intervals |
|---|---|
| Ford Focus Cambelt Change | Every 144,000 miles or 10 years |
| Ford Focus RS Cambelt Change | Every 125,000 miles or 10 years |
| Ford Focus Vignale Cambelt Change | Every 144,000 miles or 10 years |
| Ford KA+ Cambelt Change | Every 150,000 miles or 10 years |
Petrol models
We've been impressed by 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol that's now common across the Ford model range. The more potent 153bhp version is the one to go for if you can afford it because it betters the 123bhp engine for fuel economy and performance.
Is there a recall on 2008 Ford Focus? ›
' THE DRIVER AIR BAG MODULE MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY ASSEMBLED. THIS CONDITION MAY PREVENT THE DRIVER AIR BAG FROM PROPERLY DEPLOYING AND REDUCE OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. DEALERS WILL REPLACE YOUR DRIVER AIR BAG MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 20, 2007.
Why did Ford stop making the Focus? ›The final factory that is producing the Focus, the Saarlouis plant in Germany, will stop making the fourth-generation Focus come 2025. With declining sales due to the shift towards SUVs, the Focus will cease production.
What year Ford Focus is being recalled? ›Fuel system, gasoline: Storage
Recall no. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012 and 2017 Focus vehicles equipped with 2.0L GDI gasoline engines and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles equipped with 2.0L GTDI engines, previously recalled under 18V-735.
Who can join the Ford Focus Class Action Lawsuit? The 2022 Ford transmission lawsuit includes anyone in the United States who has leased or purchased a 2017-2019 Ford Fiesta or a 2017-2018 Ford Focus vehicle with DPS6 clutch transmission systems.
Is it worth it to buy a Ford Focus? ›Consumer Reports does not recommend that any shopper looks at a used Ford Focus model because of the low-reliability scores found throughout many model years. Even models, such as the 2018 model year that did not have as many widespread issues still hold low scores for the overall quality.
What years did Fords have transmission problems? ›The problem goes back three years and involves the transmissions. It concerns the 2012, 13 and 14 Ford Focus and the Ford Fiesta.
How do you qualify for a Ford Focus buyback? ›You qualify for a repurchase if: (1) you are entitled to a repurchase under your state's lemon laws; or (2) you have had four separate Transmission Hardware Replacements while you owned or leased the vehicle and within 5 years/60,000 miles (whichever comes first) and your vehicle's transmission continues to malfunction ...
How much would a used Ford Focus sell for? ›Prices for a used Ford Focus currently range from $1,900 to $47,900, with vehicle mileage ranging from 2,090 to 325,757.
What is good mileage for used Ford Focus? ›A used Ford Focus typically offers a fuel economy range of 36 to 83 miles per gallon. However, this is dependent on the version and condition of the vehicle. For shorter journeys, the 1.0-litre 125 EcoBoost petrol engine comes recommended.
What is the lifespan of a Ford Focus? ›With proper maintenance, the Ford Focus will drive for 200,000 miles without needing any expensive replacements. This means that a new Ford Focus has a life expectancy of about thirteen to sixteen years if you drive an average of 15,000 miles a year.
At what mileage should I sell my car? ›
30,000-40,000 miles: Most manufacturers' general warranties expire in that range, and the first major maintenance is usually due. Selling before reaching those benchmarks may get you the best price for your car.
What age is best to buy used car? ›What's the “Sweet Spot” for Used Car Age? In retaining “like new” quality and inheriting a slower depreciation rate, the best used car age for buying is 2-3 years. In fact, Americans are saving up to $14,000 on a 3-year-old vehicle.
How many miles should a 2008 car have on it? ›The average ten-year-old car should have around 120,000 miles on the odometer, anything significantly more or less could indicate trouble brewing.
Is it worth buying an old car with low mileage? ›Unusually Low Miles are OK
Generally speaking, it's a great decision to buy low-mileage used cars, even if the mileage seems unusually low.
So, which is more important: mileage or age? The answer is that they both matter. Both mileage and age can affect the value of a car – mileage should reflect the car's age so it will be easy to see many more miles than usual it has been driven.
What is too high for car mileage? ›What is Considered High-Mileage? Typically, putting 13,000 to 14,000 miles on your car per year is viewed as “average.” A car that is driven more than that is considered high-mileage. With proper maintenance, cars can have a life expectancy of about 200,000 miles.
Are Ford Focus engines reliable? ›The Ford Focus Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 27th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $569 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both fairly average when compared with all other vehicles.
Does Ford Focus have timing belt or chain? ›Answer. Hi Dave, Our information is that this car has a timing belt. It should be changed at least every 125,000 miles (201,000km) or every 12 years.
Which model of Ford is best? ›- 2022 Ford Escape. Pros. Smooth ride. ...
- 2023 Ford Explorer. Pros. Broad range of styles and configurations. ...
- 2023 Ford F‑150. Pros. High tow and payload ratings. ...
- 2023 Ford Bronco Sport. Pros. Rugged looks. ...
- 2023 Ford Maverick. Pros. Pickup capability at a low price. ...
- 2023 Ford Mustang Mach‑E. Pros.
Worn Seals or Gaskets: The exhaust system has quite a few seals and gaskets and if they are failing it can cause the engine to run louder, and sputter at times. Over time, gaskets and seals will wear down and eventually have to be replaced.
What is the most reliable engine? ›
- 8 Honda B Series Engine.
- 7 Honda K Series Engine.
- 6 Lexus 1UZFE Engine.
- 5 Lexus 2UR-GSE Engine.
- 4 BMW M57 Diesel Engine.
- 3 Nissan RB26DETT Engine.
- 2 Mercedes-Benz OM617 Diesel Engine.
- 1 General Motors LS Engine.
Can a Ford recall expire? Safety, Compliance, and Emissions Recalls do not expire. Affected vehicles remain eligible until the repair is completed. Other types of vehicle programs, called Customer Satisfaction Programs, typically have expiration dates and/or mileage limitations.
Does a 2008 Ford Focus have a timing belt or chain? ›The 2008 Ford Focus 1.6 appear engine appear to have a timing belt, the 2.0 duratec engine has a chain.
Do recalls expire at Ford? ›Ford Customer Satisfaction Programs usually have expiration dates or mileage limitations; however, compliance, emissions, and safety recalls do not expire, and your car remains eligible until recall repairs are completed.
What can I buy instead of a Ford Focus? ›- Volkswagen Golf. The Volkswagen Golf is sure to be found in any list of family hatchbacks. ...
- Vauxhall Astra. The Vauxhall Astra has long been the sensible, practical and affordable choice. ...
- Honda Civic. ...
- Peugeot 308. ...
- Skoda Octavia. ...
- Nissan Qashqai. ...
- Mazda 3. ...
- Kia Ceed.
Ford has announced that it will stop producing the Focus in 2025 as it turns its focus to electric vehicles.
Why is Ford Focus not sold in the US? ›Sadly, it seems that the time has come for the Ford Focus to bow out. Ford has already stopped the sales of Focus in many parts of the world, including the USA, due to its increased 'focus' on SUVs and crossovers over sedans and hatchbacks.
What is the most recalled car brand? ›Topping the list for the most recalls last year, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), is Ford. According to new NHTSA stats, Ford issued 67 recalls in 2022. Volkswagen had the second highest number of recalls, followed by Daimler Trucks North America and Chrysler.
How much is Ford buying back Focus? ›The company disclosed in court documents in 2019 that Ford spent $47 million buying back 2,666 Ford Focus and Fiesta vehicles for an average of more than $17,000 each. More recently, lawyer Michael Resnick of Beverly Hills, California, settled more than 700 cases with confidential terms in the late summer, early fall.
How do I claim my settlement from Ford Focus? ›If you already filed a claim, please email the Court-approved claims administrator at: ClaimUpdate@FordTransmissionSettlement.com. Submit a claim. If you have your documents and are ready to submit your claim, please visit the claims portal on the settlement website. Learn more about the settlement benefits.
Has Ford fixed the Focus transmission problems? ›
Avoid buying a used Ford Focus made from 2012 to 2016. These have unreliable PowerShift transmissions. Stick to buying used Ford Focuses from 2017 or newer - Ford has fixed the transmission in more recent (2017 and later) models. Owners of these models report drastically fewer problems with their transmissions.
Is the 2008 Ford Focus a good car? ›The 2008 Ford Focus is much improved and still fun to drive. As a value-driven choice, it works very well, but those seeking a top small sedan or coupe should look elsewhere.
Is the Ford Focus a good buy? ›The driving appeal comes from a balance of sweet engines, fine steering, great cornering ability and a well-tuned ride. But success in a hatch isn't just about the drive. The Focus has the rest of the bases well covered too. It's one of the easiest cars to recommend as a daily driver, and for good reason too.
Why did Ford cancel the Focus? ›Due to the increasing focus on SUVs and electric vehicles, Ford will be phasing out the Focus gradually from the Chinese, Australian, and other remaining markets by 2025. Ford is not developing any replacement for the current-generation Focus, thus marking the end of the road for the Ford Focus in 2025.
Is it expensive to fix a Ford Focus? ›They are reliable cars that are suited to city life for pretty much anyone, from students to executives. Ford Focus repair costs can range between $180 and $5,000 as parts and labor costs for repairs can vary widely based on the part damaged and the extent of the damage.
How long does a timing belt last on a Ford Focus? ›Lower Prices: As one would expect, the resale value of Ford cars has dropped after the company ended its car production in the country. Thus for the value-conscious consumer, a good quality pre-owned Ford car can now be purchased at a very affordable price in India.