2003 Ford Focus Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.28/5 Average
353 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Minor changes are in store for the 2003 Ford Focus. Two new trim levels increase the breadth of prices for Ford's economy car; a base trim for the three door hatchback renders air conditioning optional and only comes with a manual transmission. For the five door hatchback, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, front reading lights and a center console are available when you step up to the comfort trim level from the base level. Heated front seats are a new option, as is a traction control and ABS package. New colors for the exterior brighten up the color palette, and the interior is freshened with two new fabric trims. Finally, a CD/MP3 player is now standard on the ZX3 and ZX5. A SVT version of the ZX5 is also scheduled to appear later in the year.

Pros:
  • Thoughtful ergonomics, large interior, smooth ride, sharp steering, impressive selection of body configurations and features.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 141 through 150 of 353.00
  • Ford Focus 2003 - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I have performed only standard maintenance on this auto since purchase. I placed tires on car at 33,000 miles. Car gets excellent mileage on highway and city driving. Only complaint is lack of power from 110 hp engine, adequate but only just.

  • Love My ZTS! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I owned a 01 ZTS for one year, and liked it so much I traded up for an 03 ZTS w/automatic, totally loaded. The driving dynamics are incredible. In an attempt to become more minimal, I just sold my 96 Porsche 911 and 01 Mercedes SLK this past year, so have some experience with nice cars. Of course the ZTS is not a 911 or SLK, but I dont feel like I stepped down from Cindy Crawford to Hillary Clinton. Still have long-term reliability concerns. Would like to think I got a good deal: Every-option ZTS, including Centential Package, with an extended 2 year b-to-b for an out-the-door price of $16,600.

  • Ford Focus 03 dohc - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Drove car off show room, never had a problem, except normal maintenaince. The car needs more power, a min.of 190hp to 210hp. The lack of power is a big draw back wth the Ford Focus.

  • Ford Fun Car... - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Great city and short range trip car. Tight! Quick, totally adaquate. Can steal a parking place in a heart beat! Handles great. Would definitely recomment or buy again. Plus good visibility.

  • I love this car! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Well, I have only had this car for a week now, but I love this car! Its so fun to drive and its peppy! I have had so many people say they love it! I really dont think I have had any issues or complaints about the vehicle! I would recommend this car to everyone who wants a sporty, fun car to drive with decent gas mileage!

  • Things to check - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    The experience has been good todate. A few modifications would help this vehicle.

  • Leave it curbside with your garbage! - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Ive always been wary of buying a Ford and now I know why. Its a mistake I will only make once. Hopefully its not too late for you! I purchased my 03 Focus 2 months ago with 19,000 miles. I have taken it in to the dealership 3 times now due to stalling problems and each time the dealership says there isnt a problem and does NOTHING, not even a courtesy car! My confidence in this vehicle and Ford as a whole is about as low as it gets.

  • 4 years and counting - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Im torn on this car. Ive had it for 4 years and had to replace the alternator today (cost $531.89 p/l). Like some other people, early in the purchase I had problems w/the ignition and had to have it replaced. I had to have the tires replaced too. Ive always made sure to service the vehicle and care for it as instructed, and other than the alternator, I havent had to deal w/any major repairs yet. For a lower end car, I think it has done pretty good.

  • Great Little Family Car - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    We area typical family, two adults and two kids. Our ZX5 is our only car and it is not a minivan but it us comfortable for all of us. The car handles well with great power for this class. for the 17 months we have had the car it has had no problems or recalls. We have not had the expected fuel economy but we always have a full load and live in Texas so the air is always. I have been very surprised how much space there is in the hatch with the seats down. Very flexible wth to 60/40 split rear seat.

  • 2003 Focus ZX3 - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I really do like the Focus, but too many problems, and I though 2003 vehicles had been fixed. I have had my car back 5 times having new rotors at 9000 miles, alignment problems, vibrations through through the steering wheel, water leaking in from the windsheild, radio, door latches sticking, exterior trim falling off. Its just not worth it...stay away from this vehicle. Ford does not accept any responsibility for the product!!!

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