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 181 through 190 of 353.00
  • Awesome car - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I bought my Focus brand new in 2003, it now has almost 77,000 miles on it and still going strong. Only thing I have had to have done is an all wheel alignment because of the roads I live on. The tires are a little expensive but I think Ford made a right choice with the tire size due to my experience with the Aspire the lower profile tires were a wise choice. I love this car, gets great gas mileage and drive good. It has been very reliable and couldnt have asked for a better car.

  • Aftermarket - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I love this car. I used to drive a mustang and let me tell you. This car handles and responds to driver input much better. Anyone can take this car and drive it fast through a corner. The only downfall i see from the factory is that it only has 130HP. The aftermarket, however, is plentiful. You will like this car.

  • Too Many Repairs - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Here I have a 2003 Ford Focus wagon with 52K miles. Decided to go on road trip had to be towed twice. Started smoking, Ford dealer said it was battery. Then it died again this time alternator replaced. Made it home and was told the a/c compressor is going. Real nice at this low mileage. In repair shop at least 7 times since I bought it. All about the brakes and rotors. No one could fix them right, still squeaked loudly. Final answer from mechanic that all Ford Focuss do this. Give me a break. I went to brake specialist and they fixed it. Doors sound like tin. Cant open left side passenger door. Just a piece of junk. The money Ive spent on this car I could have had a wonderful vacation.

  • Fun to drive - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I am really happy with my 03 Focus! It is a fun little car.The back seat has lots of room and is very comfortable.The trunk is huge.The metallic blue color is beautiful! I really love this car!

  • CD Silver Focus - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I enjoy this vehicle and the support Ford gives when purchasing from them. My Mom drives it more than I do because she enjoys the Focus that much more than her car. Ive never owned a new car and it was a very big deal for me. I looked at the Mazda Protege 5, Toyota Matrix and the Ford Focus. Style, options and fitting my 64" frame into the car was big consideration. I LOVE MY FORD FOCUS!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Fun for the Money - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    This is a very fun car. My only complaint is the low end torque. It is a little sluggish at low RPMs. Other that that, way to go SVT.

  • Practical Performer - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    Traded in an SUV for this car in the North East. Performs well in the wet/snow conditions. The ZTW has provided me with more than adequate storage space and power. It is nimble and quick with the ZETEC. Rear shocks needed to be replaced at 2000 miles; they have been fixed and have given me no problems since. I have driven the vehicle 26,000 problem free miles per year and it has been holding up very well.

  • quite a good car - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    I enjoy my new Focus. It is a confortable car and I like it. Still not confortable with the gas mileage...could be much better for this size car.

  • wow - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    im surprised at how bulletproof this car has been over the last year. my only gripe is that my gas mileage hovers around 23 MPG in all-city driving. but get out on the highway, and it goes to about 34.

  • Never Again - 2003 Ford Focus
    By -

    In the shop twice for transmission problems before 12,000 miles. Took 1/4 tank of gas and 2 hours to go 23 miles up hills recently while traveling on vacation.Thought the transmission was going to fall out. Back again last week for same transmission problem that was "repaired" 18,000 miles ago, only had to pay $100 deductible even though it is under full warranty. Afraid to drive up a hill because I am out of cash and cannot afford another $100 should it have to go back in the shop. I will never again have a Ford product and this one will be gone as soon as I make the last payment. Hello Toyota.

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