Ford Focus I (DAW) (1998 – 2004)

Reliability score : 7.5/10

The first-generation Ford Focus (codename DAW for the 3-door, DBW for the 5-door, DFW for the sedan, DNW for the wagon) marked a true revolution upon its release. Replacing the aging Escort, it introduced Ford's "New Edge" design and, most notably, an unprecedented multi-link rear suspension in its category ("Control Blade"). This innovation gave it exceptional road handling, combining comfort and dynamism, making it the benchmark in its segment for years (Voted Car of the Year 1999). A facelift (Phase 2) occurred in late 2001, bringing modified bumpers, turn signals integrated into the headlights, improved sound insulation, a redesigned center console, and the introduction of common rail diesel engines (TDCi). While the petrol engines (Zetec) proved to be extremely robust, the diesel vers

✅ Strengths

Exceptional road handling (Control Blade multi-link rear suspension)
Remarkable reliability of Zetec-SE and Zetec-E petrol engines
Precise and communicative hydraulic steering
Generous interior space and boot volume for its time
Exterior and interior design that has aged well (New Edge)
Negligible maintenance cost for petrol versions

⚠️ Weaknesses

Extreme susceptibility to rust (door bottoms, wheel arches, subframes)
Disastrous reliability of early TDCi diesels (Delphi pump, injectors, dual-mass flywheel)
Light sound insulation on Phase 1 (road and wind noise)
Quality of interior plastics on models before 2001
Recurring electrical problems (instrument cluster, central locking)

🎯 Verdict

The Ford Focus Mk1 is a true icon of the 2000s. If you're looking for an economical, fun-to-drive, and reliable "daily," the petrol versions (1.6 Zetec leading the way) are excellent choices, provided you find an example spared from rust. The chassis remains impressively effective even by current standards. However, steer clear of the diesel engines (TDDi and TDCi), whose repair costs (injection pump, flywheel) easily exceed the vehicle's current market value. In the United States, absolutely avoid the 2.0 SPI engine.

Common issues

Bobines d'allumage / Faisceau d'allumage défectueux Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 150 – 400 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien, remplacer les bougies et le faisceau si nécessaire.

Valve de régulation de ralenti (IAC) encrassée ou défectueuse Low

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 100 – 250 €

Nettoyer ou remplacer si le ralenti est instable ou si le moteur cale.

Fuites ou défaillance de la pompe de direction assistée Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux, vérifier le niveau de liquide de direction régulièrement.

Usure des silentblocs ou biellettes de barre stabilisatrice arrière Medium

🔧 90 000 – 160 000 km

💶 250 – 500 €

Tester la suspension, écouter les bruits de claquement sur routes dégradées.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£500 – 1 000
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.