Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Ford Focus Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

75/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

An economical compact with great driving dynamics, but only recommended with a manual transmission or a meticulously vetted automatic.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2004 Ford Focus?

The 2004 Ford Focus presents a compelling budget option, offering spirited handling and good fuel economy, but it carries a moderate risk profile primarily due to its problematic automatic transmission. While manual transmission models can be a surprisingly durable and economical choice, automatic variants demand rigorous pre-purchase inspection and a clear service history to mitigate significant repair costs down the line.

Biggest Strengths

  • Engaging driving dynamics for its class
  • Excellent fuel economy (especially manual)
  • Abundant and affordable parts availability

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2004 Ford Focus. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Automatic Transmission (4F27E)major
2
Rust and Corrosionmoderate
3
Engine Cooling Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

EQUIPMENT

RIDE CONTROL, LLC (RIDE CONTROL) IS RECALLING CERTAIN READYMOUNT ASSEMBLIES, P/N 746641MT AND 746646MT, WITH CORRESPONDING AFTERMARKET CUSTOMER PART NUMBERS: GABRIEL G56944 AND GABRIEL G56945, AND PRIVATELY BRANDED PARTSMASTER WITH PART NUMBERS G68944 AND G68945. THE READYMOUNT ASSEMBLIES WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET SERVICE EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2000 THROUGH 2005 FORD FOCUS VEHICLES. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH A NUT WITHOUT THE NECESSARY WASHER. THE ABSENCE OF THE WASHER CAN ALLOW THE READYMOUNT ASSEMBLY TO PULL APART THE TOP MOUNT.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH FOUR OR FIVE DOORS AND ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, A BUILD-UP OF CORROSION AT THE PAWL PIVOT AREA OF THE REAR DOOR LATCH CAN CAUSE A BINDING CONDITION OF THE PAWL THAT MAY AFFECT PROPER ENGAGEMENT OF THE PAWL INTO THE CATCH. THE OCCUPANT MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY OPENING OR CLOSING A REAR DOOR, AND EVENTUALLY THE REAR DOOR MAY NOT LATCH PROPERLY.

What breaks on the 2004 Ford Focus?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Ford Focus by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Ford Focus. Click any year for its full report.

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Relevant Products for Your 2004 Ford Focus

Parts and accessories matched to your 2004 Ford Focus

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Frequently Asked Questions

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