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

2013 Ford Focus Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

62/ 100
HIGH RISK

Grade: D

A fun-to-drive compact utterly crippled by its problematic PowerShift automatic transmission, making it a high-risk proposition for most buyers.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2013 Ford Focus?

The 2013 Ford Focus is a vehicle with a split personality when it comes to reliability. While it offers engaging driving dynamics and good fuel economy with a manual transmission, the widespread, well-documented issues with the PowerShift automatic transmission make it a significant gamble. Proceed with extreme caution if considering an automatic model; otherwise, a manual-equipped Focus can offer decent value.

Biggest Strengths

  • Engaging handling and ride quality (especially compared to competitors)
  • Above-average fuel economy (manual transmission)
  • Solid interior design and material quality for its class

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2013 Ford Focus. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
PowerShift Automatic Transmissioncritical
2
Transmission Control Module (TCM)major
3
Electrical / SYNC Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles with a 2.0L GDI or 2.0L GTDI engine. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, possibly causing excessive vacuum in fuel vapor management system.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE

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. The affected vehicles did not have the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) updated as intended. Therefore, the Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, possibly causing excessive vacuum in the fuel vapor management system.

What breaks on the 2013 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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Frequently Asked Questions

Final Step

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