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

2017 Ford Focus Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade: C-

A fun-to-drive compact marred by its highly problematic automatic transmission; manual is the only truly safe bet.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2017 Ford Focus?

The 2017 Ford Focus presents a nuanced reliability picture; while offering engaging driving dynamics and decent fuel economy, its notorious PowerShift automatic transmission (DPS6) introduces significant long-term risk and a frustrating ownership experience. If you can secure a manual transmission variant, it transforms into a highly recommended compact, but the automatic transmission makes it a cautious recommendation at best, demanding thorough pre-purchase scrutiny.

Biggest Strengths

  • Engaging driving dynamics (especially manual models)
  • Good fuel efficiency from all engine options
  • Available SYNC 3 infotainment system is user-friendly

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2017 Ford Focus. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
PowerShift Automatic Transmission (DPS6)major
2
Engine (2.0L GDI)moderate
3
Electrical Systemminor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

8 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 2017 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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