replaced alternator and now rear brake lights and blinkers are not working
car starts and front blinkers flash very fast and i have no back brake light or blinkers.
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2003 Ford Focus Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The 2003 Ford Focus continued to struggle with the line's reputation for quality issues and recalls. Despite its somewhat checkered history, the roomy interiors, smooth handling, and affordable price of the Focus line continued to appeal to American drivers looking for compact family transportation.
Buyers had a choice of several trims: the SE line, available in four-door wagon and sedan body models; a four-door LX sedan; and the performance-enhanced Z-line, which featured a two-door ZX3 hatchback, a four-door ZX5 hatchback, a four-door ZTS sedan and a four-door ZTW wagon. (The Focus was also offered as an SVT performance model, which you'll find elsewhere on this site.)
The standard models of the 2003 Ford Focus had a 2.0 liter, four-cylinder Zetec engine, which produced 110 horsepower; the Z-line models offered an enhanced overhead-cam version, which packed a more impressive 130 horsepower. Still, it wasn't power that was going to draw buyers to this line; value was the watchword that Ford emphasized in its marketing, and value was what people responded to.
The 2003 Ford Focus gives good value at the pumps, too, with 21-27 mpg city, 25-36 mpg highway. It may not set your heart aflutter, but it's easy on the pocketbook!
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2003 Ford Focus
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Anonymous
Oct 26, 2014
I love everything about my ford wagon. I've had her for over two years and she's been so reliable and wonderful. There is so much cargo room and the seats are very comfortable. Her transmission is gorgeous and her 2.3 l dohc gives her so much more pep in her step than a regular old wagon.Oct 26, 2014
by Anonymous
Mar 26, 2014
We bought this car brand new in 2003 on year end clearance. 183,000 miles later it has been the most reliable car we have ever owned. Fully independent suspension makes it very fun to drive despite lacking some power. Check engine light has never lit up yet. No issues whatsoever with this vehicle. Back seat is tight for adults, but seats fold down making lots of cargo room.Mar 26, 2014
by Sergio A
Feb 14, 2014
Fun to drive and parking was easy due to it's size great performance 2.3 CYL driving and gas consumption was always good. Over all it was a great commuter for work, school, and a weekend trip to the bay area.Feb 14, 2014
User rating:
by Anonymous
Oct 26, 2014
I love everything about my ford wagon. I've had her for over two years and she's been so reliable and wonderful. There is so much cargo room and the seats are very comfortable. Her transmission is gorgeous and her 2.3 l dohc gives her so much more pep in her step than a regular old wagon.Oct 26, 2014
by Anonymous
Mar 26, 2014
We bought this car brand new in 2003 on year end clearance. 183,000 miles later it has been the most reliable car we have ever owned. Fully independent suspension makes it very fun to drive despite lacking some power. Check engine light has never lit up yet. No issues whatsoever with this vehicle. Back seat is tight for adults, but seats fold down making lots of cargo room.Mar 26, 2014
by Sergio A
Feb 14, 2014
Fun to drive and parking was easy due to it's size great performance 2.3 CYL driving and gas consumption was always good. Over all it was a great commuter for work, school, and a weekend trip to the bay area.Feb 14, 2014
by Anonymous
Nov 07, 2013
Maintenance cost were fair, fuel economy was great, and it was a very dependable car. The biggest issue was the lack of cargo space, even though it is a small sedan, you can't fit hardly anything past a large suitcase in it.Nov 07, 2013
by Anonymous
Mar 16, 2013
Extremely reliable and normal replacement parts like tires, plugs, brake pads and filters are inexpensive. Never had any major issues or breakdowns with this car. Always worked, everyday. Gas mileage pretty good. Style and overall engine performance are lacking, but for the low price the reliability is worth it.Mar 16, 2013
by Krystle A
Feb 01, 2013
Great Starter car for students or someone who wants to watch their fuel economy. Great gas Mileage. As the car gets a little older you have to be sure to do regular maintenance to be sure that it will not break down on you. Feb 01, 2013
by Ryan B
Jun 22, 2012
I hate the look of it, but the seating and cargo capacity is very nice for loading things and people into it! Love the gas mileage I get, and I love the handling. It's a little loud but all things considered it's a pretty comfortable ride!Jun 22, 2012
by Stephen L
Nov 10, 2011
Performance - could be better if the chassis was lighter
Build Quality - this car is very well built, very few things to ever worry about when
owning one
Appearance - it definitely has a place in the design aspect of hatchback; nothing extraordinary but not ugly either
Cost - fair cheap to maintain
Fun - it has some fun elements when investing into modifications Nov 10, 2011
by Anonymous
Sep 29, 2011
I love this little Ford Focus! It's a great car, especially for someone who's looking to get good gas mileage and have a reliable piece of metal. Smooth ride and has been a fun car to drive. The manual transmission and sunroof make the car seem sporty!Sep 29, 2011
by Albert O
May 06, 2011
The 1.6 engine feels slow. The estate has a sizeable boot. Watch out for rust as
it's a major problem. Very good suspension, fun to drive and comfortable at the
same time. Rear suspension isn't as durable as in some cars. Still looks good.May 06, 2011
by Marshall L
Oct 31, 2010
Nicely -equipped wagon for what it is. Good performance out of the 2.3 Duratec 4-cyl engine (bigger than the stock 2 liter). Unfortunately, i just rolled it in thesnow the other day, so it's probably a goner. Looking forward to my next vehicle...Oct 31, 2010
by Adam G
Oct 18, 2010
Great Performance , Low Cost of Ownership, Good Build Quality, Cheap parts, every mechanic can fix it, Car of the year, Very good stock stereo system, excellent handling, Low Cost of Insurance, la la la la la I love this carOct 18, 2010
by Chris L
May 20, 2010
Acceleration & Brake pedals are quit sensitive. For a little car like the Focus, it has quit a bit acceleration power. What I love the most is the handling and turning range. I can get in the most impossible parking space or have fun at the back road corners.May 20, 2010
by Jim F
Sep 06, 2009
Nice small car, good handling, decent performance for a car
not built for speed. Fun to drive. Comfortable to drive in.
Everything you need electronic-wise. Easy to custom, and has
a good look. Good on gas, 22 city / 27 hwy.Sep 06, 2009
by Konstantinos S
Jul 08, 2009
It's the car I own for 3 years and I really love it!!!It's not as fast as a bullet but it really takes the corners like a roller coaster!!!!It's a great and safe car!!!I cannot tell more...Jul 08, 2009
by Kyle D
Jul 01, 2009
Simple car with space for 4 comfortably. comfortable seats. Not to much stock power but great around corners. cheap car hence the reason i bought it. fine on the highway, wish it had a limited slip differential though. but its a good carJul 01, 2009
by Jan G
Jun 11, 2009
it serves it's purpose,love black cars,has been reliable so far,not bad on fuel on short trips,brilliant on motorway trips,nice size family car,wish it was a newer model.maybe buy one later maybe 2 more yearsJun 11, 2009
by Adam H
Feb 22, 2009
The Focus is built like a tank. I wrapped my first Focus around a tree and walked away without any bumps or bruises. I like the Focus cuz it's a fun little car to drive. Responds really well. I put a short ram air intake, short throw shifter, lights, and a sub box and stereo. More mods comming soon (hopefully). And the best thing, amazing on gas!!!!Feb 22, 2009
by Daniel C
Dec 10, 2008
my car is a focus rs turbo its the car ive always wanted its a great car with good acceleration and excellent handling the downsides are the fuel costs and insurnance costs its great to drive and would recommend it to anyone just make sure your loaded!Dec 10, 2008
by Joe K
Oct 16, 2008
Performance - The ZX3 gets up to speed at a decent rate and stops when I need it to. It handles like a dream even at high speeds. Hoping to put a 2.3Duratec w/6spd trans which will improve acceleration and overall power.
Build is great no problems there.
Looked too plain when I bought it so I've modified it a little. Cheap parts.
Great on gas (about 32-33 MPG when I'm cruising 25-28 MPG when i'm running it hard). Very low maintenance aside from keeping it clean.
Any car is fun to drive if it goes 100+. The ZX3 does... but shuts off @ 110. Oct 16, 2008
by Arnaud B
Oct 07, 2008
I bought this car in 2003, was one of the first ones (limited edition 4500 units for Europe) available. It was amazing, the handling, braking, overall performance... May just need 4 wheel drive to be able to compete with an Impreza or a Lancer Evo? May have been nice to be able to choose the colour though...Oct 07, 2008
by Amit M
Sep 22, 2008
I bought this car in 2003 brand new and loved it from minute one. I am into my cars and wanted to make this different so started to modify it to my desire and this is the out come. A lot of time has goneinto this project and like every project its still not finished lol.Sep 22, 2008
by Marivel M
Aug 24, 2008
Our baby! This car has survived several trip from Texas to Montreal, and back, plus countless roadtrips ranging from Roswell,NM, to St. Felician, QC, it also has managed to survive here in Montreal (the roads here suck, and I'm not exaggerating), its fun to drive, 5 people fit, (with comfort), and the gas is great!Aug 24, 2008
by Anonymous
Aug 21, 2008
This was a great, peppy little car that ran GREAT! Where it lacked in performance it made up for in economy & versatility. It had more headroom & legroom than other small cars I've owned and was very dependable. This car looks great with custom wheels and a dropped suspension; I just didn't have it long enough to get that far.Aug 21, 2008
by Ben F
Aug 18, 2008
I love this car. Best performance out of the cars that I've driven so far. Superb handling, great acceleration, not to mention great on gas. Upkeep is pretty cheap, costs about 40 to 45$ to fill the gas tank. Appearance is OK. Paint is starting to come off on the hood and other places. Aug 18, 2008
by Matt J
Aug 09, 2008
nice exhaust, lowered suspention, 17" speed rims, hircules G5000 tires, cold air intake and upgraded clutch. it has great accelration and really nice handling the only problem i had was the stock clutch. i drove it across canada from alberta to newfoundland and never had a problem. from is 5 speed to its down to the handling it is a really fun car to drive.Aug 09, 2008
by Dan K
Jul 10, 2008
This car handles like a go-cart.
I have the five speed standard transmission, which is fun to drive and delivers great gas mileage. I have not had any trouble with it in the five years I have enjoyed driving it. I would recommend this car to anyone that loves to drive and dosen't need to spend a lot of money on fuel or repairs.Jul 10, 2008
by Alex B
Jul 03, 2008
Performance of this car is absolutely fantastic, the tires (Michelin) in combination with the large front Brembo brakes allow up to 1g in braking and 1 g in cornering due to the active front differential. The gear box is a dream as well and a shift light is installed which appears on the speed dial from 5000rpm. The build quality of the car is very good, the brakes however do squeak but i have been told ( by other ford focus rs drivers) that this is normal for the car. The exterior styling is fantastic, the large 18 inch OZ rims and the aggressive front grill as well as the rear spoiler give the car a brutal tone. Interior styling is fantastic, aluminum gear shift as well as aluminum colored pedals give the car a great rally touch; this is heavily complimented by the deep Sparco bucket seats colored in blue and black as the rest of the interior of the car. Maintenance of the car is great if it is kept in its original state as most stock replacement parts are always available at the dealerships (in Belgium at least). Gas mileage varies dramatically since the power is available throughout the revs, the problem i believe is that although the gear box is fantastic throughout all gears it lacks a 6th gear because when cruising at 120kmh on the highway the car is revving at around 3000rpm so it does drink a fair bit of gas in comparison to other cars in the same class. The car is extremely fun to drive as overtaking and cornering are a pleasure at any point of the day. I would highly recommend this car if you are able to keep paying for the high gas prices (min 97 octane). Keep driving :DJul 03, 2008
by Amanda H
Jun 15, 2008
Nice comfortable car. I like it! It runs great and has a big trunk for such a little car. It's really good on gas miles. It's reasonable priced cars that are affordable. It defently saves you on money. Jun 15, 2008
by Anonymous
Jun 05, 2008
Overall I am pleased with the car. I am not happy that I have had to replace the ignition at significant cost, but I have to drive something and it is to costly to drive my 96 T-bird. Gas mileag is good at 30-32 mpg. Acceleration is lacking (4 cylinder), but a very economical car to drive.Jun 05, 2008
by Clare C
Jun 04, 2008
Nice drive, good reliable spacious carJun 04, 2008
by Anonymous
May 30, 2008
Focus is the best drive in it's class. Quiet, mechanically refined, and beautifully composed on demanding roads. Spacious cabin is an ergonomic wonder. New-edge styling is not to every ones tasteMay 30, 2008
by Anonymous
Apr 14, 2008
This car is fun to drive - solid. It has interesting looks and is roomy enough to carry music equipment. Gas mileage is so-so in town, excellent on highway. Apr 14, 2008
by Paul B
Apr 08, 2008
A well built and thought out modern hatch. Drove it for 3 years and had no problems. Mine was lightly modified and handled superb despite tires.Apr 08, 2008
by Patrick D
Mar 31, 2008
This car is very dependable. It's handling and performance stock isn't bad. It is in need of suspension work and performance parts. Start with stress bars, the entire exhaust system, intake and throttle body. For the best boost go forced induction. Responsive, great turning radius, fun to drive.Mar 31, 2008
by Jeff D
Mar 19, 2008
I have experienced only one flaw with the vehicle. The rear window defrost has not fully worked since I got the car but I got it used. I have had great success in reliability and enjoy the manual transaxle. It shifts solid and the clutch does not seem to slip at all. I have got has high as 35 mpg on the highway avg and as bad as 24 mpg for around town avg.Mar 19, 2008
by Jennifer P
Mar 15, 2008
Excellent little car, sporty & fun! If set up right can have real performance! Recommend a cold air intake or chip or if you want real power, stick a mustang 5.0 with a set of shorty headers!Mar 15, 2008
by Anonymous
Mar 02, 2008
I love my car because I tuned it by my self.
It´s my first new car and it has a amazing handling.
It´s a solid authentic car
Mar 02, 2008
by Rebekah H
Feb 02, 2008
We bought this car new and honestly have had very few problems with it, its just that its not high quality (example we've had the carpet tear up for no real reason) but it drives fine - its solid, but the performance and quality is pretty low. It's a good little commuter car and we'll drive it until it dies!Feb 02, 2008
by Adolfo R
Jan 10, 2008
a good car with a top handling, an energic engine but an awfull look in this versionJan 10, 2008
by Tony C
Jan 08, 2008
Just excellent. 2.0i 170bhp, 6 forward gears. 17 inch alloys taking 215x40 tyres.Jan 08, 2008
by Anonymous
Nov 07, 2007
It is a safe and average car. It is really good on gas mileage. However, I noticed it is sluggish on acceleration.Nov 07, 2007
by Anonymous
Mar 22, 2007
The car is reliable and serves it's purpose. Gets you from point A to point B with a little style. Factory wheel alignment in the rear chews up the inside of the tires. Be sure to rotate tires regularly to prevent irregular tread wear. 50,000+ miles on the car and no serious issues to date.Mar 22, 2007
What users have asked
Interchangeable motors and alternators
What other cars motor/alternator can I get to put in my 2003 Ford Focus 2.0L?
13 views
03 Ford Focus ZX3 model won't start
Tested the battery to have 12volts. But when turning the key to the accessory selection, there is no lights showing on the dashboard. What could it be?
26 views
Can you put a ford contour motor in a ford focus?
Need help i have a motor from a 97 ford contour that was recently wrecked motor is still good.. wanted to see if its compatible and would be able to be put in an 03 ford focus.. both motors are 2.0 4 cylinder the only difference is the contour is a dual over head cam and the focus isnt. will it work
461 views
can I put a v8 inside my 03 ford focus?
I own a 2203 focus zx5 with the original 2.0l doch zetech engine, and 5 speed transmission. If I remove all "accesories" like ac, heat, power steering, etc. can I fit an n/a v8 in it and swap it to rwd with a 6 speed manual?
25 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2003 Ford Focus?Compare this car
2003 Ford Focus Pricing
Original MSRP
$13,365 to $18,170Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Header
Option Delete: Generic
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent