What's Wrong with the 2nd Generation (2008–2011) Focus?

Focus owners have made 479 complaints about the 2008–2011 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 80th out of 94 Ford generations in overall reliability, with real interior and suspension concerns.

Compare With Other Focus Generations

Common 2008-2011 Ford Focus Problems

Some of the worst issues 2nd generation Focus owners have to deal with.

  1. Swollen and Stuck Lug Nuts

    Most lug nuts are one piece of hardened steel, but Ford chose a design that puts an aluminum cap over a steel core. The cap is notorious for swelling and delaminating when it gets hot, and it’s also a great place to trap moisture and promot…

    Continue reading article "Swollen and Stuck Lug Nuts"

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

2nd Generation (2008–2011) Focus Key Numbers

  1. 4 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 479 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 80th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 94 eligible generations.