Models · Ford
Ford Focus Mk1 buying guide
The first Focus was launched in 1998 and built until 2004, with Zetec petrol engines, TDdi and TDCi diesels and the six-speed ST170. A minor facelift moved the front indicators from the bumper into the headlamps.
The versions
- Zetec petrol engines, including the 1.4 (74bhp) and 2.0 (129bhp)
- ST170 (from the 2001 to 2002 facelift): 2.0 petrol, 168bhp, six-speed manual, uprated brakes and suspension
- 1.8 TDdi diesel (89bhp) and 1.8 TDCi common-rail diesel (115bhp, from 2002)
- Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic; hatchback, saloon and estate
- The Focus RS Mk1 has its own page
What to check on a Mk1 Focus
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Rust in the known spots
What to look for: Check the sills, door bottoms and wheelarches, especially at the rear and the bottom edge of the front arches. Look at the base of the rear screen, around the door mirror housings, and the tailgate around the wiper and hinges.
Why it matters: These are the places rust shows first on this generation, and on older cars it can spread from one spot to the surrounding area. Small bubbles caught early are repairable; widespread rot on an older car may not be worth fixing.
Cambelt history
What to look for: Look in the service history for the date and mileage of the last timing belt change, and whether the water pump was replaced at the same time.
Why it matters: The petrol engines and diesels use a timing belt. Ford's interval is ten years or 100,000 miles, but specialists recommend changing it more often, roughly half that, and replacing the water pump with it. On a car of this age, the date matters as much as the mileage.
A rumble from the rear wheels
What to look for: On the drive, listen for a rumble or hum from the back of the car that rises with road speed rather than engine revs.
Why it matters: Worn rear wheel bearings are common, particularly on estates, though any model can be affected. Replacement is routine.
Also in the full guide
- Speedometer and odometer
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Mk1 Focus
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Ford.