Models · Ford
Ford Focus RS Mk3 buying guide
The Mk3 Focus RS was built from 2016 to 2018 as a five-door hatch with a 2.3 EcoBoost, a six-speed manual and four-wheel drive with a drift mode. Its main known issue is well documented, and the paperwork usually tells you whether it has been dealt with.
The versions
- 2.3 EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo petrol, 345hp, with overboost
- Six-speed manual, four-wheel drive with drift mode
- RS Edition (500 cars, Nitrous Blue) and Red Edition (300 cars, Race Red), both with a Quaife front limited-slip differential
- RS Heritage Edition (2018): 50 UK cars in Deep Orange with the Mountune FPM375 upgrade
What to check on a Mk3 Focus RS
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Head gasket recall evidence
What to look for: Ask for paperwork showing the head gasket work was done on any car built before July 2017. Check the coolant level with the engine cold, and on start-up watch for white exhaust smoke and listen for rough running or popping.
Why it matters: Cars built from August 2015 to July 2017 could suffer sudden coolant loss from a failed head gasket and, in some cases, cracking in the block between cylinders one and two. Ford tested affected cars and replaced the gasket or the engine. The revised gasket has a raised rivet on a large lug beneath the inlet manifold.
The clutch and pedal
What to look for: Press the clutch several times and check it returns smoothly without squeaking or sticking to the floor. On the drive, check for slip under firm acceleration in a high gear. Look at the clutch master cylinder for leaks.
Why it matters: Some clutch pedals squeak or stay on the floor, and Ford treated the clutch as a wear item outside the engine warranty. A slipping or sticking clutch will need attention soon.
Gearbox synchromesh
What to look for: On the drive, change up and down through the gears, especially second and third, and listen for crunching.
Why it matters: Synchro wear on the six-speed gearbox shows mostly on second and third, and is more likely on cars that have been driven hard or tuned.
Also in the full guide
- Knocking from the rear engine mount
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Mk3 Focus RS
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.