looking at 03 focus

[bigwazza]

hi guys i am looking at an 03 focus lx auto for the wife to run the kids round town anything i should be carefull of or know about 140k on it 4 door sedan
thanks wazza

[Fast Eddie]

It's been mentioned before in other Threads but have a look at the cown (between the base of the windscreen and the top of the bonnet) and this is where the Pollen Filter goes. If it's not re-seated properly you'll get water in the passenger footwell.

I've got nearly 110k on my MK1 '03 and I still love it

[ramondo]

Probably too late, but things to look out for in general on a focus this age:

Should/May have been replaced by 140K:
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- Timing belt at 100K ?
- Battery/alternator?
- Thermostat housing prone to cracking (normal operation thermostat indicator should be in middle of dial)
- Coolant reservoir also (discoloured and leaking? - can leave a bad smell inside car)

Things to look out for:
----------------------
- How are the brakes? Check for squealing (particularly sedans) and possible worn rotors (shuddering when braking hard)
- check for knocking noises around sharp bends (but admire how it handles)
- check air con is is actually working and not just 'operational' ! (Mechanic can add dye to check for compressor leaks)
- possibly will have fine brake pad dust on front wheel covers. Really go through the pads. Check not worn through.
- all lights/indicators working (particularly rear brake lights)
- can't check yourself, but cost of an auto transmission overhaul/replacement would be getting towards the value of the car. Best you can do is test drive and ensure shifting is smooth and doesn't rev too high before change (guess it's a 4-speed?)
- No warning lights!
- Uneven wearing of tyres (should be rotated)

cheers,

Ramondo.