The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon is part of the first generation of the Focus, which debuted in North America for the 2000 model year. This compact wagon, produced from 2000-2007, offered practicality in a stylish package. Key trims included the SE and the more feature-rich ZTS. New, it ranged from approximately $16,000 to $19,000. Its popularity stemmed from its nimble handling, affordable price, and versatile cargo space, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious families and individuals seeking utility without sacrificing a fun driving experience.
The Good
The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon shines with its agile performance and impressive fuel efficiency, offering a surprising blend of fun and practicality. Its comfortable ride and thoughtful interior design appeal to everyday needs, while its overall value proposition makes it an emotionally satisfying and practically sound choice for budget-minded buyers.
The Bad
Potential buyers of the 2003 Ford Focus Wagon should be aware of common issues such as automatic transmission problems, particularly slipping or delayed engagement. Electrical gremlins, including dashboard warning lights and faulty power windows, are also frequently reported. Rust, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels, can be a concern in certain climates.
2003 Ford Focus Wagon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon was primarily offered with two engine choices:
- 2.0L SPI Zetec DOHC Inline-4: This was the base engine.
- 2.3L PZEV Duratec DOHC Inline-4 (California and other PZEV states): This was an optional, more advanced engine, especially in states with stricter emissions standards.
- 2.0L SPI Zetec DOHC Inline-4: This was the base engine.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Zetec: Approximately 110-115 horsepower.
- 2.3L Duratec: Approximately 130-145 horsepower.
- 2.0L Zetec: Approximately 110-115 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
- For the 2.0L engine with automatic transmission, expect around 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
- With the manual transmission, fuel economy could improve slightly, around 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway.
- The 2.3L engine offered similar or slightly better fuel economy, especially in highway driving.
- For the 2.0L engine with automatic transmission, expect around 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: Typically in the 9-11 second range, depending on the engine and transmission. The 2.3L Duratec would be at the quicker end of this spectrum.
- Towing Capacity: The Ford Focus Wagon was not designed for significant towing. Towing capacity is generally considered negligible and not recommended for anything beyond very light trailers, if at all.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE Trim: Typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks (on some models), a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with CD player. Often featured a cloth interior.
- ZTS Trim: Offered more premium features such as alloy wheels, upgraded cloth or leather seating, fog lights, a more sophisticated sound system, and potentially cruise control as standard. It generally provided a sportier appearance and a more refined interior.
- SE Trim: Typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks (on some models), a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with CD player. Often featured a cloth interior.
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WIXOM |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1232.41 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 143 cm |
| Overall Length | 444.25 cm |
| Overall Width | 169.93 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 261.62 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.3-L L-4 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 2.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $15,165 USD |
| Invoice Price | $14,192 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $545 USD |
Vehicle History Report
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What Problems Does the 2003 Ford Focus Wagon Have?
The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon, while generally a solid car for its era, has several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns that potential buyers should be aware of. One of the most common issues revolves around the automatic transmission. Many owners report transmission slippage, rough shifting, or outright failure, particularly as the vehicle ages and accumulates mileage. This can be a costly repair. Another area of concern is the cooling system. Radiator leaks, heater core failures, and issues with the thermostat and cooling fans are not uncommon. This can lead to overheating, which can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. Electrical problems are also a recurring theme. Dashboard warning lights (like the check engine light or ABS light) can illuminate for various reasons, sometimes due to faulty sensors, wiring issues, or even the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Power window regulators and motors have also been known to fail. On the exterior, particularly in rust-prone areas, the body can suffer from significant corrosion. Common spots include the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the rear hatch. While there might not be specific model year variances for the most prevalent issues within the 2003 model year, general maintenance and climate play a significant role in their manifestation. Recalls for the 2003 Ford Focus were relatively minor, often pertaining to specific components like airbag inflators or cruise control deactivation switches, but it's always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any outstanding recalls on a specific vehicle's VIN. Long-term reliability can be variable; a well-maintained Focus can last, but the potential for expensive transmission and cooling system repairs means careful inspection is paramount.
How long will the 2003 Ford Focus Wagon last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance habits, a well-cared-for 2003 Ford Focus Wagon can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or serve reliably for approximately 12-16 years. Long-term durability is heavily influenced by addressing known weaknesses proactively. For instance, regular coolant flushes and inspections can mitigate cooling system failures. Prompt attention to any transmission anomalies can potentially prevent catastrophic failure, though some transmission issues are inherent to the design and may still arise. The chassis and body are susceptible to rust over time, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Owners who perform regular oil changes, fluid checks, and address minor issues promptly will significantly enhance the vehicle's lifespan and minimize the likelihood of major, costly repairs cropping up unexpectedly.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon offered a functional and relatively straightforward set of tech, entertainment, and safety features for its time. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo radio with a CD player, providing basic audio playback. Higher trims, like the ZTS, might have offered an upgraded sound system with more speakers for improved audio quality. Bluetooth connectivity or infotainment screens were not available on this model year, as those features were still emerging in the automotive industry. In terms of driver-assistance features, the 2003 Focus Wagon was quite basic. Standard safety equipment included front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often available as an option or standard on higher trims, providing enhanced braking control. Optional features could include side-impact airbags for improved side-collision protection, although these were less common. Traction control was also an option on some models, particularly those with more powerful engines.
Crash-test ratings for the 2003 Ford Focus Wagon from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicated decent performance for its class and era. It generally received four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger protection in moderate overlap frontal impacts. Side-impact crash test ratings were also generally good, often receiving four or five stars for side-impact driver and rear passenger protection. While these ratings are respectable, it's important to remember that automotive safety technology has advanced considerably since 2003. The Focus Wagon prioritized core safety elements like airbags and ABS, with limited advanced electronic aids. Its structural integrity and passive safety systems were considered competitive for its segment at the time of its release.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Prices and Market Value
When new in 2003, the Ford Focus Wagon had an approximate MSRP ranging from $16,000 for base SE models to around $19,000 for the more equipped ZTS trims. Like most vehicles, the Focus Wagon experienced significant depreciation in its initial years. Currently, the used market prices for a 2003 Ford Focus Wagon vary widely, typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, heavily dependent on mileage, condition, and maintenance history. Factors significantly affecting its resale value include the presence of rust, the operational status of the transmission and engine, and overall cosmetic condition. A well-maintained vehicle with lower mileage and no significant rust or mechanical issues will command a higher price. However, given its age and the known potential for costly repairs (especially transmission), its resale value is generally quite low, positioning it as an affordable used car option rather than an investment.
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Cost of Ownership
The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon is generally considered an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its affordable replacement value and commonality. Fuel costs are also manageable, thanks to its good fuel economy, especially with the 2.0L engine. Routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements are standard and inexpensive. However, long-term ownership costs can increase if known issues arise. Potential repairs to the automatic transmission or cooling system can be significant. While parts are generally plentiful and affordable, the labor for complex repairs can add up. Overall, if kept in good condition and major mechanical issues are avoided, it remains a cost-effective choice, but unexpected major repairs can shift it towards being more costly.
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
49.97 liters
City Mileage
10.2 km/l
Highway Mileage
12.76 km/l
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2006-06-13
Recall no.
06e056000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Fuel Filters Sold Under THE Purolator Brand Name, P/N F65277, Shipped From January 16 Through June 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. DUE TO Incorrect Design, THE Quick Connectors MAY NOT Fully Seat With THE Tube Interface, Even Though THE Person Making THE Connection MAY Believe That THE Quick Connector IS Fully Attached.
Consequence
Failure OF This Connection Could Lead TO Fuel Spillage And, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fire Could Occur.
Remedy
UFI Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Filters Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 4, 2006. Owners MAY Contact UFI Filters USA AT 800-230-5876.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO UFI Filters USA (Purolator) Aftermarket Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date
2005-02-01
Recall no.
05v030000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles With Four or Five Doors and Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia, A Build-Up OF Corrosion AT THE Pawl Pivot Area OF THE Rear Door Latch CAN Cause A Binding Condition OF THE Pawl That MAY Affect Proper Engagement OF THE Pawl Into THE Catch. THE Occupant MAY Experience Difficulty Opening or Closing A Rear Door, and Eventually THE Rear Door MAY NOT Latch Properly.
Consequence
IF NOT Latched Properly, THE Door MAY Open While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion. IF AN Occupant Fell OUT OF THE Vehicle, Personal Injuries Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Have A Lower Rocker Seal Added TO THE Door and Have THE Rear Door Latches Evaluated Free OF Charge. A Latch That Passes THE Evaluation Will BE Lubricated TO Prevent Future Corrosion. A Latch That Does NOT Pass THE Evaluation Will BE Replaced. IN Addition, A Sticker Will BE Affixed TO THE Rear Doors Advising THE Owners TO USE THE Recommended Lubricant. THE Recall Began ON March 9, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 05s27.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-03-23
Recall no.
06e026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2008-08-11
Recall no.
08e050000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment
Recall date
2012-02-24
Recall no.
12e007000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ride Control, LLC (Ride Control) IS Recalling Certain Readymount Assemblies, P/N 746641mt and 746646mt, With Corresponding Aftermarket Customer Part Numbers: Gabriel G56944 and Gabriel G56945, and Privately Branded Partsmaster With Part Numbers G68944 and G68945. THE Readymount Assemblies Were Sold AS Aftermarket Service Equipment FOR USE ON Certain 2000 Through 2005 Ford Focus Vehicles. These Assemblies Were Assembled With A NUT Without THE Necessary Washer. THE Absence OF THE Washer CAN Allow THE Readymount Assembly TO Pull Apart THE Top Mount.
Consequence
IF THE Assembly Separates During Installation, IT Could Result IN Injury TO THE Installer. IF THE Assembly Separates While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion, IT Could Result IN Secondary Damage TO THE Vehicle and Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Ride Control Will Notify Owners and Will SET UP Procedures TO Inspect, Repair, And/Or Replace THE Affected Parts Without Charge TO THE Owner. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 30, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Ride Control AT 1-800-999-3903.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2003 Ford Focus Wagon Insurance
Insurance for a 2003 Ford Focus Wagon is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Ford Focus Wagon Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon competed in the compact wagon segment against rivals like the Honda Civic Wagon, Toyota Corolla Wagon, Mazda Protege5, and Subaru Outback (though the Outback is typically a size class up, it often competed for similar buyers).
Performance: The Focus Wagon was known for its nimble handling and engaging driving dynamics, often praised for feeling more European and fun-to-drive than many of its competitors. Its base engines were adequate, but not particularly powerful. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla offered more refined powertrains and generally better acceleration. The Mazda Protege5 was also a strong performer with a sportier feel.
Features: For its price point, the Focus offered a decent array of features, especially in the ZTS trim. However, rivals like Honda and Toyota often had a slight edge in interior material quality and the availability of advanced features for the era. The Protege5 also offered a good balance of sportiness and features.
Reliability: This is where the Focus often lagged behind its Japanese rivals. While the 2003 Focus could be reliable, it was more prone to issues like transmission problems and electrical gremlins compared to the rock-solid reputations of the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The Mazda Protege5 also had its share of reported issues, though perhaps less systemic than the Focus's transmission concerns. The Subaru Outback, while more expensive and in a different class, offered renowned all-wheel-drive capability and typically good long-term durability if maintained.
Price: The Ford Focus Wagon was generally very competitively priced, often being one of the more affordable options in its segment. This made it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Recommendations:
* Similar Alternative: The Mazda Protege5 is a strong contender if you seek a sportier, fun-to-drive compact wagon with a bit more power. It offers a good blend of practicality and driving engagement.
* Better Alternative (Reliability Focus): For buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and a smooth, comfortable ride, the Toyota Corolla Wagon (if available in your market) or the Honda Civic Wagon are superior choices. They typically hold up better over time with fewer major mechanical headaches.
* Alternative (If AWD is a Priority): If all-wheel drive is a must and you can stretch your budget, consider a used Subaru Outback (though it's a larger vehicle) or a similar Subaru model from the era.
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Ford Focus Wagon a Good Sedan?
The 2003 Ford Focus Wagon is ideal for budget-conscious individuals or small families seeking a practical, versatile, and surprisingly fun-to-drive compact vehicle. It's a worthwhile buy primarily in the used market for those who need cargo space without breaking the bank. However, its worth is heavily conditional. It is **not** recommended for buyers prioritizing absolute reliability above all else, as transmission and electrical issues can be costly. If considering a purchase, thoroughly inspect the transmission and look for signs of rust. A well-maintained example, particularly with the manual transmission (which tends to be more robust), and a lower mileage history, would be the best bet. Opting for a higher trim like the ZTS might offer better features but doesn't necessarily guarantee improved mechanical longevity. It's a car for pragmatic buyers willing to accept potential maintenance risks for its affordability and utility.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.