The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon, part of the first-generation Focus (1998-2007 for North America), was celebrated for its "New Edge" design, offering a distinct and modern aesthetic compared to its peers. As a compact wagon, it provided enhanced cargo versatility over the sedan and hatchback, appealing to families or individuals needing practical space. Key trims included LX, SE, and ZTS. New, it ranged from approximately $16,000 to $18,500, standing out for its European driving dynamics and value.
The Good
The 2004 Focus Wagon offers surprising agility and responsive handling, appealing to emotional buyers seeking a fun-to-drive compact. Practically, its impressive fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and generous cargo capacity make it an excellent value. The distinctive "New Edge" design still holds appeal, and its affordability in the used market further boosts its practicality.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon include potential issues with automatic transmissions, specifically the input and output shafts. Rust can also be a concern, especially in colder climates. Electrical problems, particularly involving the ignition coil and alternator, are also frequently reported, alongside suspension component wear over time.
2004 Ford Focus Wagon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 8-valve inline-4 (Zetec-E engine)
- 2.0L DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) 16-valve inline-4 (SPI engine)
- 2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 8-valve inline-4 (Zetec-E engine)
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L SOHC: Approximately 110 hp @ 5,000 rpm
- 2.0L DOHC: Approximately 130 hp @ 5,300 rpm
- 2.0L SOHC: Approximately 110 hp @ 5,000 rpm
- Torque:
- 2.0L SOHC: 125 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm
- 2.0L DOHC: 135 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
- 2.0L SOHC: 125 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- 2.0L SOHC, Manual: 25 MPG city / 33 MPG highway
- 2.0L SOHC, Automatic: 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway
- 2.0L DOHC, Manual: 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway
- 2.0L DOHC, Automatic: 23 MPG city / 31 MPG highway
- 2.0L SOHC, Manual: 25 MPG city / 33 MPG highway
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- Typically in the 9.0 to 10.5 second range, depending on engine and transmission.
- Towing Capacity:
- When properly equipped, around 1,000 to 1,500 lbs. (Check specific owner's manual for exact figures and requirements).
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX (Base): Basic features including manual windows and locks, AM/FM stereo, air conditioning (often optional). Focuses on affordability.
- SE (Mid-range): Adds power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, upgraded stereo, cruise control, body-color exterior accents, and often alloy wheels.
- ZTS (Top-end for wagon): Sport-tuned suspension, larger alloy wheels, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel, upgraded seating, and a more comprehensive audio system. It emphasizes a sportier driving experience and enhanced comfort.
The wagon body style inherently provided a spacious cargo area, approximately 36 cubic feet with the rear seats up and over 65 cubic feet with them folded, a significant advantage over its sedan counterparts. - LX (Base): Basic features including manual windows and locks, AM/FM stereo, air conditioning (often optional). Focuses on affordability.
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Focus Wagon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Speed Manual |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WAYNE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2717 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 56.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 178.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 66.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 103.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.3-L L-4 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 2.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-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) | $17,370 |
| Invoice Price | $16,210 |
| Delivery Charges | $545 |
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What Problems Does the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon Have?
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon, while generally robust, does have several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. One of the most significant issues, particularly prevalent in automatic transmission models, involves the transmission itself. Common complaints include rough shifting, slipping, and eventual failure due to internal wear or issues with the input and output shafts. Early warning signs like delayed engagement or a "clunking" noise are crucial to heed.
Electrical problems are also common. Owners frequently report issues with the ignition coil, which can lead to misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. The alternator is another component prone to failure, often manifesting as battery drain or charging system warnings. Power window regulators are also known to fail, especially in older models.
Suspension components, particularly control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and strut mounts, tend to wear out over time, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Rust can be a considerable problem, especially in regions exposed to road salt, affecting rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframe components.
While specific recalls for the 2004 model year related to major powertrain issues were less common than for earlier first-gen models, general recalls for the Focus generation included issues like faulty throttle body components or potential fire risks related to cruise control deactivation switches (though often for specific engine/transmission combinations or model years outside 2004). It's always advisable for potential buyers to check the NHTSA website for any open recalls by VIN.
Overall, the 2004 Focus can be a reliable car if properly maintained, but potential buyers should be vigilant about the automatic transmission's health, electrical system integrity, and signs of significant rust.
Electrical problems are also common. Owners frequently report issues with the ignition coil, which can lead to misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. The alternator is another component prone to failure, often manifesting as battery drain or charging system warnings. Power window regulators are also known to fail, especially in older models.
Suspension components, particularly control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and strut mounts, tend to wear out over time, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Rust can be a considerable problem, especially in regions exposed to road salt, affecting rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframe components.
While specific recalls for the 2004 model year related to major powertrain issues were less common than for earlier first-gen models, general recalls for the Focus generation included issues like faulty throttle body components or potential fire risks related to cruise control deactivation switches (though often for specific engine/transmission combinations or model years outside 2004). It's always advisable for potential buyers to check the NHTSA website for any open recalls by VIN.
Overall, the 2004 Focus can be a reliable car if properly maintained, but potential buyers should be vigilant about the automatic transmission's health, electrical system integrity, and signs of significant rust.
How long will the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon last?
With good maintenance habits, the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon can reliably reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and some well-cared-for examples even exceed that. This translates to 15-20 years of service if driven moderately. Its long-term durability is generally considered decent for a compact car, primarily due to robust engine blocks (especially the DOHC Zetec).
However, weaknesses emerge over time. Automatic transmissions are a known long-term concern, often being the first major component to fail or require costly repairs after 100,000 miles. Electrical gremlins, such as failing alternators or ignition coils, become more frequent. Suspension components like struts and control arm bushings also require replacement. Rust can significantly compromise the structural integrity and aesthetics in older, high-mileage vehicles, especially those in harsh climates, shortening their effective lifespan.
However, weaknesses emerge over time. Automatic transmissions are a known long-term concern, often being the first major component to fail or require costly repairs after 100,000 miles. Electrical gremlins, such as failing alternators or ignition coils, become more frequent. Suspension components like struts and control arm bushings also require replacement. Rust can significantly compromise the structural integrity and aesthetics in older, high-mileage vehicles, especially those in harsh climates, shortening their effective lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon, being a compact car from its era, offered a relatively modest suite of built-in tech and driver-assistance features by today's standards, focusing more on essential functionality and safety basics.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Standard on most trims was an AM/FM stereo, often with a CD player. Higher trims (SE, ZTS) might have included an upgraded audio system with more speakers. Auxiliary input jacks or Bluetooth connectivity were not standard features, reflecting the technology of the time. Cruise control was a common optional or higher-trim feature, offering convenience on long drives. Power windows and door locks were standard on higher trims and optional on the base LX.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control were not available in the 2004 Focus. The primary driver-assistance features were basic power steering and, in some cases, optional anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety Features:
Standard safety features typically included:
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon performed reasonably well in crash tests for its class and time. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided these ratings:
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Standard on most trims was an AM/FM stereo, often with a CD player. Higher trims (SE, ZTS) might have included an upgraded audio system with more speakers. Auxiliary input jacks or Bluetooth connectivity were not standard features, reflecting the technology of the time. Cruise control was a common optional or higher-trim feature, offering convenience on long drives. Power windows and door locks were standard on higher trims and optional on the base LX.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control were not available in the 2004 Focus. The primary driver-assistance features were basic power steering and, in some cases, optional anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety Features:
Standard safety features typically included:
- Dual front airbags (driver and front passenger)
- Front seatbelt pretensioners
- Child seat anchors (LATCH system)
- Side-impact airbags (front seats only)
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon performed reasonably well in crash tests for its class and time. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided these ratings:
- Frontal Crash (Driver): 4 out of 5 stars
- Frontal Crash (Passenger): 4 out of 5 stars
- Side Impact (Front Seat): 3 out of 5 stars (without optional side airbags)
- Side Impact (Rear Seat): 3 out of 5 stars
- Rollover: 4 out of 5 stars
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Pitch Black
Infra-Red
Silver Frost Metallic
Sonic Blue Metallic
Cloud 9 White
Tropic Green Metallic
Dark Shadow Grey Metallic
French Blue Metallic
Sangria Red Metallic
Mandarin Copper Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Flint
Medium Parchment
Dark Flint
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon typically retailed between approximately $16,000 for a base LX model and up to $18,500 for a well-equipped ZTS. Given its status as an economical compact car, it experienced significant depreciation, particularly in its first few years. Today, as a nearly two-decade-old vehicle, current used market prices are quite low, ranging from as little as $1,500 to $4,500, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and maintenance history.
Factors affecting its resale value include the overall condition of the powertrain (especially the automatic transmission), the presence of rust, and general cosmetic wear. Models with lower mileage and documented maintenance history, particularly those with manual transmissions (which are often perceived as more durable in this generation), tend to fetch higher prices. Depreciation is almost complete, so it makes for an extremely budget-friendly used purchase, though major repairs could quickly exceed its market value.
Factors affecting its resale value include the overall condition of the powertrain (especially the automatic transmission), the presence of rust, and general cosmetic wear. Models with lower mileage and documented maintenance history, particularly those with manual transmissions (which are often perceived as more durable in this generation), tend to fetch higher prices. Depreciation is almost complete, so it makes for an extremely budget-friendly used purchase, though major repairs could quickly exceed its market value.
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Cost of Ownership
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon is generally an economical vehicle to own, particularly in terms of initial purchase price and fuel efficiency. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age, lower power output, and high safety ratings for its class. Fuel costs are also modest, thanks to its respectable MPG figures for the era.
Maintenance can be affordable if standard service is kept up. However, repair costs can become a factor. While many parts are inexpensive and widely available, major issues like automatic transmission failure or significant rust can lead to repair bills that exceed the car's market value. Long-term ownership involves budgeting for wear-and-tear items and potential electrical or suspension repairs as it ages, making it economical mostly if major component failures are avoided or managed proactively.
Maintenance can be affordable if standard service is kept up. However, repair costs can become a factor. While many parts are inexpensive and widely available, major issues like automatic transmission failure or significant rust can lead to repair bills that exceed the car's market value. Long-term ownership involves budgeting for wear-and-tear items and potential electrical or suspension repairs as it ages, making it economical mostly if major component failures are avoided or managed proactively.
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
13.20 gallons
City Mileage
24 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
30 miles/gallon
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 Ford Focus Wagon Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Ford Focus Wagon is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon competed in the compact segment against strong rivals like the Honda Civic (specifically the Civic Si hatchback or sedans for similar spirit), Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, and Volkswagen Jetta Wagon.
Performance: The Focus stood out with its European-tuned suspension, offering a more engaging and sporty driving experience than the more utilitarian Civic or Corolla. The ZTS trim, in particular, was praised for its handling. The Mazda 3, introduced in 2004, quickly became a benchmark for driving dynamics, often surpassing the Focus. The Jetta Wagon offered a more refined ride, especially with its available TDI engine, but was often pricier.
Features: Feature-wise, the Focus was competitive, offering standard essentials and optional upgrades like ABS, side airbags, and a CD player. However, rivals like the Toyota Corolla often had a slight edge in standard creature comforts or perceived interior quality. The Mazda 3 often felt more modern inside, given its newer design. The Jetta Wagon generally offered more upscale interior materials and available luxury features.
Reliability: This is where the Focus could be a mixed bag compared to its Japanese rivals. While the engines were generally robust, the automatic transmissions were a significant Achilles' heel. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla were renowned for their bulletproof reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs, often experiencing fewer major mechanical issues. The Mazda 3, being newer, also had a strong start in reliability. Volkswagen Jettas of this era could also suffer from electrical gremlins, similar to the Focus.
Price: New, the Focus was competitively priced, often undercutting the Civic and Jetta, making it a strong value proposition. In the used market today, the Focus Wagon is typically among the cheapest, reflecting its depreciation and known potential issues. Civics and Corollas often command higher prices due to their reputation for reliability.
Alternatives:
The Focus Wagon remains a compelling choice for its driving dynamics and affordability if one is prepared for potential transmission and electrical issues.
Performance: The Focus stood out with its European-tuned suspension, offering a more engaging and sporty driving experience than the more utilitarian Civic or Corolla. The ZTS trim, in particular, was praised for its handling. The Mazda 3, introduced in 2004, quickly became a benchmark for driving dynamics, often surpassing the Focus. The Jetta Wagon offered a more refined ride, especially with its available TDI engine, but was often pricier.
Features: Feature-wise, the Focus was competitive, offering standard essentials and optional upgrades like ABS, side airbags, and a CD player. However, rivals like the Toyota Corolla often had a slight edge in standard creature comforts or perceived interior quality. The Mazda 3 often felt more modern inside, given its newer design. The Jetta Wagon generally offered more upscale interior materials and available luxury features.
Reliability: This is where the Focus could be a mixed bag compared to its Japanese rivals. While the engines were generally robust, the automatic transmissions were a significant Achilles' heel. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla were renowned for their bulletproof reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs, often experiencing fewer major mechanical issues. The Mazda 3, being newer, also had a strong start in reliability. Volkswagen Jettas of this era could also suffer from electrical gremlins, similar to the Focus.
Price: New, the Focus was competitively priced, often undercutting the Civic and Jetta, making it a strong value proposition. In the used market today, the Focus Wagon is typically among the cheapest, reflecting its depreciation and known potential issues. Civics and Corollas often command higher prices due to their reputation for reliability.
Alternatives:
- Better Alternatives (Reliability/Resale): 2004 Honda Civic (sedan/hatchback) or 2004 Toyota Corolla (sedan). While not wagons, they offered similar practicality and superior reliability.
- Similar Alternatives (Driving Dynamics/Value): 2004 Mazda 3 Hatchback (though not a full wagon, it offers great utility and superior driving feel), or a higher-mileage Volkswagen Jetta Wagon for those seeking more European flair and space.
The Focus Wagon remains a compelling choice for its driving dynamics and affordability if one is prepared for potential transmission and electrical issues.
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Ford Focus Wagon a Good Wagon?
The 2004 Ford Focus Wagon is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical, spacious, and surprisingly fun-to-drive compact car. It's perfect for small families, students, or anyone needing significant cargo room without the bulk of an SUV, particularly if they appreciate European-inspired handling.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, but under specific conditions. Look for models with a manual transmission to mitigate the known automatic transmission issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is crucial to check for rust, electrical problems, and suspension wear. Opt for an SE or ZTS trim for enhanced features and a sportier feel. If you find a well-maintained example, especially one with service records and a strong engine, it offers incredible value and enjoyable daily driving for its modest price, making it an excellent secondary car or reliable commuter, provided you are aware of its potential weaknesses.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, but under specific conditions. Look for models with a manual transmission to mitigate the known automatic transmission issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is crucial to check for rust, electrical problems, and suspension wear. Opt for an SE or ZTS trim for enhanced features and a sportier feel. If you find a well-maintained example, especially one with service records and a strong engine, it offers incredible value and enjoyable daily driving for its modest price, making it an excellent secondary car or reliable commuter, provided you are aware of its potential weaknesses.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma