Case file · FORD-FOCUS-2008-2011 · Field document

Ford Focus 2008–2011 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes — not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   Crouch behind the car and check the rear tires' inner edges — feathered or bald inner shoulders is the classic rear camber/toe wear pattern on this car. Ask when it was last aligned.

2. Check 02

   Cycle the ignition key several times, including wiggling the wheel. Any sticking, hard turning, or 'jiggle the key' ritual means the ignition lock cylinder is on its way out.

3. Check 03

   Lock and unlock every door from the fob AND the interior switch, twice. A door that doesn't respond or clicks without moving is a failed lock actuator.

4. Check 04

   Confirm the factory lug wrench actually fits the lug nuts. Swollen two-piece lug nuts are common and will strand you with a flat you can't remove.

5. Check 05

   On automatics, test-drive from cold and watch the 2-3 and 3-4 shifts. RPM flare or a slipping sensation between gears is the expensive failure — walk away or price it in.

6. Check 06

   Verify the engine starts promptly on the first turn and the battery light stays off — scattered no-start and charging complaints exist for this generation.

7. Check 07

   In salt states, check rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and under the carpet edges for rust like any 15+-year-old economy car.