2014 Ford Focus used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Jerking or lurching486 owner complaints, usually around 31,000 miles, owners paid about $3,000

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Engine stalls while driving478 owner complaints, usually around 58,885 miles, owners paid about $1,500

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Shudder or vibration when accelerating443 owner complaints, usually around 32,000 miles, owners paid about $1,900

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 26V369000, Jun 9, 2026
• EquipmentRecall number 26V011000, Jan 15, 2026
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 20V331000, Jun 8, 2020
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 19V515000, Jul 5, 2019
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 18V735000, Oct 22, 2018
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 16V698000, Sep 28, 2016
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 16V643000, Sep 6, 2016
• Electrical systemRecall number 15V813000, Dec 2, 2015
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 15V005000, Jan 9, 2015
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 14V525000, Sep 2, 2014
• SteeringRecall number 14V514000, Aug 22, 2014
• Electrical systemRecall number 14V495000, Aug 11, 2014

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Harvest Program 25H05 – Supplement #1 Certain 2011-2021 Model Year Vehicles Software Verification Harvest...Apr 29, 2026
• This is a proactive investigation program by Ford Motor Company to inspect a limited number of affected...Nov 19, 2025
• Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with...May 4, 2023
• Ford is extending the warranty coverage on the DPS6 automatic transmission TCM to 10 years of service or...Jul 30, 2021
• 2015-2018May 12, 2021
• This customer satisfaction program updates the TCM software in affected vehicles to provide improved...Sep 2, 2020

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.