Last updated: 2026-08-24

2014 Ford Focus Reliability Report
The 2014 Ford Focus scores 52/100 ("Mixed"). With 14 recalls and 2651 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
14
Complaints
2651
Complaint Rate
120.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$569
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,900–$2,350
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (1542)
- STEERING (227)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (172)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2014 received a third generation facelift update for the Third generation (C346).
- Changes: Minor exterior updates; Enhanced technology integration.
- Year 4 in this generation (2011–2018).
- 3rd generation Focus (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2011: Third generation (C346) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2014: This Model Year (Refresh)
2014 received a third generation facelift update for the Third generation (C346).
Should You Buy the 2014 Ford Focus?
A 52/100 score puts the 2014 Ford Focus in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2014 received a third generation facelift update for the Third generation (C346).
Complaint volume sits above average at 2651 owner complaints alongside 14 recalls. Issues in power train and power train (3084) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put power train and power train (3084) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2015 Ford Focus, which scored 7 points higher. See also the 2013 Ford Focus for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (13%)
- +Complaint rate in line with Sedan segment average (early data)
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −POWER TRAIN: Frequent issues with the 2014 Ford Focus transmission, particularly the... (1542 complaints)
- −STEERING: Sudden loss of power steering, grinding noises, and steering wheel stiffness (227 complaints)
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 14 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (1542)
- STEERING (227)
Recall Overview
14
recalls on record
The 2014 Ford Focus has 14 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
120.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 120.7
Safety Incidents
69
Crashes
10
Fires
47
Injuries
1
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2014 Ford Focus Recall Details
14 recalls have been issued for the 2014 Ford Focus. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Focus vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 18V735. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving.
Consequence
An engine that stalls while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S40. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6,2026.
EQUIPMENT
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Consequence
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S01. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Consequence
A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.
Showing 10 of 14 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
Buying a used 2014 Ford Focus? Check its history first
Every 2014 Ford Focus has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2014 Ford Focus NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 11.6%
Safety Technologies
Ford FocusRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$569
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Ford Focus Resale Value
The Ford Focus is estimated to retain about 48.1% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Ford Focus model overall and is not specific to the 2014 model year.
- Value Retained
- 48.1%
- Depreciation
- 51.9%
- Listings Analyzed
- 329
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Ford Focus depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
26–32 MPG
Running cost: $2,450–$2,900/yr
Fuel + repair
23–28 city / 31–39 hwy MPG
Electric
76 mi range
Fuel cost: $700/yr
Fuel only
32 kWh/100mi · 3.6 hrs @ 240V
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2014 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus SFE FWD FFV 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM6) | 28 | 39 | 32 | $1,900 |
| Focus FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM6) | 27 | 36 | 30 | $2,050 |
| Focus FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 27 | 36 | 30 | $2,050 |
| Focus FWD FFV 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM6) | 26 | 36 | 30 | $2,050 |
| Focus FWD FFV 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 26 | 36 | 30 | $2,050 |
| Focus FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 26 | 35 | 29 | $2,100 |
| Focus FWD FFV 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 26 | 35 | 29 | $2,100 |
| Focus FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 23 | 31 | 26 | $2,350 |
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus Electric | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 76 mi | 32.0 | $700 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2014 Ford Focus.
Inspect for transmission shudder during test drive
Check for accurate fuel gauge readings
Test power steering for smooth operation
Verify recall completion for Transmission Control Module
Ensure clutch and transmission engage smoothly
Check for any dashboard warning lights
Inspect for any unusual noises during acceleration
2014 Ford Focus Common Problems by Component
2651 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
1542 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2014 Ford Focus transmission, particularly the dual-clutch system. Common symptoms include shuddering, jerking, and slipping during gear changes, with some experiencing difficulty accelerating or the vehicle failing to respond to the accelerator pedal. These issues often manifest at low mileages, with some owners noting problems as early as 6,000 miles, and continue to occur at higher mileages. Safety implications are evident, with reports of crashes and injuries linked to sudden loss of propulsion, especially when merging into traffic or crossing intersections. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring transmission issues and the potential for costly repairs.
STEERING
227 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the steering system of the 2014 Ford Focus, primarily involving sudden loss of power steering, grinding noises, and steering wheel stiffness. Complaints frequently mention the "Steering Assist Fault" warning message and describe situations where the steering wheel becomes difficult to maneuver or fails to return to the center. These issues are often reported at mileages ranging from approximately 32,000 to 167,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, with 12 complaints involving crashes, 1 involving a fire, and 6 injuries reported, emphasizing the potential risk of loss of steering control. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these patterns and the associated safety risks.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
172 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring electrical system issues in the 2014 Ford Focus. Common symptoms include the engine failing to turn off, windshield wipers malfunctioning, and problems with the transmission such as jerking and stalling. Complaints frequently mention these issues occurring around 60,000 to 120,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with some complaints involving crashes, fires, and injuries. Used car buyers should be aware of potential electrical malfunctions that could affect vehicle operation and safety.
ENGINE (141 complaints)
ENGINE
141 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2014 Ford Focus engine, with common symptoms including stalling while driving, engine failure, and the check engine light illuminating. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle stalling at various speeds, from highway to city driving, and some describe the engine failing to restart immediately. These problems often arise around mileage ranges of 84,000 to 150,000 miles. Safety concerns are evident, with reports of crashes and fires, as well as instances where the vehicle suddenly loses motive power, posing risks during highway driving. Buyers considering a used 2014 Ford Focus should be aware of these potential engine issues and their implications for safety and reliability.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (112 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
112 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2014 Ford Focus frequently report issues related to the fuel system, particularly involving the canister purge valve and fuel tank deformation. Common symptoms include stalling after refueling, difficulty starting, erratic fuel gauge readings, and the check engine light illuminating with codes such as P1450 and P0442. These issues often occur around 60,000 to 80,000 miles, with some owners experiencing them shortly after warranty expiration. Safety implications include potential vehicle stalling while driving, which can lead to loss of control, as evidenced by at least one reported crash. Buyers should be aware that while some units have been recalled for similar issues, others with identical symptoms are not covered, leading to out-of-pocket repair costs.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (65 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
65 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2014 Ford Focus frequently report issues with the transmission control module (TCM), leading to symptoms such as shuddering, loss of power, and difficulty in shifting gears. Complaints often describe the vehicle stalling or shutting down unexpectedly, particularly while driving, with some reports of the car failing to go into reverse unless restarted. These issues are commonly noted at various mileage points, with some owners experiencing problems as early as 31,400 miles. Safety implications are significant, with six incidents involving crashes due to loss of control or sudden stalling. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, especially since some owners report prolonged repair times due to parts availability.
STRUCTURE (44 complaints)
STRUCTURE
44 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2014 Ford Focus frequently report issues with door latches failing to secure, particularly affecting rear doors. Complaints describe symptoms such as doors swinging open unexpectedly or failing to latch, forcing some owners to use ropes or cords to keep doors closed while driving. These issues are often reported around 30,000 to 40,000 miles. Additionally, some complaints involve difficulty obtaining recall repairs due to parts availability or VIN exclusions, despite having similar latch problems. Safety implications are noted, including a crash and a fire incident, as well as reports of injuries, highlighting potential risks associated with these structural failures.
AIR BAGS (18 complaints)
AIR BAGS
18 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2014 Ford Focus frequently report issues with airbag deployment failures during crashes, with 13 of 18 complaints involving accidents and eight injuries reported. Common symptoms include airbags failing to deploy during collisions at various speeds, with some reports noting that seat belts did not lock. In some cases, the airbag warning light illuminates intermittently, indicating potential electrical issues that affect deployment. These problems are noted across a wide range of mileages, from as low as 2,000 to over 84,000 miles. The described failures often result in significant vehicle damage and pose safety risks, highlighting a critical area of concern for potential buyers considering this model.
SUSPENSION (15 complaints)
SUSPENSION
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2014 Ford Focus frequently report issues with the vehicle's suspension, particularly noting noises such as popping in the front end and sagging that leads to tire rubbing. These complaints often occur alongside transmission problems, with some owners mentioning a hesitation or jerking when accelerating, which has caused near accidents. The suspension issues are reported at various mileage points, with some noted around 44,000 miles. Safety implications are evident as at least two complaints involve crashes, although the direct link to suspension failures is not clear. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns as they consider the vehicle's reliability and potential repair needs.
SERVICE BRAKES (9 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
9 complaintsOwners of the 2014 Ford Focus frequently report issues related to the vehicle's braking system, particularly involving the ABS module and brake calipers. Common symptoms include illuminated ABS warning lights and grinding noises from the brakes, with some reports indicating faulty brake calipers. Complaints often mention these problems occurring around 30,000 to 90,000 miles. Safety implications are highlighted by one incident where a vehicle unexpectedly moved in reverse, resulting in an injury. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring brake-related issues and consider the potential for unresolved safety concerns.
When Do 2014 Ford Focus Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ford Focus Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Ford Focus Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Ford Focus year is 2018 with a reliability score of 59/100, rated mixed. Other strong picks include 2015 (59/100) and 2017 (58/100).
Ford Focus Years to Avoid
No Ford Focus years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Ford Focus maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Ford Focus Reliability Score Trend
Ford Focus reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 56/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 54/100 | Mixed |
| 2014 | 52/100 | Mixed |
| 2015 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2016 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2017 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2018 | 59/100 | Mixed |
Ford Focus Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2014 Ford Focus reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2014 Ford Focus?
How many recalls does the 2014 Ford Focus have?
Is the 2014 Ford Focus expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2014 Ford Focus without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases via vehicles.dev. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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