What are common issues with the 2004 Ford Focus SVT model?

hey everyone been thinking about the 2004 ford focus svt lately got a buddy who owns one he says it drives like a dream but man those clutch issues a pain been there myself when i had mine had to replace it twice can someone tell me any tricks to make it last longer service intervals usually a biggie huh

and the power steering feels kinda like it wants to quit on me or maybe it just feels harder to steer in cold weather what do you think is that normal? suspension was a bit squirrelly too surprises you when it can’t handle a pothole smooth never knew what was wrong till i swapped the shocks and it felt like magic again easy fix or major rattle around

anyone else had these problems wondering if these issues are just common for this car or if we’re doing something wrong? did anyone try the wiring harness fix i read about? i always thought it was fine but maybe it’s worth a look i don’t wanna deal with dead batteries or a dead car after a long trip and anybody got any tips on the transmission thingy? just don’t want to end up stranded on the side of the road one fine day thanks for any tips

I’ve got this ’04 Focus SVT in Detroit, and trust me, the timing chain issue is a real pain—sounds like a dang jet engine! Plus, the ABS light keeps flaring up, leaving me all grumpy. Great car, but the reliability’s wack sometimes. Don’t get me wrong, still love driving it!

I had an '04 Focus SVT in Cali, and the turbo failed a few times—those repair bills were nuts! People kept yapping about suspension issues too, welding me vwagon for ages. Reliable on the road when it works, but a project car, for sure!

I’ve got a '04 Ford Focus SVT up in Michigan, and man, those transmission issues can be a real headache. My comp started acting up around 100k miles. Also, headlamps seem to go bad super quick. But when it runs, that ecoBoost, right? It’s a riot to drive. Anyone else dealing with these, or am I the only one? It’s kind of a mixed bag experience!

I’ve got a '04 Ford Focus SVT in Canada, and man, some quirks. The engine oil light pops up out of nowhere, plus some electrical issues. My buddy had transmission glitches—real hassle. Brakes felt off too, made me nervous during rain. Despite this, the acceleration is sweet, just gotta keep up with maintenance. Anyone else dealing with this? Let’s swap stories!

I’ve owned a 2004 Ford Focus SVT in the US, and mileage got tricky after a few years. Noticeable rust on the undercarriage was a pain, and front struts gave me a scare. There’s also this annoying sensor thingy that kept acting up. Totally ‘worth it’ if you want to be a car buff and tinker a lot! Fun times, tho!

I’ve got a 2004 Ford Focus SVT up north in Canada and it’s been a mixed bag. Engine hums like a bumblebee - annoying yet kind of cool. Had issues with the AC giving up, and last summer, the timing belt got all freaked out. Always needed a mechanic nearby. Loved the turbo’s punch on highway, but the servicing is a royal pain. Talked with other Focus enthusiasts here, and It’s a common love-hate thing!

In '06 Ohio, my '04 Focus SVT jams brakes and overheats - drives like a beast tho! Swapped parts once or twice. Still in love tho! Can’t beat its zippy feel despite that, hah. :sweat_smile:

I’ve got a '04 Ford Focus SVT up in Canada, and man, the issues are all over the place! Wakes me up at night like, literally. Suspension’s a nightmare; bounces like popcorn and the exhaust noise… loud as heck. A nice ride during the day, but second guessing on long hauls. Thanks to everyone sharing what’s on your minds; real talk makes it better!

I’ve had a couple o’ issues with my 2004 Ford Focus SVT in Canada. The suspension’s always been a kicker, especially after rough roads, and the engine sometimes throws fits. Anyone else? It’s like they made it strong, but also weak?

I’ve had my '04 Ford Focus SVT in Seattle for a while now, and shifting gears is a right pain sometimes. Plus, the transmission acts up even after a new tune-up. Overheating’s been another headache, especially with the AC blasting in the summer. Feels like it’s always needing some TLC.

I’ve owned a '04 Ford Focus SVT up in Toronto, and man, the transmission can be a real pain. Had to replace the clutch like twice in a couple of years. Friends mentioned they had engine issues too, mostly with the timing belt getting all finicky. But the suspension’s solid—unlike my friend’s down south who had a nightmare with his alignment. Overall, a decent ride but best stay on top of maintenance. Keep an eye out!

I’ve got a 2004 Ford Focus SVT in Toronto, and while it’s a beast, man, that engine’s loud like crazy! Had a nightmare replacing the MAF sensor last year, seriously. People complain the brakes give out too soon. Gutted when my clutch had to go too soon, that hurt my wallet. But hey, love the ride, it got some attitude! :red_car::dash:

I’ve owned a 2004 Ford Focus SVT right here in Ohio, and lemme tell ya, it’s been a wild ride. The suspension can’t handle bumps without rattling, and it’s a black hole for oil. The plastic bits inside wear out fast too, but the turbo’s sweet! Totally worth the gas drop and quirky vibes for a fun daily driver - you just gotta be ready for sometimes rough days.

I’ve got a '04 Ford Focus SVT here in Texas, and boy, the throttle body is finicky. Plus, the CV boots keep splitting, and at times, the engine light just won’t quit. Totally a cancer on reliability, but the turbo’s a beast! Anyone else with similar gripes or good maintenance tips?

I’ve owned a 2004 Ford Focus SVT in Canada and had some issues. First was the wiper motor acting up; drove through snowstorms and barely had visibility. Then, the shifter linkage was wonky, made it tough to park. I’ve also heard horsepower die, a massive bummer from folks in the USA too. Overall, it’s got a beastly engine but some bits are… finicky. Still a fun ride when it’s not grumpy.

I’ve had a 2004 Focus SVT upstate NY, and the transmission can be a real pain, needs a good check-up. The suspension gives you a good shake on rough roads, too. Alloy wheels are fab but can rust without TLC. Overall, a solid drive with quirks! Remember to keep them maintained!

I’ve had my '04 Ford Focus SVT in Seattle, and lets just say it’s a bit of a drama queen. Revved up great for a few years, but then the HA rack gave out and cost a fortune. Also, had to get the timing belt done sooner than the manual suggested—disappointing for this hot rod. You’d think with all the hype, it’d be flawless, right? Power is sweet, but frustrating when the tiny quirks pile up.

I’ve got a 2004 Ford Focus SVT in Toronto, and the transmission’s always a headache, especially when changing gears. The engine is killer but maintenance costs can drain your wallet quick! Def love the speed, though! It’s worth the hustle, for sure.

I’ve had my hands on a 2004 Ford Focus SVT out here in Ohio, and boy, did it surprise me! Fantastic speed, but the brake pads wear out quicker than expected – had to replace them like every few months. The engine’s a beast, though; loved that! Also, that tailgater’s smell, man, fixin’ that took longer than anticipated. Anyway, what’s your experience been? Just wanted to share.