Discussion
So, on the basis that I've always fancied an ST-2/3 that I'm going to buy one. My budget is between 5-7k, I realise that I'm on the lower end of what's available but still.
What are the main pitfalls of ownership? Also any tell tale signs I ought to be aware of when purchasing? Really appreciate your efforts on this one!
What are the main pitfalls of ownership? Also any tell tale signs I ought to be aware of when purchasing? Really appreciate your efforts on this one!
Pitfalls of ownership, main one would be low MPG, but still great fun.
Older cars, ask if the oil filter diaphragm has been changed, if it hasn't it's likely to go at some point especially if you plan to mod it, if it go's and it's boosted too much oil will start to leak through the camshaft oil seals, mines been leaking about a year now, only a tiny amount, will get them changed when I get the cambelt changed.
Ask if the alternator has been changed, as they're prone to go as many Mk.2 Focus' have done. Front wishbone bushes are likely to be worn out, mines an 07 car, and the oil filled bushes contained no oil whatsoever when it came to replace all the bushes, with polybushes.
Older cars, ask if the oil filter diaphragm has been changed, if it hasn't it's likely to go at some point especially if you plan to mod it, if it go's and it's boosted too much oil will start to leak through the camshaft oil seals, mines been leaking about a year now, only a tiny amount, will get them changed when I get the cambelt changed.
Ask if the alternator has been changed, as they're prone to go as many Mk.2 Focus' have done. Front wishbone bushes are likely to be worn out, mines an 07 car, and the oil filled bushes contained no oil whatsoever when it came to replace all the bushes, with polybushes.
KingNothing said:
Pitfalls of ownership, main one would be low MPG, but still great fun.
Older cars, ask if the oil filter diaphragm has been changed, if it hasn't it's likely to go at some point especially if you plan to mod it, if it go's and it's boosted too much oil will start to leak through the camshaft oil seals, mines been leaking about a year now, only a tiny amount, will get them changed when I get the cambelt changed.
Ask if the alternator has been changed, as they're prone to go as many Mk.2 Focus' have done. Front wishbone bushes are likely to be worn out, mines an 07 car, and the oil filled bushes contained no oil whatsoever when it came to replace all the bushes, with polybushes.
Older cars, ask if the oil filter diaphragm has been changed, if it hasn't it's likely to go at some point especially if you plan to mod it, if it go's and it's boosted too much oil will start to leak through the camshaft oil seals, mines been leaking about a year now, only a tiny amount, will get them changed when I get the cambelt changed.
Ask if the alternator has been changed, as they're prone to go as many Mk.2 Focus' have done. Front wishbone bushes are likely to be worn out, mines an 07 car, and the oil filled bushes contained no oil whatsoever when it came to replace all the bushes, with polybushes.
Thank you for that! Really useful!
All the above is true, mine has needed bushes and an alternator, but not the diaphragm. It's done nearly 60k.
Check for a slipping clutch, remapped cars can suffer. RS clutch upgrade is the answer.
Check around the recesses where the boot hinges are for corrosion, this can lead to water ingress into the interior.
Other than that, they are fairly bullet proof. Fuel economy is poor, but it does seem to improve with age. My benchmark yearly trip to Le Mans returned a record 32mpg this time. Tyres seem to last about 15k at the front and double on the rear.
If you've got any questions, ask away. I've owned mine for over 6 years and do most of my own maintenance.
Check for a slipping clutch, remapped cars can suffer. RS clutch upgrade is the answer.
Check around the recesses where the boot hinges are for corrosion, this can lead to water ingress into the interior.
Other than that, they are fairly bullet proof. Fuel economy is poor, but it does seem to improve with age. My benchmark yearly trip to Le Mans returned a record 32mpg this time. Tyres seem to last about 15k at the front and double on the rear.
If you've got any questions, ask away. I've owned mine for over 6 years and do most of my own maintenance.
Boost controllers play up, but not expensive. Watch out for early cars making over 300 bhp, seems to be the pivotal HP for cracked liners on the block.Front wishbones struggle with power after a while, but cheap enough. As everyone, fuel economy is not the best. I have seen over 32mpg on a run, but day to day average is 25 mpg ish.Steering lock is not great, but omething you get used to. Also the drivers seat can move its base left to right. Basically needs a shim kit from Ford, but you can space it with just normal washers. Go for it. Probably the best usable performance car we have owned so far for the money.
Hi there,
As an ST2 owner and resident member of FocusSTOC I would reccomend joining the forum... so much info at hand. Some really good buyers guides etc etc.
It cost £10 per year... but I have saved probably £200 in group buys already this year! ST is a great car to own... especially if you like spotting petrol stations!
If you want any specific info drop me a PM.
Good luck.
Tom
As an ST2 owner and resident member of FocusSTOC I would reccomend joining the forum... so much info at hand. Some really good buyers guides etc etc.
It cost £10 per year... but I have saved probably £200 in group buys already this year! ST is a great car to own... especially if you like spotting petrol stations!
If you want any specific info drop me a PM.
Good luck.
Tom
H18 ENF said:
So, on the basis that I've always fancied an ST-2/3 that I'm going to buy one. My budget is between 5-7k, I realise that I'm on the lower end of what's available but still.
What are the main pitfalls of ownership? Also any tell tale signs I ought to be aware of when purchasing? Really appreciate your efforts on this one!
I like these, saw a really nice orange one yesterday.What are the main pitfalls of ownership? Also any tell tale signs I ought to be aware of when purchasing? Really appreciate your efforts on this one!
Have to say the mpg vs power/performance is appalling though. And make sure you need a large family hatch.
If you want fast and fun for £5-7k and don't need a big boot and 5/4 seats then there are better vehicles IMO.
If you do, then so long as you are happy with the mpg I don't see anything much to worry about.
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