IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 Ford Focus Mk3 (C346)

Launch year: the C346 Focus reached UK dealers in March 2011 with 1.6 Ti-VCT and EcoBoost petrols, 1.6 and 2.0 TDCi diesels and the dual-clutch Powershift automatic.

What changed for 2011

  • •All-new global C346 platform with electric power steering and torque vectoring
  • •1.6 Ti-VCT 85/105/125PS and 1.6 EcoBoost 150/182PS petrols
  • •1.6 TDCi 95/115PS and 2.0 TDCi 140/163PS diesels
  • •Studio, Edge, Zetec, Zetec S, Titanium and Titanium X trims

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Electric power steering rack faults causing heavy or notchy steering
  • !Rear bumper vent water leaks into the boot
  • !Front lower arm bushes and drop links worn early
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Electric Steering Rack Failure

SeriousSteering

The electronic rack can fail due to water ingress or internal sensor wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,300
Warning Signs:

"Steering Assist Fault" message, Heavy steering, Notchy feeling through wheel

What to Inspect:
  • Check for consistent assistance across full lock
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Bumper Vent Leaks

MinorBodywork & Rust

Water enters the boot through failed seals on the cabin pressure vents behind the rear bumper.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£250
Warning Signs:

Wet boot carpet, Mist on inside of windows, Water in spare wheel well

What to Inspect:
  • Check the side carpets in the boot for dampness
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2011 Ford Focus Mk3 (C346)

  • Turn the wheel lock to lock with the engine running and listen for rack noise
  • Check the boot floor and rear side carpets for damp
  • Avoid Powershift petrol cars unless the clutch pack has been replaced with the later part
2012–2013
Check a 2011 Ford Focus Mk3 (C346) by Registration