I'm looking into buying a second hand Ford Focus MK4 1.0 EcoBoost with automatic transmission. I'm aware of all the issues with 1.0 EcoBoost engines over the years, but I'm struggling to find a clear answer online as to whether the newer MK4 version with a timing chain seems to be holding up any better. Most discussions I've found on this topic are from a few years ago when it was too early to tell.

I understand the oil pump still has a wet belt, but how common is engine failure due to this? Does automatic transmission (non-negotiable for me) make any difference?

I'd really appreciate any thoughts, I'm a layperson when it comes to cars so not fully au fait with this stuff. Thank you.

Ford autos aren't very good.

The 8 speed is slightly better than the 6 speed that was in the Mk3.5, but still not brilliant

I would strongly advise to look elsewhere

A nice 118i or a VAG product

The Book Fuel Consumption for Mk4 Petrol Automatics is not very good compared to the Manual versions.

I personally think the 1.0 Engine in the car as big as a Mk4 Automatic is pushing things a bit, just a personal view.

My 68 reg 1.0 manual Vignale has 68000 miles on it. I’ve just had the 72000 mile service done and it hasn’t missed a beat!  It has enough power and performance for me in eco mode, and is a bit more exciting in sport. I get 42 -43 mpg in general driving and over 50 mpg on a longish motorway run. Overall I’m very pleased with it.

14 minutes ago, Tizer said:

The Book Fuel Consumption for Mk4 Petrol Automatics is not very good compared to the Manual versions.

I personally think the 1.0 Engine in the car as big as a Mk4 Automatic is pushing things a bit, just a personal view.

That's why I went for the 1.5, I didn't want a smaller engine than my motor bike had, my thoughts also 1.0 in a fairly heavy car.

Iv'e had this car from new now coming up to to six years old (December), really enjoy driving it, I think the gearbox is pretty good . Petrol consumption could be better , I'm averaging about 36mpg if I'm lucky.

The only problems I've had with it is when the battery went flat for no reason apart from that it's behaved ok I must admit it has only done 26,000 miles (covid and old age).

Would I buy another one ? probably , but I think I will keep this one until it gives up the ghost.