Ford Focus RS Mk 1 (2002-04)

The Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) had a few common faults that owners often reported:

1. **Differential Issues**: The Quaife limited-slip differential could sometimes cause torque steer and handling issues.
2. **Gearbox Problems**: Some owners experienced issues with the gearbox, particularly with the synchros.
3. **Rust**: Like many cars of its era, the Mk1 Focus RS was prone to rust, especially around the wheel arches and sills.
4. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the instrument cluster and other electrical components were not uncommon.
5. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components, particularly the bushings, could wear out relatively quickly.

Despite these faults, the Focus RS Mk1 remains a beloved hot hatch for many enthusiasts.
*****

Generations
The Ford Focus RS has gone through **three generations** since its introduction in 2002. Each generation brought various updates and enhancements, making it a popular choice among performance car enthusiasts.
*****

Trim Levels
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) was available in a single trim level, which was the **RS** trim. This trim was specifically designed to offer a high-performance driving experience, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and various performance enhancements.
*****

Engine
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) was fitted with a **2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine**. This engine produced **215 bhp** (160 kW) at 5,500 rpm and **229 lb-ft** (310 Nm) of torque at 3,500 rpm. It was paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.
*****

Performance
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) offered impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures:

- **0-60 mph (0-97 km/h)**: Approximately 5.9 seconds.
- **Top Speed**: Around 143 mph (230 km/h).
- **Power Output**: 212 bhp (158 kW) at 5,500 rpm.
- **Torque**: 229 lb-ft (310 Nm) at 3,500 rpm.

These figures made the Focus RS Mk1 a highly sought-after hot hatch, known for its thrilling driving experience and rally-inspired design.
*****

Spares
You can find spares for the Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) from several sources in the UK and Ireland:

1. **[BuyCarParts](https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/ford/focus-daw-dbw/17012)**: They offer a wide range of parts for the Mk1 Focus RS.
2. **[Pumaspeed](https://pumaspeed.co.uk/car-Focus-RS-Mk1-2003_3_22.jsp)**: Specializes in performance tuning and spares for the Focus RS.
3. **[AutoDoc](https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares/ford/focus/focus-daw-dbw/17012-rs)**: Another reliable source for spares and accessories.
4. **[Ford Online Shop UK](https://shop.ford.co.uk/pages/focus-rs-parts)**: Offers genuine Ford parts for the Focus RS.
5. **[PartsGateway](https://www.partsgateway.co.uk/ford-parts/focus+mk1)**: Connects you with multiple Ford breakers to find the parts you need.
*****

Specialists
Yes, there are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can service a Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004). Here are a few options:

1. **[TrustFord Lisburn Ford Store & Van Centre](2)**: Located in Lisburn, they offer vehicle servicing and have a good reputation with a rating of 4.6.
2. **[Desmond Motors FordStore & Transit Centre](3)**: Based in Londonderry, they provide comprehensive services for Ford vehicles and have a rating of 4.2.
3. **[TrustFord Coleraine Car & Transit Centre](4)**: Situated in Coleraine, they offer vehicle servicing and have a rating of 4.6.
4. **[Ballylisk Car Sales - Craigavon](5)**: Located between Portadown and Tandragee in County Armagh, they are known for their quality service and have a rating of 4.8.

These garages should be able to help you with servicing and maintaining your Ford Focus RS Mk1.
*****

Racing
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) did have a connection to racing, particularly rallying. While the road-going version was not directly used in professional racing, it was heavily inspired by Ford's participation in the World Rally Championship (WRC) during that time¹². The Mk1 Focus RS featured many design elements and engineering improvements derived from the rally cars, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who appreciated its rally heritage.

The Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002-2004) has a rich rally heritage, heavily inspired by Ford's participation in the World Rally Championship (WRC) during that era. Here are some key points about its rally heritage:

1. **Rally-Inspired Design**: The Mk1 Focus RS featured many design elements and engineering improvements derived from Ford's rally cars. This included a more aggressive front and rear bumper design to produce downforce and enhance grip.

2. **Performance Enhancements**: The car was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 212 bhp, a Quaife limited-slip differential, and sport-tuned suspension, all of which were influenced by rally technology⁵.

3. **Rally Success**: The Focus RS Mk1's development was closely linked to the success of the Ford Focus WRC car, which dominated the international rally scene in the early 2000s.

4. **RS Badge**: The "RS" stands for "Rallye Sport," a badge that has been used on some of Ford's most famous and loved motor vehicles since the late 1960s.

These elements made the Focus RS Mk1 a highly sought-after hot hatch, known for its thrilling driving experience and rally-inspired design.
*****