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I am about to buy a car from a private seller. I've already given him the deposit (not a great amount, £100). The car is a 2004 Ford Focus 2.0 Ghia. It has a FSH but I think the next service would be the one that includes a new cambelt. Should this put me off buying the car? For example, how expensive will it be to get the cambelt changed? And what are the odds of the cambelt breaking within the next 1-2 years (or 10-20k)? |
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I wouldn't be too bothered by the fact that it'll need a new cambelt at the next service, but I might use this for additional leverage when negotiating. As to what the odds of failure are, do you feel lucky? I'm pretty sure the Focus has an interference engine so if the belt breaks, the pistons will attempt to occupy the same space as the valves, with expensive consequences. Like "potential for a new head and possibly pistons" type expensive. I'd just get the belt changed as per service schedule. |
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I always check RepairPal for estimates on repairs, but that's not going to do you any good since it sound's like you're in the UK. There might be a similar site for your location, but I didn't find it with a quick search. I would expect the timing belt to go about 5 miles after the mileage listed in the service schedule for inspection / replacement. Find out whether you've got an interference engine or not. If not, you can maybe let it slide a bit at the risk of stranding yourself, but if it is, absolutely do not delay. |
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