The engine that hardly ever visits the workshop: the recommendation of an experienced mechanic. In the world of used cars, finding one that is inexpensive, easy to maintain, and that also doesn’t break down often is no easy task. Among so many options, there are models that seem built to last and that surprise by how rarely they visit the workshop.
Javier Cortez, a mechanic with years of experience and a fan of simple, reliable mechanics, is clear when someone asks him which car he would recommend to meet those three conditions: his answer is the Ford Focus with a 1.6 gasoline engine.
Don’t expect a new or cutting-edge model because this car has been on the market for over 20 years. But according to Cortez, that is precisely one of its strengths: it’s a proven car, with simple and sturdy mechanics, capable of offering a lot for very little. So, let’s learn more about this car.
A personal experience that speaks for itself
Cortez himself drives a Ford Focus with this engine every day. In his case, it has already surpassed 230,000 kilometers without having suffered any major breakdowns. For anyone who knows a little about cars, that figure is more than respectable, and even more so when it is reached without major repairs.
The secret, as he explains, lies in the DHWDA block, a naturally aspirated engine with 100 horsepower, without a turbo or EGR valve. These terms may sound technical, but in simple words they mean fewer parts that can break and fewer chances of costly failures.
That’s why his most repeated and forceful phrase about this car is: “This engine only goes into the workshop for maintenance.” In other words, all it needs are regular check-ups like oil changes, filters, and brake pads. Nothing else.
Curious technology for its time
Although the car’s mechanics are simple, that doesn’t mean it lacked touches of modernity. Cortez recalls that some versions of the Ford Focus sold in 2005 included a module developed by Nokia. This system allowed you to change songs or make calls using your voice, without the need to use your hands.
Today it may seem common, but nearly 20 years ago it was an advanced feature for a car in its category. That said, the mechanic himself admits that this technology was not the most reliable in the world and often failed.
Engine durability over power
What really makes this car stand out, according to Cortez, is not that it’s fast or has luxury finishes, but rather the combination of durability, economy, and ease of use. It’s not a model designed for speed or to impress, but it does perform well in daily use if driven sensibly.
When it comes to cars, how you drive is just as important as how good the engine is. If you take care of the car—by doing regular maintenance and not driving it harshly—it will keep running well, even after many kilometers.
A car that delivers
In a market where many more modern models can bring mechanical complications and costly repairs, the Ford Focus 1.6 gasoline recommended by Javier Cortez seems almost an exception. It’s a car that, thanks to its simple and proven design, withstands the passage of time and the wear of daily use well.
So if you are looking for a simple and affordable car, this is the best choice. It won’t empty your wallet—either when buying it or maintaining it. And in a world where visits to the mechanic are usually bad news, that’s one of the best calling cards a car can have.