Repair or Junk 2003 ford focus?

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glitterpony4lyfe

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I just purchased a used 2003 Ford Focus from a private seller at the end of May. Today, I found out that I most probably need to replace the transmission (after breaking down ect.)

I paid $4400 for the car, and it looks like the new transmission could cost up to $2000. (I looked online). Online has alot of comments of owners that had the same problem with their 03 focus. It's an automatic transmission, with only 52,000 miles on it!

My dilemma..Should I junk the car, or should I repair it? Or should I repair it then sell it and get a new one..

Thanks for any info! Also any other possibilities on what the problem could be would be appreciated. We are going to take it to a transmission specialist for a 2nd opinion.

...Problem that happened: The car was slipping in between gears, and eventually would not go at all--Engine made noise but car would not budge.
 
I am assuming that you have checked the fluid level and made sure that it is full.

If you junk the car then you are out $4400.
If you fix it you are into it for $6400.
If you fix it and sell it you can expect to get $4000.
If you sell it with a bad transmission you can expect to get $1000.

Which is cheaper?
To fix it and drive it.
www.car-part.com, buy a used transmission, have the fluid and filter changed in it and just drive it.
Transmission's need regular maintenance too, that means a fluid and filter change, usually every 50,000 miles but check your owners manual.
 
I hate to say this (after the fact) but anytime you buy a used car you should ask the seller if you can have a mechanic inspect the car before you buy. Of course you are obligated to pay the mechanic for the inspection whether you buy the car or not but this should eliminate any really expensive surprises and an inspection is a lot cheaper than problems like you have right now. If a seller refuses to let you have a mechanic inspect the car, it's my opinion that he is trying to hide something. Also, after an inspection, you'll know what repairs (if any) are needed and you may be able to negotiate a better price for the car if you still want to buy it.
As far as your car goes, you may have to take the hit on this one and get it repaired and drive it...that is, if the rest of the car is in reasonably good condition and will last for a while. Drive it for a while just to get some of your money's worth out of it...then sell it (or trade it) for something else.
 
Yes Darling Girl, I have your answer and I think you will like it.
If you sell you car to the junk yard for $400 dollars.
What they do then is sell the good parts of your car to people who need them.
So, my Darling
What you do is call all the junk yards in your town to see who has a used trans for your car. then they will give a price. Then you tell them that you want them to install it. Some will say they dont install, some will have an employee that will do it as a side job.
Call every junk yard in town and push them with your lady voice or better is to go there and ask if the could please install the use trans that you will buy from them. Call them all.

If you do this,,, you will prob be able to buy the trans for $250 and have it installed buy one of their employees after work for $250.
Just tell them you want to buy it and have it installed.
Call all the junk yards in your town ,,dont give up.
Or if you a weak person. go to a small mechanic shop and ask theTHEM to go buy a used trans and install it in your car. prob around $700.
 
1. If you sold the car, as is, today, what would you get for it?
2. If you fix the transmission and sell the car the next day, what would it sell for?

If 1 plus the cost of repairs is less than 2, it is worth fixing. If it is not, the car is not worth fixing. The amount you paid for the car is gone either way, so it doesn't matter.
 
You have to decide if the engine and the rest of the car is worth another 2000 investment. It's a lousy deal had the same thing happen to me years ago. One advantage is you'll know the trans is good if you go ahead with the repair. good luck with it.
 
You have to decide if the engine and the rest of the car is worth another 2000 investment. It's a lousy deal had the same thing happen to me years ago. One advantage is you'll know the trans is good if you go ahead with the repair. good luck with it.
 
Your car has a 4F27E Transmission. This Trans is very reliable and should not fail at 52,000 miles. Do not assume you need a new transmission. Look into a bad solenoid, the car has six and this model year has had some problems with them. It's a $40 to $80 part and should be 1-1.5 hours of labor. Go to a shop you can trust to get a diagnosis and go online to the ford focus forums and ask for some help. Also look into recalls and TSBs for 03 Focus. You could also try a dealer, Trans may be covered by some hidden warranty. BE CAREFUL! make sure you really do need a new trans before you do anything. Good luck.
 
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