58 Plate Focus 1.6 Zetec Advice

NooBish AbbZ · 23 May 2015 at 07:59

Hi guys, found a decently priced 58 plate, but not sure whether to steer clear of the automatic transmission? It's done 46k miles and is the 1.6 Zetec model

Budget is around £4000 max, but would it be better to go for a manual? I'm not fussed either way really, but wondering if the automatics are susceptible to failures and stuff.

Also, When and how much does it cost for cam belt need change?

tres · 23 May 2015 at 08:15

I just got my cam belt changed on a 08 plate 1.6 Zetec (manual, petrol)

To supply and fit the following;
Full service
Timing Belt Kit, Water Pump, Alternator Belt, Aircon Belt, Antifreeze, Oil Filter, Air Filter, Pollen Filter, Spark Plugs, Engine Oil
Comes to a total of £386.23 Incl VAT

NooBish AbbZ · 23 May 2015 at 08:19

tres said:
I just got my cam belt changed on a 08 plate 1.6 Zetec (manual, petrol)

what mileage has that belt done? And was it because the belt was almost done or just precautionary?

tres · 23 May 2015 at 08:22

Purely precautionary - 80k on the car. The garage said it's 8 years or 100k, but they'd never seen one go until wayyyy over 100k. I had a bit of spare cash so thought I'd get it done nice and early while I could

blueboy2001 · 23 May 2015 at 09:06

Get a manual. A conventional automatic with 100BHP will be be buzzy and horrible to drive, and it'll burn a lot more fuel.

Dav4 · 23 May 2015 at 15:11

Get a manual and Maybe the 1.8 or 2.0 engine as the acceleration difference is noticeable. Do some quotes as sometimes the insurance cost is hardly any different to a 1.6.

ADT · 23 May 2015 at 15:25

It will be fine, family friend has an 59 auto 1.8 and his seems fine. But it is a bit thirsty so something to be aware of. Get a manual