1.0/1.5 EcoBoost wet timing belt wear
Ford Focus vs Volkswagen Golf · reliability compared
Both scores come from the documented faults we hold for each model · severity weighted, then priced at UK independent-garage rates so you can see which car carries the bigger risk.
The short answer
On the faults we hold, the Volkswagen Golf scores 7.9 against 6.8 for the Ford Focus · fewer or less severe documented problems. The Volkswagen Golf carries the higher worst-case repair bill.

Ford Focus
2018–2025
- Documented faults
- 4
- Critical / high
- 1 / 0
- Medium / low
- 2 / 1
- Priciest job
- £120–£1,200
- Worst-case total
- £4,100
Weak spots · Engine, Transmission, Electrical, Suspension

Volkswagen Golf
2015–2021
- Documented faults
- 4
- Critical / high
- 0 / 1
- Medium / low
- 1 / 2
- Priciest job
- £900–£3,200
- Worst-case total
- £8,100
Weak spots · Engine, Transmission, Electrical, Suspension
The faults that decide it
DSG dual-clutch mechatronic faults and jerky low-speed shifts.
Scores are computed from the documented faults in our library for each model · they reflect reported patterns, not the condition of a specific car.
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