The Ford Focus, a popular compact car, offers various model variations with distinct gas tank capacities.
Current models of the Ford Focus have a gas tank size of 12.4 gallons. This size is present across all trims (S, SE, SEL, Titanium, and SRS.)
Understanding these differences is crucial for drivers looking to make informed decisions about fuel efficiency and travel planning.
Gas Tank Capacity by Model Year
Recent Model Years
- 2021-2024 Ford Focus: The latest models (S, SE, SEL, Titanium, ST, and RS) feature a tank size of 12.4 gallons.
Fuel Tank Size by Year
| Year | Model Variations | Tank Capacity (Gallons) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Standard Models (S, SE, SEL, Titanium, ST, and RS) | 12.4 |
| 2023 | Standard Models (S, SE, SEL, Titanium, ST, and RS) | 12.4 |
| 2022 | Standard Models (S, SE, SEL, Titanium, ST, and RS) | 12.4 |
| 2021 | Standard Models (S, SE, SEL, Titanium, ST, and RS) | 12.4 |
Fuel Efficiency and Range
- 2021-2024 Models: These have a fuel efficiency of 30 MPG in city and 40 MPG on highways, providing 372 miles per tank.
- 2015-2020 Models: With a slightly larger tank, these models achieve around 28 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on highways, providing 384 miles per tank.
- 2010-2014 Models: These older models have an efficiency of around 26 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on highways, providing 372 miles per tank.
Impact on Driving and Planning
Differences in gas tank sizes can significantly impact your driving experience and planning. Larger tanks in the 2015-2020 models mean fewer stops for refueling on long trips.
Both newer and older models with 12.4 gallon tanks prioritize a balance between size and efficiency.
Older Models
2010-2020
This decade began with the focus having a tank size of 12.4 gallons. In 2016 there was a slight increase to 12.8 gallons before returning to 12.4 gallons in 2021.
| Year | Model Variations | Tank Capacity (Gallons) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | All Variants | 12.8 |
| 2019 | All Variants | 12.8 |
| 2018 | All Variants | 12.8 |
| 2017 | All Variants | 12.8 |
| 2016 | All Variants | 12.8 |
| 2015 | All Variants | 12.8 |
| 2014 | All Variants | 12.4 |
| 2013 | All Variants | 12.4 |
| 2012 | All Variants | 12.4 |
| 2011 | All Variants | 12.4 |
| 2010 | All Variants | 12.4 |
1999-2009
At its North American debut, the Focus had a tank size of 13.2 gallons before increasing to 14 gallons in 2004.
| Year | Model Variations | Tank Capacity (Gallons) |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | All Variants | 14.0 |
| 2008 | All Variants | 14.0 |
| 2007 | All Variants | 14.0 |
| 2006 | All Variants | 14.0 |
| 2005 | All Variants | 14.0 |
| 2004 | All Variants | 14.0 |
| 2003 | All Variants | 13.2 |
| 2002 | All Variants | 13.2 |
| 2001 | All Variants | 13.2 |
| 2000 | All Variants | 13.2 |
| 1999 | All Variants (European Launch) | 13.2 |
Over the North American lifespan of the Ford Focus, the gas tank size has gone through multiple changes.
Gas Tank Recalls
The Focus has experienced several recalls due to issues related to its gas tank. These recalls were primarily due to defects that could cause engine stalls or gas tank deformation.
- Recall for Stalling Problem: Ford recalled 1.3 million cars in the US to address fuel tanks that could cause engine stalls. This recall was reported in response to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (1).
- Faulty Part Causing Unexpected Stalling: Ford recalled 1,282,596 of its 2012 to 2018 cars. This was because of a faulty part that might cause them to unexpectedly stall while driving (2).
- Incomplete Software Update Recall: 58,000 of its 2012-2014 and 2017 Focus cars were recalled due to an incomplete software update. This issue also related to the potential for stalling (3).
- Gas Tank Defect Leading to Stalling: Ford recalled 1.46 million Ford Focuses produced between 2012 and 2018 for a defect in the gas tank that could lead to stalling. This recall affected Focuses powered by the 2.0-liter GDI and 2.0 engines (4).
- Gas Tank Deformation Issue: There was a recall of 1.5 million 2012–18 Ford Focus vehicles for a problem that could cause the vehicle’s gas tank to become deformed. (5).
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I refuel my Ford Focus?
Refueling frequency depends on your driving habits. With average use, a full tank should last about 1-2 weeks.
Does the Ford Focus have different tank sizes for different trims?
In most recent models, the tank size is consistent across different trims, usually at 12.4 gallons.
Can the Ford Focus’s fuel efficiency affect the total driving range?
Yes, higher fuel efficiency means a longer range per tank, making the car more economical for longer trips.
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