Fresnelly, this is a little weird since I was about to make this same thread myself - I just replaced the stock stereo in my Ford Focus about three days ago.
I've got a 2003 Focus Sedan and while I bought the stereo, harness(es), and trim panel with the intention to install it myself, I found it to be much better to go with a professional installation.
Since we've got different models from different years it'd be hard to say that you'd run into the same issues as I did, but my stock stereo was assembled in a careless fashion from what seemed to be an amalgam of assorted wiring harnesses...
I'm not sure if this is typical of cars made in Mexico or if it's just a Ford/Focus issue but I'd check and make sure that once you've pulled the original stereo, all the wires and such are exactly as they should be.
I didn't want to cut any of the wires since I may resell the car so I had to pay for 2 different wiring kits just to get my new stereo installed.
All in all, it was a little pricey considering the cost of the stereo and the accessories but I went with Circuit City and got a good discount on the
stereo , free installation, and a 2 year warranty. And if I ever decide to sell the car then Circuit City will reinstall the stock stereo for free.
I think the stereo sounds great, it plays a variety of formats, has a removable face plate, and has an aux jack located on the face of the unit.
Now I'm not sure if there are Circuit City locations in Toronto but a Google search brought up positive results for
The Source By Circuit City in the Toronto area and a few
Best Buy locations as well.
And as a side note, if you haven't already, you'll probably want to change your factory speakers as well.
