2002 Ford Focus SOHC SPI 2.0L motor

That is common problem on the 2.0 and 1.9 in Focus or Escort. They can repair the head and possibly repair/rebuild your engine, depending the extent of the damage. I had a 1.9 in an Escort do that with 220,000 miles on it. Put a motor from a wrecker in it.

I heard this is a common problem with this motor, and so I'm hesitant to get a motor from a junk yard, or to purchase a rebuilt motor. I'm even a bit hesitant to even purchase a new motor from Ford.

How often does valve seat failure occur? Is there a typical engine mileage band where this is more likely to occur? For example, above

If I go to Ford and purchase a new motor, are these engines any better built than the engines that came with the 2002 Focus?

Finally, what is a good price for a new engine? How much should I expect to pay for a rebuilt or junk-yard engine?

This has been a fantastic car, and so I'm hoping I can find a good replacement that will last at least another 50,000 to 100,000 miles without any new engine related failures.