2000 Ford Focus
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 3,738 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 19 Focus model years with reports.
Of the 2000 reports, 252 involved a crash and 127 involved a fire. 158 people were injured and 9 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
EquipmentFeb 24, 2012
RIDE CONTROL, LLC (RIDE CONTROL) IS RECALLING CERTAIN READYMOUNT ASSEMBLIES, P/N 746641MT AND 746646MT, WITH CORRESPONDING AFTERMARKET CUSTOMER PART NUMBERS: GABRIEL G56944 AND GABRIEL G56945, AND PRIVATELY BRANDED PARTSMASTER WITH PART NUMBERS G68944 AND G68945. THE READYMOUNT ASSEMBLIES WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET SERVICE EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2000 THROUGH 2005 FORD FOCUS VEHICLES. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH A NUT WITHOUT THE NECESSARY WASHER. THE ABSENCE OF THE WASHER CAN ALLOW THE READYMOUNT ASSEMBLY TO PULL APART THE TOP MOUNT.
IF THE ASSEMBLY SEPARATES DURING INSTALLATION, IT COULD RESULT IN INJURY TO THE INSTALLER. IF THE ASSEMBLY SEPARATES WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, IT COULD RESULT IN SECONDARY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND WILL SET UP PROCEDURES TO INSPECT, REPAIR, AND/OR REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS WITHOUT CHARGE TO THE OWNER. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 30, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-800-999-3903.
Campaign 12E007000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsMay 11, 2009
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Campaign 09E025000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingApr 7, 2009
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Campaign 09E012000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsAug 11, 2008
K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
Campaign 08E050000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingMay 24, 2006
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
Campaign 06E049000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingMar 23, 2006
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Campaign 06E026000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, doors, latchFeb 1, 2005
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH FOUR OR FIVE DOORS AND ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, A BUILD-UP OF CORROSION AT THE PAWL PIVOT AREA OF THE REAR DOOR LATCH CAN CAUSE A BINDING CONDITION OF THE PAWL THAT MAY AFFECT PROPER ENGAGEMENT OF THE PAWL INTO THE CATCH. THE OCCUPANT MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY OPENING OR CLOSING A REAR DOOR, AND EVENTUALLY THE REAR DOOR MAY NOT LATCH PROPERLY.
IF NOT LATCHED PROPERLY, THE DOOR MAY OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. IF AN OCCUPANT FELL OUT OF THE VEHICLE, PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
DEALERS WILL HAVE A LOWER ROCKER SEAL ADDED TO THE DOOR AND HAVE THE REAR DOOR LATCHES EVALUATED FREE OF CHARGE. A LATCH THAT PASSES THE EVALUATION WILL BE LUBRICATED TO PREVENT FUTURE CORROSION. A LATCH THAT DOES NOT PASS THE EVALUATION WILL BE REPLACED. IN ADDITION, A STICKER WILL BE AFFIXED TO THE REAR DOORS ADVISING THE OWNERS TO USE THE RECOMMENDED LUBRICANT. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 9, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 05V030000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasolineNov 19, 2003
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, CONTAMINATION OF THE FILTER IN THE FUEL DELIVERY MODULE (FDM) CAN REDUCE, AND EVENTUALLY BLOCK, THE FLOW OF FUEL TO THE ENGINE.
THIS MAY CAUSE ENGINE HESITATION, LOSS OF POWER, SURGING, AND OTHER SIMILAR SYMPTOMS. OVER TIME, THE FILTER MAY BECOME SUFFICIENTLY BLOCKED TO CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
THIS ACTION IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN AND IS NOT BEING CONDUCTED UNDER THE SAFETY ACT. ALL OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FDM WITH A NEW DESIGN AT NO CHARGE IF THE OWNER REPORTS THAT THE VEHICLE EXHIBITS ANY OF THE IDENTIFIED SYMPTOMS. THE FREE REPLACEMENT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE, WITH NO MILEAGE LIMIT. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 03V482000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, linkagesNov 6, 2002
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE LOOSE PINCH BOLTS THAT SECURE THE LOWER CONTROL ARM TO THE STEERING KNUCKLE HAVE BEEN REPORTED.
LOOSE PINCH BOLTS COULD EXHIBIT NOISE, VIBRATION AND, IN EXTREME CASES IF LEFT UNCORRECTED, SEPARATION OF THE JOINT OR FRACTURE OF THE BALL JOINT STUD, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING KNUCKLE PINCH BOLT FOR TIGHTNESS AND CORRECT AS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 02V289000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, 12v/24v/48v battery, cablesNov 6, 2002
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ZETEC ENGINES, LOOSE OR BROKEN ATTACHMENTS AND MISROUTED BATTERY CABLES COULD LEAD TO CABLE INSULATION DAMAGE.
THIS, IN TURN, COULD CAUSE THE BATTERY CABLES TO SHORT RESULTING IN HEAT DAMAGE TO THE CABLES. BESIDES HEAT DAMAGE, THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE, THE VEHICLE MAY FAIL TO START, OR SMOKE, MELTING, OR FIRE COULD ALSO OCCUR.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BATTERY CABLES FOR THE CONDITION OF THE CABLE INSULATION AND PROPER TIGHTENING OF THE TERMINAL ENDS. AS NECESSARY, CABLES WILL BE REROUTED, RETAINING CLIPS INSTALLED, AND DAMAGED BATTERY CABLES REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 02V288000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels, lugs/nuts/bolts/studsNov 29, 2001
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 2000-2001 FORD FOCUS PASSENGER VEHICLES, ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIOM, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN. IN HIGH CORROSION AREAS, WHERE SALT IS USED ON ROADWAYS IN THE WINTER, THE REAR WHEEL BEARING SEAL RACE CAN EXPERIENCE SURFACE CORROSION. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS, THE WHEEL BEARING SEALS COULD BECOME DAMAGED AND ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE WHEEL BEARINGS.
THE WHEEL BEARINGS COULD PREMATURELY WEAR AND CAUSE A NOTICEABLE NOISE. IF NOT REPAIRED, THIS CONDITION COULD PROGRESS TO THE POINT WHERE THE WHEEL BEGINS TO WOBBLE.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR WHEEL BEARINGS AT NO COST TO THE CONSUMER. ADDITIONAL BEARING SEALS WILL ALSO BE INSTALLED TO ENSURE A SMOOTH RIDE. THIS PROGRAM WILL BE IN EFFECT UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2002, REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE. EVEN IF THE VEHICLE HAS ALREADY BEEN SERVICED UNDER RECALL CAMPAIGN 00S31, FORD HAS TAKEN ADDITIONAL STEPS TO KEEP THE WHEEL BEARINGS IN TOP SHAPE. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332, CONCERNING THIS PROGRAM.
Campaign 01I017000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, windshield wiper/washer, motorAug 8, 2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND LIGHT AND MEDIUM DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. A SWITCH LOCATED IN THE PLASTIC COVER OF THE WIPER MOTOR GEAR CASE COULD MALFUNCTION AND OVERHEAT, POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN LOSS OF INTERMITTENT WIPER FUNCTION, LOSS OF WIPER PARK FUNCTION, COMPLETE LOSS OF WIPER FUNCTION, OR IGNITION OF THE PLASTIC COVER MATERIAL. SWITCH MALFUNCTION IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR WHEN THE INTERMITTENT SETTING OF THE WIPERS IS BEING USED, OR WHEN SNOW OR ICE OBSTRUCTS THE BLADES FROM RETURNING TO THE "PARKED" POSITION AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WINDSHIELD. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT AT THE FOLLOWING ASSEMBLY PLANTS: ATLANTA PLANT FROM 2/11/00 THROUGH 7/31/00; CHICAGO PLANT FROM 2/14/00 THROUGH 8/4/00; KANSAS CITY PLANT FROM 2/26/00 TO 9/4/00; KENTUCKY TRUCK PLANT FROM 2/18/00 TO 8/31/00; MICHIGAN TRUCK PLANT FROM 2/23/00 THROUGH 8/3/00; NORFOLK PLANT FROM 2/21/00 THROUGH 7/27/00; WAYNE STAMPING AND ASSEMBLY PLANT FROM 2/25/00 THROUGH 8/15/00; AND WIXOM PLANT FROM 2/15/00 THROUGH 8/8/00.
LOSS OF VISIBILITY WHILE DRIVING INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DATE CODE ON THE WIPER MOTOR. MOTORS BUILT WITH THE SUSPECT TIME FRAME WILL HAVE THE WIPER MOTOR GEAR CASE COVER REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 20, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 01V258000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, reclinerDec 14, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: STATION WAGONS AND 3-DOOR VEHICLES. THE SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE A FOLDING 60/40 SECOND SEAT THAT BECOMES A LOAD FLOOR IN THE FOLDED POSITION. WHEN THE 60% PORTION OF THE SEAT IS FOLDED DOWN AND A LOAD IS APPLIED TO THE FRONT EDGE OF THE LOAD FLOOR, THE OUTBOARD HINGE PIVOT COULD DISENGAGE FROM THE HINGE.
IF THE SEAT IS THEN RETURNED TO THE UPRIGHT POSITION WITHOUT RE-ENGAGING THE HINGE PIVOT, THE SEAT AND SEAT BELTS MAY NOT PROVIDE THE INTENDED LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REVISED SEAT BACK HINGE PIVOT.
Campaign 00V418000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringDec 6, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A DECKLID WIRE HARNESS CAN FATIGUE AND DEVELOP BROKEN WIRES IN THE BEND AREA OF THE WIRE HARNESS.
THIS COULD RESULT IN EITHER A LOSS OF INDIVIDUAL LAMP FUNCTIONS, OR IN THE CASE OF A SHORT OF THE BROKEN WIRES THAT CAUSES A FUSE TO OPEN, IN THE LOSS OF STOP LAMP OR TAIL LAMP FUNCTION. LOSS OF STOP LAMP OR TAIL LAMP FUNCTION COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DECKLID WIRE HARNESS.
Campaign 00V411000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels, lugs/nuts/bolts/studsOct 12, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE REAR WHEEL HUB RETAINING NUTS CAN LOOSEN AND ALLOW THE LEFT REAR WHEEL AND BRAKE DRUM ASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR WHEEL BEARINGS AND INSTALL A REAR WHEEL RETENTION CAP TO PREVENT LEFT REAR WHEEL SEPARATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 12, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 00V303000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed control, cablesOct 12, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. A SPEED CONTROL CABLE COULD HAVE A CORE WIRE THAT IS LONG ENOUGH TO CATCH ON THE SLEEVE AT THE THROTTLE BODY END OF THE CABLE DURING WIDE-OPEN THROTTLE ACCELERATION.
A THROTTLE THAT DOES NOT RETURN TO IDLE COULD RESULT IN REDUCED VEHICLE CONTROL AND, POTENTIALLY, A VEHICLE CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 12, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 00V302000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, frame and membersAug 11, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT." THE RESULTANT HIC(D) VALUE AT ONE TARGET LOCATION AP1, LOCATED ON THE TRIM PANEL AT THE JUNCTURE OF THE A-PILLAR AND ROOF SIDE RAIL, MAY BE GREATER THAN DESIGN INTENT.
IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, AN OCCUPANT CONTACTING THAT LOCATION MAY NOT BE PROVIDED THE INTERIOR IMPACT PROTECTION INTENDED.
DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE B-PILLAR AND A-PILLAR TRIM PANELS, REVISE THE HEADLINER EDGE NEAR THE TOPS OF THE A-PILLARS TO ACCEPT THE NEW A-PILLAR TRIM PANELS WITH THEIR ENERGY ABSORBING TUBES, AND INSTALL THE NEW A-PILLAR AND THE OLD B-PILLAR TRIM PANELS.
Campaign 00V218000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed controlDec 3, 1999
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL. THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE END FITTING CAN ALLOW WATER TO ENTER THE SPEED CONTROL SERVO ASSEMBLY. IF THIS OCCURS, CORROSION IN THE SERVO ASSEMBLY COULD DEVELOP AND CAUSE INTERMITTENT SPEED CONTROL OPERATION OR PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO IDLE.
A THROTTLE THAT DOES NOT RETURN TO IDLE COULD RESULT IN UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE (WITH A NEW CABLE THAT INCORPORATES A GLASS-FILLED END CAP) AND INSPECT THE ASSEMBLY FOR INTERNAL CORROSION. SERVOS WITH EVIDENCE OF CORROSION WILL ALSO BE REPLACED. OWNERS ARE ADVISED NOT TO USE THE SPEED CONTROL UNTIL THE VEHICLES ARE REPAIRED.
Campaign 99V346000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine and engine cooling
470 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 23, 2004
(2000-FORD FOCUS ZTS - 29,536 MILES) IN ADDITION TO A PRIOR INCIDENT WHEN MY CAR STALLED ON HIGHWAY 635 WHEN I WAS GOING APPROX. 60 MPH IN THE CENTER LANE, IT HAS STALLED "TWICE" TODAY WITHIN JUST 1 HOUR DURING MY LUNCH BREAK! IN ALL INCIDENTS THE CAR LOST ALL POWER AND THE ENGINE STOPPED WITHOUT ANY PRIOR WARNING WHATSOEVER. IN BOTH OCCURENCES, I WAS DRIVING AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT AND WAS NEITHER ACCELERATING NOR DECELERATING WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN, THE RADIO WENT OUT, WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON AND THE ENGINE DIED. I WAS STUCK IN THE EXTREME LEFT LANE OF 'US 75' AND NARROWLY MISSED BEING HIT BY MULTIPLE VEHICLES. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 23, 2004
THE "MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHTS" FAILED TO WORK AFTER THE OIL CAP WAS FORGOTTEN TO BE REPLACED. THE CAR WAS DRIVEN (NOT KNOWING THE OIL CAP WAS NOT SECURE) AND NO SIGNS OR WARNING SIGNALS (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHTS) WERE DISPLAYED ON THE DASHBOARD THAT WOULD DENOTE SOME TYPE OF CAUTION/MALFUNCTION. THE CAR HAD SMOKE BILLOWING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND THE INTERIOR FILLED W/SMOKE. THE CAR THEN BEGAN TO BUCK AND BLUE SMOKE WAS BLOWING OUT OF THE EXHAUST PIPE AFTER ADDING OIL, AND AGAIN, NO MALFUNCTION SIGNALS WERE HIGHLIGHTED ON THE DASHBOARD.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 19, 2004, fire
WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE WHEN SHE NOTICED STEAM COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE DRIVER LIFTED THE HOOD AND SAW STEAM AND SMOKE COMING FROM THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE AND WAS TOWED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. *NM
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 9, 2004
CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR STALLING. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 9, 2004
I RECEIVED A NOTICE OF A RECALL ON MY 2000 FORD FOCUS CONCERNING THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP DESIGN. THE NOTICE RECOMMENDED WAITING UNTIL THE NEW DESIGN WAS AVAILABLE IN JANUARY 2004 BEFORE TAKING THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER.THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SHOWING ANY SYMPTOMS AT THIS POINT BUT DID SO SHORTLY AFTERWARD.SHORTLY BEFORE GETTING A SCHEDULE TO TAKE IT IN,THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. THE DEALER REPLACED THE RECALL FUEL PUMP SYSTEM BUT FOUND THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON BECAUSE OF A STICKING EXHAUST VALVE ON ONE SIDE OF THE ENGINE WHICH WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $1900.THIS WAS IN ADDITION TO A $100 DIAGNOSTIC FEE.THE CONDITION WAS DESCRIBED AS NOT LIKELY TO CAUSE STALLING OR FURTHUR DAMAGE IF THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER WHERE THE CAR WAS PURCHASED. PRIOR TO ARRIVING AT THE 2ND DEALER'S SHOP THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS NO LONGER ON.THE DIAGNOSIS WAS SIMILAR AND THE COST WAS PUT AT $2100 PLUS AN $85 DIAGNOSTIC FEE.AFTER REQUESTING AN EXPLANATION OF WHY THIS DAMAGE WOULD OCCUR ON A CAR WITH JUST 28K MILES AND ONLY AFTER THE FUEL PUMP SYMPTOMS STARTED,THE REPAIR COST WAS REDUCED TO $600. BECAUSE THE CAR WAS PURCHASED A LITTLE OVER 3 YEARS AGO THE 36,000 MILES ENGINE WARRANTY DID NOT APPLY.THE CAR WAS RUNNING FINE AND APPEARED TO HAVE NO PROBLEMS UNTIL THE FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTIONED AS FORD EXPECTED. I AM CERTAIN THIS CAUSED THE ENGINE DAMAGE. I WILL ALSO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH FORD .
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 6, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 20-25 MPH CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED IT WAS AN ENGINE PROBLEM. BUT, THERE WAS NO RECALL. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 27, 2004
WITHOUT ANY WARNING, THE ENGINE STALLED WHILE BEING DRIVEN 15 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THE MECHANIC INDICATED THE TIMING BELT WAS BROKE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *JB
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 27, 2004
TIMING BELT BROKE DUE TO DEFECTIVE BELT TENSIONER BEARING, CAUSING ENGINE TO STOP, VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED AND TIMING BELT AND BELT TENSIONER ASSEMBLY WERE REPLACED. INCIDENT OCCURRED AT 39,324 MILES. *JB
Steering, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine and engine cooling, Latches/locks/linkages, Equipment, Jan 23, 2004
DEFECTIVE FRONT BRAKE ROTOR. *PH DURING THE INSPECTION THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT THE DEFECT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE VEHICLE'S WARRANTY. OTHER VEHICLE COMPONENTS ALSO MALFUNCTIONED. THE VEHICLE'S TRUNK LATCH BROKE, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED TWICE, THE CD PLAYER BECAME INOPERATIVE AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP. *NM
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 22, 2004
RECALL #03V482000 REGARDING STALLING. DEALER CHARGED CONSUMER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC OF $60.00 CONCERNING THIS RECALL.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 21, 2004, fire
AROUND 6:00 A.M. ON 01-14-04. WHILE TAKING 9 YR. OLD DAUGHTER TO SCHOOL AND MYSELF TO WORK, DRIVING AT APROX. 55 MPH. MY 2000 FORD FOCUS ENGINE SUDDENLY CAUGHT ON FIRE.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 20, 2004
THIS IS A SALVAGED VEHICLE. CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FROM FORD. HOWEVER, DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO HONOR THE RECALL, CLAIMING IT WAS NOT A SFETY RECALL. *AK
Suspension, Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Fuel system, Other, Jan 16, 2004
MY CAR HAS A CONSTANT BAD VIBRATION THAT INTENSIFIES ON RIGHT TURNS, GOING UP GRADES, AND OVER BUMPS. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO JIM CLICK FORD IN TUCSON, AZ FOR A TOTAL OF THREE TIMES. EACH TIME THEY COME UP WITH A DIFFERENT EXCUSE AND IT NEVER FIXES THE PROBLEM. I HAVE BEEN TOLD AT FIRST IT WAS, MY TIRES, I REPLACED ALL FOUR TIRES WITH TOP OF THE LINE MICHELINS, THEN I WAS TOLD THAT MY FUEL PUMP WAS GOING OUT AND THAT IS THE CAUSE OF THE VIBRATION, NOW IT IS THE COILS. NOT ONE OF THESE HAS FIXED THE PROBLEM, I AM STILL WAITING ON THE PUMP TO GET IN STOCK AT JIM CLICK, AND THEY DID REPLACE THE COILS AT A CHARGE OF $370.88. IN ADDITION TO THE VIBRATION IT SPORADICALLY TRIES TO STALL AND HESITATES WHEN TURNING. I ALSO HAVE MY TAILLIGHTS, AND BACK UP LIGHTS CONSTANTLY BURNING OUT, I HAVE REPLACED THEM 3 TIMES AND THE LAST TIME I HAD JIM CLICK REPLACE THEM. (THE BACK UP LIGHT, PASSENGER SIDE IS OUT AGAIN) I WAS ALSO TOLD THE FIRST TIME I TOOK IN MY CAR TO JIM CLICK FORD (BEFORE THE FUEL PUMP RECALL), I NEEDED TO REPLACE A FAILING FUEL PUMP AND THAT WOULD COST $680.00 TO REPLACE. (PARTS AND LABOR) I COULD NOT AFFORD IT AND TOOK IT OUT OF THEIR SHOP, I THEN BROUGHT IT IN AFTER THE RECALL AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE FUEL PUMP WAS NOT THE PROBLEM THAT IT WAS THE COIL AND THEY COULD NOT REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP SINCE IT WAS NOT FAILING. I THEN FOUGHT IT OUT WITH THEM AND THEY SAID THEY WOULD REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP WHEN IT CAME IN STOCK LATE JANUARY 2004. THEY DID REPLACE THE COILS AND THE ENGINE CHECK LIGHT WAS ON WHEN I BROUGHT IT IN AND THAT IS HOW THEY DETERMINED THAT IT WAS THE COILS. THEY FIXED THAT PROBLEM AND I GOT MY CAR BACK AND GUESS AGAIN THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON THE VERY NEXT DAY AND THE VIBRATIONS ARE GETTING WORSE. I AM STARTING TO FEEL THAT THIS CAR IS A LEMON MY CAR ONLY HAS 64,000 MILES AND HAS SO MANY RECALLS AND SERVICE BULLETINS IT IS SCARY. *CB
Suspension, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Visibility, Tires, Wheels, Other or unspecified, Jan 15, 2004
I PURCHASED MY 2000 FORD FOCUS SE FROM MERLIN MOTORS IN SASKATOON. PRODUCTION DATE - MAY 2/2000, STOCK NO. PP24941, R.O. NO. 155631. I BELIEVE THIS CAR WAS PREVIOUSLY OWNED BY SOMEONE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA. HERE IS A CHRONOLOGICAL BREAKDOWN OF REPAIRS. APRIL 17/01 - TOOK CAR IN BECAUSE DRIVER MIRROR VIBRATED BADLY WHEN DRIVING - SO BADLY THAT I COULD NOT LOOK INTO IT, IT WAS SHAKING THAT MUCH. ALSO, THE TRUNK WOULD NOT OPEN FROM THE RELEASE INSIDE THE CAR. PARTS WERE ORDERED AT THIS TIME. VEHICLE KILOMETERS- 32854. JUNE 19/01 - THEY CHECKED FOR DRIVER MIRROR VIBRATING WHEN DRIVING AND REPLACED DRIVER SIDE EXTERIOR MIRROR. THE ALSO CHECKED FOR TRUNK NOT OPENING FROM THE RELEASE INSIDE THE CAR, THEY REPLACED THE TRUNK STOP AND ADJUSTED. VEHICLE KILOMETERS- 35222 JUNE 20/01 - THEY CHECKED FOR POWER STEERING LEAK AND REPLACED STEERING RACK AND SET TOE. VEHICLE KILOMETERS- 37782?? (THIS IS OBVIOUSLY AN ERROR - I KNOW I DID NOT DRIVE 2, 560 KM IN ONE DAY!) I ALSO DID NOT COMPLAIN ABOUT THE POWER STEERING AND DON'T RECALL WHY MY CAR WAS IN THERE AT THE TIME. SEPT 21/01 - THEY REPAIRED RATTLE IN RIGHT FRONT GOING OVER BUMPS, TIGHTENED ALL ASSEMBLE BOLTS IN FRONT END, REMOVED RIGHT CALIPER AND ROTOR, LUBED ALL BUSHING, ADJUSTED FRONT SPLASH SHIELDS, FOUND TIE ROD BOLT LOOSE AND TIGHTENED. THEY ALSO FIXED MOLDING ON WINDOW BELT, WHICH WAS LOOSE AND CHECKED INSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR AND FOUND IT FLAWED - PART ON ORDER. VEHICLE KILOMETERS- 43170. NOV 3/01 - WE WERE DRIVING IN SASKATOON WHEN ENGINE STARTED TO BOIL. WE KNEW THIS BECAUSE OF STEAM COMING FROM THE HOOD, ALL GAUGES IN THE CAR READ NORMAL! WE TOOK CAR TO MERLIN - THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR AFTER THEIR CHECKS, AND TOLD US TO BRING IT BACK IF IT HAPPENED AGAIN! WORK ORDER FOR THIS DATE STATES: CUSTOMER SAW STEAM COMING FROM UNDER HOOD, ANTIFREEZE POOLED ON ENGINE, GAUGE READ NORMAL, STEAM COMING FROM OVERFLOW TANK - FILL WITH A/FREEZE, PRESSURE TEST FOR LEAKS, NO LEAKS FOUND.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Jan 15, 2004
STALLING,COUGHING,SPUTTERING
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 15, 2004
MY VEHICLE HAS A STALLING PROBLEM. IT GIVES NO INDICATION THAT THIS WILL OCCUR. IT CAN HAPPEN AT HIGH OR LOW SPEED. I HAVE CONTACTED MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP AND THEY DO NOT HAVE ANY INDICATION OF WHAT MAY BE CAUSING THE PROBLEM. WHAT IS STRANGE TO ME IS THAT IF THE ENGINE SITS THEN IT WILL START UP AGAIN WITH NO PROBLEM. THIS FIRST OCCURED IN APRIL 2003 AND NOW IT OCCURING MORE OFTEN. ALL I WANT TO KNOW IS WHAT TO FIX OR WHAT CAN BE DONE. I REALLY LOVE MY CAR BUT GETTING STRANDED IS NO FUN.
Engine and engine cooling, Other or unspecified, Jan 15, 2004
WHEN DRIVING CAR AFTER SO LONG THE ENGINE GETS HOT AND SPEED REDUCES. WHEN PUSHING ON ACCELERATOR TO TRY TO PICK UP SPEED, IT CONTINUES TO LOSE MORE SPEED AND STARTS JERKING. AFTER IT CONTINUES TO KEEP JERKING AND SPEED KEEPS GOING DOWN ENGINE SHUTS OFF, LEAVING ME SIT IN THE MIDDLE OF TOWN WITH TWO CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF TWO. WHEN CAR STALLS AND YOU TRY TO RESTART, IT TURNS OVER BUT WILL NOT START. ONCE IT DOES START IT SHUTS BACK DOWN UNTIL IT SITS FOR A COUPLE HOURS. HAD THIS PROBLEM FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME. FORD REFUSES TO FIX EVEN WHEN UNDER WARRANTY. IT SUPPOSED TO BE SUCH A RELIABLE CAR BUT IS VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE WHEN IT ACTS UP. COULD CAUSE SERIOUS ACCIDENT. I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING A CAR THAT I'M PAYING SO MUCH MONEY FOR TO KEEP BREAKING DOWN. I FIND THIS TO BE A SERIUOS PROBLEM. I DON'T BELIEVE ANYONE THAT HAS CHILDREN WOULD WANT THIS HAPPENING TO THEM AND FORD NOT DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT, TELLING ME THERE'S NOTHING WRONG WITH IT .
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Equipment, Jan 15, 2004
ON OCTOBER 10TH 2003 I WAS DRIVING IN THE FORD FOCUS 2000 WAGON FROM NEW YORK CITY TO CLEVELAND, OH, ABOUT 500 MILES. IT DROVE WELL FOR ABOUT 300 MILES, BUT STARTED TO CHOKE AND SPUTTER ON HILLS, LIKE IT WAS ABOUT TO STALL. I WAS HOPING I WOULD MAKE IT TO CLEVELAND FOR REPAIRS, BUT IT STALLED OUT ON ME GOING 65 MILES AN HOUR 60 MILES OUTSIDE OF CLEVELAND. I WAS ABLE TO RESTART, AND LIMPED INTO THE NEAREST TOWN AND FOUND A FORD DEALER IN ASHTABULA OH. HE SAID IT WAS THE FUEL FILTER AND REPAIRED IT. IT DROVE FINE FOR THE REST OF JOURNEY INTO CLEVELAND. BUT I THEN HEADED TO NEW YORK CITY A FEW DAYS LATER, AND AGAIN AFTER 200 MILES, IT STARTED SPUTTERING ON HILLS. THEN OUTSIDE OF BINGHAMTON, NY IT STALLED AGAIN. I AGAIN RESTARTED, AND TERRIFIED OF A FATAL ACCIDENT, I CALLED FOR ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE FROM VERIZON WIRELESS. THEY GOT A TOW TRUCK TO GET ME TO A GARAGE, BUT THEY WERE CLOSED. THE NEXT MORNING, I WAITED FOR THEM TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM AND REPAIR THE CAR, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO REPLICATE THE STALLING PROBLEM. I DROVE THE REST OF THE WAY INTO NEW YORK CITY TERRIFIED, AND ALMOST STALLED OUT AT THE FOOT FO THE GEORGE WASHINGTON BRIDGE. IT WAS AFTER 5:00 PM SO THE DEALERSHIP WAS CLOSED THAT I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM. SO I AM PLANNING TO HAVE THEM LOOK AT IT. BUT THEY SAID THAT UNLESS THEY CAN SEE THE PROBLEM, THEY CAN'T FIX IT. I ALSO CALLED FORD AND THEY SAID THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM. WHICH I LATER FOUND OUT IS A MAJOR PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR, AND THERE IS AN ACTIVE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY AT NHTSA. I AM HOPING TO GET BY UNDER THE LEMON LAW IN NY, BUT FEAR THAT THE DEALERSHIP WILL CLAIM THERE ARE NO PROBLEMS WITH MY CAR. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO MY COMPLAINT.
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Other or unspecified, Jan 15, 2004
AT 148 MILES TOLD FORD THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH TRANS, DID NOT BELIEVE ROAD TESTED FRO 2 MILES AND HAD CAR FOR DAY AND A HALF. SAID THEY DESIGNED TRANS TO SLIP. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE IT IN THAT CONDITION AND REPEATEDLY CALLED CUSTOMER SERVICE BACK AND QUESTIONED DEALERS ABOUT SLIP AND THEY SAID IT WAS DESIGNED THAT WAY. TO SAY THE LEAST TRANS REPLACED. TRIM AND OTHER ITEMS FALLING OFF CAR AND FROD WOULD NOT REPLACE. MORE BRAKE JOBS THAN YOU CAN SHAKE A STICK AT. JUST GOT DONE PUTTING 600.00 INTO IT WHEN ENGINE THREW ROD AND NOW HAS TO BE REPLACED FOR A COST OF 3,700.00. FORD MADE A BAD CAR ND THEY KNOW IT , BUT WILL LEAVE US FOCUS OWNERS OUT TO HANG.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Power train, Visibility, Wheels, Equipment, Other or unspecified, Jan 15, 2004
STARTED EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE AFTER PURCHASE. SUDDENLY IN AUGUST, ALL POWER SYSTEMS/COMPUTER TYPE ITEMS BEGAN TO FAIL -- POWER LOCKS, TRUNK RELEASE. THEN, CAR BEGAN (AND STILL DOES) TO SPUTTER AND SHAKE WHEN STOPPED/IDLE UNTIL IT WOULD SHUTDOWN. ALSO, THE RADIO/CD PLAYER WOULD SHUT OFF. CHECKED FOR TSBS FOR THE VEHICLE MODEL & YEAR AND FOUND AT LEAST 15. WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER (WORLD FORD SANDY SPRINGS) WE WERE TOLD THAT THEY ARE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS AND THAT WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE THE CAR REPAIRED. ONLY OFFICIAL FORD RECALL NOTICES, NOT EVEN NTSA RECALL NOTICES, WOULD BE HONORED. ON TOP OF THIS, WE WOULD BE EXPECTED TO PAY $90 PER COMPLAINT BATCH (THE TSB LIST WAS BATCHED IN TO 3 MAIN AREAS)FOR DIAGNOSTIC PURPOSES AND IF ANY OF THE COMPLAINTS WERE RELATED TO A RECALL, THE $90 WOULD BE REFUNDED AS APPLICABLE. I EXPRESSED THAT IF FORD ISSUED A TSB AND THE NTSA ISSUED A RECALL NOTICE, THEN I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE THE CAR WORKED ON.
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 15, 2004
ENGINE STALLS THEN RESTARTS. OCCURS UNDER ALL DRIVING CONDITIONS. OCCURS IN WARMER WEATHER VS WINTER. DEALERS TEND TO INDICATE FUEL PUMP OVER HEATING AS PROBLEM. FUEL PUMP IS IN GAS TANK COOLED BY 12+ GALLONS OF FUEL. THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER IS RIGHT LONG SIDE FUEL TANK. FUEL TANK HAS TEMP INSULATION ON SIDE THAT FAVORS FUEL TANK. THE MASS OF THE FUEL TANK HAS TO EXCEED OPERATIONAL TEMP SPEC OF FUEL PUMP TO CONTRIBUTE TO ANOMALY.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Structure, Other or unspecified, Jan 15, 2004
LET'S SEE, WHERE SHALL I BEGIN. WITHIN MONTH OR TWO OF PURCHASE OF 2000 FOCUS SEDAN IT WAS BACK IN THE SHOP FOR THE FRONT A PANEL TRIM. IT TOOK 3 TIMES TO FINALLY GET THAT RIGHT. ALSO LESS THAN 5 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE, WINDSHIELD HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE TO A STRESS FRACTURE (WAS A 1-1.5 HAIRLINE CRACK WHICH APPEARED IN WINDSHIELD). THE WINDSHIELD HAS SINCE BEEN REPLACED AGAIN. WHILE ADJUSTING THE REAR-VIEW MIRROR THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED AROUND THE BASE, APPARENTLY FROM SLIGHT PRESSURE OF MIRROR. AND JUST RECENTLY, AUGUST 2003, I'VE NOTICED WATER DROPS FLYING UP FROM ABOVE THE DASHBOARD. NOT SURE IF WINDSHIELD IS LEAKING AROUND THE BOTTOM BASE OR MAYBE A.C. HAVEN'T HAD IT CHECKED YET, BUT IT WILL BE IN THE SHOP THIS WEEK FOR OTHER PROBLEMS I HAVEN'T MENTIONED YET. IT WAS IN SHOP IN LATE 2001 OR EARLY 2002 FOR THROTTLE PROBLEMS. WHILE THE CAR WAS SITTING STILL THE ENGINE WOULD RACE BETWEEN 2.5 AND 3000 RPMS. FORTUNATELY I NEVER USED THE CRUISE CONTROL DURING THAT TIME. LATE 2002 THE TRUNK LOCK MECHANISM APPARENTLY BROKE PREVENTING THE TRUNK FROM SHUTTING PROPERLY. IT WOULDN'T LATCH AT ALL. I HAVE YET TO HAVE THE WIPER MOTOR COVER RECALL FIXED. AND ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS THE FUEL GAUGE HAS READ EMPTY, NO MATTER HOW MUCH FUEL YOU HAVE IN THE TANK. AND JUST WHEN YOU THINK NOTHING ELSE CAN GO WRONG, IT HAPPENS. ME AND MY WIFE WERE SHOPPING THIS MORNING ON LABOR DAY SATURDAY. WE GOT IN THE CAR AND I WENT TO START IT. MY KEY SOMEHOW WOULD NOT GO INTO THE IGNITION COMPLETELY, NO MATTER HOW HARD I TRIED. WE EVENTUALLY CALL OUR TRIPLE AAA INSURANCE AND ARRANGE FOR A LOCKSMITH TO COME AND TAKE A LOOK. HE LOOKS AT IT A SECOND AND DECLARES WHAT WE FEAR THE WORST. OUR FOCUS IS THE 7TH FOCUS THIS MONTH HE HAS SEEN WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. HE SAID THAT THE IGNITION WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED BY FORD. I BELIEVE THAT THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD.
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 15, 2004
FLANGE BRAKAGE ON THE EGR VALVE ASSEMBLY. THE PIPE BREAKS AT THE FLANGE WHERE IT CONNECTS TO THE SIDE OF THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. CAUSEING A SPUTTING SOUND AND EMITTING EXHAUST FUMES INTO THE AUTOMOBILE. IT ALSO CAUSES PROBLEMS WITH (3) SENSORS. I CALLED THE SERVICE AND PARTS DEPARTMENT AT THREE LOCAL DEALERS AND WAS TOLD BY ALL THREE THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS PART BUT THERE WAS NO RECALL. SO I HAD TO HAVE A NEW ONE INSTALLED WITH A ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON THE PART. BUT IF THIS IS COMMON WHATS TO SAY AFTER A YEAR IT WILL BREAK AGAIN? THE PART IS NOT WELL MADE AS IT'S MADE OUT OF COPPER WITH A SMALL WELD AT THE FLANGE. I HAVE BEEN TO OTHER FOCUS OWNERS GROUP SITES AND FOUND SEVERAL HAD SEEN THIS SAME PROBLEM. I WOULD BE THANKFUL FOR ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE ME ON THIS MATTER. JOHN GARNER
Engine and engine cooling, Visibility, Equipment, Jan 15, 2004
WHILE COMING HOME FROM A HOUSE WARMING IN TUCSON, AZ ON 06/21/03 ME, MY 2 NIECES,AND MY DAUGHTER WERE ON THE FAST LANE OF THE FREEWAY COMING OUT OF TUCSON WHEN THE ENGINE STARTED LOSING POWER, THE CAR STARTED SLOWING DOWN TO ABOUT 25 MPH WE HAD TO CROSS 3 LANES TO GET OFF THE FREEWAY WITH OTHER CARS COMING AT 65 TO 70 MPH WE ALMOST GOT HIT ON THE LAST LANE BEFORE EXITING THE FREEWAY. THE CAR THEN SPUTTERED THE REST OF THE WAY OFF THE FREEWAY. AFTER SITTING FOR A WHILE WE WERE ABLE TO START IT AGAIN. AND CONTINUE HOME BUT WE USED FRONTAGE RD ALL THE WAY. I AM AFRAID TO TAKE IT ON THE FREEWAY ANYMORE. SOMETIMES IT DOES WANT TO START AT ALL. THE DOOR ON PASSANGER SIDE ALSO DOESN'T UNLOCK WITH POWER BUTTON. SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON WITH BATTERY LIGHT AND OIL LIGHT. I FEEL SOMEONE WILL EVENTUALLY BE SERIOULY INJURED UNLESS THEY FIND OUT WHAT IS WRONG HERE.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Power train, Jan 15, 2004
NOV 2002 TOOK TO DEALER THE CAR WAS PURCHASED FROM, TOLD THEM IT WAS SLUGGISH AND GAS GUAGE DIDN'T ALWAYS REGISTER. I THOUGHT AT THAT TIME IT WAS MAYBE THE TRANSMISSION. I WAS TOLD NOTHING WRONG, COULD NOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM. TOOK TO NEIGHBORHOOD DEALER FOR THE SAME PROBLEM REPLACED FUEL FILTER. HAD ALL THIS WORK BEFORE WARRANTY EXPIRED IN FEB 2003. NEVER NOTIFIED ABOUT POSSIBLE FUEL PUMP. JUNE 27TH STARTED CAR AND ENGINE DIED. IT THEN WOULDN'T START AGAIN FOR ABOUT 30 MINUTES. I TOOK IT IMMEDIATELY TO MY NEIGHBORHOOD FORD DEALERSHIP. WHO TOLD ME IT WAS THE FUEL PUMP AND STRONGLY SUGGEST NOT TO DRIVE THE CAR UNTIL REPAIR. SO THE CAR WAS LEFT THERE FOR REPAIRS. AFTER LISTEN TO THE SERVICE PEOPLE AT THE DEALERSHIP, IT CAME TO MY ATTENTION THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM. I STARTED TO INVESIGATE THIS MYSELF AND FIND 67 CASES LISTED ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE. THE COMMON STATEMENT WAS THAT THE WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING VEHICLE DIES OUT. ON CAR HITTING A PARK VEHICLE AND SEVERAL NEAR MISSES ON THE HIGHWAY. 2000 FORD FOCUS ENGINE SPUTTERS AND THEN STALLS AT HIGH SPEEDS. MY CONCERN IS THAT I HAVE HEARD AND READ HUNDRED IF NOT THOUSANDS OF THESE FUEL PUMP FAILURES AND AFTER MANY NICE BUT INEFFECTIVE ANSWERS FROM FORD I FEEL THAT SOMEONE WILL BE INJURED SERIOUSLY OR DIE TO THESE FAULTY AND POSSIBLY DANGEROUS FUEL SYSTEMS. MY DEALERSHIP PREVIOUSLY WORKED ON THIS TELLING ME FUEL FILTER AND I FEEL KNOW WELL IT WAS MORE AND LIKE THE FUEL PUMP. IT SEEM THAT THE GAS GUAGE NOT REGISTERING IS A CLEAR SIGN OF PROBLEMS WITH THE FUEL PUMP.