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
3,738 reports, newest first.
Suspension, Fuel system, Gasoline, Jun 12, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE STALLED SPORADICALLY. A TECHNICIAN INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE; HOWEVER, THE REPAIR SHOP WOULD NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS TITLED SALVAGED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 65,000. UPDATED 07/01/09 *BF THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS FAILED AS WELL. UPDATED 07/06/09.*JB
Electrical system, Jun 11, 2009
HEAT DAMAGE TO BATTERY CABLE, SMOKE WAS COMING OFF OF BATTERY CABLES, THE CABLES WERE SO HOT THEY MELTED. CAR NOW WILL NOT START BUT OCCASIONALLY CRANKS VERY SLOWLY.. THIS IS EXACTLY AS THE RECALL ISSUED BY NHTSA IN 2003 ON THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL. YOUR CAMPAIGN NUMBER 02V288000. MY CAR IS NOW A FIRE HAZARD AND CAN'T BE DRIVEN. NEED HELP. *TR
Electrical system, Jun 8, 2009
2000 FORD FOCUS - YET ANOTHER FAILED IGNITION CYLINDER ISSUE; THE SAME FAULTY PART ISSUE THAT HAS BEEN REPORTED FOR NEARLY A DECADE NOW. STRANDED WITH TOWING COSTS AND LARGE REPLACEMENT COST FOR PART KNOWN BY FORD, ET AL, TO BE A DEFECT PROBLEM...NOT NORMAL WEAR-AND-TEAR. IN SHOP BEING REPLACED...CONCERN OF FUTURE STRANDED AS PART IS STILL CONSIDERED DEFECTIVE. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Electrical system, Jun 4, 2009
I PURCHASED A FORD FOCUS 2000 FROM JOHN THORTON ON THORTON ROAD IN LITHIA SPRINGS ON OR ABOUT 7/2005. I ALSO TRADED IN MY LEXUS 1991 VEHICLE WHICH I HAD JUST FIXED UP FOR 2000.00 AND PLUS THE DEALER ASKED FOR A DOWN PAYMENT OF 1200.00 WHICH I GAVE, AND I REQUESTED THEM TO ADD A WARRANTY WHICH THEY DID NOT IN THE CONTRACT. THE VEHICLE WAS WHITE AND BLACK INSIDE. I DROVE SMOOTH FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS UNTIL ONE DAY AS I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE CUT OFF. I HAD THE BRAKES REDONE, AND SOME OTHER WORK. I TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER AND THEY WORKED ON IT AND CHARGED ME SOME MORE. UNTIL I REALIZED THE MECHANIC CALLED ME NAME FOR PICK UP AND HE STATED TO ME THINKING I WAS ANOTHER PERSON, MY VEHICLE IS READY AND IT HAD 3 RECALLS ON IT IN THE PAST. I ASSUME HE MEANT ME, AND COME TO REALIZE IT WAS MY CAR HE WAS SPEAKING ABOUT. EVERY SINCE THEN, MY CAR WOULD CUT OFF AT STOP LIGHTS AND WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER MECHANIC IT HAS A SHORT WIRE THAT CAN CAUSE A FIRE AND THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. I PLACED THE CAR IN CH 7 IN BANKRUPTCY IN 10/05 AND HE NO TRANSPORTATION EXCEPT BY BUS AND CAB. FORD DEALER IN LITHIA SPRINGS, GA 30122 SOLD ME A CAR WITH 3 RECALLS AS PART OF THE CAR'S HISTORY. I DON'T KNOW WHAT ELSE IT INVOLVED. *TR
Electrical system, Jun 1, 2009
THE IGNITION SYSTEM IN MY 2000 FORD FOCUS ZX3 IS NOW LOCKED AND THE KEY WON'T TURN THE CYLINDER. THERE HAS BEEN PROGRESSIVE PROBLEMS LEADING UP TO THIS. THE KEY STARTED NOT TO TURN THE CYLINDER AT ALL THEN WOULD. FURTHER INVESTIGATION ONLINE SAYS THAT THIS IS A MAJOR PROBLEM ON ALL MODEL FOCUS' WITHIN THE YEARS OF 2000-2005. *TR
Electrical system, May 27, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT TOOK HER VEHICLE FOR ROUTINE INSPECTION AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE DECK-LID WIRE HARNESS FATIGUED AND DEVELOPED DAMAGED WIRES IN THE BEND AREA OF THE WIRE HARNESS. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 00V411000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING); THEREFORE, THEY WOULD NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE REPAIRS. SHE IS IN THE PROCESS OF HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 188,000. UPDATED 06/03/09 *BF UPDATED 06/04/09.*JB
Electrical system, May 26, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE WOULD NOT START WHEN THE IGNITION WAS TURNED. IN ADDITION, THE STEERING COLUMN LOCKED. HE STRUCK THE KEY WITH A HAMMER UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS ABLE TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THROUGH RESEARCH, THE CONTACT FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE SAME ISSUE. THE FAILURE HAS OCCURRED ALMOST DAILY EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 98,000.
Electrical system, May 20, 2009
I HAVE A 2000 FORD FOCUS ZX3 AND WHILE I AM DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY MY TRANSMISSION WILL REV ALL THE GAUGES IN THE CAR WILL GO UP AND DOWN AND MY HEADLIGHTS FLASH. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO A FORD DEALERSHIP THEY SAY THEY FIX THE PROBLEM AND AS I PULL AWAY THE SAME THING HAPPENS. SO WHY IS IT THAT FORD THE PEOPLE THAT MAKE MY CAR CAN'T EVEN TELL ME WHAT'S WRONG WITH IT. SO HAVING TAKEN MY CAR TO FOUR DIFFERENT PLACES AND THE PROBLEM KEEPS HAPPENING, NOBODY SEEMS TO KNOW HOW TO FIX IT, I GUESS I WILL HAVE TO GET ANOTHER CAR (IT WILL NOT BE A FORD). THIS IS REALLY GREAT TIMING WITH THE ECONOMY AND ALL. I MEAN I PUT A NEW ALTERNATOR ON, A NEW BATTERY, I HAD THE GROUND WIRES CLEANED, A NEW IGNITION SWITCH PUT ON. OH YEAH IT ALWAYS SMELLS LIKE SOMETHING IS BURNING UNDER MY HOOD (LIKE WHEN YOU BLOW A CANDLE OUT). IT'S PRETTY BAD WHEN YOU'RE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND BASICALLY YOUR CAR DIES,SOMEBODY COULD SMASH INTO YOU CAUSING A PILE-UP. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR WHO KNOWS WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT. I JUST THINK IF YOU MAKE A PRODUCT YOU SHOULD KNOW HOW TO CORRECT THE PROBLEMS SO YOU HAVE A SAFE VEHICLE. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, May 12, 2009
I WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH WITH NO SIGNS THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE CAR WHEN THE ENGINE SUDDENLY STALLED. I WAS ABLE TO COAST SAFELY TO THE SHOULDER WHERE I TRIED TO RESTART THE ENGINE. THE ENGINE NEVER RESTARTED AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS, SO I HAD TO CALL A TOW TRUCK. THE NEXT DAY, THE CAR WAS GIVEN A JUMP AND THE ENGINE STARTED, BUT SOMETHING DIDN'T SEEM RIGHT BECAUSE THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING MUCH LOUDER THAN USUAL. THE PROBLEM IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING CORRECTED, IT WILL BE BROUGHT TO A MECHANIC TOMORROW. *TR
Structure, Latches/locks/linkages, May 4, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER'S SIDE DOORS WOULD NOT CLOSE AND THE LOCKS FAILED. THE FAILURE HAS BEEN OCCURRING SINCE JANUARY OF 2009. IN MAY OF 2009, THE DOORS OPENED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 05V030000 (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES: DOORS:LATCH) AND IT WOULD COST $100 TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
Electrical system, Apr 25, 2009
MY CAR WAS PARKED IN MY GARAGE AND I WENT TO START IT, AND THE KEY WOULDN'T TURN IN THE IGNITION. AFTER A FEW TRIES, IT FINALLY TURNED. WENT TO THE STORE, PARKED AND WENT IN, CAME BACK OUT, AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN. AFTER 1/2 HOUR, IT FINALLY TURNED. THIS HAS BEEN REPEATED ABOUT 15 TIMES AND IT'S BEYOND FRUSTRATING. THE CAR RUNS FINE OTHERWISE. IT'S NOT BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS, I KEEP IT MAINTAINED, AND IT SITS IN THE GARAGE WHEN IT'S NOT BEING DRIVEN. I TRIED TO START IT YESTERDAY, AND THE KEY WILL NOT TURN. I HAVE TRIED NUMEROUS TIMES TODAY AND IT WILL NOT TURN. I HAVE AN ENGAGEMENT IN 2 HOURS AND I NEED THE CAR. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ON THE INTERNET, IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM IN THE FORD FOCUS, WHICH IS WHAT I DRIVE (2000 ZTS). I LOVE THIS CAR, BUT THIS IS GOING TO BE A DEAL BREAKER WHEN I GET READY TO TRADE. *TR
Wheels, Apr 24, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THERE WAS A BUMPING SOUND AND THE VEHICLE STARTED SLOWING DOWN. HE NOTICED THAT THE WHEEL SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE AND ROLLED AWAY. THE TIRE WAS NOT SECURELY FASTENED ONTO THE WHEEL. HE MANAGED TO STOP THE VEHICLE WITHOUT CRASHING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND THE TIRE AND RIM WERE REPLACED. THERE WAS ALSO DAMAGE TO THE FRONT FENDER. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 196,400. UPDATED 06/08/09 *BF THE CENTER OF THE RIM REMAINED BOLTED TO THE VEHICLE, BUT A LARGER PORTION OF THE RIM SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 06/18/09.*JB
Electrical system, Apr 23, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. HE NOTICED THAT THE WIRES WOULD BEND, FRAY AND BREAK WHEN CLOSING THE REAR LIFTGATE. WHILE CLOSING THE LIFTGATE, THE VEHICLE LOST ALL ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE REAR WIPER, WASHER AND THE TOP REAR BRAKE LIGHT WHICH ALSO CAUSED THE CRUISE CONTROL TO BECOME INOPERATIVE. HE REMOVED THE SLEEVE AND MENDED THE WIRES TOGETHER WHICH CAUSED THE COMPONENTS TO FUNCTION CORRECTLY; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT FELT THAT IF THE WIRES CONTINUED TO BEND, THE FAILURE WOULD RECURR. HE CONSULTED THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT RECALL 00V411000 BUT WAS TOLD THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 47,766 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 45,000.
Steering, Apr 23, 2009
KEY WILL NOT TURN IN IGNITION. APPARENTLY, THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECT WITH FORD FOCUS MODELS FROM THE YEAR 2000. THERE IS NOTHING THAT PRECIPITATES THE PROBLEM- IT JUST DOESN'T WORK ALL OF A SUDDEN. LUCKILY, THE CAR WAS PARKED AT MY OFFICE BUILDING- BUT IT COULD HAVE HAPPENED ANYWHERE. I CALLED A LOCKSMITH AND HE CAME AND REPLACED THE IGNITION. HE SAID THAT THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THAT IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 16, 2009
CONSUMER WANTS TO KNOW IF NHTSA IS STILL MONITORING THESE ISSUES WITH THE FORD FOCUS FIRES. *NJ
Electrical system, Apr 13, 2009
I WAS LEFT STRANDED IN A PARKING LOT WITH MY 16 MONTH OLD SON AFTER I RETURNED TO MY CAR AND THE KEY WOULD NOT TURN IN THE IGNITION AND I WAS UNABLE TO START MY CAR. THIS HAPPENED WITHOUT WARNING. WHEN I PARKED MY CAR EVERYTHING WAS FINE AND I HAD NO TROUBLE REMOVING THE KEY. WHEN I RETURNED TO MY CAR AFTER SHOPPING FOR AN HOUR AT FIRST I WAS UNABLE TO GET MY KEY INTO THE IGNITION. I KEPT TRYING AND WAS FINALLY ABLE TO GET THE KEY IN THE IGNITION BUT THE KEY WOULD NOT TURN AND I COULD NOT START MY CAR. MY HUSBAND WENT TO THE CAR LATER TO SEE IF HE COULD GET IT TO WORK AND HE COULD NOT. THIS WAS THE SECOND TIME IN 6 MONTHS THAT MY FORD FOCUS HAS LEFT ME STRANDED AND RATHER THAN PAY FOR TOWING & REPAIRS WE DECIDED TO DONATE THE CAR TO CHARITY (WHO WOULD TOW IT FOR FREE) AND BUY OURSELVES A NEW CAR. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Apr 7, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT PASS INSPECTION. THE DEALER PERFORMED OVER $500 WORTH OF REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE AND STATED THAT THEY PASSED IT FOR INSPECTION. THEY EVEN PLACED THEIR OWN INSPECTION STICKER ON THE VEHICLE. LESS THAN A WEEK LATER, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. LATER, THE VEHICLE STILL WOULD NOT PASS STATE INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND THEY DISCOVERED A HOLE IN THE ENGINE AND THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS TWISTED. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE HOME AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, IT STALLED. NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE OVER 100,000.
Latches/locks/linkages, Apr 6, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE REAR DOOR OPENS AND WILL NOT REMAIN CLOSED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL IN 2005 FOR THIS FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPAIRED AT THAT TIME. THE CONTACT HAS TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
Electrical system, Mar 27, 2009
KEY WILL NOT TURN IN IGNITION. UNSAFE, LEAVES DRIVER STRANDED. INTENDED TO BUY NEW PART, BUT RESEARCHED FIRST, FINDING THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM AMONG FOCUS OWNERS. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 24, 2009
WHILE IDLING IN A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT NOTICE, THROUGH A ROD THROUGH THE BLOCK OF THE MOTOR CAUSING INSTANT AND CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED ON A HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH IT COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AND OR INJURY. FORD IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM WITH 2000 MODEL YEAR FOCUS AND HAVE NOT DONE ANYTHING TO REMEDY THE SITUATION. I PURCHASED AND INSTALLED A SALVAGE MOTOR FOR ALMOST $2000. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Equipment, Mar 22, 2009
IT STARTED WITH A TICKING NOISE I COULD HEAR WHEN IT JUST IDLED, THEN I GOT HOME STARTED IT BACK UP AND IT MADE A LOUD NOISE LIKE SOMETHING HAD FALLEN INTO THE ENGINE. I SHUT THE CAR OFF AND THEN WE HAD SOMEBODY LOOK AT IT THEY SAID THERE WAS NO COMPRESSION IN THE # 4 PISTON. THEY HAD SAID SOMETHING HAD FALLEN OFF THE PISTON AND MADE A BUNCH OF DENTS AND DANGS SO NOW WE HAVE TO REPLACE THE ENGINE. IT IS IN MY DRIVEWAY NOW WAITING TO BE REPAIRED. *TR
Electrical system, Mar 20, 2009
THE IGNITION TUMBLER IN MY 2000 FOCUS SE HAS FAILED TO THE POINT THAT NOW IT WON'T TURN UNLESS I SPEND 10-15 MINUTES JIGGLING IT AND PLAYING WITH IT. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM THAT MANY FOCUS ENTHUSIAST SITES HAVE REPORT. FORD HAS EVEN REDESIGNED THE TUMBLER IN NEWER VERSIONS IN ORDER TO FIX THE PROBLEM, SO THEY KNOW THE PROBLEM EXISTS, BUT HAVEN'T ISSUED A RECALL. THE DEALERSHIP WANTS $160-220 TO FIX THE PROBLEM. A KEY TUMBLER SHOULD HAVE A LIFESPAN OF MUCH MORE THAN 9 YEARS. THAT IS SHAMEFUL, FORD. I WISH I COULD'VE CONVINCED MY WIFE TO GET THE CIVIC INSTEAD. *TR
Electrical system, Mar 18, 2009
I'VE HAD 2 MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH MY 2000 FORD FOCUS SE. MY IGNITION IS LOCKED. THE KEY WILL NOT TURN AT ALL, THE KEY WILL GO IN BUT WILL NOT TURN WITH MUCH RESEARCH ONLINE I'M SEEING THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY PERSON THAT HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM, AND THE PROBLEM IS THE IGNITION CYLINDER. 2ND- I'VE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER IN MY CAR, AND ONCE AGAIN WITH ALOT OF RESEARCH I'M SEEING THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH THIS PROBLEM ANYWAY. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Mar 18, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 55-60 MPH, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND STALLED. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND OPENED THE GAS CAP, WHICH WAS DIFFICULT TO OPEN. WHEN THE CAP WAS FINALLY OPENED, THERE WAS A POPPING SOUND COMING FROM THE GAS TANK. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE TEMPERATURE IN THE VEHICLE WAS WARMER THAN NORMAL. FORD STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 03V482000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 146,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 145,150.
Suspension, Mar 17, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. SUDDENLY, THE FRONT END COLLAPSED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED FRONT SUSPENSION FAILURE AND ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE STRUTS TO SEPARATE FROM THE AXLE. THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED BOTH FRONT STRUTS, AXLE, AND BOTH SWAY BARS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 52,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 52279. UPDATED 04/16/09.*JB