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.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jul 28, 2000
INSTALL AN AFTER-MARKET OIL RECHARGABLE AIR FILTER (IMPROVES AIR FILTRATION AND TRAPS MORE DIRT THAN OE FILTERS). TRIED TO START CAR THIS MORNING AND ENGINE WOULD NOT MAINTAIN REV'S... AND WOULD EVENTUALLY DIE. HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALER. THEY STATED THAT THE MASS AIR FLOW (MAF) SENSOR WAS NOT DEFECTIVE, BUT WAS MADE INOPERABLE BY OIL DEPOSITION RESULTING FROM THE OILED AIR FILTER THAT I HAD INSTALLED (AND THAT ALL SERVICE WOULD NOT BE COVERED BY WARRANTY). SERVICE REP ALSO SAID THAT THEY HAD A TECH SERVICE BULLETIN STATING THAT OIL RECHARGABLE FILTERS SHOULD NOT BE USED IN THE FOCUS (EVEN THOUGH AFTER MARKET PRODUCTS DESIGNED FOR THE FOCUS ARE AVAILABLE). EXCESS OIL IS USUALLY 'BURNED OFF' WHEN RUNNING THE CAR. IN THE FOCUS CASE, THE MAF IS IN SUCH A PLACE THAT IT COLLECTS THE OIL OR ANY OTHER PRODUCT COMING THROUGH THE INTAKE AND COULD BE RENDERED DEFECTIVE BY THE MERE FACT THAT THE ELECTRONICS ARE EXPOSED. OIL CHARGE FILTERS HAVE BEEN USED FOR MANY YEARS. OE MANUFACTURERS ARE AWARE OF THEM... AND IF THEY ARE A PROBLEM, THEY SHOULD BE WARNING CONSUMERS IN THE OWNERS MANUAL NOT TO USE THEM. RESULT OF THIS ATTEMPT TO IMPROVE ON AIR FILTRATION WILL BE OVER $300.00 SINCE THE ADDITION OF THIS COMPONENT 'RUINED' A FORD COMPONENT. SERVICE TECH SAID THAT IF THIS HAD BEEN A MAP SENSOR RATHER THAN A MAF SENSOR, THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN NO PROBLEM. FORD NEEDS TO NOTIFY OWNERS OF THIS 'POTENTIAL PROBLEM' AS OIL CHARGE FILTERS ARE AVAILABLE IN ANY AFTER-MARKET STORE (AUTO ZONE, PEP BOYS. ETC)... AND ARE ACTIVELY BEING SOLD.*AK
Structure, Jul 27, 2000
DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE. DEALER HAS INSPECTED VEHICLE THREE TIMES. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 26, 2000
WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE WILL CUT OFF WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, CAUSING LOSS OF BRAKES AND POWER STEERING. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER, DEALER HAS YET TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jul 21, 2000
THE CAR WAS TAKEN IN ON 07/17/00 FOR MAKING A LOAD SQUEAKING NOISE EVERYTIME YOU COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE CAR WAS RETURNED THE SAME EVENING BUT UPON INSPECTION THE SQUEAKING NOISE HAD NOT BEEN FIXED. THE MECHANIC EXPLAINED THAT THEY HAD BEEN SEEING ALLOT OF FOCUS'S WITH SQUEAKY BRAKES AND HE HAD DEGLAZED THE REAR DRUMS AND CHAMFERED THE BRAKE PADS FOR A CORRECTIVE ACTION. HE SAID THAT IF I DRIVE THE CAR FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS THE NOISE MAY GO AWAY AFTER WHAT HE HAD DONE. AND IF THE NOISE DID NOT GO AWAY COME BACK IN AND THEY WOULD REPLACE THE BRAKE PADS. THE NOISE DID NOT GO AWAY AND I RETURNED THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP ON 07/20/00 AND WAS INFORMED THAT IT WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY A WEEK BEFORE I WOULD GET MY CAR BACK. THE DEALERSHIP REPRESENTATIVES ALSO TRIED TO TELL ME THAT WHAT THEY WERE DOING WAS BASICALLY COSTUMER P.R. AND THAT IF THE NOISE DOESN'T GO AWAY I MAY JUST HAVE TO PUT UP WITH IT. AS THIS ISSUE IS A DIRECT RESULT OF THE BRAKE PADS BEING MADE OF NEW METAL ALLOYS INSTEAD OF ASBESTOS. MY RESPONSE WAS:" THAN WHY AREN'T ALL OF YOUR CARS ON THE LOT SQUEAKING WHEN THEY STOP AND WHY DON'T I HEAR OTHER NEW CARS MAKING THE SAME NOISE."? I GOT NO REAL RESPONSE TO MY INQUIRY OTHER THAN THE SAME STATEMENT THAT THERE MAY NOT BE ANYTHING THEY CAN DO. I AM CONERNED THAT THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS WRONG AND I COULD EXPERIENCE SOME TYPE OF BRAKE FAILURE LATER ON IF THEY DON'T FIX THIS PROBLEM. *AK
Exterior lighting, Jul 20, 2000
WHILE DRIVING TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARD LIGHTS ARE INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE WHICH MAY CAUSE A REAR END CRASH. CURRENTLY VEHICLE IS AT DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Power train, Jul 17, 2000
WITH CLUTCH ALL THE WAY IN CAR WILL NOT GO INTO GEAR, WILL NOT COME OUT, AND STALLS. THIS HAS HAPPEND MOSTLY AT LOW SPEEDS IN TRAFFIC MY WIFE AND I ARE VERY WEARY OF DRIVING THE CAR AT ALL NOW, AND WE'VE HAD TO WAIT 4 DAYS BEFORE THE DEALER COULD GIVE US AN APPOINTMENT. THE DEALER HAS ALREADY LOOKED AT THE TRANS. BUT SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH IT.
Other or unspecified, Jul 17, 2000
THIS ACR IS VERY BAD NEWS AND I AM FIGHTING TO GET RID OF IT NOW AND FORD SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED FOR SELLING A VEHICLE THIS UNSAFE AND I WILL NEVER PURCHASE FROM FORD AGAIN.WHEN I TOOK THIS FOCUS IN FOR REPAIR I WAS TOLD THAT SINCE IT IS SO NEW THAT THERE ISNT A MECHANIC THAT REALLY KNOWS HOW TO FIX IT AND THAT THEY WILL GET BACK TO ME WHEN THEY FIND ONE THAT CAN.THIS IS VERY POOR SERVICE WITH A VERY POOR AND UNSAFE CAR.PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS FOR ALL THE PEOPLE THAT WILL HAVE TO GO THROUGFH THIS AS WELL .THANK YOU VERY MUCH.MELISSA. NO SAFETY DEFECT MENTIONED IN SUMMARY. *AK( DOT NUMBER: )
Other or unspecified, Jul 17, 2000
THIS CAR IS THE WORST INVESTMENT I HAVE EVER MADE AND A FRIEND OF MINE BOUGHT THE SAME CAR A FEW MONTHS AFTER ME AND HERS FELL APART AS WELL.THE DEALER HAS DONE NOTHING BUT GIVE BOTH OF US A HARD TIME ABOUT THESE TWO HORROR CARS AND THEY DONT HONOR THE WARRANTIES WE PURCHASED WITH THESE CRAPPY CARS .I CANT WAIT TO GET RID OF THE FORD FOCUS OUT OF MY DRIVE WAY AND NEITHER CAN MY FRIEND .I HOPE YOU WILL INVESTIGATE THESE CARS VERY CLOSELY THEY ARE TERRIBLE. NO SAFETY DEFECT MENTIONED IN SUMMARY. *AK( DOT NUMBER: )
Visibility, Jul 14, 2000
WINDSHIELD WIPER WHICH RUBS AGAINST TOUCHES OF THE WINDSHIELD CAUSES THE WINDSHIELD TO CRACK IN THREE DIFFERENT AREAS. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Power train, Jul 11, 2000
IS IT COMMON FOR A NEW VEHICLE TRANSMISSION TO GO OUT AFTER DRIVING IT FOR ONLY 3 MONTHS? EVEN THOUGH YOU HAVE A BUMPER TO BUMPER WARRANTY, IN A SITUATION LIKE THIS SHOULD MANUFACTURER BE HELD RESPONSIBLE OTHER THAN REPLACEMENT, IS IT SAFE TO ASSUME THAT AFTER OWNING A VEHICLE FOR ONLY 3 MONTHS AND THE TRANSMISSION GOES OUT, A NEW ONE IS INSTALLED, THAT THIS IS A SIGN OF A LEMON? *AK
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jul 7, 2000
WHEN BRAKING, BRAKES MAKE A LOUD SQUEAKY NOISE, ESPECIALLY IN THE MORNING WHICH COULD POSSIBLY AFFECT THE BRAKING. DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE CAUSE OF THE NOISE. *AK *ML
Power train, Jul 7, 2000
WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP CLUTCH SPRING BROKE, CAUSING THE PEDAL TO REMAIN ON THE FLOORBOARD. VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR 8 DAYS. THE PART TO CORRECT PROBLEM IS ON BACK ORDER. *AK *ML
Power train, Jul 6, 2000
CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AND THE SPRING IN THE CLUTCH PEDAL BROKE/POPPED UP & HIT THE CONSUMER IN THE LEG. IT MADE THE VEHICLE VERY HARD TO DRIVE.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Other, Jul 6, 2000
THE FUEL GUAGE DOES NOT REGISTER THE CORRECT LEVELS OF FUEL. CAUSE UNKKNOWN. THE VEHICLE IS ALSO LEAKING FREON. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 6, 2000
VEHICLE INTERMITTENLY WILL COMPLETE SHUT OFF ,USUALLY AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, CAUSING A LOSS OF POWER ,AND BRAKES. DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE DEFECT.*AK
Other or unspecified, Jul 4, 2000
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Seats, Jun 29, 2000
A BAR WAS PUSHING UPWARD FROM THE SEAT INTO THE BACK OF DRIVER WHEN SEATED. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT IT WOULD TAKE APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS OR MORE BEFORE THEY COULD REPLACE THE SEAT, AND IT WAS OKAY FOR CONSUMER TO DRIVE UNTIL THEN. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
Vehicle speed control, Jun 24, 2000, crash
CAR ACCELERATED ON OWN/CAUSED MAJOR ACCIDENT/FORD REFUSES RESPONSIBLITY. *AK
Vehicle speed control, Jun 23, 2000
WHILE DRIVING ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK. VEHICLE WAS PICKING UP SPEED. SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL TO SLOW VEHICLE DOWN. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP & MECHANIC INDICATED THE PROBLEM WAS THE CRUISE CONTROL. ORDERING PARTS TO REPLACE THE CRUISE CONTROL. *AK
Steering, Air bags, Jun 23, 2000
WHILE TRAVELING AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT WOULD FLASH INTERMITTENTLY. DEALER REPLACED STERRING WHEEL. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Fuel system, Gasoline, Fuel system, Other, Jun 19, 2000
CAR OFF AT REFUELING. AFTER FILL-UP, CAR STARTED AND FUEL GAUGE READS EMPTY AND LOW-FUEL INDICATOR ILLUMINATES. DEALER REPLACED SENDER&FUEL PUMP AND THIS HAS NOT RESOLVED THE PROBLEM. AFTER DRIVEN SEVERAL MILES (>10) FUEL GAUGE WORKS AGAIN. CUSTOMER TOLD TO DEAL WITH IT.*AK
Vehicle speed control, Jun 18, 2000
I WAS EXITING HIGHWAY 99 IN MODESTO, CA AND THE SPEED CONTROL FAILED TO DISENGAGE WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES I THEN EXITED THE HIGHWAY OFFRAMP AT 70 MPH AND THE CAR WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN EVEN THOUGH MY FOOT WAS STRONGLY APPLIED TO THE BRAKES. I SPED THROUGH AN INTERSECTION CONTINUING AT 70 MPH AND MY ONLY OPTION WAS TO RE-ENTER THE HIGHWAY ON-RAMP ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE INTERSECTION. FINALLY, I DISENGAGED SPEED CONTROL BY PRESSING THE "OFF" BUTTON ON THE STEERING WHEEL BEFORE I REAR-ENDED OTHER CARS ENTERING THE HIGHWAY. THIS VEHICLE'S SPEED CONTROL WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED AS PART OF A RECALL. IF THERE HAD BEEN OTHER VEHICLES IN THE INTERSECTION WHEN I EXITED THE HIGHWAY, I MAY HAVE KILLED MYSELF AND ANOTHER DRIVER. IT WAS A VERY FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE. I OWN A FORD FOCUS ZTS WITH A MANUAL TRANSMISSION. I WILL BE TAKING THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP ON 6/19/00. I JUST THOUGHT I SHOULD REPORT WHAT MAY BE A DEADLY DEFECT IN THE SPEED CONTROL OPTION. *AK
Suspension, Vehicle speed control, Jun 13, 2000
CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 68MPH AND CRUISE CONTROL GOT STUCK. CONSUMER RAN OFF INTO THE SHOULDERS OF THE ROAD TO PREVENT FROM HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE. ALSO, VEHICLE SHOOK AND VIBRATED WHEN DRIVING AT SPEED OF 50 MPH AND OVER. *AK
Suspension, Jun 13, 2000
NOISES COMING FROM REAR SUSPENSION ( DRIVERS SIDE). INITIALLY NOISE APPEARED DURING RIGHT TURNS AT LOW CORNER SPEEDS. NOW THE NOISE IS APPARENT OVER DIPS AND UNEVEN SURFACES. ACCOMPANIED BY THESE NOISES ARE MOVEMENT IN THE REAR SUSPENSION. THE SUSPENSION FEELS AS THOUGH IT IS OUT OF ALIGNMENT. RIDE AND HANDLING HAVE CHANGED DUE TO NOISE. CAR RIDES LOPSIDED AT TIMES AND RUNS WIDE IN CORNERS AT HIGHER SPEEDS. THERE IS INCREASED BODY MOTION IN REAR AT SPEEDS ABOVE 65. THE INITIAL ESTIMATE OF PROBLEM, BY DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPT., CONCLUDED THAT THE REAR SPRING WAS OUT OF ALIGNMENT. HOWEVER, THE REPAIR DID NOT RESOLVE THE SUSPENSION PROBLEM. I BELIEVE THE PROBLEM COULD BE THE AXLE. *AK
Suspension, Jun 9, 2000
FORD DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE CONSUMER WITH NECESSARY INFORMATION, AND CONSUMER FELT THAT WHEEL COULD HAVE COME OFF. *AK