2001 Ford Focus
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 1,790 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 5th highest complaint count among 19 Focus model years with reports.
Of the 2001 reports, 173 involved a crash and 49 involved a fire. 136 people were injured and 8 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, reclinerMar 28, 2001
PM CERTAIN SEDANS AND WAGONS, THE SEAT BACK RECLINER HANDLE SPRING COULD HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING AN IN-PROCESS TEST AND THE OCCUPANT MAY NOTICE A CHUCKING, OR PERCEIVED LOOSENESS OF THE FRONT SEAT BACK, OR THE SEAT BACK COULD UNEXPECTEDLY RECLINE.
IF THE SEAT BACK UNEXPECTEDLY RECLINES WHILE THE CAR IS BEING DRIVEN, IT COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BACK RECLINER HANDLE SPRING FOR THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SEATS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 3, 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 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 01V108000 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
Representative owner complaints
1,790 reports, newest first.
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 12, 2008
ENGINE FAILED AT 109,000. IT THREW A ROD AND DESTROYED THE ENGINE WITH NO WARNING. *TR
Electrical system, Jun 10, 2008
IGNITION SWITCH LOCKED UP LEAVING US STRANDED. CALLED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE, THEY CLAIM THEY COULD DO NOTHING AND TOLD ME TO CALL A DEALER AND HAVE IT FIXED. THIS CALL WAS MADE AT AROUND 9PM SO THERE WERE NO DEALERSHIPS OPEN. MY FIANCE HIT THE KEY WHILE IN THE IGNITION SEVERAL TIMES AND WAS FINALLY ABLE TO GET THE KEY TO TURN AND UNLOCK THE IGNITION. I AM UNABLE TO REMOVE MY KEY FROM THE IGNITION FOR FEAR IT MIGHT DO THIS AGAIN WHEN I AM ALONE. *TR
Other or unspecified, Jun 3, 2008
2001 FORD FOCUS WITH VARIOUS DEFECTS. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE HAS HAD WORK DONE NUMEROUS TIMES AND HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS LISTED IN THE RECALLS BUT HER VEHICLE IS NOT LISTED IN THE RECALL. SHE WOULD LIKE FORD TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE.*KB
Air bags, Jun 3, 2008
WE WERE AT A COMPLETE STOP AT A STOP LIGHT AND THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND HAS CAUSED SOME INJURY TO MY FACE AND MAY HAVE CAUSE SOME LOSS OF VISION IN MY RIGHT EYE. *TR
Electrical system, Jun 2, 2008
THE WIRING IN MY 2001 FORD FOCUS ZX3 THAT CONNECTS THE REAR HATCH TO THE FRONT OF THE CAR DETERIORATES SIGNIFICANTLY. THE WIRING ON MY CAR HAS STRIPPED THROUGH THE INSULATION, AND HAS BROKEN 4 OF THE 8 WIRES COMPLETELY IN HALF. THIS DISABLES THE CENTER BRAKE LIGHT, THE LICENSE PLATE LIGHTS, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER, AND THE TRUNK LID CAUSING A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION. *TR
Electrical system, Jun 2, 2008
2001 FORD FOCUS ZX3 IGNITION DOES NOT TURN. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE DEALER TOLD HER IT WOULD COST AROUND $350 TO FIX THE PROBLEM AND THEN THE PROBLEM MIGHT RETURN. SHE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF NHTSA HAS ANY SUGGESTIONS. *KB
Electrical system, May 31, 2008
THE KEY ONCE INSERTED IN THE IGNITION WILL NOT START MY CAR (2001 FORD FOCUS). *TR
Electrical system, May 31, 2008
KEY WILL NOT TURN THE IGNITION-2001 FORD FOCUS ZX3 I'M HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL MONDAYJUNE 2, 2008 TO FIND SOMEONE TO FIX THE PROBLEM/REPAIR 2 DAY WAIT WITHOUT A CAR. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, May 28, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO HESITATE AND THEN SHUT OFF A FEW MINUTES LATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A GARAGE AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP FAILED. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A FORD RECALL NOTICE (03N01) IN JANUARY OF 2004 AND TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER INFORMED HER THAT THEY WOULD NOT CHANGE THAT PART UNTIL THE FAILURE OCCURS. CURRENTLY, THE CONTACT IS EXPERIENCING DIFFICULTY RECEIVING REIMBURSEMENT FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,781 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 87,800.
Engine and engine cooling, May 26, 2008
THE VALVE COVER GASKET LEAKS PREMATURELY, WHICH CAUSES OIL TO DRIP ONTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. THE BURNING OIL CREATES FUMES. THE POORLY DESIGNED SEALS AROUND INTAKE AIR BOX ALLOW FUMES FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT TO ENTER THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THESE TWO DESIGN FAILURES COMBINE WITH EACH OTHER TO EXPOSE PASSENGERS TO BURNING OIL FUMES. NOW, I HAVE TO REPLACE THE VALVE COVER GASKET TO AVOID EXPOSING MYSELF TO BURNING OIL FUMES. *TR
Electrical system, May 20, 2008
THE IGNITION IN MY 2001 FORD FOCUS WON'T TURN, LEAVING ME STRANDED. THIS IS THE 3RD TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED, EACH ONE LEAVING ME STRANDED IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE STATE. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, May 14, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE AT ANY SPEED, THE VEHICLE HESITATES FOR SEVERAL SECONDS BEFORE EVENTUALLY ACCELERATING. THE FAILURE OCCURS EVERYTIME THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN IN ANY CRASHES DUE TO THE FAILURE AND HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 107,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000
Engine and engine cooling, May 7, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STARTED THE IGNITION AND THE VEHICLE MADE A STRANGE NOISE. THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 125,000.
Suspension, May 1, 2008
SUNDAY MORNING (4/6/2008) I GOT IN MY CAR AND BACKED DOWN MY DRIVEWAY. WHILE TURNING THE WHEEL AND GOING DOWN THE DRIVEWAY I HEARD A VERY LOUD METAL ON METAL SOUND. I PUT THE CAR UP ON JACK STANDS AND INSPECTED THE SUSPENSION. I FOUND THE DRIVERS SIDE SPRING WAS NOT SEATED ON THE STRUT BASE. AT THIS TIME I DROVE THE CAR TO SEARS AUTO REPAIR IN NOVI, MICHIGAN. WHILE DRIVING THE CAR TO SEARS THE SPRING MOVED A COUPLE TIMES, MADE SOME NOISE, AND AFFECTED THE STEERING OF THE VEHICLE. SEARS INSPECTED THE SPRINGS AND FOUND THE DRIVERS SIDE SPRING WAS CORRODED AND FRACTURED IN A COUPLE PLACES AT THE TOP. I ENDED UP REPLACING BOTH SPRINGS AND IT COST $436.86. ON MONDAY (4/7/2008) I DECIDED TO GO ON THE INTERNET TO FIND OUT IF OTHER PEOPLE HAD THE SAME ISSUE WITH THE FORD FOCUS SPRINGS. I FOUND OUT IT WAS NOT AN UNCOMMON ISSUE. IN FACT FORD ISSUED A TSB (03M02S2) AND EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THE SPRINGS TO 150,000 MILES OR 10 YEARS (ONLY IF SERVICED AT A DEALERSHIP). UNFORTUNATELY I FOUND THIS OUT AFTER I REPAIRED THE CAR ON SUNDAY. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED BY FORD OF TSB ON THE SPRINGS. ALSO, IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT I BOUGHT THE CAR USED (ABOUT 1.5 YEARS AGO) FROM A FORD DEALERSHIP WHICH SHOULD HAVE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE FOR THINGS LIKE THIS (SPRING CORROSION). ON MONDAY (4/7/2008) I DECIDED TO CALL THE FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE LINE (800-392-3673) TO SEE WHAT CAN BE DONE TO REIMBURSE MY EXPENSES AND DISCUSS THE SAFETY CONCERN. I WAS TOLD BY THE CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE THAT FORD DID NOT VIEW THIS AS A SAFETY CONCERN. I AM A MECHANICAL ENGINEER DESIGNING SAFETY CRITICAL SUSPENSION COMPONENTS (NOT COIL SPRINGS) AND TO ME THIS IS NOT AN ACCEPTABLE ANSWER. IF THE COIL SPRING WERE TO FRACTURE FURTHER AND CUT MY TIRE WHEN DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY I CAN IMAGINE THAT WOULD NOT BE A VERY SAFE SITUATION. I DON'T UNDERSTAND FORD NOT ISSUING A RECALL OVER A POOR QUALITY SUSPENSION COMPONENT WHICH COULD CAUSE INJURY. IF NEEDED I HAVE THE OLD PARTS IN MY POSSESSION. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 29, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE VEHICLE WOULD BEGIN TO STALL AND THEN SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WOULD ALSO STALL AND THEN REGAIN POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
Latches/locks/linkages, Apr 28, 2008
2001 FORD FOCUS ELECTRONIC DOOR LOCK FAILURE. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE DRIVER SIDE ELECTRONIC DOOR LOCK FAILED, CAUSING THE DOOR NOT TO BE OPENED WITH A KEY OR KEYLESS ENTRY. *KB THE DEALER STATED DRIVER DOOR LATCH AND RIGHT REAR DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR WERE FROZEN, WHICH CAUSED THE CENTRAL SECURITY MODULE TO SHORT OUT. *JB
Electrical system, Apr 21, 2008
MY KEY WILL GO INTO THE IGNITION OF MY FORD FOCUS, HOWEVER THE STEERING WHEEL REMAINS LOCKED AND THE KEY WILL NOT TURN AT ALL. EVEN AFTER "JIGGLING" THE STEERING WHEEL, I CAN'T TURN THE KEY AT ALL. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS FOR SOME REASON THE KEY CAN TURN. I HAVE TRIED SEVERAL DIFFERENT "TESTS" TO SEE IF PERHAPS PARKING STRAIGHT ON,ETC WILL ALLOW ME TO START MY CAR HOWEVER THERE IS NO RHYME OR REASON TO IT. THIS PROBLEM LEAVES ME QUITE FRUSTRATED, POSSIBLY STRANDED, AND POSSIBLY IN DANGER AS I CAN'T START THE CAR WHEN I NEED TO. IT HAS BEEN A COUPLE DAYS AND I THOUGHT I WAS GOING CRAZY SO I HAVE NOT DONE ANY REPAIRS YET. BUT AFTER READING THAT THIS IS A PROMINENT PROBLEM, LOOKS LIKE I WILL HAVE TO FIX IT. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT ANYWHERE FOR FEAR THAT MY CAR WILL NOT LET ME TURN THE KEY. *TR
Exterior lighting, Apr 1, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLS AND MAKES A THUMPING SOUND. ALL OF THE EXTERIOR LIGHTS FLICKER WHEN THEY ARE ACTIVATED. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANY FAILURES. THE VIN, ENGINE SIZE, AND POWERTRAIN WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 40,003 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
Electrical system, Mar 31, 2008
LOCK CYLINDER LOCKED. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Other, Electrical system, Mar 28, 2008
I BOUGHT THIS CAR IN JUL07. IN DEC07 STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS WITH CAR SURGING/JOLTING WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY (55-65 MPH) THEN CAR WOULD JUST STALL, COMPLETELY DIE. ENGINE LIGHT WOULD COME ON, NO POWER STEERING NO LIGHTS. I WOULD MANAGE TO GET IT OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD NARROWLY AVOIDING ACCIDENT AND CAR WOULD NOT START. AFTER SAT FOR ABOUT 10 MINS IT WOULD START. IT WOULD DRIVE OK FOR ABOUT 10-20 MILES AND THEN SURGE AND DIE. IT HAPPENS PERIODICALLY AND IN BETWEEN THE CAR MAY DRIVE FINE FOR WEEKS. SERVICE CENTER CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. IT JUST HAPPENED AGAIN 3-18-08 WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON INTERSTATE AT 65MPH, JOLTED TWICE AND COMPLETELY DIED. I WAS NEARLY KILLED AS A SEMI WAS BEHIND ME AND ANOTHER BESIDE ME. I HAD TO FIGHT THE CAR TO GET IT OFF THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NARROWLY MISSED THE SEMI RUNNING UP OVER THE TOP OF ME. AFTER SITTING FOR 10 MIN IT STARTED AGAIN BUT WOULD NOT REACH FULL POWER. I COULD ONLY GET IT UP TO ABOUT 50 MPH, THEN STARTED JOLTING AND DIED AGAIN AFTER ABOUT 6 MILES THIS CONTINUED FOR 30 MILES. ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. I HAD THAT READ BY ADV AUTO LATER AND IT WAS TWO CODES ONE FOR MASS AIRFLOW SENSOR. IT HAS BEEN IN SERVICE GARAGE SINCE THEN. THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. I DID NOTICE THAT THIS SEEMS TO ONLY BE HAPPENING WHEN IT RAINS. THEY SPRAYED WATER TODAY ON THE FRONT OF THE CAR WHILE IT WAS RUNNING AND IT DIED IN THEIR SHOP. THEY STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS WRONG WITH IT. IT ALSO HAS A LOUD VIBRATION/NOISE IN FRONT END. MOTOR MOUNTS HAVE BEEN CHANGED, NEW ALTERNATOR, NEW BATTERY, NEW BELT REPLACED DEC 27,07. THE VEHICLE DIED AGAIN FEB 5, 2008 6 TIMES. IT DIES AT ALL SPEEDS AND SOMETIMES STALLS AT STOP LIGHTS/SIGNS. I AM EXTREMELY FRUSTRATED WITH IT AND NEED A RELIABLE CAR TO GET TO WORK AND AM MAKING CAR PAYMENTS ON A CAR THAT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP 36 DAYS IN THE LAST 90. ALSO VERY CONCERNED ABOUT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT OR KILLING MYSELF, MY KIDS OR SOMEONE ELSE. *TR
Suspension, Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Mar 24, 2008, fire
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND APPROACHING A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE BATTERY LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE HOOD AND THEN FLAMES APPEARED. SHE STOPPED AND EXITED THE VEHICLE WHEN IT BECAME COMPLETELY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS ARRIVED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE VIN, ENGINE SIZE, AND POWERTRAIN WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 52,899. UPDATED 04/11/08 *BF THE DEALER STATED CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE IN A PINCH BOLT TORQUED AND A ZETEC ENGINE CABLE ROUTING. THE DEALER ALSO REPLACED BOTH FRONT COIL SPRINGS. UPDATED 04/11/08 *TR
Suspension, Mar 20, 2008
COIL SPRINGS. LEFT FRONT COIL SPRING BROKE WITH OUT REASON. THANKFULLY THE SPRING DID NOT BLOW OFF OF RETAINING AREA. IF IT HAD WHILE I WS DRIVING THIS COULD HAVE POTENTIALLY CAUSED MY STEERING TO LOCK UP BLOW A TIRE OR WHO ELSE KNOW WHAT. AND THE OUTCOME FROM ANY OF THESE COULD HAVE BEEN LIFE THREATENING. *TR
Steering, Mar 18, 2008
THE DEVICE IN THE STEERING WHEEL HOUSING THAT CANCELS THE TURN SIGNAL HAS FAILED FOR THE THIRD TIME SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR. THE PART IS OBVIOUSLY DEFECTING IN DESIGN. THIS FAILURE RESULTS IN MY RELUCTANCE TO USE THE TURN SIGNALS SINCE I MUST TURN THEM OFF MANUALLY AFTER COMPLETING THE TURN. AND NOT USING TURN SIGNALS COMPROMISES DRIVING SAFETY. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Mar 18, 2008
I HAD RECEIVED A LETTER IN JANUARY 2004 FROM MR. FRANK M. LIGON, DIRECTOR OF SERVICE ENGINEERING OPERATIONS OF THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY. THE LETTER STATED THAT IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROGRAM 03N01 (ENGINE STALLING IN 2000-01 FORD FOCUS VEHICLES) CUSTOMER'S VEHICLES "MAY EXPERIENCE ENGINE HESITATION, LOSS OF POWER, SURGING, AND OTHER SIMILAR SYMPTOMS ULTIMATELY CAUSING THE ENGINE TO STALL COMPLETELY...AS A RESULT OF CONTAMINATION OF THE FUEL PUMP FILTERS."..."FORD IS OFFERING TO REPLACE YOUR VEHICLE'S FUEL PUMP (PARTS AND LABOR), AT NO COST, IF YOUR VEHICLE EXHIBITS ANY OF THE ABOVE CONDITIONS...VALID FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS FROM THE ORIGINAL WARRANTY START DATE, WITH NO LIMIT ON MILEAGE." ...I HAD BEEN EXPERIENCING THE ABOVE FOREMENTIONED SAFETY ISSUES WITH MY 2001 FOCUS, AND TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. THE DEALER HAD TO REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP AND FILTER, ORIGINALLY STATING THAT IT WAS COVERED UNDER THIS PROGRAM, BUT CALLED BACK LATER AND ULTIMATELY CHANGED THEIR MIND. THE EXPLANATION GIVEN WAS THAT THIS PROGRAM WAS NO LONGER "OPEN." SINCE THE COMPANY HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THIS PARTICULAR SAFETY CONCERN, CONFIRMED THE LETTER BEING SENT AND MY VEHICLE FITTING THE PROGRAM 03N01 GUIDELINES OF MAKE, MODEL, YEAR, AND TIMELINE (10 YEARS UNLIMITED MILEAGE), AND HAS REFUSED TO REPAIR THIS DEFECT FREE OF CHARGE, AS STATED IN THEIR LETTER, ...I WOULD LIKE TO FILE AN OFFICIAL COMPLAINT ON THIS ISSUE ...AND I WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR ASSISTANCE IN RESOLVING THIS RUNAROUND THAT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS GIVEN ME. I GOT THE LETTER, HAD THE PROBLEMS AND SAFETY ISSUES AS STATED IN THAT LETTER, IT HASN'T BEEN 10YRS, SO WHY DID I HAVE TO PAY FOR THEIR DEFECT? THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND ASSISTANCE! *TR
Power train, Mar 17, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CV-JOINT MAKES A NOISE WHEN THE VEHICLE MADE A RIGHT TURN AT APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC STATED THAT THE CV-JOINT WAS DEFECTIVE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 40100 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40000.