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.

Complaints by model year
  1. 1,790

Of the 2001 reports, 173 involved a crash and 49 involved a fire. 136 people were injured and 8 people died.

Primary concernElectrical system500 reports · 28% of complaints
Owner complaints1,790Filed with NHTSA
Recall relationship14 safety recallsNHTSA campaign records

What owners report most often

  1. Electrical system500
  2. Fuel system301
  3. Gasoline277
  4. Engine and engine cooling248
  5. Service brakes195
  6. Hydraulic175
  7. Suspension153
  8. Air bags147

Recalls and investigations

  1. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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

  9. 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

  10. 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

  11. 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

  12. 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

  13. 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

  14. 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.

  1. Electrical system, Nov 29, 2012

    ATTEMPTED TO START MY CAR. INSERTED KEY INTO THE IGNITION AND A WARNING CHIME BEGAN. STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED AND I CANNOT MOVE IT. IGNITION WILL NOT TURN. CANNOT DRIVE AT THIS TIME. *TR

  2. Visibility/wiper, Nov 28, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO OPEN THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW HOWEVER, THE WINDOW OPENED AND FELL INTO THE DOOR PANEL INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO CLOSE THE WINDOW BUT IT WOULD NOT RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE WINDOW MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000.

  3. Suspension, Structure, Nov 20, 2012

    HEARD CLUNKING NOISE-REAR SUBFRAME IS COMPLETELY ROTTED AND BROKEN ON BOTH SIDES. *TR

  4. Suspension, Nov 14, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 5MPH THERE WAS A CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSE THAT THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000.

  5. Steering, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 13, 2012

    DRIVING ON 4 LANE HIGHWAY, CAR SPUTTERS AND STALLS AS IF OUT OF GAS. COASTED OFF ROAD, AND AFTER A FEW MINUTES CAR STARTED AND RAN FINE. CAR HAS BEEN DOING THIS EVERY FEW WEEKS. CHANGED COIL, PLUGS, PLUG WIRES, OXYGEN SENSOR, FUEL FILTER, CAT CONVERTER AND STILL STALLS. THIS CAR IS DANGEROUS WHEN IT STALLS IN FAST TRAFFIC. WE ONLY DRIVE IT NOW DURING DAYLIGHT AND SHORT TRIPS BECAUSE IT IS NOT DEPENDABLE. *TR

  6. Fuel system, Gasoline, Oct 31, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING 5 MPH AND ATTEMPTING A TURN, THE VEHICLE WOULD STALL WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS POSSIBLY CAUSED BY THE FUEL SYSTEM FAILING TO TRANSFER TO THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 03V482000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 78,000.

  7. Air bags, Oct 22, 2012

    MY 16-YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING STALL AND MOVING FORWARD TO EXIT THE PARKING AREA. SHE WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 10 MPH WHEN THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. SHE WAS INJURED MOSTLY ON HER RIGHT SIDE FROM THE SEAT BELT AND ALSO BURNS FROM THE AIR BAG ON HER UPPER TORSO AND NECK. BRUISES ON HER LEGS AND VERY, VERY SORE. *TR

  8. Visibility, Oct 16, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR OF THE POWER WINDOWS FELL INTO THE DOOR WELL INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO SET THE WINDOWS TO STAY UP AND TAPED THE POWER WINDOW BUTTONS SO THAT THEY COULD NOT BE PUSHED AS THE WINDOWS WOULD FALL AGAIN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000. UPDATED 12/5/12 *CN UPDATED 12/10/2012 *JS

  9. Engine, Sep 28, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,000.

  10. Structure, Latches/locks/linkages, Aug 25, 2012

    REAR DOOR WILL NOT STAY LATCHED AND SWINGS WIDE OPEN. *TR

  11. Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Aug 23, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 30 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED SHORTLY THEREAFTER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN FAILED TO QUALIFY UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER:03V482000 ( FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 157,000...UPDATED 01/30/13 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALERSHIP FOUND PCV HOSE AT THE BACK OF THE ENGINE COLLAPSED (REPAIRED), PERFORMED FUEL INDUCTION SYTEM FLUSH, AAA REPLACED ENTIRE COOLING SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REPAIRED AS A WHOLE. UPDATED 2/5/2013 *JS

  12. Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 14, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT ANY WARNINGS. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC. THE TECHNICIAN AND MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V482000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) THAT MIGHT BE RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000.

  13. Electrical system, Aug 9, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION CYLINDER WOULD NOT RELEASE THE KEY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC TO HAVE THE IGNITION CYLINDER REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THE IGNITION CYLINDER HAD NO PROBLEMS AFTER THE REPAIR. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 148,000.

  14. Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 30, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 30-60 MPH WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND STALLED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED WHEN DRIVING IN WARM, HUMID CONDITIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN FAILED TO QUALIFY FOR REPAIRS UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V482000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 96,000.

  15. Vehicle speed control, Jul 28, 2012

    DRIVING WITH CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 60 MPH WHEN CAR ACCELERATED GAINING SPEEDS OVER 75. I PULLED OVER, SHUT DOWN ENGINE, LIFTED HOOD AND SAW ACCELERATOR LINKAGE WAS STUCK. I CLEARED LINKAGE, STARTED ENGINE AND CAR RAN NORMALLY. THIS HAPPENED 3 MORE TIMES ON LATER DATES WITH CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED. CAR STARTS ACCELERATING UNTIL I STOP VEHICLE, SHUT OFF ENGINE, AND FREE UP LINKAGE/METAL. *TR

  16. Engine and engine cooling, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 28, 2012, fire

    ON 7/27/2012, THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE BEING DRIVEN. THE SMOKE STARTED COMING INTO THE INTERIOR THROUGH THE VENTS. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO PULL OVER,THERE WAS NO BRAKE (MY GUESS IS THAT THE BRAKE LINE HAD MELTED.). MY HUSBAND USED THE E BRAKE AND PARK TO STOP AND SOMEONE YELLED...GET OUT OF THE CAR.MY HUSBAND AND SON JUMPED OUT AND THE CAR BECAME ENGULFED. THERE IS NOTHING LEFT. HE TOLD ME THAT JUST BEFORE THAT IT STARTED HESITATING SOME,LIKE IT WAS GOING TO CUT OFF, BUT DIDN'T. FOR A MORE DETAILED STATEMENT PLEASE CONTACT HIM. I AM SO THANKFUL THAT THEY GOT OUT... THANK YOU, *TR

  17. Visibility, Jul 24, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT TWO THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE AND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR DOOR HANDLES FRACTURED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WOULD HAVE TO LEAVE THE WINDOWS OPEN IN ORDER TO LATER ENTER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER HOWEVER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDOW REGULATOR WAS DEFECTIVE AND WOULD NEED REPLACING. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY NO ONE WOULD BE ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE WHO STATED THAT THE CONTACT SHOULD TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE NEAREST DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIS AND OFFERED NO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 74,000.

  18. Electrical system, Jul 13, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEYS BECAME STUCK IN THE IGNITION CYLINDER AND COULD NOT BE USED TO START THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP OR TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY A LOCKSMITH WHO REPLACED THE IGNITION CYLINDER AND ISSUED A NEW KEY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PROBLEM COULD HAVE BEEN RELATED TO A DEFECTIVE SIDE BAR IN THE IGNITION CYLINDER LOCK. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. ...UPDATED 08-10-12 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE COST OF THE REPAIR WAS 177.00. UPDATED 08/13/2012 *JS

  19. Vehicle speed control, Jul 12, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THERE WAS A SUDDEN UP SHIFT AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED UNCONTROLLABLY ON ITS OWN. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DOWN SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL TO APPLY THE BRAKES, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO BRAKE. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND IT ACCELERATED UP TO 40 AND 60 MPH. THE CONTACT HAD TO SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF TO STOP ACCELERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR REPAIR SHOP FOR INSPECTION OR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE; HOWEVER NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 109,000.

  20. Steering, Electrical system, May 28, 2012

    THE KEY FOR MY FORD FOCUS WILL GO INTO THE IGNITION BUT NOT TURN. I HAVE TRIED TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL BUT IT STILL WON'T GET THE KEY TO TURN IN THE IGNITION. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, I AM FINDING THAT THIS IS A MAJOR AND VERY COMMON COMPLAINT WITH FORD FOCUS OWNERS AND FORD WILL NOT ISSUE A RECALL. THE CAR IS NOT DRIVABLE AND IN ORDER TO GET IT TO A REPAIR SHOP WE WILL HAVE TO TOW IT WHICH WILL BE ANOTHER EXPENSE. IF FORD IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AND WILL NOT DO ANYTHING TO RECALL IT, SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE. *TR

  21. Visibility/wiper, May 25, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW REGULATOR MOTORS FAILED. SEVERAL MONTHS LATER, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW REGULATOR MOTOR FAILED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 115,000.

  22. Visibility, May 24, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ABNORMAL CRANKING NOISE WERE COMING FROM THE REAR DRIVER SIDE WINDOW. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,000. UPDATED 09/19/12*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE WINDOW REGULATION FAILED AND COULD NOT BE USED TO CLOSE THE WINDOW. UPDATED 09/26/2012 *JS

  23. Steering, Suspension, Structure, Engine, May 10, 2012

    MY LAST OIL CHANGE I WAS INFORM THE FRONT SUBFRAME IS BADLY RUSTED, TO THE POINT THE MECHANIC COULD PUSH A SCREW DRIVER THROUGH IT IN SPOTS. HE INFORMED ME THAT DRIVING IT WAS A MAJOR SAFETY RISK, AS THE FRAME COULD FAIL, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. HE SAID FORD HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL. THEY MUST BE WAITING FOR A HIGHER BODY COUNT WHEN THE FRONT END OF THE CAR FAILS WHILE GOING DOWN THE INTERSTATE. *TR

  24. Electrical system, Apr 27, 2012

    WENT TO START MY CAR THIS MORNING AND THE KEY WOULD NOT TURN IN THE IGNITION. AFTER DOING SOME GOOGLE RESEARCH, FOUND THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON ISSUE WITH THE FOCUS, AND HAS TO DO WITH PARTS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH BECOMING STUCK. I WAS ABLE TO GET THE KEY TO TURN EVENTUALLY BY BANGING ON IT, AND HAVE NOW LEFT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION TO AVOID THE PROBLEM OCCURRING AGAIN. *TR

  25. Air bags, Apr 24, 2012

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH INTO A PARKING SPACE THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING, CAUSING THE WINDSHIELD TO SHATTER. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE DURING THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 150,000.