I think the "break in" process will be defined in your book. I do not have mine at my desk but I'll tell you what I did. I'm not saying mine is right or wrong, you will find that most people will not agree on this subject, and you will surely find someone on here that thinks my answers are bogus.
Ford has to pretty much make this engine operate without a break in period. There are plenty of people that will do what they want from day 1.
That said, breaking in a car properly gives us a chance to feel good about what we are doing for the car (just like mistakenly giving our car premium gas, it doesn't need it but we feel like we are doing something "good" for our car)
But there is more to it than psychology, Parts that work together for the life of the car have to get to "know each other."
I think it is important to drive at varied engine speeds (most regular driving is fine, just watch out for cruise control, coast to coast on the first day)
I like to give the car normal heating cycles. You get in your car, drive to work, it warms up, cools down, same for the drive home. These cycles cause certain components to expand and contract helping with break in (again no 8 hour road trips that the car stays 1 temp)
Be easy on the brakes for the first 250 miles or so
3250 RPM is 80 MPH so freeway travel is ok. try to stay a little under that.
Be as gentle as you can when you first get the car, but do not baby the car for the first 1000 miles and then go crazy. Start off gentle and slowly work your way into how you will normally drive the car.
I would say drive how you want after 1000 miles, but there is still some break in going on after that. Expect to see better gas mileage after 2500 miles
I had my oil changed at 1000 miles. Several people (including my dealer) said it was not needed but as the result of breaking in process the original (factory) oil gets dirty very quickly
I felt my car was completely broken in at 4000 miles and switched to synthetic oil.
feel good in the fact that no matter what you do your Focus will more that likely be fine.
Overdrive is just another gear. (4th) In the old days they coined the name overdrive because your engine would turn slower that your axles. (I do not think they do this any longer)
Dive with your car in overdrive all the time, it does not change performance (at all) in the first three gears. After the car gets into overdrive it feels like it is coasting when you let off of the throttle.
Click your O/D off button, (under your thumb on the auto gear selector) when you want to make a pass or go up a hill on the freeway. clicking it off is sort of like downshifting, you will gain over 1000 rpms putting you car in the more powerfull section of the powerband (part of the RPM range where you car makes the most power)
When the overdrive is off, you will not have the coasting or freewheeling feeling, you will experience engine braking. When you let up on the gas the car will slow when the engine slows (more of a direct feeling between engine and wheels. (like a stick)
Good work Scott. Very clear explanation. The manual says to drive like you always do. It does suggest to not apply the breaks real hard,IE emergency, skidding breaking, if you can avoid it.
The next step in the process of creating an edmunds.com ZX3 Club is to arrive at a final consensus about your two ringleaders and post your choices here.
The two folks you do select will then email me to let me know they accept this responsibility and I'll take it from there.
Here's the best link for info about the Clubs conference, its benefits, and its requirements.
I would like to order an armrest for my zx3 (auto trans). I know there is one on the wagon and would like to get that one if it fits. One person said that you can order that part for only $85 but another said that you need many parts and the cost would be $300. Has anyone actually had it put in there zx3 and if so how much did it cost you and do you like it? If you can please email me with the info. Thanks. kennethdavey@webtv.net
Just got my G-Shock watch in the mail. I was kinda surprised; even though posts here have mentioned the watch, I just figured that it was some promotion I missed since the salesman never said anything about it. Of course, what does the typical Ford salesman know about a Focus anyhow?
Nice watch-- like that translucent yellow. It is huge, but hey, I will wear it with pride. I feel this is like getting a special club ring or something; now I'm truly a member of the ZX3 Club!
Did anyone else notice how much these G-Shock Glide watches sell for? Just for the heck of it, I did a quick internet search and saw one watch site selling the exact same model (but different colors) of the G-shock Glide for $87 (retail price of $110!!!). Wow, got to hand it to the Ford Focus Brand Team. I never got a "present" from a car manufacturer before.
I saw mine for sale at $140.00, black with gray band and crystal protector. Big? We don't call them the Borg watch for nothing. Now, should I expect a coffe cup also? Ford is outdoing VW in the cuteness factor. As for the salesmen, they do not know anything about the giveaway. I took mine in to show them when I returned for my recall fix. They were impressed in their disbelief, "They sent THAT to you"? Wow.
OK, guess I'm a sucker for the "cuteness" factor, but I was right about the value of the watch. You got to admit, the watch is no cheesy gift.
Speaking of cuteness, since the package they sent the watch in is a bright yellow (I assume it's the same for everybody), and my watch has transcluent yellow plastic, maybe yellow should be one of the exterior paint options for the Focus ... just a thought.
That's the sound that I cannot get out of my head as I wait for my black ZX3. I ordered it April 3 with every option except the droll automatic and smokers package. As I read some of these posts, I am relieved that I did go ahead and order the ZX3. The idea for the owners' club is a great one and count me in whenever it gets off the ground.
to kenfocusz3- i have also asked about an armrest on a previous post. also asked about splash guards. any suggestions out there? to hugoz- i also rec. a watch approx.6 wks. after purchase.i didnt know a thing about it till i started reading here. to fgaydos-i also enjoy as you put it this free-wheeling forum. to all- yesterday was the first day i actually put the little hatchling through the moves.it was drizzly all day in the philly area.up to this point ive been handling her like a newborn,this hatchling took like a duck to water.it was reported all day how slippery road conditions were causing accidents it felt + handled like dry roadway me.its been said many times but if there are any doubters left, this is one special value if there ever was one! also, i passed a sangria red hatchling + exchanged the now customary wave.
Just to let all of you know, I still do not have my ZX-3 back. It has been 11 weeks since the accident in the parking lot at home. They are waiting for an 'abs ring' for the brakes. They have been waiting for this part for 2.5 weeks.
I am now driving a Focus Sedan SE with automatic and the SPI engine. A lot better than the Escort. THe area manager is arranging for full payment of this car.
I will know more on Monday regarding the return of my beloved Sangria Red 5 spd cutie.
So, I am just waiting for the return of my car. While waiting, I received my 'BORG' watch (which I like) and my stainless steel coffee mug (fits the passenger cup holder (like that too).
So, drive safely, because parts are still an issue. (However, Ford did make 90,000 Foci already this year --- so the parts are out there, but Ford's priority (not unexpectantly) is to sales and not customer satisfaction)
Gmanzx3: I didn't order my ZX3 either; mine was at the dealer. Guess we all the get Watch, even though no one at the dealership seems to know about this gift promotion -- (nice surprise though, eh ZX3beast?).
Norwaydoug: thanks for that advice re driving carefully. I noticed just yesterday, while driving on windy, 2-lane rural highways, how hard it was NOT to speed -- the way the ZX3 supsension hugs the road, it is a thrill.
Then, out of nowhere, a guy pulled out of a driveway in front of me, just past a little hill in the road; I had to slam on the brakes for an instant to avoid hitting him. The moral of the story: think about norwaydoug the next time you, too, may be lulled into speeding on a quiet, country road, enjoying the superb handling and feel of your hatchling ....
Does the recall people have been getting (sorry dont remember the number) apply to cars with only certain options? I thought I remember reading here that it was only for cars with cruise. I'm just asking... the car I bought doesnt have cruise, but if it could apply, I'd like to have the dealer get it taken care of before I take delivery of the vehicle (once they get all the paperwork back from my father)
if its any consolation - being in the wholesale distribution business it is very frustrating waiting for parts.believe me it is not just ford. nobody stocks inventory anymore.everything is sourced in small quanties. the so-called world economy.to those of us from the u.s.a.-we have very little mfg. left. it stinks but thats the price were paying for letting all those jobs leave here. id rather pay more for u.s a.union made goods.union wokers truly build with pride. time waiting is money!i waste more time tracking backorders than the time it took to make the actual sales-its stupid-really! to hugoz-surprised? gee-i was shocked!
Got my zx3 in Feb. No watch for me. Someone said they thought it was related to filling out the Ford Survey which I never got either. Did everyone fill out the survey? I doubt that my dealer wanted me to fill out any survey as it was a typically bad experience.
to all that havent done so-do your self a favor and register your car at the ford owners connection you will get quick updates concerning recalls. http:www.ford.com
Catmom: To answer your question, no, the watch apparently has nothing to do with the survey; I got the survey form the day before my watch came! You might try writing to Ford to find out where your watch is -- here's the address:
Ford Focus Program Headquarters 1501 Halo Drive Troy, MI 48084
zx3beast--yes, I did register with owner's connection right away. I agree that it was a good source of info on the recall. Got info there long before I received "official" confirmation from Ford via snail mail.
norwaydoug--thanks for the address. I will write. Can't hurt to try. So sorry you didn't get your car back as planned but at least you are driving a zx3 cousin. You said you talked with the area manager. What do you mean they will make full payment? For the rental?
I have been treating my brakes very easy for the first 400 miles. sometimes I get a very hgih pitch screetch at the end of a stop. I have been also getting a lot of black dust on my front wheels. Does everyone's front wheels get covered with black dust?
I leased my hatchling. Did anyone lease and get the watch???
when did you take delivery? you should get watch in about 6 weeks. front brake dust is very common-remember this is an alloy wheel not a hub cap.use a good quality polish such as dupont chrome cleaner-it will help seal the metal pores + provide a coat of protetion against pitting.also,it will clean off easier.
Okay, we have Gabe Garwick as one of our leaders. Sorry you can't do it, Pat, but as someone in the same boat I can hardly blame you! Silver Bullet, would you be willing to step up to the plate and help Gabe lead our group?
Thanks, hugoz, for the address. I would really like to have a watch, and haven't heard anything from Ford about one yet. I'll try being pushy.
Pat, the stainless steel mug is very much like the ones Eddie Bauer sells. Hmmm....do you s'pose they found yours by the side of the road and used it as a prototype?
Still on a hunt for the perfect bike rack -- Calico1
ZX3beast: Ya just got to get into bearings if you want inventory. Now they know how to do inventory. Talking MR and SKF, if it's not in stock they will overnight it to you. Let's hope Ford knew where to buy bearings for the ZX3.
Saw a "Rainforest Green" ZX3 in South Dayton, NY last night. South Dayton is about 40 miles south of Buffalo. "The Natural" was partly filmed there. Also part of "Planes, Trains and Automobles". Was a real nice looking ZX3. Going down parallel street from Main Street (Main Street has only 2 parallel streets). I tried to swing around to contact, but would you believe I lost it. No idea where the "rainforest green" ZX3 disappeared to. I think the vehicle belongs to someone who works at Ford Dealer in Fredonia, NY as I have seen one with plates parked out back there.
thanks for the tip? as i said before with this parts issue its not just ford,its prevalent in all industry.theres hardly any mfg.left in the u.s. it truly is a sad situation.the supply pipeline takes a long time to fill.dont like it but thats the way it is.
Seems the ZX3 is starting to catch on here. (Des Moines, Iowa) So far I've seen, all with local plates: -Malibu Blue ZX3-(saw it way back on Dec. 2,'99. Seeing this one was an good omen, as I was on my way to the dealer to sign the papers!) -My CD-Silver ZX3 -someone elses CD-Silver ZX3 -Twilight blue ZX3 -Last week saw a Cloud 9 White ZX3 in my dentist's parking lot
A friend reported seeing another Twilight Blue ZX3 to me. (that makes two) Both were parked next to each other at the grocery store!
About 2 wks. ago I saw a blue ZX3(don't remember which color) on the expressway with Minnesota plates.
I've only seen 2 sedans. -Autumn Orange -Twilight Blue
Gotta go wash the car, some bird used it for target practice. No respect I tell ya!
A local shop told me they would paint the brake calipers and the rusty bracket for CAD$100. Just using basic high-temp paint, not powder coated. It seems high to me.
Anybody know how easy/hard it is to remove the caliper brackets and paint them?
The guy at the shop suggested I just spay the paint in between the wheel spokes since the paint on the disks will burn off. I don't think I'll be doing that.
Some things I have noticed if anybody is interested (ZX3, 5-speed, A/C, RF Green):
-My shifter has started to make a sqeaking noise when I shift from 1st to 2nd. Has only been making the little noise today. Hoping that it will go away next time I drive it...
-I have put 1600km/1000mi on the car these first two weeks and the engine is *very* smooth when warmed-up. The engine seems to be really loosening up after 1000mi and the shifter is nice and slick when warmed-up.
-The handling is as excellent as everyone says. Body lean feels a bit exagerated because of the high seating position.
-The car handles snow and rain/freezing rain well.
-This car gets a lot a looks from drivers and pedestrians. I have only seen four ZX3 in my city of 1million people.
-There are no rear amber turn-signals. I prefer the amber, but the red rear lights flash very bright and quickly when used as a signal - I think that it is an acceptable trade-off. Much better than most North-American-Style red turn signals.
-The steering is perfect for me. Just enough power steering and road feedback. Gota love that leather wrapped wheel!
-I wish I had the tilt wheel. It seems a little too far away in my preffered seating position.
-A friend who owns a Civic 2door had a look at our Focus. She was green with envy! Hands down, side-by-side, the Focus wins. It can't compare to the quality interior, excellent stereo, great seats, alloy wheels, slick shifter, great engine, and class leading looks. Only problem with the Focus is the unknown reliability. However, her Civic has been in the shop several times this year for repairs. You decide.
#116, to find out about the clubs idea, please, please, please :-) follow this link to the official info on the Club conferences. If you follow the link and read the four posts there, you'll have a good idea of what this is all about.
And yes, no matter what is decided about a ZX3 club, this topic stays open.
After talking to two dealers who were not able to order my ZX3 with the convenience group, I found one today that could, and at invoice price! I ordered a silver ZX3(dark charcoal int.) with all options except cruise, smoker package, engine block heater, and auto trans. Now I just have to wait 6-8 weeks before experiencing ZX3 driving bliss. Maybe Ford should come up with a variant of "Fahrfergnugen". Focusfergnugen? This is my first new car, so I'm pretty excited. I live in Ohio, but I got the California emissions option since I might move there in the forseeable future. Does anybody know if and how it affects performance? I've seen several Foci east of Cleveland including an infra-red, sangria red, malibu blue ZX3. I've also seen a few sedans and a wagon on the road. They're becoming more common all the time, but they always stand out. I'm glad to see the excellent crash test results. That was one of my major concerns.
Audiolizard: I also got the California emissions, and I didn't even ask for it. Like you, I figure it's only a plus if I ever head west. I haven't seen anything in the reviews or literature that suggests any difference in performance.
Congratulations, especially at getting a hatchling at invoice. You're pretty lucky -- a ZX3 is darn nice little car to be your first one!
to the best of my knowledge ca.emissions is a benchmark std. established in that state to meet or exceed federal emissions. ford has been using this as far back as 1988.performance will not be any less than one without more on this subject-here in the philly area it is a requirement that oxygenated fuel be sold between nov.-march to cut down pollutants.i have read studies that lay claims the opposite is true. i hear more complaints about itchy burning eyes body aches + headaches + nausea due to use of this type of fuel.i believe there is something suspect
I'm experiencing some strange side effects while driving my new focus ZX3. When I step on the accelerator, I develop this uncontrollable silly grin on my face. The faster I go, the bigger the grin. I think there's a correlation between the two, but I haven't been able to prove it yet. I'm only concerned because this didn't happen while driving my previous car.
Is this normal..? Does anyone else have the same problem?
Just finished some salesperson certification exams for Ford Car, including the Focus. Ironically, it was time to get my wife out of her current Dodge Intrepid (Insipid), and into another car.
We cruised ALL the lots over the weekend, and the ONLY car that really caught her eye was the ZX3! For some reason, it simply appealed to her!
So... She's priced them, and is planning to demo the car within a couple of days. Looks like one that's pretty well loaded, including side airbags.
Any comments regarding OVERALL satisfaction with the vehicle from owners who've put more than 10,000 miles on the clock?
to towcrazy2 -im a newcomer here but i have read all the great posts from this fab foci force. demo that car + put that deposit down. youll never regret it. i have 2400 pleasant miles. personally - i dont suspect anything but continued joy.my previous vehicle was a zx2 -35500mi not one problem experienced.same engine as zx3. to audiolizard-congrats on your new purchase!
All kinds of Ford Focus gear offered. Unfortunately, we in the US aren't allowed to order any of this cool merchandise. (At least that's what I was told by a Rep. of Ford Canada, when tried to order) If anyone has heard differently, please let us know.
Yes, factory brake pads create a lot of dust. They are a fairly soft compound, which helps keep irritating squeaks to a minimum. I'm planning on switching my pads to EBC Green pads as soon as they become available in May. These pads are Kevlar based, and are a very good choice for aggressive street driving -- and they make virtually no dust. EBC's part number is DP21185 for front pads. Keep your wheels clean with Clear Magic or Simple Green, and keep a coat of wax on them. Don't use an abrasive polish, because these are painted alloys, not polished aluminum.
You can disassemble and paint the caliper brackets yourself if you are used to doing your own brake work and basic mechanical repairs. I wouldn't recommend painting the cad plated caliper bodies - they'll resist rust just as they are. DON'T just spray the paint through the wheel spokes! The guy who suggested that was an idiot. You could create some very serious problems gumming up your brakes like that.
Calico1 - I'm still game, but I still think you and Gabe should serve at first. I, for one, would like a female moderator to help balance the male perspective. You decide...
to silver bullet-good info . i was not aware of kevlar based pads.i do know kevlar is used in the mfg. of bullet-proof vests ,also b+w the british loudspeaker mfg. uses the same material for their woofers.seems to be a versatile material, im going to follow suit + change my pads when avaiable.you are right about abrasive polishes on wheels.i use the dupont chrome,but one must do so sparingly+gingerly.if youre not careful you can scratch surface of wheels.ive been using it for 30 yrs.i also use simple green as well.
Comments
Ford has to pretty much make this engine operate without a break in period. There are plenty of people that will do what they want from day 1.
That said, breaking in a car properly gives us a chance to feel good about what we are doing for the car (just like mistakenly giving our car premium gas, it doesn't need it but we feel like we are doing something "good" for our car)
But there is more to it than psychology, Parts that work together for the life of the car have to get to "know each other."
I think it is important to drive at varied engine speeds (most regular driving is fine, just watch out for cruise control, coast to coast on the first day)
I like to give the car normal heating cycles. You get in your car, drive to work, it warms up, cools down, same for the drive home. These cycles cause certain components to expand and contract helping with break in (again no 8 hour road trips that the car stays 1 temp)
Be easy on the brakes for the first 250 miles or so
3250 RPM is 80 MPH so freeway travel is ok. try to stay a little under that.
Be as gentle as you can when you first get the car, but do not baby the car for the first 1000 miles and then go crazy. Start off gentle and slowly work your way into how you will normally drive the car.
I would say drive how you want after 1000 miles, but there is still some break in going on after that. Expect to see better gas mileage after 2500 miles
I had my oil changed at 1000 miles. Several people (including my dealer) said it was not needed but as the result of breaking in process the original (factory) oil gets dirty very quickly
I felt my car was completely broken in at 4000 miles and switched to synthetic oil.
feel good in the fact that no matter what you do your Focus will more that likely be fine.
Overdrive is just another gear. (4th) In the old days they coined the name overdrive because your engine would turn slower that your axles. (I do not think they do this any longer)
Dive with your car in overdrive all the time, it does not change performance (at all) in the first three gears. After the car gets into overdrive it feels like it is coasting when you let off of the throttle.
Click your O/D off button, (under your thumb on the auto gear selector) when you want to make a pass or go up a hill on the freeway. clicking it off is sort of like downshifting, you will gain over 1000 rpms putting you car in the more powerfull section of the powerband (part of the RPM range where you car makes the most power)
When the overdrive is off, you will not have the coasting or freewheeling feeling, you will experience engine braking. When you let up on the gas the car will slow when the engine slows (more of a direct feeling between engine and wheels. (like a stick)
I hope this helps
Scott
Ford/Volvo plan to use the Focus chassis for an entry level Volvo as soon as 2002.
Whats next a Brithish Racing Green Focus/Jag coupe called the ZXE? hehe.
Very cool, all the Ford divisions want a slice of the Focus pie.
Scott
Scott
The manual says to drive like you always do. It does suggest to not apply the breaks real hard,IE emergency, skidding breaking, if you can avoid it.
listen to faygaydos dont waste your hard-earned
money on that dealer rip-off. youll do a better
job for a fraction of the cost.
The two folks you do select will then email me to let me know they accept this responsibility and I'll take it from there.
Here's the best link for info about the Clubs conference, its benefits, and its requirements.
carlady/host
I like the freewheeling forum going on here.
If there is a club will this forum disappear?
Nice watch-- like that translucent yellow. It is huge, but hey, I will wear it with pride. I feel this is like getting a special club ring or something; now I'm truly a member of the ZX3 Club!
Did anyone else notice how much these G-Shock Glide watches sell for? Just for the heck of it, I did a quick internet search and saw one watch site selling the exact same model (but different colors) of the G-shock Glide for $87 (retail price of $110!!!). Wow, got to hand it to the Ford Focus Brand Team. I never got a "present" from a car manufacturer before.
Now, should I expect a coffe cup also? Ford is outdoing VW in the cuteness factor.
As for the salesmen, they do not know anything about the giveaway. I took mine in to show them when I returned for my recall fix. They were impressed in their disbelief, "They sent THAT to you"? Wow.
Speaking of cuteness, since the package they sent the watch in is a bright yellow (I assume it's the same for everybody), and my watch has transcluent yellow plastic, maybe yellow should be one of the exterior paint options for the Focus ... just a thought.
The idea for the owners' club is a great one and count me in whenever it gets off the ground.
on a previous post. also asked about splash guards.
any suggestions out there?
to hugoz- i also rec. a watch approx.6 wks. after
purchase.i didnt know a thing about it till i started reading here.
to fgaydos-i also enjoy as you put it this free-wheeling forum.
to all- yesterday was the first day i actually put
the little hatchling through the moves.it was drizzly all day in the philly area.up to this point
ive been handling her like a newborn,this hatchling took like a duck to water.it was reported all day
how slippery road conditions were causing accidents
it felt + handled like dry roadway me.its been said
many times but if there are any doubters left,
this is one special value if there ever was one!
also, i passed a sangria red hatchling + exchanged the now customary wave.
Just to let all of you know, I still do not have my ZX-3 back. It has been 11 weeks since the accident in the parking lot at home. They are waiting for an 'abs ring' for the brakes. They have been waiting for this part for 2.5 weeks.
I am now driving a Focus Sedan SE with automatic and the SPI engine. A lot better than the Escort. THe area manager is arranging for full payment of this car.
I will know more on Monday regarding the return of my beloved Sangria Red 5 spd cutie.
So, I am just waiting for the return of my car. While waiting, I received my 'BORG' watch (which I like) and my stainless steel coffee mug (fits the passenger cup holder (like that too).
So, drive safely, because parts are still an issue. (However, Ford did make 90,000 Foci already this year --- so the parts are out there, but Ford's priority (not unexpectantly) is to sales and not customer satisfaction)
ND
Norwaydoug: thanks for that advice re driving carefully. I noticed just yesterday, while driving on windy, 2-lane rural highways, how hard it was NOT to speed -- the way the ZX3 supsension hugs the road, it is a thrill.
Then, out of nowhere, a guy pulled out of a driveway in front of me, just past a little hill in the road; I had to slam on the brakes for an instant to avoid hitting him. The moral of the story: think about norwaydoug the next time you, too, may be lulled into speeding on a quiet, country road, enjoying the superb handling and feel of your hatchling ....
distribution business it is very frustrating waiting for parts.believe me it is not just ford.
nobody stocks inventory anymore.everything is sourced in small quanties. the so-called world economy.to those of us from the u.s.a.-we have very
little mfg. left. it stinks but thats the price
were paying for letting all those jobs leave
here. id rather pay more for u.s a.union made goods.union wokers truly build with pride.
time waiting is money!i waste more time tracking backorders than the time it took to make the actual
sales-its stupid-really!
to hugoz-surprised? gee-i was shocked!
if not go to http://www.ford.com + follow links
and register your car at the ford owners connection
you will get quick updates concerning recalls.
http:www.ford.com
Catmom: To answer your question, no, the watch apparently has nothing to do with the survey; I got the survey form the day before my watch came! You might try writing to Ford to find out where your watch is -- here's the address:
Ford Focus
Program Headquarters
1501 Halo Drive
Troy, MI 48084
norwaydoug--thanks for the address. I will write. Can't hurt to try. So sorry you didn't get your car back as planned but at least you are driving a zx3 cousin. You said you talked with the area manager. What do you mean they will make full payment? For the rental?
I leased my hatchling. Did anyone lease and get the watch???
about 6 weeks.
front brake dust is very common-remember this is an
alloy wheel not a hub cap.use a good quality polish
such as dupont chrome cleaner-it will help seal
the metal pores + provide a coat of protetion
against pitting.also,it will clean off easier.
Thanks, hugoz, for the address. I would really like to have a watch, and haven't heard anything from Ford about one yet. I'll try being pushy.
Pat, the stainless steel mug is very much like the ones Eddie Bauer sells. Hmmm....do you s'pose they found yours by the side of the road and used it as a prototype?
Still on a hunt for the perfect bike rack --
Calico1
Pat
Pat
industry.theres hardly any mfg.left in the u.s.
it truly is a sad situation.the supply pipeline
takes a long time to fill.dont like it but thats the way it is.
Moines, Iowa) So far I've seen, all with local
plates:
-Malibu Blue ZX3-(saw it way back on Dec. 2,'99.
Seeing this one was an good omen, as I was on my way to the dealer to sign the papers!)
-My CD-Silver ZX3
-someone elses CD-Silver ZX3
-Twilight blue ZX3
-Last week saw a Cloud 9 White ZX3 in my dentist's
parking lot
A friend reported seeing another Twilight Blue ZX3
to me. (that makes two) Both were parked next to
each other at the grocery store!
About 2 wks. ago I saw a blue ZX3(don't remember
which color) on the expressway with Minnesota
plates.
I've only seen 2 sedans.
-Autumn Orange
-Twilight Blue
Gotta go wash the car, some bird used it for
target practice. No respect I tell ya!
Gabe
I can't log on to the buyer connection since I don't live in the States.
Tom
Anybody know how easy/hard it is to remove the caliper brackets and paint them?
The guy at the shop suggested I just spay the paint in between the wheel spokes since the paint on the disks will burn off. I don't think I'll be doing that.
Any suggestions?
-My shifter has started to make a sqeaking noise when I shift from 1st to 2nd. Has only been making the little noise today. Hoping that it will go away next time I drive it...
-I have put 1600km/1000mi on the car these first two weeks and the engine is *very* smooth when warmed-up. The engine seems to be really loosening up after 1000mi and the shifter is nice and slick when warmed-up.
-The handling is as excellent as everyone says. Body lean feels a bit exagerated because of the high seating position.
-The car handles snow and rain/freezing rain well.
-This car gets a lot a looks from drivers and pedestrians. I have only seen four ZX3 in my city of 1million people.
-There are no rear amber turn-signals. I prefer the amber, but the red rear lights flash very bright and quickly when used as a signal - I think that it is an acceptable trade-off. Much better than most North-American-Style red turn signals.
-The steering is perfect for me. Just enough power steering and road feedback. Gota love that leather wrapped wheel!
-I wish I had the tilt wheel. It seems a little too far away in my preffered seating position.
-A friend who owns a Civic 2door had a look at our Focus. She was green with envy! Hands down, side-by-side, the Focus wins. It can't compare to the quality interior, excellent stereo, great seats, alloy wheels, slick shifter, great engine, and class leading looks. Only problem with the Focus is the unknown reliability. However, her Civic has been in the shop several times this year for repairs. You decide.
Hope this helps some of you potential buyers.
And yes, no matter what is decided about a ZX3 club, this topic stays open.
carlady/host
Audiolizard
www.ford.ca
Congratulations, especially at getting a hatchling at invoice. You're pretty lucky -- a ZX3 is darn nice little car to be your first one!
benchmark std. established in that state to
meet or exceed federal emissions. ford has been using this as far back as 1988.performance will
not be any less than one without
more on this subject-here in the philly area it
is a requirement that oxygenated fuel be sold
between nov.-march to cut down pollutants.i have read studies that lay claims the opposite is true.
i hear more complaints about itchy burning eyes
body aches + headaches + nausea due to use of this type of fuel.i believe there is something suspect
Calico1
Is this normal..? Does anyone else have the same problem?
We cruised ALL the lots over the weekend, and the ONLY car that really caught her eye was the ZX3! For some reason, it simply appealed to her!
So... She's priced them, and is planning to demo the car within a couple of days. Looks like one that's pretty well loaded, including side airbags.
Any comments regarding OVERALL satisfaction with the vehicle from owners who've put more than 10,000 miles on the clock?
did someone say addiction?
demo that car + put that deposit down. youll
never regret it. i have 2400 pleasant miles.
personally - i dont suspect anything but continued joy.my previous vehicle was a zx2 -35500mi not one
problem experienced.same engine as zx3.
to audiolizard-congrats on your new purchase!
participating in the promotions that Ford US
currently has.
But, for those of you who are Canadian
residents...
Check out http://www.focusgear.net/
All kinds of Ford Focus gear offered.
Unfortunately, we in the US aren't allowed to order
any of this cool merchandise. (At least that's what I
was told by a Rep. of Ford Canada, when tried to
order) If anyone has heard differently, please let
us know.
thanks,
Gabe
You can disassemble and paint the caliper brackets yourself if you are used to doing your own brake work and basic mechanical repairs. I wouldn't recommend painting the cad plated caliper bodies - they'll resist rust just as they are. DON'T just spray the paint through the wheel spokes! The guy who suggested that was an idiot. You could create some very serious problems gumming up your brakes like that.
Calico1 - I'm still game, but I still think you and Gabe should serve at first. I, for one, would like a female moderator to help balance the male perspective. You decide...
Will those pads give you better breaking performance?
kevlar based pads.i do know kevlar is used in
the mfg. of bullet-proof vests ,also b+w the british loudspeaker mfg. uses the same material for their woofers.seems to be a versatile material,
im going to follow suit + change my pads when avaiable.you are right about abrasive polishes on
wheels.i use the dupont chrome,but one must do so
sparingly+gingerly.if youre not careful you can
scratch surface of wheels.ive been using it for 30 yrs.i also use simple green as well.