Ford Focus Sedan

wgas · May 2002

What are the options for adding a cd changer to a focus lx with cassete head unit stock? Is it pre-wired? Do I need an adapter for non-Ford changers? Do I need a mounting bracket? Please help, I can't find this info anywhere.

thanks

tiredofmanual · May 2002

Hmm, I don't think it is prewired, but the head unit will control a CD changer. You'll need a Ford Adapter if it isn't a Ford CD Changer. If you are looking for the easiest way to get a CD changer in your car, you should just pick up the 6-disc in-dash changer that comes as an option (and standard on some limited-run Foci). The swap would take less than 10 minutes.

wgas · May 2002

The stock sound system is pretty damned good, so I don't want to gut it just to add a cd player when it's already ready to play nice with one. So which one? Am I just going to have to bite the bullet and go to the dealer on this?

tiredofmanual · May 2002

You don't have to go to the dealer. The adapter to use a non-Ford changer isn't sold at the dealer - it would be available at the stereo place you go to to get your changer installed. I was just saying that the easiest way (in terms of difficulty) is to get the stock 6-disc stereo. There are online places where you would be able to buy it for cheaper than what the dealer will charge you.

sundagolfer · May 2002

The fuel line debris that was recently referred to is part of a NHTSA safety investigation for Focus stalling. This is one of 5 safety investigations (and there is rumor of a 6th one). And don't forget the Focus has, to date, 8 safety recalls. Its kind of difficult to hand wave this away by saying its new car "teething problems"

Concerning recalls, there is no requirement that any manufacturer issue a Press Release about their recalls; they may or may not. But they are all posted on the NHTSA web site for public viewing.

When you evaluate a car model or manufacturer, get information from various sources, like Consumer Reports, Car & Driver, Motor Trend, Road & Track, J.D. Power & Assoc, IIHS testing, NHTSA, Kelly Blue Book and others (for depreciation). Put it all together and see what you come up with.

tomcat630 · May 2002

US make recalls are front page news by journalism school types who hate Detroit and want to see them go under. Just so they can feel superior to their parents and "old money" types.

the Echo blabber can go on and on, but their sales are way down and it's considered a flop. So much so that Toyota has to come up with a new name to sell to younger buyers, Scion. Echos ended up stealing Corolla sales.

With each month, Toyotas, new cars (Highlander, Camry, 03 Corolla) increase sales and older models (Echo, Avalon, 4 runner) decrease. Where are the new sales coming from that make them think they can be #1 in the world?

tiredofmanual · May 2002

If you look at the car magazines you will find that they all like the Focus (it even has the distinction of being on the Car & Driver 10 Best list each of the last 3 years).

kirbstoy · May 2002

I've got approx. 14K miles on my 2001 ZTS, 5-sp. The car's been reliable, fun to drive and the Stereo's great. My only return to the dealer was for what I thought was a defective Throw-Out bearing. In neutral with the engine idling and the clutch out, the driveline has a prominent noise..it almost sounds like the "rattle" from a diesel! The noise goes completly away when the clutch is depressed. The dealer says it is not a throw-out bearing problem but rather what they call a "gear roll-over" noise from the transmission. I've been driving stick transmissions since 1961 and don't recall ever experiencing this condition. Anyone out there that has the same noise or experience with a "gear roll-over" noise? Thanks...

seminole_kev · May 2002

about that over on the Focaljet.com site. I can't remember where the discussion stands, whether it's normal, or if there is a fix for it.

sundagolfer · May 2002

Looks like the Focus has made NHTSA's "Best Favorite List" They've now got six (6) safety investigations on the 2000-2001 Focus. The latest one concerns some kind of front suspension failure.

This combined with the 8 recalls leads one to think that Ford kicked this model out the door a little too quickly.

mbnut1 · May 2002

Sounds like an input shaft bearing to me. I wouldn't trust your dealer. Take it somewhere else and get another opinion.

lngtonge18 · May 2002

If you ever do find out the source of the noise please let me know. I don't have a Focus, but have a similar sound in my car (had the noise since it was almost new). I have a 2000 Hyundai Accent that makes a whistling/squeaking sound when the tranny gets hot and the clutch is up. As soon as you press down on the pedal, the noise stops. The dealer heard the noise and agreed it was the throwout release bearing. They replaced it and also put in a new clutch disc and pressure plate (not sure why, but hey, new clutch for free after 21k miles of wear). The clutch did operate better and the noise appeared to be gone. However, it has come back in a lesser form only 1k miles later. I find it hard to believe I have another bad throwout release bearing. Maybe it was my input shaft bearing all along. So, anyway, do let this forum know if they fix your problem. It may help me indirectly with knowledge so I can hopefully help the dingy mechanics figure out the cause if the noise gets worse and I decide to take it back in.

danili19 · May 2002

Hey everyone, just wondering if anyone had a link to more info. on the new Mach Audio edition...looks incredibly cool, esp. in that orange color, and the price isn't terrible either...xenons, 460-watt sound with a 10-inch sub, silver gauges...only 6,000 made I hear...interesting how fordvehicles.com has nothing on this, yet it was advertised in this month's C/D magazine...hmmm...

tiredofmanual · May 2002

Info @ focaljet - most of the posts are people anxious to find the part number for the lights so they can order them and put them on their regular Foci, but hidden among them are very informative posts. The people that run focaljet have a very good relationship with Ford and often get info well before it is released elsewhere.

Periodically Ford puts out "statement edition" Foci and this is the latest one. They all are available in very limited numbers and the extras you get are always easily worth the package price. I don't remember Ford mentioning any of the other "statement edition" Foci on fordvehicles.com, but then again I don't check it too often.

tomcat630 · May 2002

"that Ford kicked this model out the door a little too quickly"

True, they were eager to top Honda too much. But, it's still better than Kia Rio, Neon, and Accent

seminole_kev · May 2002

yeah, but that's not really saying much either ;-)

seminole_kev · May 2002

what is it about the Focus that gets people so riled up? I haven't seen the pro-Focus people in here saying "oh man these things kick the (Civic/Corolla/etc)'s behind". Yet you have these other ones come in here talking smack for no reason. Christ even Echo owners come in here to throw chairs around.....Echo owners!

Kirstie_H · May 2002

One major daily newspaper is looking for folks who drive 2002 or 2003 yellow or orange cars, and another major daily newspaper is looking for folks who successfully or unsuccessfully attempted to negotiate the purchase prices of their vehicles at the end of their lease terms. If you care to share your stories on either or both of these topics, please send an e-mail containing a short summary of your experience and your contact information to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Tuesday, May 14.

Thanks much,

Jeannine Fallon
PR Director
Edmunds.com

vocus · May 2002

I saw my first ZX5 on the road today, a dark blue one. It's a pretty sharp looking car. In the Edmunds' review, they said the styling was kinda questionable or something like that. I don't think so at all, they are pretty cool looking.

seminole_kev · May 2002

thanks for being kind. I drive a ZX5 ;-)

caesarslegion · May 2002

I have had heater core problems with my tracer and taurus in the past. At all data.com it also says that all fords have these problems. My question is has any one with a new focus have these same problems? I looked at the 2002 focus and im very leery because of the heater core problems I have had. I figure Ill get the straight honest truth from you focus owners. Thanks

sumtym · May 2002

I now understand why the focus is priced approx. $3000 over some other compacts. Its to cover the cost of future recalls because they sure aren't made any better and talk about ugly wow!!!

rollybc · May 2002

opened the gas door and it broke off is this a common problem and can Iget ford to fix it

angel58 · May 2002

Wondering if anyone else is having any problems with rear suspension on ZTS model. I have taken mine to dealer and they performed a "rear alignment", but the car is no better. Drive on Detroit roads and whenever going over rough roads the rear right seems to slip like a pick-up truck. Also, going into curves on freeways (70+ mph), the back end feels like it is slipping around. I have had 6 other (various makes), but 4 of them Fords where I had front wheel drive and never heard of a rear alignment. Someone told me that the 16" tires make a big difference and I should get smaller tires but then I would have to have speedometer recalibrated and all that. If anyone knows of anything, please let me know. Thanks.

seminole_kev · May 2002

Sumtym - thanks for only proving a point I made before

rollybc - Did it just fall off, or did it get backed up against something? I think the fuel door might be the same as what was on the Contour, but I could be wrong. I've never heard of one breaking, but since the Contour has more years and miles on it, maybe someone has?

angel58 - I think the yawing motion you're talking about is do to the passive rear wheel steering. Does it feel like it's "stepping out" when hiting a sharp bump? If so this is probably normal. The Protege also has passive rear wheel stearing and I feel the same thing. I believe that is normal.

angel58 · May 2002

Seminole Key-- Yes that is definitely what is happening. I had a 2000 ZTS and it didn't feel like this. I don't know what the 'passive rear wheel steering' is. Thanks.

seminole_kev · May 2002

funny - my wifes car is a 2000 ZTS with the 15" tires. I can feel it with it. But it is more noticeable with the 16" lower-profile tire that are on my 2002 ZX5. I suspect that the stiffer sidewall is making it more noticeable.

I honestly haven't seen a diagram or good explanation of Passive steering. I understand the active rear wheel steering systems that they had out for a few years, but the passive aspect I'm not so sure about. I guess the suspension is set up to give a little to help the rear wheels steer a little. Hopefully someone here knows better than I do. I'll post a question in the Protege board about it.

crkeehn · May 2002

The rear suspension (If I can remember my old Escort) had two lower lateral links with some give. When you cornered, the rear wheel would toe out slightly in the opposite direction, giving a limited amount of steering assistance. It was a Mazda design, used in the Protege, Ford used it in at least the 92- Escorts, and has apparently carried it on with the Focus. I don't know if it really made a difference, but my 93 wagon was a nice handling car.

2001focusst · May 2002

I'm new to the board and have a few issues with my 2001 Focus Street Edition.

1.) Has been in three times to diagnose and fix the driver window squealing. Happens when window is wet and lowering. Still not fixed.

2.) Rattle from plastic piece surrounding instrument panel.

3.) Any fixes found for the "diesel" sounding rattle when the clutch is depressed at idle?

4.) Radio volume knob has a mind of it's own when adjusting the volume level (i.e. while turning volume up volume may go up or down unless the knob is turned quickly.

Anyone had these problems? Also has been in for warped air bag cover (replaced pass. airbag) & Pass. floorboard flooding (resealed "right scuff area").

I love the car...am getting tired of the annoying little problems.

mltomek · May 2002

i got tired of the same things you mentioned above----i got rid of the darn thing and bought a bullet proof Toyota. thatz my answer and i'm sticking to it!!

mike

vadp · May 2002

There is a TSB for that problem.

Make: FORD Model: FOCUS Year: 2000

Service Bulletin Number: 14875 Bulletin Sequence Number: 201 Date of Bulletin: 05/01

NHTSA Item Number: SB620200
Component: POWER TRAIN:TRANSMISSION:STANDARD:MANUAL
Summary:
SOME VEHICES EQUIPPED WITH MTX-75 MANUAL TRANSAXLE MAY EXHIBIT A GEAR RATTLE IN NEUTRAL / NEUTRAL GEAR ROLLOVER NOISE. *TT

silverhlltd · May 2002

What is the 'fix' for this problem?

vic19 · June 2002

According to Consumer Reports the Focus is a nice driving car with a terrible frequency of repair record.

It may drive nice, but who in his right mind would put up with the frustrations of an unreliable car just to drive a Ford compact.

Maybe driving a Porsche with all it's headaches, but at least you're driving a Prosche.

britton2 · June 2002

agree with Vic19 about the Focus - I test drove a couple last year while car-shopping, and while it handled very, very well and I liked the roomy interior and looks - I was hesitant to purchase one because of the questionable reliability and the fact that it hadn't been around very long - I ended up getting a Corolla instead - if Ford could ever fix all of the problems with the Focus (which seem to be numerous) and improve the gas mileage I would seriously consider getting one down the road

vocus · June 2002

My co-worker bought a used 2000 Focus SE with the 110hp engine and automatic, 40K, for $10,000. I told her she was nuts, mostly because she could have gotten one alot newer for about the same price. In the 5K miles she has had it, the front brake pads make a terrible squeaking noise, and one of her front rotors went out as well. She still likes it alot though. I wish her luck with it.

pat · June 2002

The Town Hall is about to take on a new look in an effort to make content more easily searchable and accessible.

Have you seen the Letter from the Town Hall Manager on the Town Hall Welcome page? If not, you might want to follow that link to have a look.

And hang on to your seats. Change is never easy - for any of us - but resolving the Search problems we've had will be worth the pain.

Pat
Sedans Host

pete7032 · June 2002

My girl friend is looking at a Focus and I was all for it until I read this board. I drove one for a week while on vacation and really liked it. Handling, power, and ride were all very impressive. I have never liked the styling of the Focus but I have to admit it grew on me during the week. Now I am not sure that this car is a good idea. Have these issues been fixed in the 2002?

george00 · June 2002

This really is the operative question. I too test drove a Focus and liked it enough that I would have bought it if not for all the problems being reported for that model as well as for other Fords. In fact, I really wanted an Escort - I owned one in the mid-80s which was very comfortable until it went up in flames (Fords do that), and a few years ago I rented one for a couple of weeks in Florida and again found it comfortable. I was even more impressed when I saw that, according to Consumer Reports and other sources, Ford seemed to have got the Escort right - its reliability ratings were quite good. So of course Ford discontinued the model?!

Reliability is important to everyone. To us, living in the desert, it is a matter of life and death. So when I read about the nth recall, and saw all the comments by owners, I reluctantly gave up on the Focus and bought a base Camry (LE4). It was only a few thousand dollars more, is much more substantial, and has been running flawlessly. But the seat is not as comfortable as the seat in the Focus (or the Escort). So I guess I made the right choice, but if Ford ever got its act together, and really made quality its number one priority, it could sell a lot of cars.

tiredofmanual · June 2002

Go to the NHTSA web page and see for yourself. The recalls affected the 2000 model year Foci, with I believe 1 more recall affecting the 2001 Focus. The 2002 is just fine. Both engines have been around for a long time and are reliable.

I just saw the other day a post over on Focaljet - someone just broke the 100,000 mile mark on his 2000 Focus. Imagine that.

tomcat630 · June 2002

Yes, they got the Escort right, but it was outdated looking. If one wants to get one, there are plently of used 2000-2002 models for sale. They won't make any for 2003.

vic19 · June 2002

Consumer Reports has a owner satisfaction score. Most cars score at least average. By definition most people have a favorable bias toward their cars -- they chose them, and people are not inclined to admit a mistake. But the Focus scored worse than average which is unusual and of course it's frequency of repair record is the worst attainable.

george00 · June 2002

I don't agree that the Escort looked outdated, nor do I think that the Focus is somehow more up-to-date. Looks are of course a matter of taste, and to my taste the Escort (I'm speaking of the 4-door sedan) was a better-looking car than the Focus. Moreover, the Escort had better visibility all around and was what it was meant to be, and what people bought it for: a simple, affordable, reliable car. The Focus, by contrast, is not so simple, not so affordable, and not nearly so reliable.

I really think Ford should have kept the Escort - and the Contour too, for that matter. Escort - Contour - Taurus: a formidable lineup, so Ford discontinued the Escort, discontinued the Contour, redesigned the Taurus when it was the most popular car in its class, and then introduced the Focus before it was ready. Meanwhile, Explorers are turning upside down on the highway, and Crown Victorias are exploding on contact (a cop in Phoenix was recently burned to death in one in a minor accident). So I'm stuck with a reliable, quiet, smooth and responsive, uncomfortable Camry.

tomcat630 · June 2002

FYI, the Escort has remained in production until now, the Taurus sales went down before the 2000 redesign.

The "formidible line up" with three sedans of 1998 didn't work, too bad, but it's a fact. Nissan had to make the Altima bigger, Ford refused to do so with the Contour, since it would cannibalize the Taurus, too bad. The old Escort was dated, if it wasn't, it would have outsold the Civic.

That CV cop car got rear ended at 70 mph, not a "minor accident on contact". Thousands of CV's are running fine in taxi and police fleets and it has a 5 star rating all around. I dare anyone to prove that the car is a "fire bomb" with actual facts.

The Explorer has been vindicated, so no more of that please.

I agree that the Focus should have been released after the bugs were worked out, but I hardly think it's a flop.

vic19 · June 2002

Ford lost about $5 billion last year. A chunk of that was the Explorer. If you're saying that the new Explorer probably is not subject to the roll overs in conjunction with Firestone tires that's probably true. But the public has shown considerable resistance to the new Explorer. It's grievously hurt Ford. It was one of the few vehicles it was making money on.

goofy10 · June 2002

I have a 2000 Focus SE ... recently the car started shaking when I hit 63mph. The shaking stops when I get to 70, but considering the speed limit is 55 around here I don't do 70 to often. Does anybody else have this problem?

kirbstoy · June 2002

To:vadp (#833)...I went to the AllData web site in an effort to see the TSB on the "roll-over" problem. While they showed fourteen TSB's for the 2001 Focus ZTS, there was nothing about this problem. I then checked AllData for TSB's on 2000 Focus ZTS' and they didn't have anything either. So, can you tell me where you got the TSB number etc.? I'd like to follow-up on what the dealer has told me. Thanks for your assistance.

bigcompact · June 2002

Have you ever rotated your tires? The shaking you refer to happened on my old Escort, and the cause of the problem was tires that had never been rotated. The uneven wear caused by this can cause rattling to happen at certain ranges of speed.

Satisfied owner of a 2001 Focus SE Sport, 17,000 reliable miles put on since Labor Day, 2001

tiredofmanual · June 2002

Definitely check the tires. Exactly what is happening to you happened to my parents a few years back in their Oldsmobile. The problem ended up being uneven wear in the tires.

tomcat630 · June 2002

Funny, the Explorer is still the #1 SUV for 2002 so far. So I don't think there is a "public resistance" to it.

vic19 · June 2002

For the first 5 months of 2002 Ford sold about 157,500 Explorers. That's down over 20% from good years.

The resistance can be see in the current $1,500 incentive offered by Ford.

Explorer is a major contributor to Ford's currnet loses. Ford makes no money on car sales, all profits are from trucks of various kinds. The Explorer was until it's run in with Firestone one of Ford's few profitable lines.

Ford Focus Sedan

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