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Ford Focus Owners-Meet the Members
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Comments
The seat belt is a bit farther back, but that's because the B-pillar in the hatchling is farther back on the car being a two-door.
I find the brakes a bit more responsive; however, they are new and we (my fiance and I) have the 4-disc brakes with the advance trac. I'm not too certain to what extent either contributes. Twice as much brake dust, I suppose.
The hatch is a twilight blue, fully-loaded automatic. We had the option to order it with the manual, but for some reason we decided not.
As for gas mileage, the wagon was obtaining 25-27 mpg until the winter when it became not so good. I'm not certain if that's the winter-blend gas or my driving habits degraded, but I'm getting 21-25 now. I think I may need to have a talk with my Ford dealer about this if it doesn't improve in the next few months.
I have no data on the hatch yet.
Besides, summer is just around the corner.
Pat
I talked to a guy at my dealership and he said the same thing about the snow, wheel wells and mud flaps. He recommends them anyway as they will help with stones and anything else bouncing up (again, like you said). Do you know if there are "bras" that fit the focus - and don't cover the lights - to also prevent damage from flying road debris? I saw some "clip-on" light covers, but I want something to cover the whole front and not cover up the lights as they are part of the "look" that attracted me to the focus.
Dropped off my baby this morning for a 10,000 mile check up and to fix the back seat recall. They are also going to look into my brakes (squealing) and the peeling clear coat on my hood. Miss her already. :-)
I'm really grateful to you and all the other ZX3 owners for giving me advice and heads up about my ZX3.
Jessica
thanks
Jessica
I'm not planning on keeping my Focus for a long time.
Anyway, I went to their site and it seems clear to me that the hood/fender and the bumper kits are two separate items that need to be purchased separately.
Also their FAQ section says that the installation procedures are very simple and don't need any special skills. The kits come with all the instructions.
I suggest you e-mail them just to be sure.
KarenS
Host
Owner's Clubs
KarenS
Host
Owner's Clubs
But, all in all, it's the BEST little car for the $$$$ I've ever had, and I still get stopped all the time, and asked where I got it, how much, how do I like it, etc.
Greg Johnson
Hollywood, CA
How many people drive their cars the way they are driven (and in the environment they are driven on the tests)for the EPA mileage tests?
Is good mileage in the eye of the beholder???
Here in the NY Metro area even suburban driving is a lot more that the city cycle measures. As to highway driving, what do they use 55 mph? Isn't it also done on a dynomomiter in perfect atmospheric conditions?
You're right too about expectations. Just like our friend at the hatchback board who compared the Focus to an Outback costing thousands more, some peoples' expectations are very different.
For one, I am happy that on our first trip (with just about 500 miles on the car) we averaged about 29mpg. Considering there were hills, the ac was on, and our speeds were all over the place from 50 to 80, I'm happy.
The difference in price would be around $3K.(TS)
Would I pay extra $3K or even $4K for better quality and performance plus AWD?
ABSOLUTELY!!!
As you see I finally learned something from my Focus experience.
BTW, prior to the Focus I used to drive: the Moskvich 2140, the Lada 2105, the Ford Pinto, the 3 cyl. Chevy Sprint/Geo Metro.
Out of those only the Pinto and Moskvich gave me more headaches than the Focus.
I am a the proud new owner of a Twilight Blue ZX3. Charcoal interior with power, premium, and moonroof. I got it yesterday and I LOVE driving it. I had my last car for a very long time (a major clunker) so going from that to my Z is like night and day.
Drum Hill Ford in Lowell, MA was fabulous to work with. I'd highly recommend them to anyone in the Boston area. No BS and very friendly, efficient service.
I got a lot of great information from the various ZX3 boards here - thanks to all of you for so much great information.
Kerrie
I don't know the VIN off the top of my head, but I believe the "born on date" is December, as the dealer had the same model but in Pitch Black that was $200 cheaper than my Twilight Blue. The reason for the difference was the black car was made in September and after that there was a minor price increase.
I chose a 5 speed as I basically just prefer manual over automatic. The only time that might not be true is if I were stuck in Boston traffic on a regular basis. Since I live and work in the 'burbs I don't worry about that. I also thought that the engine might be too slow to suit me using an automatic transmission.
I'm at about 350 miles now after my first weekend with the car. So far, I love driving it. I find the car to be very quiet while idling (I've read lots of posts to the contrary). It does make a bit of noise on the highway, but to be honest my radio is usually turned up so loud that I can't hear any "outside" noise.
My friends/family/coworkers were all very surprised to see what my focus looked like. I think they were all expecting something a bit "cheaper" looking since I had been raving about what an excellent deal I got. The first thing out of their mouths was "I can't believe how much room there is in here." The next thing was "this is NICE".
Here's hoping my love affair lasts a long long time.
I'm almost at 500 miles - tomorrow will be 1 week of ownership. I have a problem though ... I fear I'm being a bit obsessive about keeping the car clean. Every night after work I'm doing something to the interior or exterior - my neighbors think I'm a nut. My serious problem is there is SO much information here on how to properly wash/wax your car that I'm worried I'll make the wrong choice and end up with a messed up paint job. I've read everything I can think of and am still concerned that I'm going to make a mistake.
My current plan is to hand wash the car using Meguires, dry using a synthetic chamois (I belive it's Absorption or Absorb or something similar to that) and then apply Meguires #26 and then Meguire's #34 (Final Inspection). I'll let you know how I make out.
Does anyone know where I can get some cool accessories?
Thanks!
Jenny!
I'm not sure what you mean about the car being "too hard". Are you getting a manual without being experience, or are you just in general an inexperienced driver? I would say that the ZX3 is pretty easy as far as shifting goes .... the clutch is great and it's really easy to get into gear. I find the steering to be very responsive and the brakes seem just fine to me. I think you'll find it's a great car to drive.
If you have your heart set on CD Silver and your particular dealer doesn't have it, look around! You don't want to end up driving a color you don't really like, especially since you'll be looking at it every day.
Good Luck!
Jen
Use the X-plan and save in the process.
If your dealer accepts the X-plan, ask to see a copy of the invoice. Also, the X-plan price is a no haggle, very fair price
Don't allow yourself to be intimidated by the salesman. You HAVE to bypass them and go directly to the fleet manager or its equivalent.
Have fun!
http://www.eaa.org/communications/eaanews/ford_partner.html
My vehicle is better than yours because....
Brag about your ride on Tuesday, May 8, 5-6pm PT/8-9pm ET in the new News & Views Weekly Chat
KarenS
Host
Owner's Clubs
STERIO:
-Kenwood CD/MP3 Headunit
-Dual Fusion Encounter 10" Subs
-Power Acoustic Gothic 540watt Amp
APPEARANCE:
-Window Tint
-->Accent strip on windshield
-->3 Rear windows
-Clear Side Markers
-Xenon Full Facia ground effects kit (to be installed)
PERFORMANCE:
-Borla Catback Exhaust System (to be installed)
-Ice-Man Cold Air Intake (to be installed)
-Progress Sport Springs (1.8" Drop) (to be installed)
WHEELS/TIRES: -Primax 618 17x7 wheels
-Falken FK-04-GRB 204x40x17 Tires
-Chrome Locking Lugs
-->3 of one pattern 1 different per wheel
all the work should be completed within the next few weeks... the springs, intake and exhaust won't be a problem... the body kit hasnt been painted yet, im still looking for a good body shop to do it for me...
anyways, glad to see that you all are all still around and enjoying your Z's as much s I am!! and welcome to those of you I dont know...
Kevin
My ZX3 was the last on the lot. I bought it 10-19-01. It is black with power and premium groups. Since I got the 0% financing for 5 years, they wouldn't go below invoice but I feel I got a good deal. It drives like a sports car. Of course going from an aspire (hey I liked it !) to a focus doubled my hp too but I really notice the difference in comfort now. The only regret I
have is losing the 42 mpg that the aspire delivered. I think I am averaging 28-30 with the focus so far. Will keep you posted !
Just wanted to invite you guys to join the Tri-state group of Subarus from http://i-club.com to join us for a Drive-a-thon. We are driving 48hrs, 1200miles from NYC->Newark, DE->Philadelphia->Pittsburg->Buffalo->Rochester->Albany->Nyack, NY on a weekend in January to raise money for the WTC relief fund. Details are at http://isuzu-suvs.com/events/48hrsoftristate/index.html or e-mail me 48hrs@iace.com for details.
-mike
Not many realize it is a for profit company.
Besides, there are Millions already out there and the folks involved cannot get it.
Then there is the lady sueing the goverment because she thinks 3 million is not enough!?
It is way out of control.
When my parents died no one offered me money. Stuff happens, deal with it.
I moved to this vehicle after leasing an Olds Aurora (3 years) and owning a Buick Century (14.5 years). I got the full Ziebart protection with 50% window tint and intend to keep the car for at least another 12-15 years.
I averaged 36 mpg on a trip to Florida last year; upshifting early and not trying to always win an Indy race does it. However, I like speeding up and merging at cars speed on entering highways and find the ZX3 is only slower than the Aurora (with its V-8) by a few tenths of second.
While the Aurora had an unnerving tendency to sway sideways over bumps, the focus just glides over them, isn't as plush but has almost the same seating space, more headroom, more practical space, and is more than 3 feet shorter.
I had all the recalls done and get it serviced every 5000 km. The car is wonderful and the 4 season tires have a good grip in snow although I may consider moving to Michelin Pilot XGT H4 at some point. I have driven front-wheel drive cars for over 33 years (3 of which on sandy African roads) only with 4-season tires with very little problems.
It does not compare to the smooth and road holding capability of the Citroën ID I once had but I have never encountered one that did anyway.
Good to connect and I will be pleased to exchange on tips and ideas.
Hello and welcome new members!
KarenS
Host
Owners Clubs
If you have some time, we would really appreciate Town Hall members writing a review of their current auto, or a favorite make/model. It takes approximately a week for your review to appear on that make/model.
If you have any questions, please let me know!
Thanks!
KarenS
Host
Owners Clubs
-Rob
My name is Nancy and I live in Southern California, in the foothill area north of
Glendale and west of Pasadena . This looks like a great group to hang out with!
On Tuesday, October 22, 2002 I became the proud owner of a new 2002 Ford Focus
ZTW Wagon. My 2000 Explorer was coming off lease on the 26th, and I wanted to
downsize so the Focus wagon seemed perfect.
So far, I *love* it! It's the Sangria Red (my first red car!) with gray leather. It's pretty
loaded; about all it doesn't have is a sunroof and the "Advance Track" traction
control system.
Want to hear something funny? For the last two-three weeks, my boyfriend and I
have been independently searching the 'net, reading reviews, checking prices, etc.
as we each tried to decide what to buy. I was replacing my Explorer, and he was
replacing a 1995 Escort Wagon that was beginning to have one problem after
another (at 128k, that's probably not surprising).
Anyway, we *both* narrowed it down to one car: the 2002 Focus ZTW Wagon! He
bought his on Saturday, and it's the Twilight Blue. Other than color, both cars are
identically equipped. We both got our respective Focii (sp?) for just under 20k,
including the alarm system. We feel it's a *very* nice car for the money.
Comfortable, solid, holds the road like a pro, adequate get-up-and-go, and looks
good to boot (in our opinion, anyway ;-) As far as reliability, time will tell. We figure
after two years most of the bugs should be ironed out, and if not, we have the
warranty to take care of any problems that might arise.
I can't wait to take a picture of them (and us) side-by-side :-)
Nancy
I was a little annoyed that I had to buy a car with the winter package in Miami, but the deal was good enough to dissipate this sole spot in an otherwise great little rocket. Bottom line, after a year and two Foci I am still very much in love with this car.
As for SVTs, this is my second one. My first one was an SVT Contour, a whole different beast. Lets just say I really like SVTs.
The ST is not tuned or geared for all-out fuel economy but still is reliably delivering 30 mpg at west of the Mississippi Interstate speeds (70 mph+). I'd guess that the 2.0 liter will do better and even the new 2007 ST appears to have some changes to rate better fuel economy than the 2005. No complaints though. I've never had a more flexible four-banger. The usable torque band for acceleration is wide and deep. The ST feels sportier than a lot of sports cars I've driven. The clutch is easy. The shift throws are short and well-defined with decent feel. The ST has very direct steering and a controlled, compliant ride. An occasional stretch of road with just the wrong expansion joint interval betrays the short wheel base and light weight, but on most surfaces the ride is smooth and the handling tight.
Since I started in Volkswagens, the upright seating position feels just right, and is comfortable and commanding.
The interior you touch is very good, with comfortable leather seats, leather-wrapped wheel and leather gear shift knob. Even the door handle is nicely sculpted and backed with perforated suede to match the seat inserts. What you see of the interior betrays more of the economy car origins, but is functional if somewhat plain. I personally liked the original interior better than the 2005 update. My least favorite feature of the interior is the too-small rectangular vents. My favorite feature is the door, with well-placed arm rests and door grab handles, a very functional door pocket with an extra drink holder, and high-quality feeling switch gear for the windows and locks. It looks good and works well in practice.
I'd like more sound dampening material in the trunk and underbody to reduce road noise. The sweet exhaust note can stay.
We also have a 2002 Mercury Cougar 2.3 liter 5-speed manual. The family resemblance is noticable. I hope the ST will have the same reliability as the Cougar (now approaching 77,000 trouble-free miles). The Cougar's interior is more upscale, with the exception of the seats. The Focus has far better shaped seats, with the only sorely missed feature being no lumbar support adjustment.
I'll keep you up to date on the ST's reliability and fuel economy. So far, it is a gem with a very sporty personality disguised as an economy car.
I'm also a bargain hunter. The usual suspects , Honda Civic Toyota Corrola etc are all proven choices but the asking prices tend to offset any advantages ( real or percieved).
My feeling is that the advantages in reliability and quality between a Focus and a Civic/Corrolla etc are mostly percieved.
This leads me to believe that Civics and Toyotas are over priced in the used car market and that Foci are probably underpriced, and therefore a potential good buy.
I've also done a lot of car research on this and other websites and realize they tend towards the negative as a significant majority of people post to research,complain or vent about a problem.
So I'm here asking for objective inputs from the group.
Thanks in advance.
Go for an 05 or newer. They have the Mazda designed 2.0L engine. You may even find a 2.3L with PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle)
IF you get a Certified Focus from a Ford dealer, you also get a warranty up to 75,000 miles on toe odometer or 6 years from the in service date. Plus to be certified, the car has to have a clean title history, 50% on brakes and 50% on tires at least or new and freash oil/filter.
Certified cars can also be financed at new car rates.
Mark.
'nuff said.
ZXW Robb