Ford Focus Recalls and TSBs

fdthird · July 2003

My son had a problem a couple of months ago with the right rear door. When you closed it the lock would not engage. He was in California at the time and a local Ford Dealer diagnosed it as a faulty power lock cylinder and replaced it under warranty. His just stopped working so it was easy to diagnose, I guess. His car has been pretty much trouble free in 2+ years and 38,000 miles.

class3 · July 2003

I just returned from my "Freindly Ford Dealer" and now have their complete attention. I arrived at the dealer this mid morning, armed with my trusty video camera, to which I asked to speak with the Service manager. I then proceeded to show him my version of the problem door, INCLUDING how at 45 MPH my son asked my wife to "open the door. She then pushed on the door with ONE hand, and PRESTO, the opened < I have power door locks and childproof doors enabled> I wish all of you could see the look of surprise on their faces when the tape rolled. They asked me for the tape, so they could "show the regional Rep" and I tackfully declined. I iwas immediatly setup with an appointment and appology of why they "couldn't duplicate the problem" The dealer then called the Tech over to view the video as well. I think I have their attemtion and as they say "one picture is worth a thousand words. I had them speachless. If any of you have similar troubles with your cars, I'd just "roll the tape" and watch what happens.

hatemyfocus · April 2004

On my 2001 Ford Focus,
I went through 3 sets of tires (all because front left wore out), front brakes 8 sets of fronts all done by dealership because left side wore out(dealership would not replace calipers because they were not sure, they claimed it could have been abs sensor but could not verify(problem that I don't have abs)), one fuel pump, both coil springs broke (causing the front end of the car to drop to the ground, could have caused a serious accident), I can not keep all the light bulbs lite(every time I change one, another burns out the next day)

The dealership will not help. Ford won't help. I hate this car. I will not buy another Ford again

fdthird · April 2004

Must be bad karma or something.

tarheel2005 · July 2004

My 2000 ford focus zx3 door locks recently stoped working and now the passager side door won't open at all from the inside or out.I checked the fuses and they seem to be fine,and also the hatch you can't get into it because the inside button doesn't work and the key won't open it either.Thats not a big deal to me but I was wondering if anyone knew if the passager door was a recall or if they know of anything i could do to fix it because when I called ford about it they said they couldn't tell me anything on the phone,but if I could bring it in they could maybe fix the problem.

washington2 · October 2004

What was the problem with the burning odor in the car? I just bought a 2001 ZX3 and I smelled the burning odor. And took it to the ford dealer and they said they could not duplicate it. Please email me with the answer at pwas77@yahoo.com Thanks!

tarao · January 2005

my 2001 focus runs most of the time but on some occations I will drive it park it be gone for 5 or 10 min come back and it will act like its going to start and then die. If I keep my foot on the gas it will run but when I let off it dies. When it dose this if I let it sit for half an hour or so it will start up again. Has anyone else had a similar problem and if so what was the problem because I dont know and Ford couldnt find anything. Please Help.

creakid1 · March 2005

My ST has this problem, & it's nauseating. At first I thought it was just the new-car smell, but it's still not going away after several months.

Anyone has the same problem?

lost · March 2005

I have two 05 zx4 ses and i noticed the one with the gray interior smells different then the beige one. the gray interior had the odor that you described , but it has started to fade after two months and now its not bad.

phoenix_hansen · March 2005

This has to be your fuel pump... I also have a 2001 Ford Focus and originally had this problem. It mostly happend to me in the dead heat or in the middle of winter. I had taken it to my regular mechanic and he replaced the fuel filter. It then happend again a few days later. It would start but only would move an inch to stop and I would start the car again, only for it to happen again. This was when I realised I received something in the mail about they would start looking into recalling the fuel pump soon and if I had these symptoms, then they read off the symptoms, to take it to your nearest ford dealer. So...if you haven't had this replaced yet. i would say that you need to tell your Ford Dealer, that you need the recall fuel module completed...I hope this helps.

creakid1 · March 2005

Thanks! That toxic-rubber-plastic fume coming out from the dashboard vents does seem to smell less severe by now. I guess I just have to wait a little longer. I got this '05 ST w/ black interior since Oct '04 & now w/ over 3k miles.

gdpalmer · April 2005

After starting my 2002 Focus wagon, the engines stops and after starting it again it runs okay. This has happened 3 times in one week. Also, last week nearly the completion of a 50 mile trip, the engine stopped momentarily while traveling at 40 mph. Could this be related to a ignition switch problem? Any suggestion?

gdpalmer · April 2005

I have a 2002 Focus Wagon and I just started to have the same starting problem as you. Reading other owner's comments, it sounds like it could be some problem with the ignition switch.

Have you found a solution to the problem?

Gene

mikep2 · May 2005

Hello'

We have 2 ford focus with the same problem. Every so often, either the engine
dies momentarily or the transmission goes in to nuetral and the next thing
you know there is a clunck and everything is back to normal. Both cars are
automatic and the momentary problem happens at any speed.

Did you find a solution to your problem. So far Ford has replaced the valve body
and servo in the transmission, and flashed the computer. I am taking the car
in again next week
Thanks
Mike

tarao · May 2005

As of now I havent found a solution, but im leaning towards it being a fule pump problem. So you may want to check that out on your car and see if that fixes your problem. My car will start but then it dies like its not getting gas which leads me to think I need a new fule pump, even though I have had it replaced twice already. Tara

grad · June 2005

I missed the original message concerning faulty ignition key. My 2001 Focus ignition key failed at 6 Pm in April of 2005 with 89,000 miles on car. 30,000 miles prior I had had a little trouble and went to the dealer who claimed they "knew about problem" but could not change it at that time. It was a nightmare being stuck for four hours in a parking lot because the wheels had been turned when I entered space and first tow truck (arrived 2 hours after called AAA) couldn't tow me-need a flat bed truck that arrived about a half hour later. It cost me $235.00 to get repaired.
I have since learned that dealer was advised by Ford in Feb 2005 of problems with ignition key but they never advised Ford owners. Ford's laxity cost me $235.00 and a very bad night. I'm considering suing them if they don't reimburse me.Anybody else out there with similar experience?

sleddawg · June 2005

Yes, I had this problem with a 2000 Focus wagon. Mine was worse. After 3 new tumbler assemblies my local mechanic and the dealer finally determined that the lock on my car was unlike any other installed in a Focus. In fact, the lock assembly did not match the combination of tumblers that is supposed to be in the car according to Fords own VIN computer records! The Focus lock is supposed to have 8 notches/tumblers  the one in my car had only 6! So, despite all my (excellent) mechanics attempts to install the proper Ford replacement part, IT WOULD NEVER WORK! So, he was forced to replace ALL the locks in the car, doors and ignition in order to make the car usable. Ford offered no help and, because I had the work done by someone other than the dealer (the dealer could not figure out the problem!) $500+ with no recourse or refund. Mine was an early production model (2000) so speculation was that they used a lock assembly from an Escort or something at the factory!

The dealer did not/could not figure this problem out. They told me that Focus locks wearing out/failing is a common problem, well known to Ford, and that they (dealer) had told them that there should be a recall. He was not holding his breath though... So, good luck!

focusowner · June 2005

coordinate our efforts!

I've registered the following address:

fordfocusignition@yahoo.com

I'd like to build a list of all disgruntled focus owners and target ford, the attorney general, the press and the NHTSA at once.

I believe a signed petition, email, and phone calls made by all involved at an organized time will have more impact on ford's willingness to replace the switch with something that works like the Strattec part number 707592 I've found mentioned on another forum by a number of locksmiths.

I believe ford should also pay qualified locksmiths to do this work since the best replacement park is coming from a third party.

For you locksmiths out there, feel free to share the email with your customers.

I agree that the inability to start a car can be a danger to the driver, especially if they are stranded for a long time in a deserted or unfamiliar area.

Please drop an email to fordfocusignition@yahoo.com and let's be heard with one voice.

If you know of any other focus owners who have had the same problem, please refer the email to them as well.

the thought of my girlfriend calling me again because she is stranded somewhere does not sit well with me.

thanks.

chicobien · June 2005

I'm placing a complaint to NHTSA, Office of Defects Investigation (https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/Consumer.cfm) after having the same problem on my 2000 Focus ZTS about 2 weeks ago on Father's Day weekend.. :mad:

moll · August 2005

I am looking at a base model 2001 focus sedan as a communter. I'll be averaging 350-400 miles a week (to and from college). But from reading some of these posts it sounds like there are a lot of big fixit issues with this car? Is this typical? Should I look at this car at all or what? I'm not rich and need a solid economical car. Thanks in advance for any help!

creakid1 · August 2005

Consumer Reports gave the Focus an average reliability rating these days, but that's the combined score of the disastrous Ford-engine Focus (up to '03) & the very reliable Mazda-developed-engine Focus (starting late '03)!

So just look for a 2.3, or just any '05.

newdriver2 · August 2005

I bought 4 new tires from Sears last month and have the Alignment on the same day. However, after the alignment, my car keep pull to the right on the highway. I drove to Sears to have them fix the alignment today. Unfortunately, after they redo the alignment, the car pull to the left instead right. I asked them what is going on to my car they told me that I may need the new Strut for the front. Does anyone know the strut could effect the alignment or they are just BullShiting. I don't want to pay for something that wasn't a problem.
Does anyone know why my car keep pull to one side? any information could help me. I love this car so much and I don't want anything happen to it.

dhays · September 2005

I have been experiencing the smell of burning oil or rubber on my 2002 SE for the past few weeks. I just had an oil change at a quick lube shop and, while the clerk didn't mention it, I noticed on the paperwork that the technician had noted that the "motor was leaking at the oil pan". I'm wondering what that's about.

cindery · September 2005

Year: 2002
Model: Focus ZTS
Mileage: 37,000

Issue: Driver side door power window operates slowly, makes a loud screeching noise when moving up and down and makes noticable "clunking" noise when operating. Window also "shifts" slightly out of horizontal when opening.

Completed Actions: Windows and seals were carefully inspected, cleaned and found not to be causing the noises.

Anyone else experienced this issue?

Thanks

cmuniz · September 2005

Unless you have prior experience with that Sears auto shop that proves otherwise, I would NOT trust a Sears auto shop's diagnosis without checking it out further. A strut is an expensive repair and it may not solve the problem. I would take it to a tire specialty shop or an alignment shop and tell them what has happenend. I would trust them more than Sears when it comes to auto stuff.

amti · December 2005

I just had my 2000 FORD Focus (82,000 miles) towed to the local FORD dealer.

Originally set an apointment with the dealership due to a recall issue with the fuel system. Tried to start the car on the morning of the appointment and the ignition switch locked up. End result, had the vehicle towed to the dealership. To fix the problem the dealer tells me the ignition switch needs to be replaced. It will cost me $329.00.

The tow truck driver told me he drops off a lot of FORD Focuses to the dealership with the same issue.

HELP..!

caroledrake · December 2005

My Dad used to tell the story of a very small driver with at very large wife. The shop could not get the alignment right because they did not know of the weight of the passenger. Could this be a factor?

3screwsloose · December 2005

If those jokers cannot align a Focus right the first time, I would be getting my car as far away from them (Sears) as possible. A strut cannot cause a leading to the left or right problem. Alignment specs are given with the vehicle unloaded, no trunk full of bricks, or morbidly obese spouses. The tire pressure should be checked and the tires should be matched front and rear. A thrust-angle alignment is the most desirable - takes into account all 4 wheels since many cars offer toe and even camber adjustment at the rear wheels. It's not just a front-end alignment anymore.

jhart · December 2005

I arbitrarily self- recalled a 2000 Focus to a Buick dealer for a trade in. I believe the Focus is worse mechanically than a Vega or Pinto!!!! FORD should be ashamed!!!

mecorcoran · December 2005

Hi Amti,

I just had the same problem with my 2000 Ford Focus (56,000 miles). The Capital Ford dealership in Santa Fe, NM gave me an estimate of $375 for the work.

The tow truck driver also told me that he tows a lot of Ford Focuses with the same ignition problem. I told this to the service manager at the dealership and asked him if there was a recall for this. He said no but there should be one. He recommended that I keep my receipt so that Ford can reimburse me if they initiate a recall.

I'm doing some research to see how to start a recall and found a LOT of complaints about this issue. If you have any info, I'd appreciate it. Here are some websites to look at:

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/automotive/ford_focus_ignition.html

http://www.complaints.com/directory/2004/december/12/7.htm\

http://www.baileycar.com/2004Focus_getting_better_html.html

mecorcoran · December 2005

Amti,

Just found this website below where another person with the ignition problem posted this on August 18, 2004. Their suggestion is worth a try!

"I have consulted with an attorney who suggested the first course of action. File complaints, and tell them you have collected enough evidence that the problem is widespread and you will consult with an attorney.

Call Ford Consumer Relations and overwhelm them with complaints: 800-392-3673. Also go to: www.nhtsa.dot.gov"

http://groups.google.com/group/alt.autos.ford.focus/browse_thread/thread/e483c58- 3092269e2/e13dcd3e6bb0883%23e13dcd3e6bb0883?sa=X&oi=groupsr&start=1&num=3

sknipster · December 2005

I have an excellent chance to get a 2003 4dr sedan,, but was advised by a close friend, "used car salesman, 15 yrs" to make sure it has the mazda engine and not the focus engine... he recently passed away and I (and others) don't know just what he was talking about,,, I am satisfied with the price & mileage on car, just was to know about this engine deal and whatever, good or bad, else you may comment on thank you

stickarella · January 2006

Just wanted to post this as an FYI. I had electrical problems with my 2001 Ford Focus for almost 3 months. After replacing the battery, the alternator (twice) and the computer, they finally figured out that the problem wasd actually that aftermarket alternators are not compatible with the car's computer, due to a circuit board that is now inluded in the alternator. The dealer was not aware of this, they had to call a Ford engineer to find out that this was the issue, so be warned. If you are having electrical/power issues, and you put in an aftermarket alternator that did not come from Ford, there is a good chance it will not work for more than 3 days.

explorerx4 · January 2006

the 'mazda' engine is the 2.3 liter version. the other engine size is 2.0 liters. easiest thing to do is check the owner's manual. the engines do look different.

ajchrist · January 2006

I thought Mazda designed both four cylinder engines, the 2.3L and the 2.0L, along with the transmissions in the Ford Focus. If I'm wrong, please correct me. The Mazda 626S has a Ford 3.0L Duratec engine, and in 2004 a Ford designed sport shift automatic transmission, that has problems.

jrsawvel · January 2006

HELLO,
ON MY 2000 FORD FOCUS SE THE IGNITION SWITCH LOCKED UP
AT APPOX 45,000 MILES. AT THAT TIME I HAD IT REPLACED.
I CURRENTLY HAVE 80,000 MILES ON MY FOCUS AND HAVE NOT
HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH SINCE THE REPLACEMENT. I WAS TOLD THAT THE WEIGHT OF MY KEYS
(I DID HAVE SEVERAL OTHER KEYS ON MY KEY RING AT THAT TIME)CAUSED THE PROBLEM. SINCE THE REPLACEMENT OF THE IGNITION
I ONLY USE THAT SINGLE KEY KEEPING WEIGHT OFF THAT IGNITION. THE CAR HAS BEEN A GOOD CAR....I WOULD REPLACE THE IGNITION AND KEEP ON DRIVING...JR

b3nut · February 2006

Mazda did design the 2.0 and 2.3 engines. The salesman was most likely referring to the first-generation Focus engines, a base 8V SOHC four and the Cosworth/Mazda designed Zetec 2.0L 16V twincam four. A 2003 will more than likely have either a Zetec or the current Duratec engine. Either way, an '03 is going to have a decent engine in it. If it's a Zetec he'll want to make sure the timing belt gets changed before 120,000 miles...I failed to do that on my Escort ZX2 and it snapped at 136,000. Thankfully, the Zetec is a non-interference engine so there was no damage. The Duratecs are interference engines, but are chain-driven, no timing belts in the Duratec (which is an advantage IMHO). I will say my Zetec has been a great engine despite some neglect, it has almost 159,000 miles on it and it doesn't use any oil.

Todd in Cheesecurdistan

explorerx4 · February 2006

get the 2.3 if possible. powerful and at least as efficient as the 2.0 in the real world.

wtavcar · March 2006

My Brother-in-law has a 2000 Focus SE (Ford 2.0L w/auto). He is having bizarre problem with his transmission. The car has only 45k km.

When he is cruising along, and steps on the gas to activiate the kick-down (passing, etc..), the transmission starts slipping, much like a finished clutch in a standard shift. If he backs off, it eventually grabs again. The car was used in city for awhile so unknown when it appeared. Now it is getting highway useage.

The tranny was brought in to Ford (which overhauled the tranny). It is still doing it. They even changed the car computer. They (FORD dealer) are stumped.

Any suggestions? The car had the tranny overhaul done in the final days of the extended warranty.

aland1 · March 2006

ignition switch lock-up for the second time. 1st time car towed to dealer who wanted $655 to replace plus $127 to make a new key which would have to be done because of wear. called ford and they claim no complaints on this particular problem. My locksmith tells me that new keys should be made at the slightest sign of wear to prevent this problem, but my key doesn't look that wore. Dealer will not confirm this fact. If this is true maybe we all could be spared some frustration and expense of a new ignition by being told this fact and pay the $100+ to get new keys made periodically. Ford needs to test their keys and ignition for durability. I was fixing to get a new key made but ignition locked up before I could get to dealer.

candccarroll · April 2006

Ok, at least I know that I'm not alone. I own a '00 Focus SE Sedan. I purchased it with 26 miles. To this date, here are the things that have gone wrong.

Replaced ignition twice (once under warranty) 3 yrs apart
Front coil spring broke (yesterday)
Rear wheel cylinder just went as well
Brakes and tires replaced every 18 months

I too feel that there should be something done to compensate us for the problems. I like my car, but can't afford the repairs. I just put out over $1000 to get my car to pass inspection. That's ridiculous for a car that's not that old.

I'm with anyone who would like to pursue this.

cpgdan · April 2006

I also had the ignition lock up..and I also feel you should fix (not replace) it and keep the car. I have had my zx3 for 6 years and 90k miles. I won't say problem free, but very low cost of ownership in general. I had a local locksmith rebuild my ignition tumblers for $80 (and that was a house call). That was 3 years ago and not a problem since (with orignal key). Only other issue was rear wheel bearing last winter (there is plenty of warning before they go...several hundred miles...you will hear it). I have been getting 45k+ miles per set of tires and 50k+ for breaks. Clutch take-up is not showroom smooth, but no slipping after 90k miles.

mu681137 · April 2006

Awwww.....I have replaced 3 ignitions to 2 seperate cars. 2000 and 2003 Focus. The 2000 was replaced in Atlanta, GA by a guy named Cowboy, he guarantees the ignition for the life of the car. Cost about $300, including an extra key. The 2003 was done twice in Houston, TX...first time at the dealer which lasted about 6 months and second time with an individual who replaces them for a living....well, that one is going bad too. Taking the 2003 to Atlanta, GA for Cowboy to fix right! Everyone that I know that has a Focus has replaced their ignitions too. I complained to Ford, they said the same thing....I laughed at them and sent them my bills. But Ford keeps offering me "specials" to buy another Ford......NOT me! I'm buying Honda instead. Have one and getting another one soon.

retiredguy · April 2006

I have a 2003 wagon (I guess that makes no dif) when an ignition switch fails..do you get any warning..or does it not work and leave one stranded? I guess there is no mileage est to failure, is there? TIA

racergirl · April 2006

Since several of you are having so many problems with your foci, I hope maybe someone can help me. I have only had the fuel pump problem a year ago that was covered with the recall until now. I have a 2000 ZX3 with an automatic on the floor. About half of the time that I go to shift out of park the button will not depress to go into gear. I realized after a bit of poking around that there is a "just in case" slot I can poke a screwdriver in to engage it, but it gets aggravating looking like I am rigging my car to drive each time! Any help would be greatly appreciated.

creakid1 · April 2006

"the 'mazda' engine is the 2.3 liter version. the other engine size is 2.0 liters. easiest thing to do is check the owner's manual. the engines do look different."

That's right! The Mazda-engineered Duratec 2.0 didn't come out until the '05 model year. So if the '03 Focus has 2.0, then it's the problematic Zetec.

retiredguy · April 2006

I have a 2003 ztw with the Zetec engine..what are the usual problems and at what mileage do they start to occur? My car has only 15k miles..TIA

krusty_schmitt · April 2006

What did Ford do when u sent them your bills? Anything?? I am a young student and have had to fork out student loan money for 2 ignitions now getting kinda upset!!

krusty_schmitt · April 2006

ABSOLUTELY!!! i cannot afford to keep replacing these had my car for only three years and already put two new ignitions in it.

oldescortlover · May 2006

I have a 1992 Ford Escort (which I love) and am about to replace because of rust. A couple of times, I would put the key in the ignition, and the key wouldn't turn. A mechanic told me to just jiggle the steering wheel a bit and then try the key. This has worked for me on the few occasions that the steering column essentially locked up.

Also, I noticed that the ignition "keyhole" gets kind of dry. (My brother broke the key forcing it once.) My mechanic told me to squirt some WD-40 in there once in a while. I've been okay ever since. But this is the only car that I've ever owned that's needed this.

I am thinking that this ignition problem has been around for a very, very long time and that Ford has not fixed it yet!

Ford Focus Recalls and TSBs

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