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Comments
Has anyone had any experience w/ an after market sunroof or cruise-control?
thanks
My ZX3 included the optional smokers package and floor mats, neither of which I had requested. In hindsight, though I am a nonsmoker, I'm glad I got the smokers package (a $15 option) -- I don't think the car comes with a cigarette lighter otherwise, meaning no 12 volt plug for cell phones or what not. (Thank you, smokers!) The floor mats are cheap; don't pay $50 for them if they're not included.
First impressions thus far: this is one nice, well-designed compact car that handles great; the steering is taut and precise; shifting is real smooth, too. There are so many thoughtful appointments throughout the car that you'd think it was designed by Honda. Ford really did do their homework; everything good I read about the Focus is true. My favorite items include the heavy German-style exterior car door handles, the air vents, the hatchback cargo lid, the great sounding stereo (including CD player as standard), the ample head and leg room, and the wonderful seat height adjuster on the driver's seat. My wife, who's short, loves it -- the height adjuster compensates for the absence of a steering wheel tilt option; I'm glad I didn't get that option now. Oh, almost forgot: the stereo even includes, as standard, a detachable faceplate.
Now some questions for the experienced ZX3 owners: concerning maintenance, it was a pleasant surprise to find out about the 100,000 mile tune up intervals (not mentioned in the Focus brochure!). Of course, they still recommend you bring in the car every 15,000 miles for changing filters and checking the hoses, brakes, etc. But I couldn't tell from the owner's manual if the timing belt needs to be changed, and if so, when. Does anyone know?
Concerning the security system: the "securilock" passive anti-theft system (i.e., ignition keys with an embedded computer chip) is cool, but the dealer tried to sell me the so-called "silent guard" system, which is an additional chip system that prevents the starter from turning over. I didn't buy it because it seemed redundant. But then I could't start the car when I was trying to leave the dealership, and the service manager -- momentarily baffled -- realized that a chip had to be shoved into a socket under the dash to bypass the "silent guard" option (which the salesman had forgotten to do). No problem; he got the chip, pushed it in and the car started. My question: can the chip just be removed if I ever want additional security for the car? (This assumes, of course, that I don't lose the chip!!!). Any thoughts?
Finally, in response to some other posts: yes, I also get a "shock" when I exit from the car, but I just the touch car body as I exit to discharge the static electricity; no biggie. Also, I'm surprised to read other posts about having to wait for delivery since I had no trouble. Last but not least, I am a forty-something year-old baby boomer, not a gen-X'er, and this car suits me just fine.
Well, that's it for now. The ZX3 is one nice little car, and if anyone has any doubts or questions about it, feel free to email me!
' if you do not get the smokers package. Most likely the same thing only they give you the cigarette lighter to stick in there.
As for the chip. They had an extra security system and did not charge you? Are you sure it's not a fuse?
Sounds fishy to me. But, if it is a security system, why not use it and get the extra security, you know it works?
Did your airbag set off. The air bag controls are in the center console and if they do any work on airbags or front bumpers they have to disconnect the controls because they could set off by accident. All you EMT's/Paramedics make note of that.
hugoz,
The 100,000 tune-up was the big thing with the ZETEC motor, be it Contour or Focus or ZX2. Oil change and filter is 3000 or 5000 depending on type of service. I did read something about the timing but can't remember what. Maybe its a chain. Would have to go back to book to see. Thanks for letting us know about the Silent-Guard thing. Will have to check into that. Oh, thought you got a electrical plug in without the smokers package, but don't quote me. SOMEBODY WITH THE SMOKERS PACKAGE SHOULD LET US KNOW. And I agree about the floor mats - I like "Pant Savers".
I think it was mentioned early that the Zetec timing belt (no timing chain in this engine) is supposed to be changed at 110K to 120K miles - it should be in the maintenance book.
I think 215s will be way too wide for use on the stock wheels.
On the "silent guard" security system: no, fgaydos, it was not a free option; I didn't even ask the dealer how much they wanted because it just seemed redundant to the already standard securilock key-chip. However, the question remains: can I still take out and then reinsert the "silent guard" by-pass chip at will, as an extra security measure? If no one knows, I'll ask the dealer next time and will update my postings with the news.
Happy ZX3 cruising to y'all!
Now for the questions. The red button on the keyfob -- what does it do? I have the security system, but I'm afraid to hit the red button that looks like a sound alarm because I don't want the thing to go off and me not know how to stop it. Do I need to press it to activate, or is it an emergency sound alarm?
One more. The clock. I can't seem to set it. I push the clock button, and the hour blinks (like I assume it should), but when I hit the scan button nothing happens except the hour stops blinking. The poor thing was set for central time and I'm on eastern, so even daylight saving time won't fix it--it'll only make it an hour worse! Help.
Keep posting info about tires. I'm probably going to go with the Pirellis if I do make the switch, but more info is always great. This week I get my moonroof installed. Yes! Never too old for the most awesome car in town! (I, too, got a good once over from a Jag owner yesterday -- ha! At least Jags will be more dependable now that Ford took over the engineering).
Calico1
So...what size speakers should I get?
I found out the hard way by trying to open the door with key fob in the same hand and setting it off by accident. (Twice!)I was in the middle of a large parking lot so damage (embarrassment) was minimal.
215 are wide for a 6.0 inch wheel but hey GM has them on its chevrolet Malibu and they look just fine. I don't think a good technican would recommend a 215 on a 15x5.5. That's pushing it alot.
FYI, in Europe they get a 16 inch rim, same style as our ZX3. We will only get that size rim when the SVT version comes out this summer or fall. Also, I have seen a photo of the SVT version Focus ZX3. the fog lights are different and the rear bumpers differ. It's 1 inch lower to the ground and will have about 150-160hp from the same 2.0 that is now used. Also, I heard Ford is dropping the 2.0 in another year for a 2.3liter!
ALSO: when should I do the first oil change?
ALSO: what is the BEST thing I can do for my engine so that I will never blow the head gasket? Stupid question, but I have blown the head gasket on everything I've ever owned, sometimes twice, and I know it's got to be something I'm doing (or not doing.) so please advise me, sage owners.
$377 sounds a lot better than your previous quotes for insurance.
BTW--when is your car supposed to arrive?
(supposedly Ford is starting assembly of mine today, so maybe I'll get mine around 4/01 I'm thinking)
later,
Gabe
So starting 3/27, I will hold my breath until I pass out, or until my car comes in. If you guys don't hear from me after 3/27, I've expired for lack of oxygen and Ford will be to blame! Prepare to Avenge for me!
I agree, the watch is too huge and rather uncomfortable to wear, so I will probable just keep it in my car. I checked watch station and similar models of that watch were selling for $80 and $90. Nice little perk though.
I can't help but laugh but I have been getting mailings from Ford saying that it should be about time for my first oil change. That may have been true if I actually was driving it instead of it sitting stagnant at the body shop for 2 and a half months.
Today I picked up my new dome light with the map lights, it cost $23. It took me less than a minute to install and makes a huge difference. I also ordered my center console with armrest, it was $86. I have the part numbers if anyone’s is interested.
Eric
Can you put it in by your self?
What's the part#?
Thanks and good luck...
For anyone trying to swap out their center console PLEASE WAIT, there isn't a kit available, there are several parts that need to be ordered, as soon as I have the remaining parts needed I'll post part numbers and prices, I wouldn't want anybody to go through the hassle of making multiple orders.... signing out...
good conference everyone...
Every once in a while I got the revs up to about 4500 to 5,000rpm to raise the pressure in the motor at about 1200-1500 miles. Until then don't shift above 3500 rpm.
Your Focus will seem sluggish until it breaks in but once it does this car begins to pick up speeds very quickly-especially over 70mph.
The engine will sound course at higher rpm before it breaks in so be patient. Now I have 5100 miles on mine and it sounds and feels alot smoother.
Does anyone else agree?
Please don't hate me!
Thanks again for all your helpful info.
I'll let you know when it get here.
They replaced the rear wheels, headlight, suspension components, rear quarter panel, front fender, body molding, windshield and rear bumper.
The quality of the panel fitting/paint by the dealership is middle of the road and nothing to write home about. Neither good nor terribly horrendous. The Factory does a great job.
After picking up the car...I drove 500 feet and realised the car is making a humming noise in the back. I returned it the next day and now I am waiting on a right rear wheel bearing. It amazes me that I realised something was wrong with the car within 30 seconds when the car dealership had it for 6 weeks and were not able to diagnose all the damage of the accident.
At least the dealership accepted something was wrong with the car and they are going to fix it. I am driving the car currently, but I am not too thrilled because it is making a humming noise.
The driver's side window creaks now and I believe this is a result of the accident, but I will live with it for a time and have it fixed under warranty. Everytime I hit a bump or turn sharply ...I hear a creak from the window.
My post-accident ownership of my beloved Focus has been a thoroughly unhappy experience that never seems to go away.
Still...I know it will be fixed soon and I will be driving a 100% Focus again. My friends tell me that I should get a new one and I just might.
NorwayDoug
Pat
If I did buy a new Focus...I would get a red one with a charcoal interior. I have a 5 spd and really like it, but in Philadelphia everybody puts the pedal to the metal and they are not appreciative that it takes a moment to shift from neutral to first when you are at a stop light. People behind me are always right on my tail. The usual suspects are young men in their V8 equipped Dodge Rams or SUVs.
Would the automatic provide me with extra pick up from 0-20 mph than the 5 speed? I have a habit of actually looking to see if all is clear before I leave an intersection (even if the light is green). I think checking before leaving the intersection has saved me from having many accidents (so many people run red lights!), but many drivers do not have the foresight to not accelerate until the person in front of you has started to move.
So my question is:::::Do people find the automatic to be satisfying?
I would trade in my sangria red one with grey interior. I just hope it won't come to that. So tell your friends not to buy a used pristine sangria red focus with a grey interior. I hope I can be happy with it and not sell it. But I will if I am not!
NorwayDoug
Welcome back, sort of. I've had to do what you talked about in that last sentence. Didn't like doing it to a individual so I just traded it in and swallowed the loss. Just something about a brand new car that has been wrecked.
Anyway, welcome back and don't hold it against the Focus. Not the cars fault!
Pat
pcleveland....I agree. The focus is great. All my woes and complaints are not due to the car, but just to unfortunate circumstances.
Focus Rules!
ND
2 ½" In - 3 ½" x 4" Out Length: 8") . You can see it on their web site. http://www.pilotautomotive.com/pilotmotor/tips_mufflers/weldon.htm
I am very satisified with my automatic. Came from a Nissan Sentra manual (sic). No real comparison there, but I do find the zx3 auto to be very responsive. Don't have to deal with big city driving except when I go to Buffalo or Erie, but have driven the zx3 in both with no problems. Just put the foot to the metal and away you go real fast! I too, have the habit of making sure there is no one about to run the red, so I know what you mean about the SUV behind you that in a hurry. Usually walk away from them real quick.
Got a question though, why do you sit at a red light in neutral? I know its hard on throw out bearing, but I always am in 1st ready to go.
Find somebody with the automatic and try it out. I would have swung over from Breezewood two weekends ago and let you try mine if I knew you were thinging about the automatic.
Like Calico1 said, give her time to heal.
Pat
Can you or Alf3 post a pic of the BMW chrome tips somewhere and let us know so we can see what it looks like. Some of the pilot automotive one look nice, but not sure about the size and room under bumper. Will the Sony Special Edition one fit for sure? Is there a pic of that one anywhere?
Pat
Just a thank you for being such a great host, or should I say hostess, whatever.
CASTROL GTX MAGNATEC 5W-40 syntetic oil?
It has some type of magnetic molecules in it,and it should work a lot better in a cold and warming engine than conventional oils.It is great for all city drivers(20 minutes drive than 40 min. stop than 15 min drive again etc...)That is the worst driving for your engine.
Are you warming-up your engines before you start?
You can check it out at :castrol.com
What do you think?
This is my first brand new car so I broke it in very carefully. First of all, warm up your engine a little bit before you go, I usually let it idle for 3 minutes before I go. Second, I never rev it above 3K before shift for the first 1K miles. Don't go faster then 70MHP and don't break hard.
I did the first oil change at 3,400 miles and the oil was as clear as new but I did it anyway. I think 5K miles as Ford recommended should be fine but better safe then sorry.
I don't know if it is only me feel the exhaust pipe is a little too long, I'd like to cut it off right beneath the bumper, haven't see the tip on SONY edition yet, maybe I'll change the muffler someday when I have the money to make more noise