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Comments
Before I called about the recall letter today I was thinking that the dealer probably wouldn't have the part and it would be a long wait. The service manager said they do not have the part for the pillar but, she orders them as needed, meaning this is not the first recall repair and they arrive overnight. She said at most this is a two hour job, but usually done in about 1 hour. After reading the service nightmares out there I am hoping this is the case, but my dealer so far has been fantastic.
I'm not sure if being rural or urban affects order times. I have only seen 3 ZX3's on the road in Boston and 1 was from out of state
Cobie, you probably got yours quicker because you picked a) something that was already ordered by the dealer for their inventory b)was taken from another dealer in the area or c) a popular build and option group.
I went through liquidprice.com and got the car for 15,953 or $100 over invoice (Nov 1). The dealer promised Nov 30 and they have to deliver within 3 weeks of that date. If not I can walk away. At this point I *have* to walk away if it doesn't come in because I *need* a new car, not just want one. If it's not here by Dec 21, I'll have to buy another Civic. At least then I just say I want an EX and I get everything. Only option is side air bags and I don't care about them.
And no, a stripped model is NOT an option!
I think that I'd be more likely to believe a previous post that some dealerships won't go out of their way for a customer. Shows how important it is to pick a good dealer and not base purchase only on price of vehicle.
Best of luck to all of you who are still waiting for your zx. So far, I love mine.
As for mileage, my FIRST tank which was exclusively around town driving (in cold weather, too) was 28MPG(w/ an automatic!). Same as my two previous (man. tranny) ford 4 bangers -- escort and tracer. Based on this city mileage, I expect my focus to get well into the 30s mpg on highway trips.
I got a Cannondale Jekyll, a 26" wheel mountain bike. Taking off the front wheel is a problem for me since I have a Lefty (one-sided fork) and I don't really like taking off rear wheels since the drivetrain gets in the way. A roof rack is around $400, a rear mounted rack doesn't look cool enough for me
So I am sorry if it seems I am coming back here just to dump.
But, my brakes are *&^%ed up again. It started BEFORE 12,000 miles (under warrenty) they said there was no problem to fix...it's totally worse at 16,000 miles now (some of you may know i put about 3,000 miles on my car a month). It's really rough when I brake. And guess what - NOT under warrenty. This will be the 5th time I've taken my car in for BRAKES alone.
I've talked to everyone from Ford Customer service to my service dept. manager and no one is helping me. I asked to talk to the regional rep but the service manager said I'd hear the same story.
Of course it's "take it in, we'll see what we can do"...but I can't even do that for 2 weeks because that's the only time I can get a loaner. I can't take another day off of work because of the bad service department (which I did just last month when my battery DIED at 13k)
I know it's wear and tear on the car - but there have been problems literally since day 1. The rotors were already "resurfaced" at 5K. Pads replaced at 4k. Now again? I drive a lot, but my commute is not stop and go rush hour.
Anway - I am totally frustrated. I love my car, but this is just too much time.
My co-worker is looking to get a new car. She asked me about the Focus.
I told her to get a Honda.
When you go in, take a guy who knows about cars with you. I know, you shouldn't have to, but sometimes the dealer will take advantage. If you don't get the problem resolved, go the the local TV station and see if they have a comsumer action program and if they will help. As a last resort, go to the local custom paint shop and have it custom painted LEMON FORD "purchased from (dealers name)". Then make sure you park it near their dealership often.
Oh, print out this post and give it to the service writer and salesman you brought it from.
Pat
You'll need two quarts for the change, and you'll have a bit left over - if you are really paranoid, keep the leftover and the bottle for "proof" if you foresee a future problem.
People I know tell me I'm crazy for rotating my wheels myself, because it would be easier just to bring to a garage, put it on a lift, and pay someone else. But not every service dept has qualified mechanics, especially doing the easy work like tire rotations. And you can't stand over their shoulder and watch them because they don't let you into the service areas at most locations they say because of risk of injury. And it's not easy for everyone to do their own work, even if it is a simple job. It's not easy finding a place to work on the car if the area where you live prohibits that kind of activity. Just finding parking can be a problem if you live in the city.
I dread the day when the car needs new tires all around. I wish they had referrals for mechanics and service shops like they do for doctors. It pays to ask family and friends too for referrals when they come across good service people.
Charlie
I'm new to the board here and had a pretty basic question you've probably all heard before. Let me first say that I hit the dealership last night and they have the exact ZX3 I want (Black, Dark Charcoal Interior, and fully loaded except for advancetrac) in both trannys. I'm sure you can guess the dilemma at this point
Belts squeel on start up but the remote seems to work from further away?! Air density? I'm not sure why.
I am pretty sure i know how to shift? The service person asked if it would be okay for a Mechanic to ride along with me. I said FINE.
I have this old way of showing vibration on engines and equipment where i hold my hand firm and hold up my 'up yours' finger and see if my finger vibrates. Not to high tech but i do it before i get into the guts of the problem.
Clutches, i prefer a faster ingaging clutch but as i am not racing the car i will allow the pedal to be as it is (warranty for now). So i have not even touched anything mechanical and the gears do not mesh going into first and second gear when cold.
Why should I pay for a Synthetic oil when Ford must know this can cause an accident (as i posted awhile back).
Brakes worked fine but now a lacking big time with only 3,000 KM.
For the record this is my first front wheel driver so i am a wee bit careful. The car pulls WAY different than i am used to but real snow is a coming and then i will toss the ZXer around a fair bit in an open parking lot. Learning to drive a different vehicle is the fun part!
Someone awhile back mentioned a CD for the Mechanical side of the car...I'll purchase it in a flash (work out exchange rate and i'll pay for shipping etal)
Nice car and i guess i'm keeping it but i DEMAND that it runs like a new car.
With respect,
Whyford
Post #388 came in so if i double post i wanted this known for myself.
Pat
IMO: pros and cons of manuals:
-fun to drive
-good in snow
-better control over automobile usually
-pain in the a** in traffic
Pros and cons of automatics:
-great in traffic
-frees your right arm and left leg up (for what I don't know)
-I don't think it's as good in snow as a manual
-Not as much choice for driver when deciding what gear you want to be in for a particular situation.
I guess one has to decide where and how he/she drives and purchase accordingly. good luck
BTW, I do like the auto in my 01 focus. Shifts smoothly, etc., however, it does exhibit slightly higher revs at highway speeds than a manual due to one less gear.
I think the ZX3 is a prime candidate for such an upgrade - with 170-190HP, maybe some stiffer shocks, an improved exhaust and the 16" wheels it would really be a terrific car.
Are there any aftermarket turbo/superchargers available for the ZX3 that anyone can recommend?
I've owned my ZX3 since February 2000, purchased with the automatic transmission. So far it's been great.
My first four cars came with manual transmissions, but since that time I've gone to automatics mainly for comfort and recently out of necessity. I probably wouldn't be driving except for the automatic, due to health reasons.
I know how fun a small car can be with the stick. But the fun factor aside, I see some benefits going with the automatic (for me and many others):
1. Ease of operation for people with disabilities
2. Traffic!
3. The mileage is great for an automatic (at least on mine it is 27/31
4. The overdrive keeps the revs down on long trips, saving the engine and getting good mileage
5. Any family or friends could drive it (this is especially important if an emergency situation were to come up. If you(the driver) weren't able to drive, anyone who can drive an automatic could take over. Unless all your friends and family drive sticks, then it is something to consider.)
I think for me these are the most important reasons. I like the match between engine and auto transmission on the Focus, and especially being able to cruise at highway speeds in quiet and comfort. Each person must decide for themselves when they sign the contract, because you'll have to live with it.
Charlie
I recall driving G60 Corrados when they first came out - I wasn't that impressed. The VR6 Corrado was a different story, however
A reader suggested that I take out the key during refuel. I did that, but the problem still persist. So how does taking out the key reset the fuel gauge any way? Since there's a transponder of some sort on the key, do I have to get out of the car move myself out of range?
Paul
1. Almost impossible to open hood release under the dash. Using all my strengh and two hands will do it, but then I have to force the release back in (or the hood won't close properly).
2. Very loud screatching noise from both doors when opening past the half-way open point. (Door needs more lube somewhere?)
3. Difficult to shift into 1st gear, very hard to shift into 2nd gear until car is driven five minutes. 5sp works fine when engine is warms up.
4. Loud engine noises when first starting in the morning. (Belt sqeal as stated above?)
Well, that's about it. Still love my car... Thinking about purchasing a Focus RS if they ever release one in Canada (and assuming I can afford it)
Tom
I am thinking about an alarm that could monitor the doors/hatch/hood etc, and also include a remote start that works on a manual ZX3.
Those of you from Ottawa, Ontario: Please give me suggestions on Ottawa area alarm/tinting installers.
Any info you can provide is much appreciated!
Tom
Big problem I have is the interior light does not come on when the drivers door is opened. Don't know where they HID the switch. Will have dealer look at it when I take it in for latest recall.
For your transmission problem try Redline MT-90 transmission fluid. Several people have reported good luck with it here and on the Contour site.
Pat
About the recalls, go to very top left of this page and click on Edmunds.com, after that page appears follow down left side til you find safety info and click on that, then follow the instructions. You will find everything you ever wanted to know about recalls and more, all courtesy of our good government. Just type in your info.
About brake rotors warping. This is a problem with all disc brakes, not just the Focus. Don't care what you own, it can happen. The guys who mount the wheels on the cars are suppose to use a torque wrench and torque the lug nuts to a specific torque rating. But most don't, instead using a air wrench and tighten til it stops. This draws the rotor out of shape. Disc brakes clamping down on the rotors while braking cause a lot of heat which is absorbed by the rotor causing it to warp. Once warped you will feel it thru the brake pedal when applying the brakes. Sometimes it will cause the whole car to vibrate when you are stopping. About the only thing you can do is buy your own torque wrench and hand it to the guys who might have occassion to rotate your tires and tell them to use it when putting the wheels back on. Better yet, rotate your own tires. The car wheels when it comes from the factory should be properly torqued, but one never knows unless the dealer checks it for you. You could request they loosen them up and re-torque them for you. If you have ever read Consumer Reports articles on reviewing new cars, you will note that they always find minor defects on new cars coming straight from the factory. It is very common.
Hope you're enjoying your new Focus. I still am 10 months later. Great little car!
Pat
I didn't take to much notice at the time, but now I'd really like to be able to drive to Tahoe where snowchains are often required at this time of year.
Does anyone have any info on why exactly I shouldn't use snowchains ??
What exactly are 'snow-cables' ?? and has anyone used them on their focus ?
Thanks
Just found out last week that my car I'm driving now has a destroyed Cylinder in the Engine... Have to get a new car. Ive been looking at the Focus for awhile, but I plan on waiting til march to see some new model cars that are coming out (New Subaru Imprezas, New Integra's, etc.) but we went to Harold Ford today in Sacramento, and they had a Sangria Red 2001 with Premium Package, Power Package, and Automatic (Have to have Auto btw) and were selling it for 13,988... Thats $400 bellow Invoice, good deal? Should I still wait, or do you think I cant get a car like this again? I think I should get the Side-Airbags and Antilock breaks though...
Pat
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Ford Motor Company is providing a no-charge service, Program 00B59, to owners of certain 2000 model year Focus vehicles equipped with 2.0L SPI or 2.0L Zetec engines and 5-speed manual transaxles.
Reason For This Program... Some of the affected vehicles may experience premature seal wear in the clutch master cylinder. Also, they may experience a fracture of the clutch pedal return spring end hook. If either of these conditions should occur, shift quality could be affected.
What Ford Motor Company and your dealer will do
At no cost to you, the dealer will install a new clutch pedal return spring and clutch master cylinder.
This program will be in effect until June 30, 2001, regardless of mileage.
What we are asking you to do...
Call your dealer without delay. Provide the dealer with your Vehicle Identification Number (located at the beginning of this letter). Ask for a service date and whether parts are in stock for Owner Notification Program 00B59.
If your dealer does not have the parts in stock, they can be ordered before scheduling your service date. Parts would be expected to arrive within a week after ordering.
How long will it take...
The time needed for this repair is less than one-half day. However, due to service scheduling issues, your dealer may need your vehicle for a longer period of time. Please call your dealer for a service date.
When you bring your vehicle in, show the dealer this letter. If you misplace this letter, your dealer will still do the work, free of charge.
Refund... If you paid to have this service done before the date of this letter, Ford Motor Company is offering a full refund. For the refund, please give your paid original receipt to your dealer. To avoid delays, do not send receipts to Ford Motor Company.
with their loyal customers.after all,the fix or repair daily is a thing of
the past. quality is job1,they certainly have demonstrated thatrecently. its
a good thing you had scheduled your work when you did,this way you
were able to get pumped-up for the next recall.im excited,i cant wait for the next one.maybe we will set a new record.they focused alright!
I had my clutch return spring replaced about two months ago when it snapped. Only had about 10,000km on the car. Such a shame our cars have so many little reliability problems. Makes me wonder if I will be keeping this car after the warranty ends... would be hard to let it go.
Since I was able to open my hood the other day, I have been plugging in the block heater. Makes a big difference when it is cold outside (-25 DegreesCelcius). No more weird engine noises during the first minute. By the time I scrape all the windows, the engine temp moves about 1/4 way.
Tom
It's been a long time, hope you've all been well.
My Z, purchased new this summer is now at 5k mi. Autumn color. 5spd Stick. Air. Smokers pkge.
Mobil synthetic oil. MPG 25city/30+hiway.
Up to now have had no glitches, no defects, no complaints --- i.e. no reason to use warranty.
.................................
BUT now, I might have my first Problem.
Before I bring my sweet little Z to Ford dealer, I thot I'd run this by all you Z guys/gals, and see what you think.
Has anyone had this happen?
What was the cause?
How was it fixed?
Here it is....
It showed up when this NE weather turned cold.
A "clunking sound" coming from front, when I first started moving, slowly pulling out of driveway, on cold morning.
Not a "tinny rattle", but a "clunk" (as if something fairly big, like a strut, shock, mount, etc. might be loose).
It seemed to disappear-totally when I got to normal street, hiway speeds.
After 10 miles driving, I pulled into Mall and parked in cold open-air parking lot.
An hour later, when I re-started Z and slowly pulled away (maneuvering right/left thru Mall's crowded parking lot) -- the "clunking" sound re-appeared with each s-l-o-w turn of Z to right, or to left. Also when car rolled slowly over parking lot bumps or depressions.
The clunking seemed to disappear again at street n'hiway speeds --- and the Z was once again its normal self (quiet, smooth, responsive as a cat).
This "clunk" phenomenom is showing up frequently in the cold weather, totally or almost-totally disappearing when car has warmed up.
(Caveat: I might have heard this phenomenom once or twice this Summer but I'm not sure).
Any "Z Doctors" in the house?.....HAAALPP!!!
Big thanks,
ZX3
Let's talk.
Peace