Ford Focus ZX3

silver_bullet · January 2001

Door closure is one item on my car with which I have no complaint - have you gone to the dealer and compared your car to others? The main doors don't sound particularly "solid", but they close positively and quietly on my car. The hatch is another matter - it is a bit noisy, and doesn't sound very solid when it latches. I'd guess this is just another area where some cars are better assembled than others; you might see if a readjustment of the striker makes a difference.

cgsangel · January 2001

Hi Silver Bullet,

I agree that the washer problem is not on my top ten list (or even close) of problems. Just to explain about the "whole unit rotating" comment I made. The little reservoir that I fill into actually rotates backward when I try to open the cap. So I have to hold the thing with my left hand and pull the cap open with my right hand. Just one more thing that I never had a problem with on any of my other ten cars (even the old, very used ones). They all had fixed reservoirs that didn't move when trying to remove the cap (like they should be). So maybe mine wasn't attached right, just like my inside mirror adjuster. I had to reinstall that myself after it fell off in my hand. But since then it's stayed in place ok.

(I'll be heading back to English 101 so future posts will be more precise:)

I have no clanking door problem or problem with door seals. That's one thing I've noticed is that my ZX3 has about the tightest seals around the side doors of any car I've owned.
Charlie

sellingzx3kona · January 2001

I have placed an order for a new car so I have to unload my Focus. It has Auto, Power everything, Factory CD player, factory 16 in wheels, a/c, and cruise control. I will sell the car with the waterproof seat covers and roof rack. I may also include the bike for a few more $$$. The car was bought in June 2000 and has 9900 miles on it. It has been faithfully serviced by the Ford dealership that it was purchased at. I have all of the records. The sticker was ~$16,500 and I paid about ~$15,200. I am selling it for $13,500. It is in perfect shape with NO dents, dings or scratches. I am the fanatical guy that parks way far out at the end of a parking lot to avoid these things. . It has also been garaged for all of its short life. VIN and complete pictures of the car available by request @ kprince@myfirstlink.net. The car is in the Dallas metro area. Thank you for your time and have a great day!
Ken

konafocus · January 2001

Well I received a small package from Ford today!! I Thought it would probably have to do with the little small booklets to make my payments more easier, but nope that want it. When I open the box!!!!

I was impressed by the token Ford had sent me!!!

I got a -Shock Casino watch, and a picture frame!!!

Nice touch I must admit, I also have a registration card to enroll in Ford Focus Family. I was so impressed, and I still cant believe it.

Yeah its just a watch, but it is the thought that counts in my book!!

about the doors not sounding as a Lexus? Hummm.. true they dont sound solid, but they sound good enough for the price that I paid for the car. I am happy that my car is running smoothly and efficient!! U have no time to worry about how the door sounds.

Still looking for the hyper white light bulbs for my head lights. I know some one has to make them!!! OOh well, car is running great, handling great!!! What else can I ask for, I am one lucky camper!!!

Keep oon driving people, tomorrow is another day!!
Kona

givemeafocusrs · January 2001

Ford, maker of the beloved ZX3 is planning to produce a 200+HP version in Europe this spring. About 3500 of the units will be made. Adorned with the design-complimenting Martini Racing-style front airdam and rear spoiler(the only style that looks good on a ZX3). Ford needs to know that US citizens want a fast Focus too.

The North America division of Ford is too scared it will compete with the Mustang and Mustang GT. I think those cars sell to an entirely different market for the most part. If you had to choose between the two how would you compare them? A front-wheel drive turbo 4 cylinder hatchback, and a rear-wheel drive high-torque V8 coupe.

Ford would only continue to help clone Honda Civic Buyers if they don't give us the RS. The Ford Focus RS would breathe life into Ford's anemic image as a compact car manufacturer.

Face it Ford. We kicked England out for a reason; they drive funny.

**Don't take anything I say personally, because I don't know you personally**

silver_bullet · January 2001

...and don't gripe at Ford. You can thank the insurance institute and the absurd U.S. tort system for keeping cars like the Focus RS off U.S. highways. Fun cars like the RS are sold in countries where people still understand the concept of taking personal responsibility for their actions, instead of looking to the legal system to solve every problem and protect them from all harm. On second thought, until the day arrives when REAL driver training becomes mandatory in this country, we might consider ourselves lucky there aren't more road rockets out there.

kostamojen2 · January 2001

We are getting an SVT Focus... 170hp, nothing fancy...
But this will definatly compete with the new Sentra SE-R (180hp) and the Protege MPS (150hp) not to mention the new Integra somewhat (200hp) the Mini Cooper S (160hp) and the new Tiburon with the v6 (170-200hp)...
If Ford doesnt make at least a car like this, the Focus is gonna loose alot of sales...

cobie · January 2001

Ok, folks. What's your opinion?

I noticed on Speedvision, that K&N Filters is advertising that their air filter, due to less restriction and cloging compared to foam or paper air filters, can increase a car's horsepower by up to 15 HP in some cases.

This seems a rather high increase to me. Would installation of a K&N filter be significantly better than the stock zx3 air filter? I'm assuming these K&N filters are OEM replacement "drip in" air fliters and not the cold induction type.

Any opinions?

cobie · January 2001

Sorry about the spelling error. I meant to say DROP in and not drip in air filter.

silver_bullet · January 2001

If this is the only mod in the engine compartment, you aren't going to notice any real power gain. You would be better off to change the standard pleated paper filter twice as often, and save your money for something else. I've used K&N filters on aftermarket induction systems (like Weber carburetor setups) and they work fine, but cleaning and re-oiling them is a pain - only a gearhead would bother.

togneter · January 2001

I took my car in for it's 10,000 mile service today. While it was there, they did the A-Frame cover replacement. Maybe I'm going nuts, but it seems a lighter color to me than the old one. It is silver like the roof, but the interior is charcoal.

Silver must be right, but is the replacement part lighter? Has anyone else noticed this? Just curious.

Thanks.

silver_bullet · January 2001

Togneter, my dealer said all Foci have the same color A and B pillar trim panels, no matter if your car has medium graphite or dark charcoal as its interior color. Having said that, it wouldn't surprise me if the replacement A-pillar pieces exhibit a slight color variation, since God only knows who made the replacement panels for Ford. I'm still waiting for Ford to replace my B-pillar panels, broken by the tech when they replaced the A-pillar pieces! Another example of the cure being worse than the disease...

zx3beast · January 2001

if you can do it yourself, you will probably do a
better job. also, as silver bullet stated, the color is different regardless of your interior color.im also waiting for replacements due to the
butcher job.the focus makes me smile, really,its
so much fun.

whyford · January 2001

Here is my e-mail address liteflyer@ecite.com

If you have a valid beef regarding your year 2000 Ford Focus ZX-3

Post your beefs but BE SURE you have a problem.

I seem to be blessed with to many to mention.

Please post your VIN and date of purchase.

DO NOT POST that information to the list.

I have never done this before but i am sure i can get something done.

With repect to everyone.

scouse · January 2001

Hi checking in again after an absence of a few months (got sick of all the whining, seems to have subsided). My z continues to astound even at 6000 feet in Colorado. 29 hard driven MPG, no complaints at all. ABS a delight in the snow. Engine has loosened up nicely now, thinking of dropping the suspension a half inch this summer retaining the stock wheels. Has to be best value car on the road.

KicKMan1 · January 2001

Liteflyer
You mentioned in your post that you've never done this before. Coincidentially, I have. I used to have a 2000 Mitsu. Montero Sport 4X4 which had a terrible shimmy that couldn't be cured. Many people on a message board that I found had the same problem. Mitsu was aware but took no real action to cure the defect. I gathered names, VINs and problems, etc. and made a formal complaint to Mitsu.

The quest began with about a dozen people who were gung ho, but after a couple of months of Mitsu's stalling, it was down to one--me. I sued Mitsu in what's called Conciliation Court and won, getting a judgment for my down payment and monthly payments made on my lease.

If you do get some interest, and I'm interested, let me know. I'd be glad to help in any way possible. FYI, I've already complained to FoMoCo about my 23mpg on the highway, and have taken my Focus in twice. They promised to dispatch a regional manager to my local dealership within 48 hours. It's been a week and I'm curious to see if anybody will even bother before I send them another threatening letter.

silver_bullet · January 2001

I thought that's what these Town Hall Forums were for? Certainly, nothing is perfect, and everyone appreciates some balanced commentary, but problems are problems, and all comments about personal experience with the ZX3 are of interest. I don't buy the argument that goes something like "What did you expect for only (insert the price you paid for your Focus here)?". I expect a properly engineered automobile, and efficient service from skilled and interested professionals should it be needed.

I gave my ZX3 to my fiancee and purchased a '97 Nissan pickup with low miles and a perfect service history. It runs like a Swiss watch, has had no recalls or problems, and gets about the same gas mileage as the ZX3. I still get to drive and enjoy the Focus, but for my money the rugged simplicity of the truck makes more sense.

edm9 · January 2001

Hello all, Second post for me. My '01 cloud 9 white z runs perfect!!!! 1 month old & 3335 miles No problems to speak of, other than a runaway snowbank that jumped on the front end a couple days ago, guess I should have opted for the ABS, though it wouldn't have stopped me in time. (6 feet at 5 mph on ice). Minor damage to plastic shield under radiator & blown fog light.

Konafocus, I got the hyper white bulbs off ebay (searched in automotive, parts & accessories for "focus zx3") The company that supplied them was Kyoto international (www.kyotousa.com). They cost $28.99 + shipping. They are guaranteed NOT to cause problems with the electrical system or lenses. The bulbs are really cool looking. They started off blue at first, but they whitened up real nice.

damonabnormal · January 2001

My loaded black 2001 ZX3 is here at last! Alas I am off to spend an hour with some friendly finance guy and collect my new ride!!!

zx3beast · January 2001

ill second what you said. i am especially thankful to all who have offered
their advice and expertise. quite frankly, i look forward to reading everyones post here regarding all things focus. its been a great ride!

silver_bullet · January 2001

I would be very interested to hear from our newest participants - those of you with very late 2000 models, or 2001 models. Maybe everyone with a manufacturing date (look at the VIN sticker on the driver's door jamb) after 09/2000. No one in this group should have a recall issue, and I'm curious to know if some of the other "typical" Focus problems are still an issue with these later cars. If Ford is getting the bugs out in a major way, I might consider trading my fiancee's 2000 model for a 2001 or 2002 model.

shov6 · January 2001

Well I guess I am one of those people you are referring to, and I will throw in my $.02... 1500mi and no problems. Good mileage, decent snow performance (I have the 16" wheels), ABS helps in the slick stuff, gearbox quite notchy till it warms up (the downshift to 2nd is practically impossible until it's been running for five mins), entertaining handling, etc... No gripes worthy of mentioning. What are the "typical" Focus problems (not recall-related) that you are referring to?

konafocus · January 2001

EDM9- Thank you for helping me on my search. You dont know how much I appreciate it!! I been searching for those bulbs for a long time, and I finally have the 411. What kind of other changes are you going to do to your car? Have you thought about an exhaust? Am thinking about that, a nice low tone exhaust, hum?

As far as complainig? Well I too mind all the whinning about if the door sounds like a Lexus! But then when ever you put down a large amount of money on something new, you notice things. You tend to be more critical about the little stuff. I wish more people would post messages about the good aspects of the car, but then that is only me.

You live and learn, and if Ford is ripping you off, low mpg, car dont work, hey it is your right to do something about it. You expect to get the goods when you pay for any thing in life. I FEEL YOU PEOPLE!!!!

I just feel lucky and I will admit it I pray that I dont go through what some of you guys are going through! For me I love the car, the way it feels. It has that sense of a European car in the states!! You have too admit people it handles supervb!! you should see me in the twist and turns of my local canyons. Fun city!!! Anyways I wish everybody would be going through the same experince I am going through, but I have no control over that. keep Driving people!!

Konafocus

silver_bullet · January 2001

I've been fairly lucky in that I haven't had them all, but I can name a few, and folks like zx3beast and Norwaydoug (where is he?) can add to the list:
1. Abnormal sounds from engine/transaxle, often combined with poor performance & rough idle.
2. Surge/stumble in the range of 2200-2500 RPM.
3. Poor fuel economy
4. Stress crack in windshield
5. Condensation leak from A/C evaporator case
6. Thunks/clunks from front and rear suspension
7. Brake squeal/short rotor life/rotor warpage
8. Hatch hard to close/won't open once shut
9. Faulty fuel gauge/sending unit/defective instrument cluster
10. Steady drop of PS fluid - leaking steering rack

Check out the NHTSA site, and look at the defect list for the 2000 Focus. Last time I looked, there were over 100 items there, although several were duplicates and/or bogus gripes from owners who obviously didn't read the owner's manual.

cobie · January 2001

I have only 500 miles on my car (I ride my bike alot) but so far only 2 complaints:
1. Poor gas mileage. However, at only 500 miles I guess it's really too soon to tell what actual mileage will be. As well, it's been unusually cold which contributes to poor gas mileage.

2. Remote release for hatch failed 2x's to operate (within same day) but since then it's been working just fine. Go figure.

Otherwise very happy with car. Solid, handles well, etc. I even wrote ford customer service outlining things I think they could improve w/ the car and got a telephone call back wanting to talk to me about my ideas. Hmmmm..... Someone's listening, I guess.

z2benzo · January 2001

Per Jan 12 Wall St. Journal article:
In a shocking admission by Ford Motor CEO, Jacque Nasser said that a slew of quality problems in new and redesigned vehicles launched in the U.S. and Europe last year cost the company more that $1 billion in lost profits and hampered its growth plans. "I'm totally pi**ed-off with it," Mr. Nasser told a meeting of securities analysts. "That will never happen again" he added. In addition to the recall of Firestone tires, ... the auto maker also suffered a string of glitches as it brought into production new models such as the Focus compact car and Escape SUV in the U.S., and the high-volume Mondeo sedan in Europe.
I know this isn't "new news" to those Focus owners who have experienced "glitches", but perhaps this candid admission from the CEO can be used in your efforts to secure remediation and compensation for quality problems when dealing with Ford district or regional representatives. Tell them that "I'M totally pi**ed off, too, and do something about it!!!"

rwgreenberg · January 2001

Hi all. I have 1500 miles on my 2001.
I do believe their is now one recall listed for the 2001 having to do with the rear seat fold-down hinge.
Problems, impressions.
Poor gas mileage,
Tough downshift to second,
Some weird suspension noises intermittently,
Good ride,
Good stock sound system,
Good utilization of space and good instrument layout,
Seems kind of sluggish to me in general,
Like it, but had hoped for a bit more.

fdanna · January 2001

When I compare my ZX3, now with 500 miles after two weeks, to my 96 Honda Civic EX, this is what I see:

More powerful engine
Less gas mileage
Equal or better radio
Manual moonroof (doesn't bother me)
Better handling
Quieter Ride
Fit and Finish seem equivalent
Quality of materials seems ALMOST equal
Smoother 5-speed with no vibration (unlike honda)
Smoother clutch uptake
Better trunk access with a hatch
More bang for the buck (I spent $400 less for the honda but didn't get fog lights, traction control, advance track, four wheel disc brakes or floor mats.

My only lingering question is reliability which I hope will at least be average.

As far as people complaining about a surge....this is pretty normal for these engines. My honda surged at over 3500 rpm when the variable valve timing kicked in so in the focus it feels quite natural and comes at a lower RPM and makes the car feel more powerful.

My first tank of gas was 26.5mpg and my second 28.5. I hope it keeps climbing because my Civic was always 30 or more and I have a lead foot. My morning commute is usually between 80 and 90mph (like everyone else in Boston in the morning).

edm9 · January 2001

Konafocus, I am definately going to do some work to it. I think I will start with the suspension, lowering springs (no more than 1") just enough to take the big space out of the wheel wells, anti-roll bars (both by either eibach or H&R), polyurethane bushings and strut tower braces. I have a buddy who is big into tuning cars and he recommends starting at the suspension and going from there.

As for the exhaust, I want something that isn't obnoxiously loud or raspy. I can't stand the sound of some of the imports. I read about the MBRP system and they say it isn't loud, it is more throaty sounding.

Rims and tires I can wait on until I need to replace my tires. Quad headlights are on the list also. I may go as far as some VERY minor body mods, front spoiler, side skirts and possibly rear wing, if I find one I like. I'd like to find one that looks like the one that comes on the Lexus RX300, sits at the roof line above rear glass.

Time and money cure all things though!!!

damonabnormal · January 2001

Well I got my car last night(06 miles on it) & it is all as should be. The 16" wheel/tire combo sure makes a ride difference for the better - the car I tested was a 2000 with 15" wheels. I also like the rear headrests & LOVE the moonroof... great stock stereo and a very comfy yet firm drivers seat. (My car was made 12/2000, my dealer called me 12/19 to tell me it had just rolled off the assy line.) We'll see how it does w/it's 1st tank of gas.

shov6 · January 2001

I am suffering from nothing on the list, but for one... Occasionally there is a lumpy idle, but it doesn't happen always, and when it DOES, it's not bad.

Something I have noticed is the odd noises snow and slush make when they are flung up into the wheelwells. Surprising that they didn't engineer that out... Mildly annoying but livable.

SHOV6

zx3beast · January 2001

i can accept the glitches here and there if ford acknowledges they do
exist and takes the necessary corrective action. its when the service
personnel botches the re-work or trys to give you the brush that adds
to the frustration. good for ford for losing profit,it has to hurt the pocketbook for things to get done right. always cost more to fix than to
do it right the first time. you reap what you sow.

focusport1 · January 2001

when does the variable valve timing kick in?

silver_bullet · January 2001

Focusport1, the Zetec engine in the ZX3 does not have variable valve timing. The Zetec in the ZX2 had a variably timed intake cam only, mostly for better fuel economy. If your salesman touted variable valve timing on the ZX3, he/she was blowing more smoke than a '79 Fairmont.

northguy · January 2001

Picked up an 01 ZX3 with 91miles on it (I put 87mi. on it myself over 2 test drives before deciding to buy it off the lot). Looks like this vehicle hasn't caught on here in rural America since they sold it for a little under invoice. I guess the local dealer got it on a dealer trade for
a pickup truck. Anyway, had planned on buying another Subaru wagon but decided to keep the old Subaru and buy the ZX3 outright. The zx is more fun to drive. Hope we don't encounter the same problems that other owners have posted. Time will tell. The only thing I'm a little concerned about are the 16 inch wheels. They're nice on dry or wet roads but I wonder how they'll do in the snow, since the vehicle is such a lightweight. The problem is that if you want the premium group option you're stuck with the big tires. Anyone had actual snow driving experience with these wheels on THIS car? I think I'm the only ZX3 owner for at least a 100 mile radius around here so there's no one to compare notes with. The only ZX3 I've seen in the flesh is the one I bought. Nice to have this site on the web. Will post updates as the miles pile up.

focusport1 · January 2001

Here is a quote from Edmunds description of the ZX3 Focus:

ZX3 HATCHBACK (5M): 2L I4 DOHC SMPI 16-valve engine with variable valve timing; 5-speed OD manual transmission;

So you tell me, who's blowin' smoke!?

konafocus · January 2001

Sounds like you have alot of plans for your car!! But arent you worried that some aftermarket ad ons might void your warranty? I know I am, that is why I havent bought the exhaust, when I asked the foremen at the dealers auto shop, he told me I could add an exhaust but if I mess with the cat's or the sensors in the exhaust I will be asking for trouble, he suggested just adding a muffler? A wing would be nice, there are so many out there though!! Have you looked at Kurtz Kustomz Motorsports? They have a nice wing there too, a little long, but it has that RX300 look! I havent decided on what to do though? I bought my bulbs today, cant wait for tomorrow!!! I bought some PIAA Platium hyper whites, they cost a little more, but they come with a warranty.

If FORD is smart they will realize the potential this little car has, meaning it can yearn them bigger bucks if they take care of the customer base as well. Face it, right now there is no better hatch back out there!!! Ford needs to realize that by keeping us happy, not only will we conitnue brand loyalty, but we will recommend the Focus even more!!!

Still love the car though, went on a 100 mile trip today, fun in the highway is all I will say!!! I do hear those suspension sounds though, but very minimal, other than that the ride is quiet, too quiet!

Keep on driving people, it is bound to get better!!

KonaFocus

silver_bullet · January 2001

Edmunds data is incorrect - and it wouldn't be the first time. The Zetec in the ZX3 has fixed timing on both the intake and exhaust cams - sorry. Don't take my word for it, go talk to a knowledgeable powertrain specialist in your service department, or contact Ford. The Zetec in the Escort ZX2 is a different engine. If you are interested, I can fax you the relevant printouts from the Ford Service Manual showing the differences in cylinder head designs.

zx3beast · January 2001

they are most definitely different.

norwaydoug · January 2001

I haven't been posting for a few months since I do not have any positive things to say about my zx3. It has been in the shop for the past week trying to get the engine knock issue resolved. I am getting a new 5 spd transmission.

It is hard to be enthusiastic about a car that has been in the shop 6 times (over 20 days--lost track to be honest),since September 1. So rather than being negative, I have chosen to be quiet.

ND

cocoon · January 2001

A few days ago I asked for advise re: a vibration and shutter when the car was in reverse. The dealer had a hard time finding the solution also but apparently it has happened before as he finally found a technical service bulletin on the same problem. Seems that stones can get under the rear engine mount. Sure enough, there were some stones there. Removed them. Car runs as smooth as ever again. Technician had never heard of that one before.

jimmyfocuszx3 · January 2001

He all.

Yes SportCompactCar has a Honda fixation but then again, it is the most modified car on the market so what do you expect? Motor Trend and Car&Driver have a worse "anti-ford hard on" [10 best or no 10 best] for one reason or another.
I forget who asked if 6000 rpm wasn't a bit high for shifting, but to answer YES it is but when you power peaks at 6000 that is what you got to do. No it doesn't make for good mpg but it does make for what the kids of today call "hella fun"

My mods are as follows in order of when I did them.

APC plasma bulbs
Z Racing type 42 wheels [15"]
Goodyear HP tires
Drawtight Class I hitch
FOCUS decal on hood
"Jimmy" front license plate*
Pitt Alumni license plate frame
Black masks on "eye brow" part of headlights
Brake and Clutch pedal covers
Road Gear Hitch bike rack
Gray floor mats "Winter" w/ Focus logo in black
Yakima Roof bike rack [xmas gift]
--on order--
Euro style clear taillights
--on plan--
Clear side marker lights
Bright yellow foglight bulbs
Euro style rear foglight
Roof mounted Wing of some sort
SVT Contour Wheels [16"]
K-9 Focus seat covers
CD/Tape/combo receiver
PIAA above bumber driving lights [ala Rally Car]

*Taken from an auto show that shall remain nameless from a GMC display

Looking over that list you will see a bunch of easy add ons but no trick suspensions or turbos or anything of the sort. That is because I drive the car at 9/10ths and have a blast. If I did add that super cool stuff I would be dead. No doubt about it. I would be going WAY TOO FAST on roads I simply go TOO FAST on now..... That and I am waiting for the Audi S3 to hit our shores.

-Jimmy

jimmyfocuszx3 · January 2001

Why doesn't the Edmunds Spell Check recognize the term "RPM". Is it expecting us to type "r. p. m."?

The next time someone posts that their ZX3 is sluggish, please also list when you shift [for manuals] and what your last car was. My focus is only slugglish compare to Mustangs and TransAms it seems.

-Jimmy Again

salsa95 · January 2001

I'm seriously looking into a ZX3 and have a couple of questions:

Does anyone have the AdvanceTrac option. How does it work for you?

Does anyone have a roof-rack for bicycles. What brand, and does it work with the moon roof.

Thanks!

jimmyfocuszx3 · January 2001

As you can see, I have a Yakima Roof Rack System for my ZX3 and it will work with any sun roof as far as I know, should be enough clearance. You need Yakima Q-Towers with Q-Clip # 102 and a Q-stretch kit.

Jimmy-

mdriver · January 2001

Edmunds specifies the ZX3's 0 to 60 at 10.2 secs.
Now that's sluggish, even when changing gear at the 5300 rpm peak.
Maybe Edmunds uses conservative 0 to 60 tests, who knows. But why is it that the Japanese seem to always be able to get more power out of the same displacement ? Nissan Sentra SE's 2L 145HP engine is 15HP more than Zetec, with no valve timing or other power enhancing advantages.

Edmunds 0 to 60 spec:
http://edmunds.com/vehicles/2001/ford/focus/zx3hatchback.html#specs

rfruth · January 2001

jimmyfocuszx3 (first clue ?) has a GMC license plate bracket on a Ford ? I like my Civic stock during the warranty period, won't be adding a Toyota sticker at any time.

Rob Fruth - Houston, Tx
http://freeweb.pdq.net/rfruth

1981 Raleigh for commuting, errands & fun
1997 Trek 2300 for real fun !
2000 Civic hatchback (almost a ZX3)

fdanna · January 2001

I have the advancetrac but have not had a chance to see what it can really do. The traction control part of it has kicked in a few times in rain and snow and works pretty well. It's snowing today so maybe I'll see some action (no pun intended) on the way home from work. On dry pavement, you'd have to be driving pretty hard to have it kick in. The option is worth it if you like having also 4 wheel disc brakes and the traction control.

fdanna · January 2001

For anyone interested, I circumvented my Ford dealer and went directly to the ford authorized radio installation/repair. They put in my CD changer ($289 for changer, $50 for the cable, $70 for labor). The nice thing is that it will be convered under my factory warranty. I also happened to be moaning about how I'd rather have a cassette up front instead of the single CD and they guy said "we can do that." So he swapped the radio with the CD to the Focus radio with the Cassette at no cost.

maiki · January 2001

Fdanna, what do you mean by "ford authorized radio installation/repair?" A third party auto stereo place, that is authorized by Ford? Are there many?

When you say "covered by your factory warranty", do you mean not just covered by the warranty that comes with the CD changer, but covered by the car's three year warranty?

Is it a Ford changer or another brand? Any problem with compatibility? Where in the car did they put the changer?

Ford Focus ZX3

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