2002 FORD Focus

Ignition frozen and will not turn at all. Cannot turn the car on, get out of park (to push).

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I bought My car November 8, 2013 from a buy here pay here lot. Two months later on January 9, 2014 I drove into work, went inside and within minutes the car was on fire under the hood. We had to call the fire department to come and put the vehicle out. The Fireman told me the only thing they could say is it was in the engine compartment. I have searched for recalls by my VIN and have found none. Two weeks later on January 23, 2014 while driving down the expressway, I passed another Ford Focus that is exactly like mine, except black, and the engine compartment had also burned. At this point I contacted Ford and explained what has happened and they told me they would send me a response in 2 weeks.

Key stuck in ignition …17 year old daughter stranded in a scary situation…..had to call a locksmith.
Came to find out this is a very common problem.
Locksmiths carry new ignitions in their work trucks because the problem is so common.

ignition has locked up and will not turn at all. back seat window on passenger side will not roll down.

KEY WILL NOT TURN IN IGNITION.

Fuel system delivery unit replaced. $780.00 back tire came off car at 70 miles per hour. $768.00. I was told I ran over something. I had in into the dealer 2 time before complaining about vibration in the rear replaced same rear drum and bearing 3 years later.128.00. 3 power windows do not work fixed 1. $300.00 cd player does not work. replaced alternator 3 times 800.00. replaced every part of air conditioning over a 3 year period. 2687.00. I can go on and on.

Key will not turn in the ignition.

The key will not turn in the Ignition

I’ve read on the internet that the focus (2000-2003) have faulty ignition switches. My 2002 ford focus now has that problem.

I cannot turn the key in the ignition.

coil spring broke on drivers side.

AC/Heat Fan only works on low
Brake lights stayed on whenever car was in drive
Thermostat housing leaks repeatedly
Trans won’t shift into 4th (OD)

The ignition key wouldn’t turn, leaving me stranded and requiring a new cylinder.

Ignition switch won’t turn.

While driving on a local highway at 50mph my car (having recently merged)suddenly stalled. It sputtered a bit like it was low on gas and then just died. I had slightly over half a tank. My mechanic said it was the fuel pump and that I should take it to Ford for a free repair because he knew of faulty fuel pumps in Foci. I attempted did this, and the dealer claims nothing is wrong with the car. They also told me my vehicle is not covered under the their “recall campaign.” Only 2000-2001 vehicles are covered. I have read many stories with 2002 foci having this problem. I tried calling Ford Corporate, but to no avail, they will not give me a new fuel pump. They suggest that I drive the car and see if it happens again. Meanwhile, I feel like this is a serious safety hazard and I will have to make the repair myself despite it being an obvious defect in the car. I cannot believe what the NHTSA lets Ford get away with.

We have a Ford Focus 2002 SE with a Z-tec engine. It has about 76,000 miles on it. It dies while you are driving down the interstate or in the middle of town. We finally found out that it was the fuel pump. Our local ford dealer will only replace fuel pumps for 2000-2001. I know that there have been other complaints about this and don\’t understand why ford will not do anything about it. This car belongs to our son whom just entered college, and he could have been in a serious accident. This started happening back in July, but we just figured out what is wrong. We are having a local mechanic fix it for the cost of 336.00.

Water leak fixed under warranty from 9/17-9/24 Fluttering noise when accelerating and dramatic loss of highway mpg (from 38-29) noticed after car picked up from Dealer on 9/24/02. Hqave been to dealer twice about this problem; o charge, no repair attempted. Full story sent to BBB and [email protected]

Vehicle starting hard or stumbling for 6-8 weeks. Vehicle would finally not start at all. Fuel pump was clogged and was replaced with updated model. Fuel filter also replaced. (Vehicle was manufactured September 2001 in Wayne, MI.)

To Whom It May Concern: Reported Risk of Manufacturer Roof Rack Crossbar Structural Failure on Ford Focus WagonsI recently purchased the Thule 825 Port Side kayak carrier to be mounted on our factory-supplied 2002 Focus wagon roof rack. The instructions in the package included a water sports hardware list, displaying which bolts to use on specific automobile manufacturer roof racks. However, the Ford Focus wagon was not listed. There was no explanation readily available as to why. After significant effort, I finally was able to talk with somebody in management at Thule.The Thule representative checked into the issue and explained that Thule also must do testing on manufacturer racks, since their guarantees of product performance must include performance of the factory racks upon which the Thule components are installed. She explained that the roof rack cross members failed on the Focus wagon, thus precluding their listing of the Focus wagon on their recommended list. Her exact words were,

This problem just happened yesterday. My daughter was making a turn, and the CVC joint completely fell apart. She lost all steering causing her to hit a curb. We had the car towed to the dealer where we bought it only a month ago. They are refusing to fix the car saying that she was in an accident causing the joint to fall apart. This is not the case. We are not sure what to do, and need help. This is a terrible defect, and if she hadn’t have been going slow, she could have been killed. Is there anyone who can help us, as were not sure what steps to take to get the public attention about a possible killer.

There is a line that went straight into the engine’s intake that has been leaking fluid since 2,000 miles and was inspected by deler who told to me that it was nothing. But the engine case should not have a large leak of fluid that soon. Finally now, they have done something on this and replaced the hose, as it was seen once more and knows of all the times reported. I hope this is just not a easy fix or this now hasn’t caused any damange to the inside of the engine itself, as the engine has been in the shop for riding rough. They told me last time that the part of the transmission that was fixed would fix this. I think it is due to the oil leak on the top of the engine case since it was new. A new car should never have a oil leak on a engine case.

THE TRUNK OF MY CAR MAKES A TICKING SOUND WHEN I PUSH THE BUTTON TO OPEN. WHEN I TRY TO CLOSE IT, IT WONT. I HAVE TO PUSH THE TRUNK BUTTON AGAIN TO BE ABLE TO LOCK IT.

The tread on the tires has already worn down and the metal is visiable on both rear tires. Driving down the road the car started shaking uncontrollably and returned home to have it towed to the dealer saying that the problem was just the tires, there is no known cause to cause wear.

The mileage on my Focus was 47000 km and the cost was $5500.00. The date was July but I am at work and not sure of exactly what day. My Focus was making a clunking sound similar in nature to traction control kicking in. It was in to be serviced On a Friday and they said they could not repeat the sound. Also at that time it was having regular maintenance tire rotation and oil change. On the following Tuesday driving in the town I live in (luckily the speed limit is only 30 km/hr) I experienced the steering wheel pull to the right and I had hit a parked car. Had I been on the Highway me and my 2 children would have been a fatality. The cost qouted to you of 5500.00 is not including the cost to fix the other vehicle. As well Ford Motor Co. is taking no responsilbilty whatsoever and I need proof to get my insurance co to find fault to someone other than myself.

The key would not turn in the ignition. My steering wheel locked and I could not start my car. The dealership had to drill out my ignition and replace it, one of the techs saying that it was cheap parts and that he replaced another ingition in another focus the week before.

The front driver’s wheel bearing and hub went out at about 7,000. The car made a very loud noise. Ford repaired this problem. Car had to have brake pads at 28,000 miles. The wear on the driver’s side front was much worst than the others. Repair person said that the calipers were defective. Cost 100. dollars. The front passenger’s side wheel bearing and hub went out at 29,000. I paid for repair of wheel $150. I was told that the driver’s side was going out again. There is obviously a problem with the front suspension of this car. I am now faced with repairs of the other side for a second time and the car is only 18 months old. I am worried that the wheels will come off.

The engine experienced complete failure at 55 MPH with no warning sign. It has not been taken to the dealer for inspection.Sunroof was stuck in open position and would not close properly unless manipulated by hand. Dealer fixed the problem the following day.

The clutch master cylinder leaks at a premature mileage. I only noticed it at around the 42k mark but it has happened for an unknown amount longer. The leak goes through the clutch pedal and into the interior of the drivers side cabin. It gets all over the carpet and can cause future damage to my carpet and possibly floor. The fluid is very corrosive and since its on the same system as the brakes it also affects my brakes. This is a very serious problem and I was not covered under warranty since it was out of warranty even though this is a very serious problem that seems to be happening to a lot of Ford Focus owners out there.

the clutch master cylinder leaks all over the pedals, and can cause a hazzord when the fluid leaks on the pedals.

The car is a 2002 SVT Focus. The engine has a severe miss/surge under normal driving conditions. The last ticket on the vehicle states that there is no fix at this time.October 27, 2003 Update: Thank you for your help on this matter. Ford purchased the vehicle back, refunded all of the payments made, and compensated me for any aftermarket parts I had the receipt for. Ford went out of its way to make me happy. Thank you.

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Second time power windows stopped functioning. In two years both the rotors and front brakes wore out.Front Brake Pads and Rotors worn out at 21005 miles. At two years of purchasing car

Rear Wheel Bearings become locked into the wheel well making it impossible to remove, can only removed by force and causes entire brake system needing to be repaired. I was told there is a recall for this specific problem for 2000 Focuses but not for 2001 or 2002

Rear wheel bearing seal race experienced surface corrosion, allowing contamination to enter the bearings, resulting in noise/wobbling. Both rear bearing replaced.

problem i’m still having and was reported to dealership is car pulls to left, ( not corrected) back end of car or tires bounce on road and especially when hitting a bump, cannot stay on road in slush or snow, back end is all over road, ( nothing done) tires are completely groved in many spots on the tires, caused by rear end bouncing on road, firestone won’t replace they say it is focas’s rear end and it wears out the tires, dealer or ford won’t do anything about rear end or tires, car vibrates badly, rear doors barley open are so stiff, looks like door locks are coroaded nothing was done by dealership even though they said they lubricated, nothing is on the locks to show lubrication of locks.

other – lose fender wheelshield/told part on recall as defectivebody – dings in fender panel/told part defective replaced under warranty

On November 9, 2002 while doing errands I noticed smoke coming from the engine area of 2002 Ford Focus (5 months old). It was a wet and rainy day and the windows were fogging-up. I had to roll the windows down to defrost the light mist on the windows, as the defrost button would not work. The smoke became so thick I decided to pulled over and call for Ford road service. By the time I was giving the rep. my location people were running from thier homes to move thier cars. I told the rep. the car is on fire. I hung-up and called the fire department. The fire department responded in less than a minute. I ran back to my new car and watched as it burned. The fire departement said the engine fire was caused by an electrical short. I was also told that I pulled over just in time. My insurance company has not been helpful. Ford assured me that they would take care of everything. I am waiting for Ford Motor to take car of everything. I told them in a fax I sent last week that I want that "Blue Oval" service they constantly talk about – maybe someday.Thanks,Denise Keyes

On November 23 2002 I was in a accident where I broke my nose and had numerous burises. The reason I got into an accident was because my wheel and suspension broke & seem to come apart. I had complained to Ford that my wheel had been shaking and that there was something wrong with it.I had taken it back 4 times to get fixed but everytime I got it back and it would shake just as bad. Also when I got into the accident my airbags didnt deploy at all I received a broken nose from hitting my head on the steering wheel. The car was shaking really bad and it seem to pull me off the road then all of a sudden it was like a snap and it went the other direction. I flew sideways up in the air and hit two oak trees luckly I didn’t die from this accident if you would see the pictures you would think how did she survive. If the car would have hit the oak trees two feet closer to my door I wouldn’t be here to tell you this. The car split in half & was totaled.

My ignition switch is locked up as well as the steering wheel. I found the part on a TSB list and still, I am having to pay for a defect I did not cause. Its incredibly ridiculous to me.The other…when it rains, my steering wheel will not turn and it seems as tho the belt is slipping when I go through a puddle. I have asked the dealer to see if a part is missing. I haven’t picked it up yet form the shop. I cannot wait to hear why I should risk my life and my child’s because my car just doesn’t work in the rain. I really hope someone tells me this is normal, because it cannot be.

My Ford Focus is doing what a lot of others is doing. When going 70mph and I let off the acclerator, it feels as if it will stall. Today is the 1st time it actually has completely gone dead. It sounds like Ford had a major recall on 2000-2001 models for a similar problem. Is there any info regarding a possible recall on this pile of crap?

My Focus cuts off on me at stop lights no matter what gear it is in the transmission has lost over-drive. The ignition has locked up and will not turn. All of this has happened within in the past 2 weeks. My focus has been sitting in my yard for the last week and a half. I can\’t afford the repairs this car needs. It don\’t make no sense for a car with only 68000 miles on it to be falling apart like this in such a short time. I\’ve called the dealership (Crown Ford of Fayetteville NC) about the ignition problem. Two people who work there have told me the company has had a lot of complaints about the ignitions locking up. My warranty is gone and the car is not paid for. I would like to know why there is no recalls on these problems with the Ford Focus. I

MY CARS ENGINE STALLS WHILE DRIVE DOWN THE FREEWAY & ON CITY STREETS… MOST OF THE TIME MY 3 YEAR OLD SON IS WITH ME IN THE CAR.. GOD FORBID SOMETHING HAPPEN… WHEN THE ENGINE STALLS MY STEERING WHEEL LOCKS AS WELL WHICH IS ALSO NOT VERY SAFE… I\’M ONLY INTERESTED IN CLASS ACTION IF THIS ISSUE IS NOT FIXED BY THE MANUFACTURE.

My 2002 Ford Focus started having problems after 5000 miles. It started with a noise coming from the front left wheel area. From there the steering seemed shakey at times at highway speeds. Once, the car pulled to the left suddenly on the highway. The dealership has changed the transmission, front bearing, and knuckle, on the car in the past two months. The car is still not fixed. The most noticeable problem is the howling grinding noise coming from the front left wheel. It can be heard mostly around 50 to 60 mph. It is still unknown what is wrong with the car.

My 2002 Focus with zetec dohc engine has problems when accelerating with the fuel pressure dropping to 5-10 psig. I recently purchased this vehicle and I am aware of the 2000-2001 recall of the fuel systems. Unfortunately 2002 is not covered.

My 2002 Focus has now started stalling and not idling when stopped. It just recently started this, my check engine light came on, when I took it to have the ODB II test ran, all they could tell me is the fuel was too lean, Of course, I already knew this, I have replaced the plugs and plug wires in the car with no help. I am now being told that more than likely it is the fuel pump. My car only has 36K miles on it and the fuel pump is going out? The front tires wore extremely bad and the brakes that were just replaced 7 months ago already need replacing again. Like most my car shakes and shimmies when I get to 55 – 65 mph, once past or below this point, it is fine. I also hear the noise behind the speedometer. I never really thought anything about this until I looked for recalls and realized all the problems Ford has had with the prior years. Hopefully when Ford sees the problems that the consumers are having, they will make sure to correct them. At this point, it is becoming a very expensive car!

Lets see this car has been a nightmare. It started first with two new batteries, brand new battery cables and an alternator. The battery was being overcharged resulting in the melting of the baterry cables and a subsequent arcing of electrical charge. I was lucky my car did not catch fire or explode. Secondly as a result of the defective battery cables and wiring..it had damaged my transmission. Burned the solenoid switch up. It cost me quite a bit of money for all of that and I am less than happy about it. Found out that Ford recalled the 2000s and 2001s for the same problem with the battery cables. But as of date have not recalled the 2002s. And now…once again I am finding myself in costly repairs because the left rear well bearings and hub are defective. Same problem again as the 2000s and apparently 2001s which were recalled for this. And yet to date no recalls on the 2002s..Something is majorly wrong here. I cannot afford to keep getting the car fixed like this with very costly and time consuming repairs. I feel Ford Motor Company owes me money back for all the issues going on with my Ford Focus SE in that these are apparently the same problems that have plagued this model since 2000. Something needs done or I will find myself a lawyer.

KEY DOES NOT WANT TO COME OUT OF STEERING COLUMN. YOU HAVE TO WRIGGLE THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE KEY. YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN THIS IS GOING TO HAPPEN. IT HAS HAPPENED FROM DAY 1. IT HAS BEEN INTO PARR FORD IN BREMERTON WASHINGTON 4 TIMES FOR THIS PROBLEM, THEY CAN NOT FIND IT. THEY HAVE VERIFIED THAT IT STICKS.

July 2003 , had to replace brakes and rotors, dealership would not replaceJune 2004 key started to get stuck in the ignigtion, takes several attempts everytime i put veh in park to get key out.October 25, 2004. I was on my way to work and veh started jerking and goind dead at stop. i took vehicle home and by the time i got home, vehicle was making a loud noise and water was coming out of the tale pipe. no lights came on, no check engine, no oil light (none what so ever) i can even drive the vehicle. why should i already have engine problems when i have kept my oil changed and kept veh up. the vehicle is only 2 years old

Ignition locked up for the second time since buying the car new in October 2001. It is a 2002 ZX3.Was told that many Focus owners have this problem. The service representative told me that he thought it would take a lawsuit to get Ford to correct the problem.

ignition frozen—unable to unlock steering wheel..key will not turn in ignition…cost of part 134.00 dealer has to fix because of programming…estimate of 500.00 given for total repair….for ignitionbrakes fixed early this year…screeching and grinding..(back brakes).estimated by dealer 500.00 +

I was not specific about dates above. I’d have to get them from the dealer, which I can if needed. I’ve the symptom of this vehicle stalling while at stop lights, but’s it’s intermittent and hasn’t occurred in the last 6 months. But, the engine light comes on and the card idles very low intermittently now. The vehicle has been looked at twice for this problem and unable to correct the problem. The problem is very sporadic, but it is still occurring. Also, fuel mileage has decreased by about 30% to what it was a year ago. I’m taking it into the dealer soon for this.

I have not been happy since I bought my Focus. The car rides really rough, almost like your dragging the blacktop. The rims, I

I HAVE HAD THE CAR. for only 4 months. I had problem with it in October it was the car moving when i am driving it moves like a swerving motion and then in December 13, 2002. I took it back in with the same problem of the back sways when hitting bumps and the tire rod was loose. The repair was 1,140 on a new car. I had water coming in the passenger side and they said they fixed the problem. On Dec 31, 2002 it rained and my whole floor is wet. I am very discussed with this car. because it is a brand new cAR. and I have the same problem out of it going on two times with the water, two times with the hitting of bumps and the car moving side ways almost into another lane ,and one more thing i took the car in to ford on 12/26/02 to talk to the sales person about my problems I have been dealing with and how very dissatisfied I am the car has been still swaying when I am driving and coming across bumps railroad tracks and on the expressway. They said I would have to put money down for another car, which is so unfair because it is a new car and they should put me in another car if they see the problems. I will never send any one to but a car from them because they should stand behind there promise when they express the importance of customer satiation when they see that the car is a problem

I have had nothing but trouble since purchasing this Ford. The back tires need to be replaced every 10,000 miles or so and the engine stalls and sputters whenever it feels like it. cannot take off on a trip because I do not know when the engine will just sputter and die. Then it will magically start running again in a few hours. Nobody seems to be able to pinpoint this problem.

I have experienced problem after problem since purchasing my 2002 SVT Focus. Random stalls, leaks, and noises. Shift linkage failure, wheel bearing failure, power window problems. Intake manifold failure, wrong idle speed, loss of electrical power. 35 days in the shop so far and counting, all within 11mo of purchase. Don’t buy a Ford car, you’ll regret it.

I have excessive brake dust on my drivers side front tire and on my outside of tire black fluid

I experienced a lock-up failure in which I was unable to turn on the car. I understand a significant number of other car owners of the same type of vehicle have had the same experience and Ford has knowledgy fail to issue a re-call of the part to replace with one that works properly.

I bought this car brand new in September. The first problem the car had was that the pollen filter became blocked and it had been raining out so all the water from outside came right into my car and I got about an inch of water in the passenger side of my car all over the floor. The enxt thing that happened was my driver side front tire blew while driving down a road, there were no potholes and no curbs that I could have hit for this to happen. About a month after this I noticed that the plastic had started bubbling up and peeling on the lower B pillar on the passenger side of the car, also the carpet had come unglued (from when my car flooded) and had now pulled away from the sill. Also, the wetherstripping had come unglued from the windshiel and you can now see the sharp edge of the windsheild. My car is in service today getting that fixed. There is also, still a rattling noise coming from where the speedometer is. This has been going on since I bought the car and has not stopped. However, every time I take it to the dealership, it does not make this noise, so they cannot fix it.

I bought the car on Oct 29, 2002. Since day one the car has consumed way too much gas. It is outrageous! It has become a mortgage pmt! My car pmt is $344 a month I pay the same in gas a month. I use to own a 1993 Ford Escort,stick,4 cyc and never did I ever spend so much gas. I am 49 yrs old, don

I bought a brand new car in West Way Ford. I think it is accelerator throttling. It began almost immediately after I bought the car. When going up the hill or when I go from service road on highway and press accelerator to adjust to the speed of the traffic, I felt a slight jerk inside the engine. It did not happen often, not always when I go up the hill or highway. Now almost in two years and a half this jerk became really bad. I am afraid it can do something to my car together with me. It happens not often, like one or four times a day, but the problem has become worse. I still have a warranty on it and only about 20,000 miles. Mechanic in West Way Ford checked it on computer, but could not find anything. I bought the car with no cover on the electric wires. They were just lying lose under the front seats. I asked the mechanic that it is strange that they are not covered. He said it was OK. When my car was hit by another car and I took it to the body shop, they covered the wires and now I know that they were supposed to be covered. The accident in which I was involved as a third vehicle slightly damaged the car from the outside.

Hey folks. My Ford Focus zx5 isn\’t performing properly. My Fuel consumpion is only 300km/50Litre tank. That works out to about 16L/100km. The fuel consumption from various sites says it should be around 9.1L/100km(city) and 6.8L/100km(hwy). Oh, I took my car into the dealer ship and they measured around 29mpg (imperial gallong not US gallon)which works out to about 512km/50liters. I am NOT GETTING ANYWHERE NEAR NIS MARK! They also didn\’t find any codes in the computer. Any help you folks could offer would be greatly appreciated. Cheers LuciusMy 300km/50liters works out to be 6km/Liter ,14.2mpg (US), and 17.04mpg (imperial)

Heating/Vent produces a disgusting smell. Repairs indicated oil leak near heater – unknown origin. Smell abated but still it produces annoying smells that requires windows to be kept open. Will have to go back to selling dealership 4th time for further investigation. Is there a better way and another shop in Cleveland, OH that can make an independent assessment of the problem? Thanks.

Fuel punp failed – car stalled in traffic, same problem as the 2000 and 2001 Focus, but no extended warranty on 2002 as was offered on 2000 and 2001 models. Pickup screen on fuel pump is too small and clogs easy causing pump to fail.

Fuel pump was replaced twice from January to JuneSterring wheel and car shake while stopping and driving at 50 mph or aboveBrakes have been checked 3 times finally had replaced and rotors, no change in performance

Ford Focus 2002 ZX5 with 16" alloy wheels and Firestone tires seems to be susceptible to road hazard damage more than other cars I have had. One bubbled tire, and another punctured tire within weeks of each other.The Focus alloy wheels are the worse problems. At least two have been bent to the point of causing steering and vibration problems on car. One wheel has two visible bumps, and one wheel has a massive bump from some surprise road holes. I have never had a car that had such weak rims.I am not replacing the wheels until I talk to either Ford or a lawyer.

Experienced sudden engine hesitation and stalling in several occasions during the last few days. Car was being driven with less than 1/4 tank of gas in hilly terrain and a warm day. One time the car stalled while idling and another while crossing a bridge on a busy road. I was able to restart the car after turning off the ignition and waiting a few seconds.This is the first time I have this issue with the car but have read multiple articles about similar problems in previous year’s models. Dealership recognized problem as a fuel pump issue.

Excessive gear chattering has necessitated the replacement of the final drive gear. Was told by dealership that final drive gear was defective and a redesign was placed in vehicle. Because of redesign I needed new drive axles. Torque converter was also shot and a new differential was put into vehicle. New bearings had to be ordered but was told by dealership they are on national backorder untill December of 2004. Yes if you can believe it, 20 months from now. Dealership is ordering bearings that are close to the backordered parts, and measuring for fit. Total time in shop: 32 days and counting. Costs associated with car being on lift for 21 days is $13,860 excluding parts and labor of the master mechanic.

COMPOSITE PLASTIC RADIATOR SUPPORT CRACKING WHICH MAY ALLOW HOOD SUPPORT WHERE LATCH ATTACHS TO BREAK AWAY CAUSING HOOD TO OPEN WHILE DRIVING.

Car will randomly not start. It does this at all different times, in the morning after being cold overnight, and if driven for a while then parked and restarted soon after. It happens about 1-3 times per month since Nov. Has been in to dealership twice. First time they said loose wire was corrected but nothing wrong with car. Second time they said they replaced an ignition part but there was still nothing wrong with car. They are unable to replaicate problem, but they have not really tried yet either. Trying a new dealership this week for third attempt. Car is still under original warantee.

Car stalled while driving. Local shop towed and diagnosed problem – faulty fuel pump and sending unit – garage stated that fuel pump relay was “smoking” and red-hot. Car is being towed to purchasing dealer for warranty repair. Waiting for car to be repaired. Just two days from now, I was scheduled to be on the expressway into Chicago for a family function with 3 other family members, one of which was my young nephew. I’m appalled by what I’ve read re: NHTSA’s failure to prosecute Ford on this problem!

BRAKES: Excessive brake dust and wear. Rotor\’s wore down in a very short time.Suspension/wheel/axle: left and right rear bearing failed/broke. We ended up having to pay for more than half of the rental. This is on top of our monthly car payment of $269 a month! And, we were without a car for 5 days…because they had to get the parts. I\’m very frustrated. This breakdown could have resulted in a serious accident. I was totally inconvenienced, no car for 5 days, missed 2 days of work, and not to miss 3 days of work had to rent a car and pay for more than half. This doesn\’t count the cost of taxi service to and from the dealership to my home. What recourse do I have to retrieve some of the money lost? I shouldn\’t have to pay for 5 days on my monthly payment for product failure!

Bought car new May 02, and by July or August brakes went out and by Sept 02 rotors also. Ford fussed but replaced.. Less than 25000 miles later had to replace both brakes and rotors again but did not return for the warranty Ford had on them because I could not afford to take the time for them to replace with CRAP again. The alignment specs Ford has on the vehicle wears the tires out on the rear repeatedly. On the inside. I have put 7 new tires on the car since May 2002. A different spec was used to try to decrease the chance of the tire wearing out again. Not using the ones Ford has placed on the tire. Since then I have had better luck. No thanks to Ford. Transmission problems at 98000 miles. Stuck in overdrive going down the highway. Towed in and dealer kept for a week and fixed. Now 2 months later, carrier bearing is out and dealer has no such item listed in the parts so may have to replace drive shaft assembly just to fix. A process of elimination has to take place. Now, this was to be an economy car since I am a courier. Drive 250 miles a day 5 days a week on the job. It has taken a toll on my nerves. And the repair shop. He hates the car as much as I do. But, I cannot afford to get rid of it because nobody I know would buy the darned thing.. Can you tell I am not happy with this car? When it runs good, it is great to drive. But more often bad times than good.

Both the original and replacement Ford in-dash CD player have failed. Lost $180 total in CD’s.I have taken my car to several mechanics and no one can tell me why my car will not stop correctly or timely, nor why my car growls when I try to apply the breaks at times.The fumes from the engine (when the A/C is on) smells like melting plastic. I have to keep the windows open.My headlights no longer work- both the dimmer switch and electrical switch have failedExterior and Interior paint is pealing.

At this early mileage the brake pads and rotors need to be replaced. We were informed by the service manager at the dealer that this is a problem the see often because of the type of brake pads and type of rotors. This is unbelievable that ford is hiding this problem. We bought a brand new car so we wouldn’t have this problem.

As I was driving to work this morning (3/29/06) I heard a strange noice coming from the rear of my car. Suddenly I was loosing control of the car. I pulled over to the emergency lane of the highway and saw nothing wrong at a first glance. I took it to my mechanic. He put my car on the lift. Just as he is ready to pull of the lugs of the Left Rear wheel, the tire + drum almost came off the axle. He looked at me and said \"you are very lucky you got here in 1 piece, somebody upstairs must really love you!\" His assessment was, the bearings/spindle and even the brake pads were beyond repair. Brake pads were shattered. He was astonished that bearings would damage at even 48K miles (original miles, original owner). He called in for parts (about $380) and quote me about $600 total. I am in the process of writing a letter to Ford expressing my discontent. Apparently this problem was common with the 2000-01 models. If anyone has experienced this problem, please contact me at [email protected] Thanks

As for the fuel system/steering/accelerator problems- they are all linked to the fact that my car is stalling randomly- thought it might be linked to wet weather- but it\’s actually random and comes and goes. Sometimes it won\’t start at all, or it will start then stall when I put it in gear. I have stalled numerous times going around corners or through intersections and have had to pop the clutch to get through. I have been told the problem could be due to various things and can not afford to replace parts if they MIGHT be the cause. I brought the car to the Ford Dealership in September- they charged me $75 for diagnostic testing and found nothing wrong- they drove it and found nothing wrong. They wanted to charge me approximately $200.00 to \"clean the carbon out of the engine\" so I walked away. They also charged me $45 to look at my brand new brakes (they had rusted because I didn\’t drive it for 3 weeks) and wanted to charge another $150.00 dollars to resurface the new brakes (they were not warped- just surface rust). The \"other\" box is checked because I had to purchase new brakes, pads and roters in June. The brakes were grinding badly after only 60,886 miles.

All four studs on the right front broke off and caused damage to the brakes, front bumper, along with a few other things. The dealer said it was my fault because I had a mechanic besides them change the brakes on it. I had my 2 month baby niece in the back along with 3 other people. The other problem I have is the seal on the windshield is coming out near the roof.

A part on the car rubbed against the air condition hose and made a hole which allowed all the freon to leak out

2/9/06: 4 more tires put on today. That makes 10 new tires purchased since I bought the Focus brand new and it only has 100,000 miles. The rear tires go quickly, they tried to realign the rear today but could not…the camber was off by 2.5 to the negative and they now have someone at a Ford Dealership researching to find a way to fix the problem because the camber adjustment bolt only adjusts from .5 negative to .5 positive. I had to have the transmission flushed at 60,000 miles because the car would act like it was going to stall when you pressed on the accelerator. That seemed to help some. The trunk won’t unlock unless you are standing there to push it up when you hit the release. Otherwise it just clicks 3 times and remains locked. If you do get it to open it may not latch close again so you have to hit the release button again, listen to the clicking again and hope it locks. They tell me the rear tires will continue to wear if they can’t fix the alignment unless I take it and have the frame bent..how safe is that? I can’t afford to keep buying new tires…I drive at least 3,000 miles a month for work. If something has to be done to the frame doesn’t that mean FORD built it wrong?

1)Earlier this year we took our Focus in to the dealer to check the power steering. They said it just needed power steering fluid. I have been putting ps fluid in every two to three weeks.2)We have had difficulties with our brakes, the lights staying on and then the fuses burning out.3)Then today(8-5-03) the gear shift interlock got stuck and it only works if it is pushed in to release.

Was traveling down highway, a 55mph zone, and accelerator stopped working. Then the car shut off. Took it to local shop and they told me it was the fuel pump. They had to get the fuel pump from ford, because nothing else would work properly.

IF I DRIVE THE VEHICLE SAY LIKE TO WAL MART OR SOME WHERE AND I COME BACK TO THE VEHICLE IT WILL START AND DIE RIGHT AWAY. IF I KEEP MY FOOT ON THE GAS IT WILL STAY RUNNING. IN ORDER TO DRIVE IT I HAVE TO KEEP MY FOOT ON THE GAS KEEPING THE RPMS UP AND THROW IT INTO GEAR AND TO STOP AT STOP LIGHTS I PUT INTO NEUTRAL AND I HAVE TO USE MY LEFT FOOT FOR BRAKING AND KEEP MY RIGHT FOOT ON THE GAS OR I LOSE MY POWER STEERING. I TALKED WITH FORD SERVICE DEPT BUT THEY SAY THEY HAVE NOT HEARD OF THE PROBLEM. WHICH IS BULL, BECAUSE I HAVE ASKED PEOPLE IN THE AUTO PARTS STORES IF THEY HAVE HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM FROM CUSTOMERS AND THEY HAVE. I GUESS FORD WILL JUST WAIT TILL SOMEONE GETS KILLED FIRST AND THEN HAVE A RECALL.

I own a 2002 Ford Focus LX and for the past three weeks we’ve been forced to "entice" our key into the ignition and to turn it in the ignition to start the car. Finally, today, 07/25/2010, we had to leave it while visiting a friend because it would not start, no matter what we did. We towed it and fixed the problem and it cost $120 to do so. Upon repairing the problem we found out that the car has had that problem before because the ignition was not the original one.

fuel pump failed, car would start but then stall when moved forward, had to replace the fuel pump module.

Fuel Pump failed suddenly when my daughter pulled out onto a 55 MPH road in January 2010. She could have been killed. The engine totally shut down. We had no issues with the vehicle fuel system prior to this issue. Luckily she steered the car to the shoulder of the road without incident. I asked the dealer who serviced the car if there was a recall or service issue with the fuel pump and they said no. I thought this was unusual since I have not had a fuel pump ever fail in my 35 years of car ownership. After reviewing your site I am wondering if I was lied to by the dealer and if the defective pump should have been replaced at no cost to me. The part replaced was called a "CA Sender and pump assembly".

1. FAN STAYS ON, ENGINE GIVES FALSE READING OF OVERHEATING 2. KEY IGNITION STUCK, KEY WOULDN’T COME OUT OF IGNITION 3. INTERIOR TRUNK BUTTON NO LONGER OPERATING

2002 ford focus fx5. consumer requests reimbursement for repair costs *tgw the consumer stated his vehicle failed inspection due to a rotted front cross member. the consumer had to purchase a used cross member in order to pass inspection. *jb

2002 ford focus se station wagon. consumer states problem with automatic transmission. engine has strong noise. the consumer stated it took three times to fix the transmission. the window regulators were replaced four times, the thermostat housing failed twice which caused coolant leak. also, there was a problem with the air bag system and the cover on the passenger side. *jb

2002 ford focus zts firestone tires with flat spots. customer states that the flat spots would make a noise at certain speeds. mechanic told the consumer that they no longer carried firestone tires and they couldn't help him. *kb the consumer was able to get the tire pro-rated, however the new tires started to experience cupping. the rear view mirror was loose, the sway bar bushings, front link pins, rear suspension bar, rear side bracket and front struts were all replaced. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 65 mph on normal road conditions, the front driver's air bag deployed without warning. the vehicle was taken to the service dealer, who determined that the air bag sensor/control module needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was also notified.

Clutch assembly has a leak of fluid into the interior of the car (down the clutch armature to the clutch pad and to floor mat, if significant leakage) which has a) caused the clutch pedal pad to become slippery and fall off due to the fluid seeping behind the pad [after market replacements not available due to relative youth of car, therefore necessitating service at dealer], b) causes the brake light to come on sporadically due to a drop in brake fluid (clutch hydraulics share a reservoir with brake system), although no finding of corresponding brake trouble can be made [problem temporarily disappears when fluid level topped off] and c) causes sporadic clutch "softening" and decreased effectiveness. issue has been brought to the attention of both dealer and independent service providers several times, but none can find a fault with the braking system as indicated by the error light and therefore none indicate that a trouble exists. the leak is not obvious upon visual inspection of the braking system and the problem does not appear to have a negative impact on braking power (unless left too long and brake fluid levels drop significantly). unable to locate precise location of leak (suspect either reservoir or some associated line to clutch hydraulics) or to determine why only clutch system appears to be impacted. 1) no noticeable/known events leading to failure; uncertain how long condition existed prior to initial documented problem 2) see failure and consequences noted above 3) no correction in place yet as dealer service does not yet acknowledge problem and did not "find" problem at recent 60k service work-up (included total systems check and full brake inspection with fluid top offs) problem with brake light firing manifest approximately every two weeks (since first noted in november 2006) due to fluid loss, particularly when temperature drops below 30 degrees fahrenheit. issue is "resolved" by adding brake fluid to reservoir. *jb

Antitheft has car locking up while driving

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while the vehicle was stationary, the rear passenger door latch and both front door latches fractured. the vehicle was repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the issue. the failure mileage was 110,000. updated 11/08/16*lj *tr

Ok so i've had my ford focus for about 3 months now i fell in love with this little thing recently got struts changed in front and ball joints bushings and tires so i knew it would need an alignment so got that done now at speeds from 50-60 mph this car starts fishtailing out of control i dont have alot of money i am not workin at present so i cant afford to take my used car to dealer much less to another auto shop. i travel 50 -70 miles each day to work and i'm scared its gonna fishtail me into a wreck. mileage 134000 applke valley calif.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving at any speed over a bump in the road, the hatch door indicator light display illuminated. the rear hatch latch opened on its own. the failure recurred numerous times. the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 15v246000 (latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch). the manufacturer was notified. the approximate failure mileage was 10,846.

Tl* the contact owned a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 55 mph the vehicle started to smoke from the back seat. within a short time, the inside of the vehicle was completely filled with smoke. the engine shut off without warning. there were no flames and no injuries. the vehicle was placed in neutral and coasted to the side of the road. the vehicle was towed to the contact's residence and later towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the oil pump burned up and the engine was completely destroyed. the vehicle was deemed destroyed. the vehicle was towed to a friend's residence. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure six months later and gave the contact a case number. the failure mileage was approximately 73,000. updated 04/12/17 lj *cn

Ohtsu fn7000 within one month of being put on new tire would deflate all a sudden while parked shortly. 4 hours or less. changed to spare. tire had belle tire run a check blamed on bent rim. which is not bent. they aired it back up and same again a month later just went flat. took to a local shop who has been in business for 30 plus years said it was a bad tire it was nothing but powdered rubber inside showing wires. took back to belle tire and had to argue to get them to replace tried saying it was drivin on while flat which it was not. i'm afraid the other tires may have hidden issues new tire looked built different even sat on rim different and have yet to have a issue was checked via different shop rim does not leak. *tr

Tail light connection melts due to bulb getting too hot. impossible to remove connector to replace bulb. have to replace entire lens. many, many reports online of this happening. ford denies and refuses to replace. expensive remedies for customers. this happens on focus wagons and many other fords.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving, the vehicle slipped out of drive into neutral. the contact called fairway ford (2761 e stone dr, kingsport, tn 37660), and informed the dealer of the failure. the dealer informed the contact that he had to pay a diagnostic fee. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer due to the diagnostic and repair costs. the contact also stated that the vehicle independently shifted to neutral while stopped. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vin was not subjected to a recall. the failure mileage was approximately 137,000.

Husband was driving approx. 35 mph with his mother in the passenger seat down a country road. driver side and passenger side airbags deployed with no accident. passenger side airbag or cover broke windshield. husband hit brakes.

Vehicle has about 108,000 miles. i did replace the tie rods control arms and sway bar of the front subframe. the mechanic said that the subframe is very rusted and the engine could fall of if the vehicle is not serviced immediately. i bought the car around 90,000 miles and have already replaced fuel pump and other parts under the car.

At speed of 40+mph and uneven highway or when encountering a manhole cover the rear of the car sways and shimmies left to right in an extreme manner. noticed much worse with new tires that grip well. have had it inspected by a professional who says all vital parts look okay. 4 wheel alignment did not remedy. i see references to a design issue with the upper control members that make it impossible to reach a correct camber setting. i don't trust much on the internet though, and would like nhtsa guidance or further information. thanks for any help you can provide, i appreciate it.

Rear right passenger door will not unlock/open. when trying to unlock i don't hear the solenoid moving. when trying to open from either inside or out if feels like the handle isn't moving anything.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving 50 to 60 mph, the suspension spring on the front driver side snapped in half. the failure caused a sharp point and shredded the front driver side tire. the vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. the tire and spring were replaced. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the vin was unknown. the approximate failure mileage was 120. updated 08/17/16*lj the consumer has since sold the vehicle. updated 08/22/16.*jb

Tl* the contact owned a 2002 ford focus. while idling at a stop sign, the contact's vehicle was rear ended by another vehicle. the front driver seat disengaged from the floor of the vehicle. the air bags deployed. a police report was not filed. the contact was injured and received medical attention. the vehicle was destroyed and towed. the vin was unknown. the approximate failure mileage was 80,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while the vehicle was being serviced, the technician informed the contact that the rear coil spring was fractured and needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 38,000.

My 89 year old mother bought a 2002 ford focus from laurel auto in boswell and when she went to get it inspected was told the frame (unibody) is rusted so badly that it cannot be repaired. there are holes all through it. she paid $5,000 and has only had the car 1 year. was there a recall on 2002 ford focus frames? the garage states they have never seen a frame in such bad shap.

I have a 2002 ford focus zx5, my driver’s side air bag deployed while driving down the street at a speed of 35 mph with absolutely no impact to the car. due to it deploying and going off it had hit my left shoulder and caused me to swerve to the right, if it wasn't for the fact that i was already in the right hand lane i would've crashed into another vehicle and caused a serious accident as this also happened in the middle of "rush hour traffic". i have read on other websites where 2004 and 2006's same air bags have deployed for no reason w/o any kind of impact. the noise was so loud in my left ear that i could not hear out of it for over 45mins, i can only imagine what that would've done to my infant if they would've been in the car at that time. i feel this is a serious matter as i am 5months pregnant and if the front air bag would've gone off it could've caused much more injury to me and my unborn child. please investigate and consider having this model put on the recall list.

Ignition key will not turn! they have known (ford) about this issue and are refusing to issue a recall.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while at a traffic light, the vehicle stalled. the vehicle was able to restart after two attempts. the failure recurred on several occasions. the vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 160,000.

I am writing this for two incidents happened within a two week time frame. 1. the engine had to be replaced since one piston pin had broken due to which the whole piston had broken inside the engine. the whole engine had to be replaced as per mechanics suggestion. i have the invoice from the mechanic shop and the mechanic would gladly provide more details if needed. 2. this was scary ! while driving at 70 miles an hour on cruise,the car would not come out of cruise control and constantly accelerated even after trying to use brakes. (ideally when you first touch the brakes, the car should come out of cruise) once the car reached at a speed of 80 miles and i could not do anything. when the car was shut down abnormally, and restarted the issue continued and even when it was in neutral, it constantly raved up. i see other people have recently filed complains for this and expect the nhtsa to do something about it urgently as in my opinion it is a huge safety issue. the mechanic mentioned that the cruise control cable was stuck in the housing. currently the cruise control has been disconnected by my mechanic and i have bought a new cruise control cable from the dealer and hope to get it fixed soon, however expect the company to take care of both of the above issues.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the rear passenger side door latch fractured. the contact stated that the rear passenger side door was inoperable. the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 05v030000 (latches, locks, linkages). the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 136,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving 10 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 130,000.

While driving my 2002 ford focus about 45 mph vehicle suddenly accelerated up to 85 mph. i tried to reduce speed by stepping on the brakes still would not come to a complete stop i had to pull the emergence brake , steam was coming out of vehicle and turn the engine off but when i started it back up the engine is still revving up. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving at approximately 65 mph, an abnormal noise was heard and the vehicle seized without warning. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. the technician diagnosed that the rod bearing detached from the engine. as a result, the engine needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 125,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the rear driver side door only opened when moved left to right. the contact also stated that the door would not open when unlocked. the failures occurred on several occasions. the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 05v030000 (latches/locks/linkages). the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

Car would not shift correctly to 3rd or 4th gear. engine fuel light would appear. *js

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while replenishing the windshield washer fluid, the hood lid close without warning. the contact did not sustain any injuries. the vehicle was taken to a dealer. the technician diagnosed that the nut bushing deteriorated and needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified. the approximate vehicle failure mileage was 200,000. the vin number was unavailable.

Air bag light comes on blinks then stays on. *tr

Hatch switch failed .ghost electrical problem having wiper come on at times.wiring harness inside rubber boot located where hinges between hatch and vehicle body develope bare and broken wires. found this after checking all fuses and switches. this is apparently common as seen on you tube and seems to have been previously reported. please reply as to why there has been no recall. surely dealers have encountered this defect. like one individual said his dog could have flew out the rear going 70. not to mention fire.mine blew no fuses. *tr

Ever since i have had this car and since the warranty ran out in 2005, i have nothing but repairs. first, the radio needed to be replaces, then the brakes, then the locks on both doors and then the brakes again, high beam light never goes off, always on and now the radiator. this car is 12 years old, has less than 50,000 miles on it and it has been nothing but trouble. i live on a limited income and cannot afford all these repairs and ford could care less. if i ever buy another car, it will not be a ford. this is why the name stands for: fix or repair daily. i am not asking for money but if you want to throw some my way thanks and if not thanks. *tr

I simply want to know if my car is included in the current massive air bag recall. i already checked by vin number. however, i am not sure if i went through the current source of information regarding the current big airbag recall. thank you for your help. *tr

Ignition cylinder in steering column is frozen. key inserts but will not turn at all. cannot start the car, shift into neutral, etc. *tr

In tank electric fuel pump failure due to manufacturing defect failed and caused the car to stop dead. fortunately the driver had not as yet entered the moving traffic lane! ford knows there is a problem with this fuel pump and yet would rather spend millions in tv ads then repair or replace faulty safety hazard items in their products! just take a count of all the autos made by ford with this faulty fuel pump at an average dollar cost ( so far no lost or crippled lives) of $1000 per and determine that by not running one prime time halftime national football game ad they could easily repair all those vehicles, have a clear conscience about the safety of their product users and gain priceless value worth maybe 10 times the cost of the single ad? they did in fact allegedly issue an extended warranty for my 2002 ford focus that stated replace on failure up to 100,000 miles but alas they now deny this. i also wonder why an electric item would be submerged in a fuel cell and wonder why they have been so luckily as to not have any fuel tanks explode as of now? " my point" driving an auto that may stop running (without warning) due to a defective part should be (at the very least) repaired at company cost not passed on the owner who may have already survived a near death experience when their car died at 60 mph with semi trucks all around? not our case but next to worst case after tank explosion! just because it hasn't happened yet is no excuse to not take full responsibility for the repair. no part on any modern auto (due to normal use) should fail ( as if it had a clock built in) just past the 60,000 mile mark even if it took 12 years to reach the miles under the 36 month 60,000 mile so called factory warranty? *tr

Alternator pulling to much fire from the battery.

Car when warmed up and during intercity driving will randomly cut out when the accelerator is not depressed. car shuts off and becomes hard to steer and control. have almost been hit and no one can figure out what's wrong. it does this intermittently. also the car has the updated thermostat housing and the thermostat still tends to overheat. have contacted ford and call center employee did not seem too enthusiastic to help. offered to find me a ford dealer but not someone from their safety office. also, car had old style ignition cylinder which locked back in february. this seems to be a common problem... aftermarket have the same design. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that after starting the ignition the air bag light illuminated. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 60,000.

Even today, i never know when i can get a startup. the key does not catch right away. *tr

2002 ford focus zx5. brakes were replaced and first time it was drove there was a noise from front passenger wheel area. found the coil spring is moving and making popping noise. i googled the problem and found a lot of complaints about these springs breaking and damaging tires or causing accidents and that there had been a recall? trying to find out for my mom. this is her car but i am giving my contact info. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated while driving 50 mph, another vehicle made u-turn and crashed into the contact's vehicle. the air bags did not deploy and the seat belt did not properly restrain the driver of the vehicle. the contact was taken to a nearby emergency room to be treated with back, shoulder and neck injures. a police report was filed. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was destroyed. the failure mileage was 30,000.

The car vibrates; shakes. i was told by two auto repairman before i was aware of just what the problem was. it is now a little worse. i need to get it repaired soon and i will. i was hoping there is a recall on the mounts. i was told there was by adams street muffler in tallahassee. tallahassee ford says they have no recall. *tr

On 05/09/2014 at approximately 1750 hours i was traveling southbound on interstate 95 adjacent to mile marker 99 located near stuart, florida when i suddenly felt a very strong vibration and loud noise coming from the front right axle, immediately after the front right tire tread separated from the tire causing me to loose steering control of the vehicle. the vehicle eventually came to a full stop and upon further inspection on the shoulder it was revealed that the separation of the tire tread caused significant damages to the vehicle to include front right fender dents, braking ac refrigerant lines, front headlight assembly, side marker and the plastic cover that goes underneath the wheel well. the tire is described as a firestone fr380, 185/65r14 86s with dot e26l 38b 3110 a30. the vehicle was towed to a pep boys shop in jupiter, fl and the tire was taken to the tire plus store located in jupiter, fl to be exchanged. the tires were originally purchased and installed at tires plus on october, 2010 at 77,600 miles and overall the tire had less than 20,000 road miles when the entire tire tread separated. pictures of the tire are available upon request, thank you. *tr

On 05/09/2014 at approximately 1750 hours i was traveling southbound on interstate 95 adjacent to mile marker 99 located near stuart, florida when i suddenly felt a very strong vibration and loud noise coming from the front right axle, immediately after the front right tire tread separated from the tire causing me to loose steering control of the vehicle. the vehicle eventually came to a full stop and upon further inspection on the shoulder it was revealed that the separation of the tire tread caused significant damages to the vehicle to include front right fender dents, braking ac refrigerant lines, front headlight assembly, side marker and the plastic cover that goes underneath the wheel well. the tire is described as a firestone fr380, 185/65r14 86s with dot e26l 38b 3110 a30. the vehicle was towed to a pep boys shop in jupiter, fl and the tire was taken to the tire plus store located in jupiter, fl to be exchanged. the tires were originally purchased and installed at tires plus on october, 2010 at 77,600 miles and overall the tire had less than 20,000 road miles when the entire tire tread separated. pictures of the tire are available upon request, thank you. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving approximately 50 mph, another vehicle crashed into the contact’s vehicle from the front end. the air bags failed to deploy and the seat belt failed to provide restraint to the driver. the driver sustained unknown injuries which required medical attention. a police report was filed of the incident. the vehicle was destroyed and towed to the contact’s residence. the vehicle was not inspected to determine the cause of the air bag failure. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

Decklid wiring harness can fatigue and develop broken wires in the bend area of the hinge. similar to nhtsa recall id# 00v411000. consequences: this could result in either a loss of individual lamp functions, or in the case of a short of the broken wires that causes a fuse to open, in the loss of stop lamp or tail lamp function. loss of stop lamp or tail lamp function could increase the risk of a crash. *tr

Last inspection it was reported to inspect this year the crossmember/subframe needed to be replaced or car would not pass inspection researching this i've found several people complained about this also i saw recall of more suspension issues occurring now.. 40 k mileage it has last year had to replace sway bar because it let loose when i drove home puncturing my tire almost went into the river this night . *tr

I was driving on baker street in west roxbury, ma. i had the right of way when another driver in a 2010 lincoln mkx ran a stop sign and hit me. i was hit on the driver's side. the speed and force of the impact took out the entire front end of my car. my vehicle was dragged off baker street and into the intersection of baker and capital. the driver who hit me was driving at such a speed, that before stopping, they continued on, hitting a stop sign, taking it down and hitting another car, pushing it up onto the sidewalk into a telephone pole. this was an accident that totaled 3 vehicles - and - my airbags did not go off! i am writing because weeks after the accident my lower back and shoulders are still causing me a great deal of pain. and i called to report this incident to ford after reading this has happened many times to drivers/owners in 2002 ford focus's! ford told me their regional customer service manager ([xxx]) would be in touch in 1 day - and they would want to look at the vehicle . . . [xxx] has not been in touch and i have not heard a word from ford. i appreciate the problems of airbags going off when the should not, or going off unexpectedly - but if airbags do not go off when there is an impact there is a problem! if it happens once or twice it may be a fluke - this is not the case! airbag failure in the 2002 for focus is a reported problem by many - reported to you over and over - let there not be a death because you and ford did not do the right thing - check these vehicles - all of them! one life is too precious not to do what is clearly the right thing - do a recall! information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). *tr

Vehicle towed to ford dealer because it would not start. upon inspection, dealership found front sub frame completely rusted through. said it is "one pothole away from the engine falling out; totally unsafe to drive." rusting also caused corrosion in wires from ignition to starter, resulting in car not starting. this car was purchased brand new, has been garage kept, only driven 5,000 miles per year by elderly couple. obviously the metal used in sub frame was not properly coated. will cost thousands of dollars to fix, if it is deemed worth fixing! someone could have been seriously hurt or killed if this engine had indeed fallen out while in motion!

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, the engine ignited in flames without warning. the contact was able to exit the vehicle without injury. the fire department and the police department were called and both a police and fire report was filed. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to diagnose the cause of the failure. the vehicle was ruled as destroyed and was towed to the contact’s insurance agency for further investigation of the failure. the contact also mentioned that upon further research, he discovered that the cruise control wiring remained hot at all times and could have possibly been the cause of the fire. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 136,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving approximately 40 mph, the low oil warning indicator illuminated continuously on the instrument panel. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where a small amount of oil was added to the reservoir. later as the contact was driving an unknown speed, smoke emitted inside of the vehicle cabin. the vehicle then stalled and failed to be restarted. the vehicle was inspected by a certified mechanic, who informed the contact that the engine would needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the defect. the approximate failure mileage was 71,000.

When starting my car from my carport in the morning, the engine made a rattling, grinding noise. i had the vehicle towed to the ford dealership. they determined that the valve seat had dropped, damaging the cylinder head and two of the pistons. *js

While waiting at a construction site the engine died and would not start (the engine indicator lit). the brake lights, power windows, and rear hatch release also failed to function. the vehicle was towed and the personal mechanic reported the electrical harness to the rear hatch had failed where is passed between the body and the hatch door. the harness electrical insulation was cracked on the entire bundle of wires and shedding fragments causing some wires to short, the 15 amp fuse for the brake lights had evidence of heating, but did not blow, rather, wires leading to the brake pedal sensor, the 15 amp fuse, and along the harness back to the short in the rear wiring harness near the center brake light had discolored and were melted in some segments. ford customer service said to consult a ford service center to determine if there was a manufacturing defect. the ford service representative said he had seen this before and said it was not a manufacturing defect, rather it was a design defect that occurs after 10 years or more. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the rear passenger's side door could not be locked electronically or manually. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for inspection. the manufacturer advised the contact that the vehicle was not included in the nhtsa campaign number 05v030000 (latches/locks/linkages). the failure and current mileage was 181,000.

In 2004 ford issued a warranty extension on the front coil springs. this was called: customer satisfaction program 03m02. they knew the part has been incorrectly manufactured and the coil spring would break due to corrosion. the warranty was extended to 150,000 miles or 10 years. my coil spring broke on july 26 2013 when my car only had 56,193 miles but it was 11 years old. the ford dealer told me that the company would not pay for this repair. my complaint is that i think the ford motor company should pay for this repair and for the other front coil spring since the problem should have been a recall since the company knew the part had not been manufactured correctly. *tr

The motor on the sun roof and all of my windows went out the handle on door for the front passenger fell off the ,rear door on the passenger side on the inside just fell apart sometimes you can't open the door from the inside or the outside its like they freeze up and a day later they open (this is a huge safety issue ) sometimes my car just dies out and all of the panel goes blank like it just shuts down. *tr

Was driving my car when passenger side window shattered and covered my passenger with glass.window was in halfway between up and down position. no evidence of anything thrown at window and passenger was not messing with window in any way. no injury to this passenger. almost caused an accident. window was repaired and replaced at my expense and a month later it happened a second time in a drive-thru. my window shattered again when the passenger went to roll up the window with the automatic switch and it covered him in glass and his hand was cut. *tr

I have owned this vehicle for five years and at about 180,000 miles i noticed that my rear driver door would not latch. both rear doors stick and have been difficult to open. however, at about 180,000 miles the door latch stopped working completely. i had to wrap the seat belt around the door to keep it from opening while driving. after doing some research online i found that there is a recall on the 2002 ford focus door latches. i scheduled an appointment with my local ford dealership but when they ran my vin# they informed me that my car was not part of the recall. even though i was experiencing the same issue that led to the recall they told me that i would have to pay to have the car repaired. they referred me to the ford customer service line and after spending 45 minutes on the phone i was told to keep me receipts in case they issue a recall in the future. i am extremely disappointed that ford didn't offer to fix my car knowing that there was a recall on other cars that are the same year, make, and model. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving 45 mph, the vehicle made a rattling noise and the contact noticed that the steel valve seat had become separated from the vehicle and dropped into the combustion chamber. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not notified. the approximate failure mileage was 187,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the passenger side rear door latch malfunctioned and the door would not latch. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer. the manufacturer was notified of the failure and stated that the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 05v030000 (latches/locks/linkages). the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure and current mileage was 110,000. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving approximately 10 mph, the vehicle stalled with the illumination of the check engine warning light illuminated. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. the approximate failure mileage was 47,000 and the current mileage was 48,804. *tr

Having interminent electrical issues. would start up and run fine for a period of time, then the 2002 ford focus would just stop running. as time passed the issue grew worse, now the focus will not run at all. the dealership coud not duplicate the problem and could not fix it. *tr

Ford dealership in woodruff, wi replaced front right drive axle and seal 4 times before they got it right and the leak stopped. this initial leak was found by the owner after the car was taken in for a full check upon purchasing indicating the dealership did not inspect the car as they stated and were paid to do. the same day after getting the car back for the last time shifting problems began to occur and i had to replace the overdrive solenoid because the car would not shift into overdrive. this solved that problem but now the car shudders between 40-50 mph as if it is shifting back and forth between gears. nothing shows up on a diagnostic check, may be expensive torque converter problem. a large number of posts on the inernet show transmission problems and solenoids are a common problem with ford focus cars and unfortunately some people are led to believe they need a new transmission which they have replaced probably due to misdiagnosis and at a huge unnecessary expense. *tr

Vehicle runs fine when we go into school/business or what ever we park and come out and the vehicle does not start, after 1/2 hour to an hour the vehicle starts and no problems. it turns over but does not fire. new battery did not change it. tune up by a certified mechanic did not fix issue, plug it into a test machine no codes given. this does not happen all the time, every once in a while. issue is that a young lady drives the vehicle, if she is stuck in the wrong parking lot who knows what can happen. god forbid. *tr

This is our first year driving this focus in the snow, we bought it in 2011. we had a snow fall on 11/1/2012 and we took the car out for a drive. any speed above 35 mph and the rear of the car floats (wiggles) back and forth up to a foot. it is completely unstable on snow or ice. i did some research online, and ford apparently knows the problem,: defective rear upper control arms, since they did a silent recall on these in 2006. nhtsa should investigate this since there are many more focus out there like ours, and ford should have to recall and replace the control arms on all of these units from 2000-2004. i have over 35 years of winter driving experience and i have never had a vehicle (even the old rear wheel drive models) behave so dangerously on snow and ice, even with all season tires on it. i contacted ford motor company and they said there is nothing they have to do since the car is out of warranty. here is an attached article i found on line. october 03, 2006 ford motor company told dealers that they may need to replace the rear upper control arms on ford focus models. the models include: 2000 through 2004 focus sedan, wagon, zx3 and zx5 series. ford will check the rear camber and, if possible, make an adjustment. if an adjustment to the vehicle's rear camber is necessary beyond the negative end of specification, then the dealership will need to source replacement rear upper control arm(s)." this is considered a "silent recall" where upon ford may not notify owners of this condition. . *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving approximately 50 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. the vehicle was shifted into park and the contact attempted to restart the vehicle but to no avail. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. the mechanic stated that the engine would have to be replaced due to oil leaking into the engine. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised that the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 94,312 and the current mileage was 94,312.

I own a 2002 ford focus zx3 with a very low mileage of 45226. on october 12th friday, i drove my car to the university, (~2 miles from my home) and parked for a few minutes. then i started driving toward the commuter parking lot. however, 30 seconds later, a huge ?continuous knocking? sound came out from the engine followed by white smoke. then i saw a very large amount of engine oil spill, down the road. since i could no longer drive the car, i had to get it towed to the nearest garage. the mechanic concluded that one of the piston rods have been broken and spiked the engine oil sump. he was clueless about seeing such a mechanical failure from a low mileage, well-maintained car. most surprisingly, there were three other ford focus cars with similar engine failures/defects. for a small university town, four cars with similar defects is not a normal issue. the main reason for this complaint because i had to go through a life threatening situation. the continuous knocking and wobbling that occurred for a speed of 18mph, i could only imagine what would have happened if i had been on the highway, 55+ mph. there has to be a defect or else this would have not happened to a well maintained car with regular oil changes, wheel alignments...etc. *tr

The design of the cup holders in the front seat, with the big opening on the sides, is a major flaw. while making a turn, whether sharp or normal, a drink can easily tip out of the cup holder, and fall onto the ground of the car. when i made a right turn, my normal sized water bottle flew out of the cup holder, due to the opening, and started rolling around on the ground. had i not picked up the bottle, or noticed it flew out, it could have easily become lodged between the brake and / or gad pedals and caused a major accident. *tr

Ignition key will not turn - car will not start. *tr

Battery cables shorted out causing small fire on battery cables and melting on both battery cables. *tr

I drove my ford focus about 6 miles to a stop light. when it turned green, i pressed the gas. the car stalled like it was out of gas, regained partial power, and displayed the airbag light. it made it to the next stoplight, and i pulled it over to the side and turned it off and removed the key. at that point a plume of white smoke shot out of the driver's side hood. i told my son to get out because i knew the car was on fire. we walked away, and as we did, the amount of smoke increased exponentially. within minutes, the front end of the car was totally engulfed in flames. the windshield shattered and melted, the hood was charred and black, the plastic parts of the fenders and bumpers melted away, and part of the body metal burned away on the hood and the fenders. everything under the hood was melted, distorted, or otherwise destroyed. i kept the car very well maintained, making sure to fix everything that was ever wrong with it immediately upon discovery. i kept up on all oil changes. it is perplexing that a car which is so well kept would spontaneously self-ignite, however there have been accounts of fires in the ford focus since 2000, and many since. now i have added one more. the car, obviously, is a total loss. *tr

This car was purchased new by grandma. she sold it to her grandson this year. it is "like new" and was always kept in an enclosed garage. it has had dealer servicing. the last 10,000 miles it has intermittently failed to maintain an idle. when coming to a stop the car will often die. we took it to the dealer twice and an independent shop once - everyone thought it was the fueling/emission system but there were no error codes and it was difficult to diagnose but because it only happened on occasion. then the overdrive solenoid failed and gave an error code. by replacing the solenoid the idle problems stopped. my mechanic has a theory - the overdrive solenoid will start to fail without giving an error code, during this period the torque converter will occasionally stay locked-up in overdrive, thus the car when just idling can't overcome the transmission resistance and not idle properly or stop running, which ours did. many dollars were wasted on fuel system checks and cleanings.before we found the answer - it was also very dangerous. this part is very small and appears to be poorly made. ford forums show it will fail again and again. *tr

The front sub frame on my 2002 ford focus zts was completely rusted through and unable to support the front suspension. i also had my car inspected by a ford dealer who passed it and told me nothing about how destroyed my sub frame was. when i took it to a mechanic they told me it was so bad i shouldn't be driving the vehicle. the bolts where even rusted out of the sub frame. its believed that this also caused my motor mounts to have to be replaced. cause such bad vibration that it ruined all my shocks, struts, and all 4 of my tires. the tires where only 5 months old and are destroyed. *tr

The front subframe structure on my 2002 ford focus is rusted so badly that it no longer supports the front suspension it was designed to support no other it on this vehicle is as rusted as the very important part. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 25 mph, the contact drove over a speed bump and heard a popping sound coming from the front of the vehicle. the contact stopped the vehicle and noticed that the front driver and passenger side coil springs were fractured. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. the technician stated that the coil and strut assembly would have to be replaced. the vehicle was repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 113,800.

Key would not turn in the ignition lock cylinder. ignition key could be inserted all the way into the lock cylinder, but key would not turn forwards or backwards to either engage the starter or turn on accessories. tried moving the steering wheel to free up the cylinder and made sure the car was in park to try and turn the cylinder. nothing. was told by the aaa mechanic that this is a common issue with early model year ford focuses. the issue, per the aaa tow truck operator could be temporarily resolved by using some wd40 on the key and a couple of quick taps to the key while in the lock cylinder. this fix did not work at this time. had to have my car towed to the dealer since this was not a fix i could make on my own (i could replace the cylinder myself, but the car's passive alarm would need to be re-set by the dealer). resulting charge was $378.50 for a part i could have fixed for $60-70. my lock cylinder needed to be re-keyed by the local ford dealer. safety issue: could have been stranded. car failure occurred on very cold day. *js

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 65 mph, the contact heard a popping noise on the front passenger side of the vehicle. after coming to a stop the contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that the front passenger side coil spring was fractured. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. in addition, the contact mentioned a manufacturer’s recall for the failure. the manufacturer stated that the recall had already expired. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 115,900.

The front subframe is rusted through and has a hole about 8" wide. scary that this holds the vehicles steering system and the entire front of the vehicle together. how many people will need to get hurt? how many cars will fall apart before something is done? why recall the windstar and not the focus? *js

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the check engine light illuminated and the vehicle stalled. the contact was able to coast the vehicle onto the shoulder of the road. the vehicle was successfully restarted, but the gear selector would not shift. the vehicle was then towed to a local repair shop, who performed a diagnostic test which discovered that the transmission gear pin was corroded. the vehicle was repaired. the failure and current mileages were 98,750.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact attempted to start the ignition numerous times however, the ignition key failed to turn in any direction. the key was eventually released from the ignition switch. the contact planned to have the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic for diagnosis and repair. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 115,000.

I have a 2002 ford focus zts and the truck latch and locking mechanism is not working. the trunk won't stay latched. i brought my car to a ford dealership but they said they would replace it for $314. i can't afford that now. i asked if it was under recall and they said that they always check on recalls first. when i looked up the item on line it did have a recall. what can i do to solve this problem? *tr

While using a highway on ramp, i heard a popping sound. i've been getting a rattle for a few weeks. i looked underneath today. the pass side rear coil spring is broken at the top. the dr. side rear coil spring is broken off at the bottom. i drive mostly highway, 10 miles a day back and forth to work, so i don't understand how both rear coil springs would break. my fronts were replaced a few years ago by ford dealer when they broke. this seems like a problem if all 4 coil springs break off the same vehicle. *tr

Failed to retract to the ratchet. left with loose non functional lengthy belt not protecting me from possible crash. *tr

I had my 81 yearold mother with me, i turned off the car and when i tried to start it the key would not turn. it was not until 5 days later that my mechanic son in law was able to look at it and tell me the problem and that a ford garage had to fixit. their prices vary from 350.00 to 450.00 to replace my ignition switch assembly. it is a 48.00 part. ford refuses to recall because they claim it is not a safety issue. it is if someone has a heart attack or a stroke because of the stress of being stranded in the middle of nowhere or because it is over 100 degrees and you can't walk to a phone or turn on the air conditioner. not everyone has a cell phone. it is covered under warranty but the problem does not occur until it is out of warranty and it has to be repaired every time by ford. it is a safety hazard especially for the elderly. *tr

The car rear-ended a truck, slid under the truck, and crushed the whole front end. the hood was shoved into the windshield and none of the air bags deployed. the car was deemed totaled. this is the second 2002 ford focus we have owned. both were in accidents (our other was in an accident, salvaged, and in an accident again) and all three times none of the air bags deployed. after doing some research, i found that the 2001 ford focuses had problems with early deployment from the air bags. perhaps ford overcompensated for the next year's model? wonder if the 2002 ford focuses should be recalled? *tr

Black ice was hit and the car slid over a thirty-foot embankment. air bags did not deploy and the car was considered totaled. the second accident took place with the same car, which had been salvaged after the first accident. hit black ice again, flipped on its side, and rolled. again, the air bags did not deploy. the entire side and roof were demolished and the car was not salvageable this time. this is the second 2002 ford focus we have had--both were in accidents, and in all three accidents, both cars were totaled and no airbags were deployed. wondering if these cars should be recalled? after doing some research on ford focuses, i found that the 2001 ford focuses had a problem with the airbags. they would deploy at the slightest impact. can't help if ford didn't overcompensate for the problem in the next year's model? *tr

Cylinder head valve seat failure. approx 1/2 of the valve seat fell into combustion chamer (between piston and head).. this caused piston to break and rod to go through cylinder wall but not through block outer wall and causing coolant to get into oil. being a ford tech, i have seen damage caused by valve seats in cylinders 1,2,&4. it's always a intake valve seat. also always and only on sohc motor. have seen this happen and as early as 60k miles. *tt

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus ztw. the contact was driving 25 mph and crashed into another vehicle when the air bags failed to deploy.the driver side seat belt extended outward and failed to secure properly. the crashed caused one injury and a police report was filed. the vehicle was taken to a private mechanic and the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileages were 59,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while parked, the vehicle ignited into flames. the fire department extinguished the massive flames and informed the contact that the fire originated within the battery. the vehicle was declared as destroyed. the manufacturer was made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 96,000.

The motor on the sun roof went out while the vehicle was still under warranty i had it fixed then after the warranty expired it went out again and i couldn't afford to get it fixed, the motor for the rear windows went out (both passenger sides) the front passenger door does not lock because the motor went out, and know the drivers side window is starting to make a noise like it going to go out also and the door lock is making noise like its going to go out. this is a huge safety issue first of all when carrying small children in the back and another safety issue with the doors not locking makes it much easier for someone to car jack you. i have never had a vehicle that the electric windows and doors and the moon roof went out this has to be a defect i have gone to the dealership to complain after the warranty had expired and i was told that there are no recalls and they can't help me unless i pay. i can't even lock the door using a key because it doesn't work. *tr

While idling, my car is turning off. it also does so when attempting to accelerate after shifting the car from p to d. initially the gas cap light on the dashboard signaled. i replaced the cap, and the check engine light was illuminated afterwards. now, the car is turning off completely while idling and only the check engine light is lit. *tr

Without warning the engine blew! i service my auto like i'm suppose to and this happens. by looking online i see i'm not the only one. try finding a engine for this car is so expensive that it's ridiculous! that let me know i'm not alone! i can't believe the going rate for this car's engine is $1700! so now i'm stuck with a piece of junk costing me $3500 to get it fixed only to wait until the next shoe falls!! *tr

Fuel pump started to cause car to stutter, stall, completely die. has stalled out on interstate in heavy traffic, in the middle of busy afternoon 4-lane traffic; both times barely making it of traffic and being hit by oncoming traffic w/children in the car! car manufacture date is 09/01 in mexico. had fuel pump replace and has failed both times, cost is too expensive for me! already paid over$1000 for parts and labor! no recalls on this car regarding the fuel system or the ignition switch locking up!!! i have seen more and more of these 2 problems with the early ford focus, why hasn't something been done yet??????? *tr

Blew the fuse from my fuel pump upon start up of car, needed fuse replaced and got the car to start. however, the fuse would continue to blow, therefore need new fuel pump and filter. tried to replace the pump with an after market part and it wouldn't fit properly, meaning i need a new expensive pump. *kb

After 2 complaints to dealer about rear brake vibration/noise, they found noting wrong. on our trip going down interstate 40 at 70 mph the back wheel comes off my car. the wheel and hub are broken,cuts the brake line and i lose my brake fluid. no brakes and trying to keep it out of the ditch. if there would of been a car on the side of me. i am positive there would have been injury/death. had extended warranty. ford paid 0. said i hit something in road. now at the repair shop again. the wheel bearings on the rear are frozen . i have to buy new drums for both side again. *tr

2002 ford focus. consumer writes in regards to denial of reimbursement *tgw the consumer stated in may 2011, the right front spring fractured. the vehicle was towed to a local repair shop where both the left and front spring/strut assemblies were replaced. the consumer learned ford had issued a technical service bulletin advising dealers that certain focus vehicles including his were susceptible to front spring fracture failures due to inadequate corrosion protection. the consumer was denied reimbursement, because he did not take his vehicle to a ford dealer for repairs. *jb

Car was running funny for about a week. leaving a store parking lot. i pulled out on the highway and car started missing real bad and stalled. would not start back up. i had it towed to the garage and was told after they looked at it that it needed a new fuel delivery system or fuel pump and stuff. another known issue by ford motor company,but not for my ford focus. the guy i pulled out on probably thought idiot. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while attempting to accelerate from a complete stop, the vehicle suddenly lost all power without warning. the vehicle was taken to a private mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with a failed timing belt. the contact was awaiting repairs. the dealer advised the contact to notify the manufacturer of the failure. the manufacturer was contacted but offered no assistance since there were no recalls for the vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 110,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while stopped, he heard a snapping noise and the rear passenger window dropped down into the door panel. the contact examined the vehicle himself and noticed that a plastic mechanism within the door panel was broken, causing the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 90,000.

Key will not turn in the ignition, thereby preventing the car from starting. *tr

My 2002 ford focus wagon needed brakes because the front end would shake when i applied brakes. also noticed a whirling noise from the back off car but did not mention that to my mechanic. he took it for a test drive and asked if i noticed the whirling noise too. he said he was concerned and checked that 1st. my right rear tire was frozen and not turning, that's where the noise was coming from. it had to be cut off in order to be replaced. he told me that the wheel could have broke off while driving and could have killed me, i had that repaired, along with front end brakes and replaced warped rotors. then just 2 days later backed out of my driveway and broke a front right coil spring. a year later replaced the alternator. and last week just had to pay for a rebuilt transmission, because would not shift properly, upon observation the transmission had metal chips in transmission fluid and needed to be replaced. i cant believe no recall on this car!

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact was driving approximately 5 mph, the engine stalled without warning. the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent where the engine restarted. the technician was unable to duplicate the problem. the similar failure recurred; although the engine restarted. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who stated the fuel pump would need to be replaced. there was a recall related to the failure under nhtsa campaign id number 03v482000 (fuel system, gasoline). the vin was not included in the recall. the vehicle had not been repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the defect. the approximate failure mileage was 49,728.

2002 focus, stalling out at high speed with no warning. when it happens it's like trying to drive a car without a battery. nothing works. happened 10 times in a car with less than 70k miles. we replaced fuel pump, fuel filters, coil, spark plugs and wires, and car will not stay running. keeps stalling. how many complaints before this model is recalled. someone is going to die at some point since the car cannot be controlled by the driver when this phenomenom occurs. ford says there is no known problem with this model. i shouldn't have to replace a fuel pump on a car with less than 70kon it. ford did change the fuel delivery module for other years but says the problem was not on 2002 model. obviously they changed it for a reason. this model needs to be recalled and have the "new" fuel delivery module installed. *tt

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated both front coil springs broke. during routine tire maintenance the mechanic stated the coil springs were broken. the manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 160,000.

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the wires on top of the fuel pump started to melt. as a result, the vehicle would intermittently surge forward and stall without warning. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the melting wires were causing the failure. the failure mileage was 132,000 and the current mileage was 154,000.

Vehicle failed to start after completing a 30 minute drive and being turned off for about 5 minutes. clicking noises like starter failing to engage or low battery ensued. when hood was lifted and battery cover removed and cables and connections were inspected, it was observed that the positive cable off the back of the positive battery harness was exposed, the insulation being almost completely melted. the exposed wires showed signs of fraying and burning. after attempting to jump start the vehicle about 3 times and waiting about 20 minutes, the vehicle started. the vehicle was driven about 20 miles to a service station and inspected by their mechanics. it was decided for safety reasons(fire hazard) to leave vehicle. in 45 years i have never known a battery cable to melt even though i have had bad connections, corroded terminals and harness to the battery and even bad starters. all of the above reasons were the only solutions offered to me.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the rocker panel on the driver side of the vehicle was rusted. an authorized dealer was notified and the contact was informed that they would not repair the vehicle because parts were unavailable. the dealer also stated that the failure was a manufacturers defect which had since been corrected. the vehicle was then taken to an independent repair shop where the contact was again informed that parts were unavailable. the repair shop also stated that junk yards were not using parts from older vehicles because the part was known to have rusting issues. the failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 58,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated the rear bearings seized and needed to be replaced six times. on one occasion the contacts rear passenger wheel broke off causing the contact to replace the control arm. the dealer did not diagnose the failure, but stated the failure occurred frequently with that model year vehicle. the failure mileage was 60,000 and the current mileage was 85,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that while driving 60 mph the engine dropped down onto the drive shaft. the vehicle was pulled over and towed home. an independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and the contact was informed that the bolts for the engine mount fractured due to corrosion. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 88,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that whenever she would downshift or brake to a complete stop, the vehicle would stall without warning. the fuel filter, engine coil pack and spark plugs were replaced but to no avail. the contact experienced the failure at least three times. the manufacturer was contacted and advised that there were no recalls on the vehicle and referred the contact to the local dealer. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 113,000.

Tl - the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the vehicle was equipped with tires manufactured by falcon, size 205-50-r16, tire line ziex, dot v43v, and serial number 4m9r4509. the contact stated while inspecting the tires there was evidence that the side walls were cracked. the tires were not replaced. the manufacturer was not contacted regarding the defective tires. the failure and current miles were 19,000. rk

Went to leave work yesterday and the key won't turn at all in my 2002 ford focus. after a quick internet search, it seems to be a huge problem and consistent failure on fords part...but they refuse to issue a recall. from what i've read, the dealership charges $350-450 to replace this part, and they replace it with the same faulty designed part that was causing the problem in the first place! *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the passenger side coil spring fractured while driving 5 mph. the vehicle was still drivable and was driven to a dealer. the dealer advised that the sway bar, strut mounts and the links had also fractured as a result of the failure. the coil springs were covered under a voluntary recall that was issued, but they declined to repair the other components. the failure mileage was approximately 135,000. the vin was not available. updated 06/29/11*lj updated 2/07/2012 *ln *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to diagnose the problem. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure and the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 83,000 and current mileage was 89,000. updated 6/8/11 *cn the consumer believed the stalling was due to a clogged fuel pump. updated 06/15/11

Rightrear door lock is stuck in locked position. it is not possible to unlock the door. this is dangerous situation in case of an accident, passengers will not b able to exit the vehicle. if passenger is a child on car sit, it is not possible to open the door to remove child from car. with door in locked position, emergency teams will not be able to open the door to remove passenger in case of accident. *tr

I have a 2002 and a 2003 ford focus the automatic door locks don`t work property the locks will shut and open on there own as of now i can`t open the driver side door the locks have shut in an inbetween position.i have to crawl over the console to get out the passenger door.it will not let me open the door form the outside either the locks are like in an inbetween position.this has been going on for both of my focus for a long time i have called ford and they say they don`t have a problem with this. my mechanic friend says they get alot of calls about ford focus lock problem,my brother has a focus and has had the same problem. *tr

I have had my 2002 ford focus for 2 months. the key has always gave me problems with not wanting to turn. today though i went to go to my college classes and the key will not turn at all. i have tried to get it to turn for 2 hours. untill i said [xxx] it before i break the key and that i had already missed my class that i couldn't miss because of a test. now i get a zero. i like ford vehicles but if they cant even fix a small igntion defect for thier customers[xxx] ford. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). *tr

At 69,411 miles my 2002 ford focus battery cable was defective and had to be replaced. there were battery cable recalls on other ford focuses for this problem that caused fires. of course ford would not pay for mine. *tr

My 2002 ford focus has a plastic grommet that holds the base of the hood prop in place. this is a engineering defect, because our grommet broke and the hood fell on my husband and i. i ordered the part from the parts department at the dealer and was surprised it was a $5.00 part that i am sure will break again over time. in fact all new focuses have this cheap $5.00 part. i hope no child is ever near the hood when it breaks. most cars have metal bases for the hood prop that swivel and last a lifetime. i plead with somebody out there to get ford to take responsibility for this. i tried. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the driver side rear door latch malfunctioned and the door would not latch. the contact had to use tape in order for the door to remain closed. the vehicle was inspected by a dealer who advised her that she would have to replace the entire door. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 110,000. updated 06/24/11 *bf updated 06/30/11. *jb

On march 17, 2011, my 2002 ford focus suddenly stalled out as i was accelerating uphill, turning right on a ramp to enter a busy highway. fuel tank was about ¼. i restarted the engine a couple times, but it stalled out again after a few seconds. it was potentially a dangerous situation, but luckily i was able to roll the car back downhill to a safer location. (later i learned that an identical scenario is described in ford dealer letter 03n01, in which ford agrees to replace fuel delivery modules for 2000 and 2001 models, but not 2002.) i had the car towed to a ford dealer, but they were not able to look at it till the next morning, at which time the car started fine. ford ran many tests, including electrical and mechanical, took it out for 3 ¿ 4 test drives and could not find a problem. they charged $150 for the diagnostic labor. this car has done this every year now for the past 3 years. similar, but not identical, stalls occurred on march 16, 2009, march 10, 2010 and march 17, 2010. each time, i had to have the car towed. locations were different, so it was always a different shop. none of them were able to look at it right away, and by the time they looked at it the next day, they could not find the problem. however, each one charged about $150 labor. those 3 incidents also required a new 15 amp fuse for the fuel pump, perhaps because of the repeated unsuccessful efforts to restart the car after it stalled. this year, i stopped trying to restart after 4 unsuccessful efforts. the fuse did not blow this year. in between these stallouts, usually exactly one year apart, the engine has started and run smoothly, with no indication of problems. each time a stall has happened, the car has worked fine the next day, without any addition of fuel. this indicates that it is not a problem with the quality or quantity of fuel in the tank. the only explanation that i can see for these unpredictable failures is a defect in the fuel delivery system. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 60 mph, the contact heard an abnormal banging from the rear of the vehicle. the failure would occur when driving at various speeds. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for inspection. the contact inspected the vehicle and discovered that the rear passenger side trailing arm was fractured and striking against the brake line. the vehicle was repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 35,000. updated 04/05/11*lj updated 04/05/11

I have a 2002 ford focus zx5. the front passenger side door lock actuator is seized in the locked position. there are no alternative ways to open this door. this results in a serious safety issue if the passenger is not able to exit the vehicle in an emergency. there was no warning before this happened and appears to be permanent. the actuator must be removed and replaced at a cost of approximately $400.00. *tr

Two nights ago i drove my 2002 ford focus zx3 to a nearby bank to use the walk-up atm. since it was after business hours, i parked along a curb, but not in a parking space. i used the atm and upon returning to the car, my key refused to turn in the ignition cylinder. it was as if all of the sudden my key was the wrong key for the vehicle. since i was not in a parking spot, i put on my hazard lights and ran a half mile to my home to retreive my spare key. upon returning, i found that it did not work either. no matter what i tried, the key would not turn in the ignition cylinder. i wanted to get the car to a parking space so i put the car (a manual transmission) into neutral and began pushing it forward. the steering wheel was locked, and because i could not move the key, i had two options - move the car straight forward, or move the car straight back. i moved the car forward to a slightly better spot, but could not maneuver it into a true parking spot. i called for a tow truck since the car would surely be towed at the start of business hours the next day. when the tow truck operator arrived he told me he had seen this problem before in fords, and said that i was lucky to have a manual transmission, otherwise he would likely not be able to tow it (it was a flatbed tow truck). i had him tow the car to a local ford dealership. that night i looked up information online and found that many fords 2000-2003 have had this problem - some people even said the key would get stuck in the ignition. the next day the dealership informed me that there were no recalls on the key cylinder issue, but that they would fix the problem for $501.56. i saw no alternative and had them put in a new ignition cylinder and issue 2 new keys. the dealer kept the old parts (old ignition cylinder and keys). the new ignition cylinder appears to be working fine (but keep in mind the old one appeared to be working fine as well before malfunctioning). *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus ls. while driving 35 mph, the contact stated that the vehicle would not steer and the steering wheel locked. after stopping the vehicle and inspecting the problem, he noticed the left strut spring collapsed. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer had been notified. the failure mileage was 38,000.

Corrosion of the front coil spring, the spring failed at the point of the corrosion, damage to the fender resulted. partial loss of steering control, crash averted. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact attempted to start the vehicle but the key would not turn within the ignition switch. the vehicle was towed to the residence. the authorized dealer was notified and they informed that the ignition switch would need to be replaced. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure mileage was 59,000.

While driving, the spark plugs eject from the block. this is dangerous and can cause an engine fire. this problem has apparently been reported to ford, but they claim nothing can be done until they receive a certain amount of complaints. this is not normal wear and tear. the spark plugs have been replaced four times along with the coil. this is unacceptable and inconvenient and ford needs to remedy this issue everyone is having with their vehicles. *tr

I bought a 2002 ford fozus zx3 with automatic transmission in the fall of 2010. i found myself having trouble with the ignition key not turning once inserted into the ignition cylinder. this occurred quite frequently (approximately once every two weeks) and i had to play with the steering wheel and the key for at least five minutes every time. i did not consider it to be a substantial problem until last night. i was at my friend's apartment and around 1:30 am i decided to leave. i got in my car, inserted the key in the ignition and could not turn it at all and the steering wheel was locked. i was in my friend's driveway for about a half hour, trying everything i could possibly think of to get the steering wheel to unlock and the key to turn. i engaged the gear release and manually put the car into neutral, i blew on the ignition with my hand cupped over it, as i thought this issue may have been caused due to the cold weather. i locked and unlocked the doors, because i thought it may have been a safety feature. after a half hour of effort with no results i had to call my parents and ask them to come pick me up, both of them had to work in the morning and my 62 year old father had to get out of bed, and come get me at 2 in the morning in the middle of jan. i was ten minutes from my house, but every other time this has happened i've been approximately 30 minutes from my house or more. this has been a major disappointment and cause for concern, especially since my family and i have grown to trust and depend on ford vehicles. my oldest brother's first car was a mustang, my other brother's first car was a thunderbird and he now drives and escape. my father currently drives a ranger, my mother's last vehicle was a windstar, and my first car was an explorer. it served me well and when i had the opportunity to buy another ford i didn't have to think twice, but this latest experience has made me seriously second guess what i had thought to be an american name i could trust. *ln

(2002 ford focus se) has auto locking doors now these doors sometimes stay lock press all buttons and not a thing happens.now sometimes i can be inside the car 5-7 minutes pressing the release buttons but the doors wont open. one problem is that this type of doors is all power operated and they don't have manual release latch. please note in a emergency if this happens no one would be able to get out of the car without having something to break the glass. these door should have a manual release latch when the power fails. this keeps on happening very often. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. when the vehicle stopped it began to shake. the failure recurred whenever the vehicle stopped. approximately one month later a check engine light began illuminating on the dashboard. the vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop where the contact was told that the engine was misfiring. the contact was later told that the failure was within the transmission. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 98,200 and the current mileage was 101,000. the vin was unavailable.

On nov 12, 2010 my car would not start. i had to have my vehicle towed on nov 13,2010. per the tow truck driver the reason why my vehicle would not start was because of a defective ignition part. later that night on nov 13, 2010 my vehicle once again began to work. i called the local ford dealership service department to inquire if the was any recalls pertaining to this part. they told me no. again on nov 17, 2010 the problem began again. i did not drive the car for several days until nov 20, 2010. today dec 1, 2010 i was left stranded due to my car not starting again. this is a safety concern for me because i have spoken with several mechanics as well as tow truck drivers who all have informed me that recently many ford focus vehicles they have either worked on or towed have all had the same problem as mine. as of now i will have to pay all costs out of pocket for these repairs for a well known defective part that the ford company refuses to put a recall on the vehicles that are affected by this problem. this company needs to own up to this problem that is a huge safety concern!!! *tr

Complete ignition lock failure. can not turn key in ignition to start the car. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that when the key was in the ignition, it would not turn the engine on. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who replaced the cylinder and the key switch at the contacts expense. the manufacturer was contacted who offered no assistance with the failure. the vehicle was being repaired by the dealer. the failure mileage was 22,000. updated 1/21/11 *cn the key would not turn the ignition. the dealer replaced the ignition lock cylinder updated 04/18/11

Engine stalls when starting the car cold and when stopped at a long light. have taken it to the dealer several times and was told that they cannot identify any problems. problem has been present for last 6 years and is getting progressively worse. have changed battery and fuel filter but problem remains. *tr

Two cars collided. one was heading east the other heading north. the car heading north's airbags did not deploy. it was not hit head on, however, the front does have substantial damage and the airbags should have deployed. as a consequence, the driver experienced unnecessary internal damages and injuries. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus zx5 wagon, the brake lights stay on constantly while i'm driving, regardless if i'm pressing on the brake or not. this is a huge safety problem as the brake lights are no longer functional if they are constantly on. there seems to be a recall on the 2000 ford focus on a decklid wire harness, however this should be expanded to cover all the ford focus hatchbacks/wagons as the problems are still evident beyond the 2000 year. i've had this problem since august 2010 and now september 2010 i've finally found the problem to be the exact problem as the recall in the year 2000 models. there should be an investigation on this issue, it's very dangerous to be driving with the brake lights on at all times. this defect needs to be recalled asap. *tr

I have 2002 ford focus the ignition or starter is giving me problem the car want start at times i get stranded sometimes it takes over five minutes to get started. *tr

Key won't turn in the ignition of my 2002 ford focus -- it's locked. *tr

My ford focus left tire fell off because of the wheel bearing breaking. with no warning or noise my tire detached during driving. my tire was found 40 yards away with the lugs nuts still attached to the outside of the drum brake. police report was filed. *tr

The check engine light came on suddenly on my 2002 ford focus. immediately, i took it to the ford dealership. the technician couldn't find a problem , the check engine light wouldn't come on. therefore, nothing could be done. they didn't understand why. within in week, the engine light came back on. this time there was a miss in the engine and it was running rough. now, the ford dealership mechanic told me my focus se had a dropped valve and in the #4 cylinder. inorder to fix the problem, the head of the engine had to be removed to see if the dropping of the valve had caused serious damage to the engine. because the scheduled required maintenance,i.e oil changes, according to ford instructions for my ford focus, i thought the engine would last. after this event, i became curious about ford focus' engines. was this an isolated mechanical flaw? or was it an engine defect? from my research, this type engine failure appears to be from a defect in the design of the 2.0 liter efi spi type of engines. for years, i thought the ford focus was a great product to have because of its reliability, if you complied with scheduled maintenance of the vehicle. it appears that i was wrong. the cost of repair for a well-maintain focus engine $6000.00. there is a pattern to these engine failures. should the 2002 focus be recalled for engine defects? all i know is that quality well-maintain engines shouldn't have dropped valves for no apparent reason. so, it must be some type of engines design defect. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated she was unable to start the vehicle and it was towed to a local repair facility. the mechanic found that the valve seat had fractured and caused the piston skirt to fracture along with the connecting rod. in addition, the failure caused cylinder scoring. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer would not provide any assistance. the current and failure mileages were approximately 87,000. updated 11/23/10*jb

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated the battery warning light and the entire dashboard lighting began to abnormally flicker on and off. the alternator warning light also illuminated and the vehicle then stalled. the contact believed there to be a short in the system but the vehicle was not taken in for diagnostic testing. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 66,939.

The hood prop (holder) broke and fell and the hood fell on our heads. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus se and for the past three weeks we've been forced to "entice" our key into the ignition and to turn in the ignition to start the car. finally, today, 07/25/2010, we had to leave it while visiting a friend because it would not start, no matter what we did. we will be towing it and fixing the problem and, through research, we have came to the conclusion that it would cost $300+ to do so. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving 5 to 10 mph, she heard a loud banging noise. she drove onto the emergency lane to inspect the vehicle and noticed that the front axle looked as if it was going to break. she safely drove the vehicle to her residence. the dealer inspected the vehicle and stated that there was nothing wrong with it. the failure continued to occur and it was inspected by the dealer again. the dealer advised the contact that both front axles needed to be replaced. the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure continued to occur. the dealer advised her on the third visit that the front axles that were replaced were defective and that the wheel bearings needed to be replaced. the contact stated that the vehicle also had an exhaust leak. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 113,000 and the current mileage was 123,000.

2002 ford focus fx5. consumer requests reimbursement for repair costs *tgw the consumer stated his vehicle failed inspection due to a rotted front cross member. the consumer had to purchase a used cross member in order to pass inspection. *jb

The ignition on my 2002 ford focus will not work and my understanding that this is happening to many people also. this issue will leave you stranded and unable to leave your current destination. in the event of an emergency it is unreliable. i work for a fire and rescue agency which requires me to make quick response and with this defect i cannot. imagine if a female is in a domestic issue and need to get away or is out shopping late and need to leave the area she is left vulnerable and alone with no way of leaving. this defect need to be addressed asap. i have researched this issue and found that after replacing the defected part you still will have the same issue because of poor design. your attention to this matter will be greatly appreciated. *tr

Front cross member on my 2002 ford focus rotted through. failed ri state inspection. was advise by rhode island attorney general who forwarded this complaint to you and advise me to follow up on it. i have pictures & dvd to show the severity of the rot. the rest of the undercarriage was still in excellent condition. updated 06/22/10.*jb *tr

2002 ford focus ignition problem. i purchased this car two months ago and it works great. problem is sometimes ignition switch get stuck and wont turn. now my husband is stuck in another state and stranded due to this problem. very disappointed with ford. *tr

Key is stuck in ignition, vehicle will not start. my son was stranded. *tr

Ford focus zx5 2002 power cut out completely while i sat in vehicle with air conditioning running; smoke billowed out from under the hood. i turned off the ignition immediately and pulled the key out of the ignition. the car ignition turned the vehicle back on all by itself. the car began to rumble and smoke spewed from under the hood everywhere. i jumped out of the vehicle and grabbed my two dogs from the back seat. i ran into the lawn care business and announced "my car is on fire -- call 911." two employees came out, one with a fire extinguisher; the other asked me for the ignition key who jumped in the vehicle and tried to turn the car ignition off--the car ignition went off but turned on again even after the key had been removed. he pulled the hood latch so the other employee with the extinguisher could use the fire extinguisher. when that person opened the hood, flames shot everywhere. the fire department and police came. the fire department said that the car would have exploded within 2 minutes had the employees not used the fire extinguisher. the fire department sprayed the vehicle with additional fire retardant and stated that the vehicle is "totaled." *tr

Engine compartment fires on the driver's side in the area of the battery burning all the wires and the left headlight. *tr

2002 ford focus se: the key will not come out of the ignition. *tr

Key sticks in ignition. 2002 ford focus, 83,000 miles. we just purchased this car used on saturday and have already experienced this problem. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving at speeds of 30 mph, the vehicle would not shift gears. the vehicle felt as if it was attempting to stall. in addition, the check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel. the dealer was contacted and advised there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the vehicle was diagnosed by a second mechanic who advised replacing the alternator. the alternator was previously replaced a total of 3 times. there were no additional repairs made to the vehicle. the failure mileage was 50,000 and current mileage was 83,000. updated 8/9/10 *cn updated 08/11/10.*jb

We just recently bought this car (2002 ford focus) and so i do not know the history of it, however the car just started locking up out of nowhere. the first time it happened was with my husband and luckily he did not have any of our children with him. the ignition keeps locking and we have to keep on having it towed home. we have had this car for about 2 and 1/2 months and so far it has happened 4 times. so we have had to pay $160 in towing costs. we have a friend that somehow fixed it and my husband spends hours outside messing with it to get it working. this time is wont start at all and its the worst timing ever we have a premature baby and 4 other children that need to get to school and daycare. *tr

Driving my 2002 ford focus zx5. it was early in the morning and i live near many woods - i hit a deer going about 45 miles per hour. the front of the car was completely totaled, and the airbag did not deploy. the airbag light flickers on and off when you start the vehicle. *tr

I bought my 2002 ford focus just 5 months ago (december 2009). when trying to start my car at a restaurant the steering wheel was completely locked, and the key would not turn in the ignition. after a full hour of trying to fix it, i had to have the car towed to a ford dealer, who replaced the ignition with a ford part that i fear has the same problem. the replacement ignition cost me over $400, and does not appear to be a long-term solution. according to many online complaints, the new ignition will fail to the same problem in time. i am limited by other options, as non-ford parts and locksmith work does not come with the 12 month-warranty that ford offers. my best option is to sell the car again before it happens, or before my warranty is up-- neither of which are a solution, but putting the problem onto someone else. this is a serious tragedy and in faulty design. i was lucky to have friends to help me in this situation, but the embarrassment and fear of it happening again are not worth it. this part needs to be recalled! *tr

2002 ford focus se station wagon. consumer states problem with automatic transmission. engine has strong noise. the consumer stated it took three times to fix the transmission. the window regulators were replaced four times, the thermostat housing failed twice which caused coolant leak. also, there was a problem with the air bag system and the cover on the passenger side. *jb

2002 ford focus. consumer requests reimbursement for towing and repair expenses related to problem that should have been taken care of under recall. *tgw the consumer mentioned recall #03v482000 the fuel pump was replaced.

2002 zts had problems where ignition got stuck could not remove or start the car had to had the ignition replaced it cost me in excess of $300.00 evidently this is a major problem that ford is not dealing with. *tr

Faulty ignition in 2002 ford focus was stranded for five hours have not yet fixed the problem due to fords high cost to fix there defect. *tr

Ignition locks up, will not turn regardless of effort, pushing, pulling, beating, or twisting your tongue just the right way. however, one tap on the edge of the key while it is in the ignition works. no amount of wd-40 or parts cleaner fixes the problem though. *tr

Fuel pump in my 2002 ford focus failed suddenly as i was merging onto a 50mph highway in january 2010. the car just literally died, without warning. fuel intake stopped and so did the car. i was lucky it was early on a sunday morning and traffic was light. if i had been in heavy traffic, this sudden failure would have posed a grave safety risk. the repair cost $700. ford refused to cover any of it. in a search of internet articles and your web site, i found this fuel pump failure to be a well-documented problem in 2000 - 2002 ford focus'. i am concerned that they replaced the original defective pump with an exact replica of the original pump, exposing me to continued danger. *tr

I was driving down california 130 when my driver side air bag that is located in the seat deployed i did not hit anything it just went off for no reason. *tr

I have a 2002 ford focus zx3 with a theoretically working parking brake, i've had the brakes replaced only once as i was busy and couldn't do it myself. now that i have braking problems and time i went to replace them myself. the front disc brakes look almost brand new, so i continued to remove and inspect the rear drum brakes. when i took the drums off they were tight as if the brakes were engaged so i double checked and made sure all the brakes were dis-engaged. i continued to work on the brakes and the ford dealership assures me they replaced these brakes before, however the shoes were worn and cracked down to bare metal as if they had never been replaced. i then noticed that my park brake appeared to be engaged. i double checked again and it wasn't, i had someone watch the brake as i engaged and dis-engaged the break and it works fine, come to find out the spring/wire for the parking break is to short for the car's hub, about two inches infact. i contacted the dealership and the technician i talked to said that it was common with my car and i need to have them replace the whole break assembly. so i've been driving this car for almost ten years now with the parking break engaged and ford knows about it, because they built it that way and i have to pay them to fix something that was engineered that way. if i broke it or it's wear and tear i understand, but i bought a car to be fully functional off the lot not so i can bring it in and pay for them to finish building it properly after i own it. i cant afford their outrageous prices for this work so i dis-engaged the cable and am now driving a car without an emergency brake, thanks for the safety features ford. *tr

Ford focus 2002 zts key ignition failed at 80,000 miles for over a year before the total failure there were at least 12 times that the ignition failed but finally worked after a few tries. i was left stranded on more then on occasion due to this failure and last time had to have my car towed to the dealership. the problem was fixed at the ford deal ship and cost me 450.00. i had to get a new key and a new ignition. i can feel that once again the key is rubbing the ignition the way it was before this problem was fixed and am sure that in the future i will have to replace the part once again. i just hope this time i won't be stranded. *tr

Key stuck in ignition, unable to remove it. this is a huge problem for the ford focus cars, resulting in not being able to lock you car having to leave the key in the ignition. replacement ignitions don't fix the problem, they fail also. *tr

My 2002 ford focus key will not turn in the ignition! i see that this is an ongoing problem with thousands of people. it should be a recall as it could be a safety issue especially when you are stranded with young children in the car on a blustery winter day! i called ford motor company and they basically said it was my responsibility to fix it. *tr

The ignition in my 2002 ford focus is locked up and i cannot turn it over at all. this is the second time this has happened in the past year now! the first time this occurred, my husband bought a new ignition online from an authorized ford dealership, drilled out the old one and installed the new one himself. the new ignition we bought was supposedly free of the defect that was causing the ignition failure. we have thoroughly researched the issue and the amount of focus owners affected by this is widespread. the second time this happened i was left stranded on one of the coldest days of winter with my 4 year old son. ford will not cover these repairs because my car is obviously out of the standard warranty period, however, i'm left to pay for the same costly repair time and time again. meanwhile, remaining constantly worried all the time if my car will leave me stranded. please help us ford focus owners and push ford to recall this apparent and immediate safety defect!!! *tr

I have a ford focus 2002 zx5 and the key will not turn in the ignition. i am seeing that this is a very common problem, in fact california has started a class action lawsuit. ford has not recalled this part. *tr

1. 2002 ford focus ignition switch problems. for a while my 2002 focus has been giving me ignition switch problems. either the key is stuck in the ignition switch and won't come out, or the key will not be able to turn the ignition switch. i bought the car when it had 48,000 miles on it, it now has around 67,000. 2. it happens on a fairly regular basis. although usually the key will eventually turn, simply by removing it and putting it back in the opposite way. if they key is stuck in the switch, usually restarting it or reversing and going back into drive will allow you to get the key out. 3. now i am currently stuck at work because the key will not turn in my focus at all! after researching the problem online, i have seen many complaints about the same thing. referenced here: http://autoforum.classifieds1000.com/ford-focus/ford_focus_ignition_cylinder_breaks_for_second_time and here: http://www.fordproblems.com/focus/key-wont-turn-in-the-ignition.shtml *tw

Driving 45 mph ran over small piece of rubber in road and side impact air bag deployed when there was no impact. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact attempted to start the vehicle; however, the ignition remained locked. the contact tried moving the steering wheel to unlock the ignition and was unsuccessful. the tow truck driver tapped on the ignition and unlocked the steering wheel. the contact drove the vehicle to a local mechanic who lubricated the ignition switch; yet, the ignition locked again. the mechanic could not order the part for the ignition and the contact took the vehicle to an authorized dealer. the dealer informed the contact that the ignition lock cylinder needed to be replaced. the contact called the manufacturer regarding a good faith repair. the manufacturer stated that since the vehicle warranty was not valid that they would not repair the vehicle at no charge. the contact is concerned about the safety risk and the possibility of being stranded if the failure recurs. the failure mileage was 135,000.

I drove my car (a 2002 ford focus) to a restaurant on dec. 28th, 2009 at 7:15 pm. when i got back into my car, the key would not turn in the ignition. i turned the wheel to release it from the "locked" wheel position, but the key still would not turn. i waited in my car for several minutes, then attempted to turn the key once more in the ignition with the same results. i was forced to call a friend and wait in my car with no heat. the temperature was approximately 27 degrees fahrenheit as i waited for nearly half an hour to be picked up, then dropped off at home by a coworker. he will have to pick me up for work tomorrow as all repair facilities are closed for the evening. i did some research online once i got home and found that this is a common problem with fords and specifically ford focus models from 2000-2003 yet there has been no recall posted and i will have to pay for repairs to an inferior part that is out of warranty. *tr

2002 ford focus battery cables was burning i was smelling a burning scent when i stated the vehicle an well when i drove the car. i had to take it to the shop who informed me that the battery harness in this car frayed and it had to be replaced as well as the alternator. ford said this was not a recall part. *tr

Parked my 2002 ford focus on the street, when i came back the key wouldn't turn in the ignition and the wheels were completely locked up. called the ford dealer and they told me to yank on the wheel as hard as i could while turning the key, this worked after about 10 minutes, but after i turned it off, it happened again, yanking the wheel for 10 mins it worked. now i have to leave the keys in the ignition so it wont lock up on me. i am literally scared to turn on my car because when i turn a corner it feels like i have to turn the wheel way around. i am a young woman who works late, and i rely on my car to get me home safely..i am very upset because i cant afford to get it fixed. never buy a ford again! *tr

The gear shift switch that locks the car into park and allows the driver to remove the key is faulty. the driver can put the car in park and then pull the gearshift back to reverse without having to engage the button on the gear shift. also, the driver is unable to remove the key. there does not appear to be a fix or recall on this issue and there should be, it is not safe and the car is just not that old to have such problems. the safety feature has failed and made the car unsafe. *tr

The bracket that holds the transmission mount at the rear of the car, failed and dropped the transmission down on to the rear-transaxle and damaged motor mounts. the bracket appears to be made of very flimsy metal and is not an adequate piece of machining for the task holding the transmission mount. *tr

I went to my babysitters to pick up my child and i turn off my car which is a 2002 ford focus tot go inside. i come back out 5 mins later and try to start it and the ignition was stuck. so it was towed and fixed for 400 dollars. and just a big pain in the ¿[email protected]#$%. *tr

The ignition on my 2002 ford focus locked up. it happened out of nowhere. i was completely stranded and it took me a while to get someone to come help me. after some investigation on the internet, it became clear that this problem is well documented and known about. i would hope this would be considered for a recall since it poses the potential to strand people in less than desirable conditions when the only problem present is the ignition. *tr

The car started to putt putt and then it stalled out i had a hafl of tank of gas when i had to get this towed come to fine out the fuel pump and filter was clogged. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus wagon, the key will not turn the ignition, therefore the car will not start. this has been going on for about a month. today oct 12, 2009 the key would not turn the ignition and the car would not start so my child missed school today because of this. this is getting frustrating i have only had the car since april of 2009 and this is causing me grief. i will not buy another ford focus due to this frustration. *tr

2002 ford focus wagon rear hatch wiring harness frayed wires and no brake lights. *tr

No hint the ignition was going to lock up. stranded my wife in freezing weather until i get there. thank god for cell phones. this ignition issue is well documented with ford focus vehicles 2000 to 2003. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the trunk would not close properly. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the latch and stride were replaced. the failure and current mileages were 65000. updated 10/29/09 *cn updated 10/29/09.*jb the part has not replaced.

Ignition is locked. key will not turn, brakes are locked, gears are locked. costs hundreds of dollars to be replaced and i was stranded for hours waiting for someone to help me. ford replaces the ignition key with the exact ignition key as before, creating dejavu for most customers. *tr

2002 ford focus exhibits engine hesitation when the fuel tank is below 1/4 full. there are acceleration problems and the car has completely lost power on at least one occasion while driving on the highway. this began to happen with 80,000km on the car and now always happens when driving at highway speeds with only 1/4 tank of gas. complaints to ford about how this is the exact same condition that caused them to issue a recall on 2000 and 2001 focuses (03n01) have not resulted in any offer to replace the fuel pump for free. *tr

A little over a month ago on august 23, 2009, we purchased a used 2002 ford focus from a ford dealership on oahu, hawaii. on the night of august 28, 2009, after filling the car with gas, we tried to start the car, but the key just wouldn't turn. we tried for about 2 hours to get the car started to get home (and to move out of the way of the gas pumps so other people could pump gas). we had several people help us, but the key just wouldn't turn, and we couldn't push the car because the wheels were locked. we finally called a tow truck, but luckily, my husband was able to whack the key real hard (for the umteenth time) and turn the ignition, at which time the car finally started. we got home, searched online and found out that this was a common problem with these cars. now it'll cost us about $200 to get the ignition replaced at a locksmith. i will not return to ford to do this as it'll cost double what the locksmith cost. what's sad is that ford knows that this is a common problem, yet they won't do recalls to fix it. we used to be a ford family (purchased at least three ford explorers), but i don't think we'll be buying anymore ford cars. *tr

The key in my ford focus will not turn in the ignition. this has happened once before and was fixed after hours of playing around with it. now it has happened again, without as much luck. luckily, i have been close to or at home when this has occurred. however, i am concerned that this could easily make me stranded one day. no warranty is available and my only option is to have the ignition replaced. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus. last night i was at school , a very late class that ends at 10:15pm, and when i went to turn my key it was stuck. after many failed attempts in a parking lot that is basically empty by that time and being so close to downtown and the light rail i was very afraid of being stranded in alone as i did not have my cell phone on me. finally security came around after about 1/2 hour and let me call my husband and also looked on the internet to see if this had been reported before by any car owners. turns out that this is the most common problem in 90% of ford focus years 2000-2003. i am amazed that this is public knowledge and ford themselves even acknowledge this and there has been no recall? maybe it will take something really bad to happen to someone before ford realizes how dangerous this can be? i sure hope that someone will realize this is a huge issue because had that security officer not come buy i would have been stuck there since my husband works nights. the next day ,today, i am not able to turn the switch once again but this time i am in the comfort of my own home. please i hope you are able to see the safety hazard in this issue that ford fails to see and ask that a recall be made. *tr

Front passenger side coil spring had to be replaced because of breakage. loss control of car over bump at less than 20 mph speed! *tr

Sudden onset, got in my car, put my key in the ignition and the key would not turn to start the car no matter what i did. researched the problem, tens of thousands of complaints from 1999 to present, owners are stranded in diff. situations, freezing cold, extreme heat, with babies/children, stranded without the ability to communicate, young women (as in my case), at night, etc. cost to repair up to $750. am trying to fix it on my own, can't afford a dealer repair! ford is aware the problem is with poor quality metal used to make the part. i wrote to ford, they say bring my car in to "have it looked at" but qualify, saying: it is not a warranty repair and to have it examined may cost me. many other owners have posted temporary and lower cost fixes on-line as ford is not willing to do a recall stating it is "not a safety issue". this is a safety issue. if someone is stranded in extreme heat or cold or a young woman is stranded because a key won't work, we are at risk and unsafe. a young child could die from exposure, become sick, a young woman could be raped or killed. ford is risking our safety and is at fault particularly because they are aware there is a problem and can do something proactively to fix the situation. that this documented situation has gone on for years is outrageous. it's frightening to get in your car at night, not have your key work, not know what's wrong or be able to do anything! when we are stranded because ford willingly put substandard parts in a vehicle, we are unsafe. prior to owning this car i had a 1973 vw bug, my key always worked with the original parts. to be expected to pay upwards of $750 for a part and labor for something that should last the life of the vehicle, that's tied to safety is unacceptable. our cars are unsafe, risking damage waiting for repair depending on where they are stranded! my safety is not important nor an issue for ford, they don't care about my car, my trust was misplaced, my car was not built tough. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving between 35-40 mph, the contact pulled the vehicle over and turned off the ignition. the engine was restarted; however, the ignition key failed to turn. roadside assistance towed the vehicle to his residence. the authorized dealer stated that this was a common issue with this vehicle, and they replaced the ignition switch. the failure and current mileages were 134,000.

I own a 2002 ford focus , the key fails to turn in the ignition over and over again. i'm a young woman working late hours 45 miles away from home 5 times a week and i've been stranded several times. i've been dealing with this problem for years. to my knowledge, there are over 3, 045 complaints online. there is also a petition. this is a safety hazard and should be recalled. it's dangerous not being able to start your car late at night or anywhere at anytime for that matter. even when you replace the ignition cylinder, it happens again and again. it's a defect. please help us! it's really inconvenient , unsafe and very disappointing.*tr

My 2002 ford focus has only 41,000 miles on it and the front right coil spring broke on me last week. fortunately i did not crash or loose my brakes but it has potential for a catastrophic event. i am hoping ford will recall these as they did with the earlier models. *tr

On the 2002 ford focus, the key won't turn in the ignition switch and thereby locks the car in its present position. the car can't be moved so the driver is prone to be stranded and the car could be towed or vandalized if allowed to remain in a city street parking space. this could also be dangerous if there is an emergency and the driver needs to get somewhere quickly. ford should issue a recall. *tr

Driving and the car started to make noise when the wheels were turned. checked the power steering fluid and belt, and added more power steering fluid. the problem still continued. the power steering line was rubbing on the frame of the car, and rub open causing a leak in the line. this stopped the power steering from working. we took the line out, with a lot of effort, and time. then bought a new part for $55 and then had to put it in. although we have not got the part yet, but it seems as if putting it back in will not be easy. *tr

2002 ford focus, key would not turn in the ignition, stranding my son some distance from home. had to have the car towed to a dealer and paid $285 to have this fixed (not including towing). *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2003 ford focus. the contact took his vehicle to the dealer for routine inspection. he was advised that the front cross member had excessive corrosion. he called an authorized dealer and was informed that the component needed to be replaced at the cost of $800. he is in the process of having the vehicle repaired. the manufacturer stated that the component was not covered under warranty. the contact has possession of the failed component. the failure and current mileages were 60,000. updated 07/28/09. *lj the consumer was informed the excessive corrosion was the result of not having adequate corrosion protection at the time of manufacturing and it was in danger of failing. updated 07/31/09.,*jb

2002 ford focus bought the end of march 2009, now sits in driveway, because ford will not fix fuel delivery module failure, because of vin# not on list as being one of the 671000 units affected. the car is doing the same thing as all the other 671000 that were affected, surging, loss of power, stalling, hesitation. we were going down the road, changed lanes and it started doing this, now i have had 3 mechanics work on this car, no help replaced fuel pump, battery, fuel filter etc, no luck. it starts when it wants will run then it starts losing power, stalls. we did expect problems with used car, but not one that should have been included in a recall and fixed. if accident happens because of this problem ford will be at fault. *tr

Drove to the store, turned the car off but the key was stuck in the ignition. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. on may 20, 2009, when the contact attempted to open the rear passenger side door, he was unable to unlatch the lock. he took the vehicle to the dealer and they found that the rear passenger side door latch motor failed. a new motor would cost $400. the manufacturer stated that there was no recall for the failure; therefore, they would not assist. the current and failure mileages were 129,000.

The ignition lock on my 2002 ford focus is defective. it takes a lot of jiggling of the key to get it to turn. sometimes it takes up to 10 minutes to get the key turned. i'm afraid at some point i won't be able to turn it period. i have read many reports online about ford focus between 2000 and 2003 having the same problem. *tr

Details: the car's check engine light came on and started stalling, had it checked and was told it needed a timing belt and tune up. after $1400 later and still the same problem that the car was only running on 3 cylinders and was recommended to put an additive in the engine to try to loosen up stuck valves... still same problem . then tearing the engine apart found damage done to # 4 cylinder . *tr

I have a 2002 ford focus. about a year ago my left rear window regulator went out while i was driving down i24. the sound of the window slamming down scared me so bad i almost drove off the road at 70mph with 3 kids in the car. the sound was like a gunshot. about 2 months later the right rear window regulator went out this time i was driving my 3 year old son to the babysitter. the sound was so loud i swerved almost hitting the car next to me. i got both windows fixed for about 350.00. a week ago the left window regulator went out again. i am now afraid to drive this car for fear the next window will go out and startle me into an accident. *tr

My 2002 ford focus zts suddenly stalled in heavy, fast moving traffic. i had to wrestle the car to the curb without power steering or power brakes while at the same time avoiding traffic. i took it to the shop and they said the fuel pump has failed and needed replacement. total cost estimate is nearly $800. this is a common problem in 2001 and 2000 models and this part is even covered in an extended warranty for those years. however, the 2002 is not covered. i think that this should be a safely concern for ford but i think they are doing the bare minimum. i will never buy another ford again. no wonder they are having such difficult times at ford! *tr

Driving home from the store and i heard a snapping sound in the front of the car i took the car to the service station they looked under the car and said it is a broken spring and it was dangerous to drive. *tr

I had come back to my 2002 ford focus se, put the ignition key into the ignition switch & the switch would not turn. i had to pay $45.00 to have my car towed to a garage. the mechanic charged me $400.00 to replace the whole upper part of the steering column & redo the ignition switch that came on it. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus and i simply parked my car at the grocery store, locked my car, and when i came back i could not turn the key in the ignition to start the car. this is the first time its happen where i completely failed to turn the key. now my car is sitting at the grocery store and now i'm reading that i'm going to potentially pay 200 to 400 bucks to get this fixed. this is very, very upsetting. thanks ford for your lousy ignition design. i'll never buy a ford again. *tr

Faulty ignition cylinder lock, fails without warning. i had it replaced 12/15/07 and it is now defective again on 4/6/09. i had it fixed last time for $200, but it can cost up to $400. how this isn't a safety issue is beyond me. then again the pinto's exploding gas tank wasn't deemed a "safety issue" by ford, either. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 40 mph on normal road conditions, the steering wheel loosened without warning. the steering began to wander and failed to respond normally. immediately, the vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and inspected. the vehicle was driven cautiously to an authorized dealer and they tightened the adjustment screw and re-tightened the lock nuts on the steering wheel column. the manufacturer has been notified of the malfunctions. the vin was unavailable. the failure and current mileages were 60,000.

The key will not turn in the ignition, with the steering wheel locking up. no amount of jiggling can fix it. so car is unable to start. (4 times in a row - final time, not started after hours of trying). *tr

2002 ignition locks up with key left in it. the failure occurs everytime i drive the vehicle. i am going to have to hire a locksmith and pay over $400.00. *tr

The key does not turn in the ignition so the car won't start. my teenage daughter drives this vehicle which can be very dangerous if it occurs in an remote area especially on a cold day/night such as tonight. fortunately, the car is in our driveway but it was pure luck that it happened there instead of somewhere else that could have left her stranded indefinitely in sub-freezing temperatures or in a secluded area. *tr

On 3/12/09, while driving my 2002 ford focus se wagon on main street (ri-3) in ashaway, rhode island, at about 35 mph, hit a small bump with the right front wheel. a loud scraping noise immediately ensued. was able to stop within a few feet. inspection revealed that both mounting studs on the passenger side engine mount for the transversely mounted engine had broken off allowing the engine to drop down onto the passenger side drive axle. the car was flatbed towed 5 miles to my mechanic. his inspection showed that one of the studs had been broken for some time, while the second showed a fresh break. there was no evidence of corrosion, or that the studs had ever been removed and replaced. i don't know how often this failure occurs, but the tow operator and both mechanics at the shop had never seen this happen before. the consequences are that the car becomes inoperable without causing severe damage. the result at highway speed could have been disastrous. the failure was corrected by replacing the broken studs with new factory parts. i have the two broken studs in my possession. *tr

2002 ford focus zx3 front passenger side coil spring failure...top 7" of spring snapped off making the car dangerous to drive. incident occurred 1 block from house but not immediately investigated until i found broken spring piece in the road after work. highway travel to and from work could have resulted in a bad crash due to loss of control. i purchased replacement parts (ford svt suspension kit 397-m-3000-zx3) at considerable expense because i do not trust the remaining unbroken suspension parts. car has only about 50000 miles and is not abused. failure appears to be due to extended fatigue crack propagation instead of an isolated catastrophic event. there is old rust on the spring break point surface along with fatigue crack styrations indicating a long failure time. possible cause would be sub-standard material or heat treatment. this is unacceptable in a vehicle of this age and mileage. ford would have had a huge lawsuit if this failure resulted in my injury or death. *tr

I had to replace the motor mounts twice in approximately a 4 month period due to cracking and complete breaking, a partial break in one and general overall weakening. my mechanic only charged me the first time for the mounts and installation (the second time was a free replacement--as the mounts failed, and as it came only a few months after the first replacement). my mechanic said that there is a problem with the ford focus vehicles due to the lack of stability in the motor mount area. basically, he said that there isn't much structural support for the engine and the motor mounts get stressed as a result of the vibrations and constant tension on them. he told me that they would probably need to be replaced again at some point. i was trying to figure out some type of jury rig device to reinforce the stability of the area. do you have any suggestions? *tr

My driver's side seat belt shredded. i had to replace it several months ago and purchase a new one from ford. my auto mechanic installed the new seat belt for me. the belt needed replacing, as it was continuing to shred (in strands) and only had about one-third to half of its width remaining. the length of the shredding was approximately 12 to 14 inches long. it definitely posed a safety hazard. i had never experienced a problem like this before, even in very old automobiles that i owned. seat belt material fading from sunlight, yes, shredding, never. my auto mechanic at my repair shop had never seen anything like that before either. *tr

Loud snap from under hood , followed by rumbling sound when turned right or left. car will pull in different directions , relating to the last direction steered. the car does set lower now but is not rubbing . the cause is a broken right front coil spring , and possibly other damage. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus with 54000 miles on it and just last week had a problem with the transmission. when the car acelerated to 30 mph it would not engage into 3rd gear until you out more pressure on the gas. i took it to a ford dealer and they had it for 1 1/2 days and came back with an " i think it's a ring in the transmission, but not for sure" they want to charge me over $400 to take the transmission out to see if it's this ring!! and if it's not this ring they think it is then i'm out $400+. i also found a website ( car complaints.com) and noticed that i'm not the only focus owner with this problem. other focus owners on this website have had to replace their transmission 2-3 times between 60,000-100,000 miles because ford continues to put the same transmission in all their focus'. i would like to know why a recall hasn't been call out on this car with so many complaints. this is a very big issue and i think it needs attention being that so many focus owners are having the same problem. thank you. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus and my ignition has locked up and i have to leave my key in the ignition or it will lock up. i am presently searching for a mechanic or locksmith who can help in fixing this problem. *tr

Upon insertion of the key into the ignition, the ignition switch fails to allow the key to turn, the steering wheel will not unlock, if it is locked. "tapping" the key into the ignition will allow the car to start and the steering wheel to unlock. cursory internet searches reveal that this is a very common problem for owners of this make and model. some owners report having had the switch replaced 4 to 5 times at the dealership with the same results. this indicates that ford has made no effort to correct the problem, even at the cost of the owner. *tr

While driving at freeway speeds sudden loss of acceleration and smell of burning fluid. car would not shift beyond 2nd gear. took to dealer and was told that the 3rd and 4th gears were burnt up. req'd replacement of transmission at cost of $4,000. vehicle mileage was 78k and well maintained. *tr

Ford focus 2002 would not start the ignition. *tr

Cooper cobra radial g/t - tread separation - on all 4 tires. happened over a period of 3 years. one incident left us stranded for 5 hours on a busy highway in maryland. dot # u9v9 c28 0605 size p195/60r15. *tr

Since 2003 i've had to replace numerous tires (5) and one wheel hub due to going over rough, but not usually hazardous road problems, such as a small/medium pothole. my car is in the shop, yet again, having a tire fixed. *tr

I purchased a used 2002 ford focus in fl. while driving it to my home in tn, i experienced stalling at hwy speeds. i changed the fuel filter and continued on my trip. it stalled again and wouldn't restart. i had it towed to a ford dealer that diagnosed the problem as the alternator and battery. i replaced them both. the car started and i began my travel back home. upon my return home, when i would utilize the car, i would experience stalling under varying conditions. i took it to a mechanic who could not find that problem, but did replace the thermostat. typically the car would run for several hours before the stalling would begin. i could usually allow the engine to cool for approximately 20-30 minutes and the car would start. i could drive for approximately 15 minutes before it would stall again. my latest experience happened at hwy speeds. after 30 minutes of travel the car stalled and has not restarted since. i contacted ford who informed me that my car was not part of their "recall (s)" due to where it was assembled. i find it very "coincidental" that my car is experiencing the exact problems that the "recalled" cars experienced. is there a course on action that i should take? *tr

Rear door wont latch right and driver side tail light wont work. *tr

I have a 2002 for focus. i have been through a total of 6 window regulators. i know that this is probably not the biggest item to be repaired on the car i just want something done about it. this could really be a safety hazard for some people. say you were driving down the road and because ford motor company uses plastic regulators you window falls.......and shatters!!!! that would be really bad you could get glass in your eyes and all over the place which could cause an accident. i would just like some way to get ford motor company to put a recall on all window regulators on models of the ford focus. *tr

My 2002 ford focus ignition is locking up with the key inside. constantly occuring. i'm going to research repair costs but have heard its very expensive and i thought since there were many complaints with this, maybe there would be a recall. *tr

It was 11 o'clock at night in freezing weather when i had gotten into my car that had been sitting all day.(which i had started with ease 13 hours before) the key would not turn in the ignition. i tried turn the key back and forth for an hour before my boyfriend's mom came to pick me up at 1:00 in the morning. if she wouldn't have been there for me i would have had to walk 10 miles in dangerous cold to get home, because i didn't have any money on me for a cab. i paid $450 to tow the car 4 miles to the closest dealership and replace the ignition cylinder. the part is under a one year warranty. since december 20, 2008, my ignition cylinder has not been working properly with my key. i insert the key and i have to wiggle the key to turn, insert, and remove it from the ignition. i will be visiting the dealership where i had it replaced last year this week. at least this time it showed signs of malfunction probability. this should be considered a safety issue. if someone is driving the car and it stalls on a railroad track (or any other hazardous location) and cannot restart or move the car because the ignition won't turn. there could be deadly consequences for the driver, passengers, and others close by. *tr

I own a 2002 ford focus. i replaced the ignition on 1/16/07 when i had 51,910 miles. i now have $80,000 miles and the ignition is locking up again. i was stranded at work and my 18 year old son is now using the car and i don't want him getting stranded in flint michigan. ford motor company is aware of this problem. *tr

The key would not turn in the ignition. i had to hit the side of the steering column then try and turn the key again. this no longer works and i have to hit the key in to the ignition further for it to turn. i am going to ford this week to get it fixed if it does not cost a fortune, but had to wait to get it fixed until my break from school. *tr

The key ignition locks up and will not turn. there have been several complaints online. this should be considered a manufactured problem. the lock will not recognize the key and turn. i am stuck. *tr

Key is stuck in the ignition. it happened suddenly, with no prior warning of impending problems. *tr

This complaint is in regards to a 2002 ford focus and the failure of the ignition module from allowing my key to turn. fortunately enough when this incident occurred i was not in a bad neighborhood or stuck out on the highway in the desert. it has occurred each time i've tried to turn the key, and it's only after significant effort and near injury to my wrist and index finger was i able to get the key to turn. i have researched online and noted many discussion boards stating the other consumers who have had this same problem. there is a petition circulating that currently has over 2800 online signatures regarding this problem. this is a very dangerous problem. it could occur in the wrong neighborhood or in the most isolated places and isn't safe for the consumer when they get stranded because of this faulty part that ford does not try to fix with proper materials. *tr

Ford focus 2002 - ignition failure. happened three times. the third time was stranded in the cold weather with 9 month old baby until i could get help. my husband was able to start the car and i drove it to the dealer. it cost 350 to get fixed. i don't feel an ignition should break and then be replaced with a poorly manufactured ignition. i have read thousands of complaints online about this. this is a problem and ford should issue a recall. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving 30 mph, the vehicle completely failed and shut off. the vehicle failed to start, but the contact was able to pull off the road. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and they stated that the sender and fuel pump failed, which caused the vehicle to shut off. the vehicle was repaired at the cost of $540. the manufacturer stated that there was no current recall for the fuel pump; therefore, no compensation would be made. updated 01-26-09 *bfthe failure mileage was 22,600 and current mileage was 22,700. updated 01/26/09. *jb

The key would not turn in the ignition at all. a locksmith was called out to see if he could fix the problem. he told me that this happens very frequently ford focuses. *tr

When the key is inserted, the ignition will not allow it to turn forward to start the car. although this just started without any warning sign on my car, i have heard of it happening to many other cars of the same make and model. i feel it is a safety issue because it could result in myself and my passengers being stranded in an unsafe area. *tr

The passenger rear door power lock failed due to a problem inside the lock itself. when the lock failed you are unable to unlock the door by the power switch or manually. our 4 year old daughter had to crawl out of her car seat and exit the street side of the vehicle. you cannot open the door until you get the lock fixed. this created an unsafe condition for passengers riding in the car. this vehicle has had problems with engine fires which makes the situation more dangerous. we took the car to the dealer, and the lock module was replaced at a cost of around $400.00. 10/19/2008, the front passenger power lock module has failed making the front passenger seat unusable. it is being repaired today and i will save the old part. this car has been in one small accident(less than $500) damage to the rear bumper. no door damage has occurred to cause this type of failure. due to the cost factor of the repairs, not all people can have this issue repaired, making this a safety concern for passengers to escape in an emergency. the vehicle has only approximately 37,000 mile on it. the doors should still be able to unlock and open manually if the power lock fails . *tr

Key locks up in the ignition and will not turn. the car would not start. *tr

Keys wont release from ignition , replaced ignition switch and still continues to not release key, its evidently an electronic problem since when i disconnect the electrical connection to steering column the keys release. *tr

The ignition key continued to get stuck in the steering column and refusing to turn until i'd continue to fiddle with it, sometimes for over 30 minutes. very frustrating. the key has finally quit turning at all. the car is currently at howard's towing being repaired. the entire column is being replaced. very expensive. very unhappy. *tr

I was stranded when my key was inserted into the ignition and it would not turn. this was a serious incident because i needed to be home to get my 6 year old off the bus and let him in the house. i was unable to do so and my son was extremely distraught. and then i find out this is not an isolated incident but this vehicle has a history of this. very disappointing. *tr

Ignition key lock. the steering wheel of the car locks up and the key will not turn the car on. jiggling the steering wheel column and turning the key at the same time does not work. the ignition cylinder was replaced. *tr

I have a 2002 ford focus and my ignition won't turn. it just froze. it was ok. all of a sudden, i had an interview to get to and got in my car and it wouldn't start. the key just wouldn't turn. i am very grateful that i was at home when it happened. i think it is a disgrace that ford knows there is a problem and won't do a recall. a recall should not be completely about a safety issue but about providing the public with quality in the cars. obviously, the consumer is of no importance to ford. i think this whole experience has made me decide to never trust a ford again. i took the car in to two mechanics which told me it would be a few days to get the dealer parts and the repair will cost over $400.00. it is a disgrace that ford knows the problem exists and has done nothing to fix it. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the vehicle has firestone tires. the contact believed that the rear passenger tire was defective due to a rollover crash. the approximate mileage on the tire was 700. while driving less than 75 mph, the driver felt a shift in the way the vehicle was operating. the tires were inspected, but no failures were found. while attempting to make a left turn, the rear passenger tire separated in two locations. the vehicle completely rolled over while making the left turn. the driver was injured. the vehicle was towed to a body shop and they stated that the rear passenger tire was defective. the manufactured date of the tire was two months prior to the crash. the police filed a report and verified that the driver was not speeding at the time of the crash. the vehicle was destroyed. the vin, tire size, and tire line were unknown. the failure and current mileages were less than 92,000.

I drove my car to downtown as i normally do except this time i has the company of my 3 sons. it was 4 am in the morning. i parked the car taking the key out of the ignition and exited. at about 5:15 i tried to start the car by placing the key in the ignition and trying to turn it. the key would not turn. i tried again but again the key would not turn. i called aaa and the rep asked me to try to turn the steering wheel a little and then the key, this still did not work. he called a tow truck to come out to help. meanwhile my children and i were left to sit in the cold and wait for the tow truck driver. while waiting i pressed on the brake really hard and pulled on the steering wheel and tried the key again, luckily it worked. spoke to the aaa rep again and cancelled the tow. i woke up this morning to try the ignition again and it stuck again so i did the same thing that seemed to work yesterday, but it did not. fortunately i was at home this time and not on a mountain somewhere with my children. this is a scary thing to happen especially when you are with your children in a strange place. what if i were somewhere without a cell phone signal? would we have to wait until someone happens by or walk in the cold to get a signal. this is something that should not happen to anyone. *tr

Loss of air pressure in the tires (3 out of 4 so far) due to faulty valve stems. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact noticed air coming out of the front passenger side tire, which she had been aware of since first purchasing the vehicle. the failure occurred more than six times, regardless if the vehicle was parked or in motion. the vehicle would either have to be towed to the dealer or service personnel would come to her and replace the tire with a spare. the dealer was never able to determine the cause of the failure. the tire was replaced once in january of 2008, but the failure recurred. the contact sent letters and emails to the manufacturer regarding the failure. the current mileage was 36,686 and failure mileage was 22,815.

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. when the contact attempted to start the vehicle, the key would not turn inside the ignition. as a result, the vehicle would not start. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they stated that the ignition needed to be replaced. the contact did not notice any differences beforehand. the current mileage was 147,000 and failure mileage was 126,000.

The ignition switch on my car will not turn over to start the car. *tr

A screw was dislodged from the engine, ricocheting through out the engine causing damage beyond repair. the engine ceased working without any preparation. the engine needed to be replaced completely. *tr

Ford focus 2002 zx3 had to have the coil/spring assembly replaced due to the spring resting on the front right tire. from all the research that i have done on the web, this is a safety issue that needs to be investigated by the nhtsa. i found the information for the 2000 ford focus on the following website just to reference how many problems there are with these coil/spring assemblies. before ford has any other problems with deaths occurring with faulty problems, i would like to have it investigated. and to my dissatisfaction ford did not send any warning out nor contact me via their customer satisfaction program that was offered to the dealerships. furthermore, i did not even know that i had to take it to a dealership. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. when the contact attempted to start the vehicle, the ignition appeared to be locked, but there was power. he attempted approximately 25 more times to start the vehicle and also disconnected the battery, but the failure persisted. the steering, transmission, and ignition switch locked. the dealer and manufacturer have not been notified. the current and failure mileages were approximately 130,000.

I have only owned this car for four months. first the oxygen sensor failed after two days. then a month later i began having different lights come off and on with loss of power. i took it in to dealership and to ford who could never repeat the codes. i replace the battery and this stopped for a month. it is now doing the same thing again. stalling or acting as if it will. i have to pull over and restart it several times to reset the computer to get it to drive correctly. i am frustrated because no one can find out what is wrong. this occurs intermittently but when it does it can be over 10 times a day. *tr

I have a 2002 ford focus and the keys sometimes get stuck in the ignition and or the keys are not able to turn the ignition. i feel that this is unsafe. *tr

On my 2002 ford focus, the thermostat housing began leaking coolant when the thermostat housing gasket against the engine block failed. this is a common problem on various years of the focus as verified by the comments of the ford motor co. parts sales people in saying that they sell many of the thermostat housings, and also by blogs on internet chat lines. the rubber gasket swells when it comes in contact with oil and breaks off the inner gasket-support ring, allowing the leak to happen. it is a poor design that can lead to major problems such as environmental pollution and engine failure. i would be glad to mail the affected part to you for your examination. it is amazing how completely the support ring failed, and the condition of the gasket that is not compatible with oil which leaks from the valve cover above. the part could easily be redesigned to use a standard o-ring for the seal, which is resistant to oil, and seals better. the current gasket is more like a rubber band that is held in place by the inside rim which breaks off. *tr

1. i've had problems with this tire holding air. it has given me problems ever since i purchased it. it was taken to the dealer all through warranty. i've been putting air in it which has cost me a surmountable amt of money ranging from 25 cents to whatever the market charged cost of putting air in it to the current date. it ruined a good tire after 12,000 miles of use; it was rotated all the necessary times; only the right passenger front side tire no matter how many times it was rotated; the same side is faulty; august 2008, a service center discovered the problem. i told them to examine that particular wheel and see if they could figure out what problem exists. they discovered that the wheel is bent in 4 different places. i've had to be towed from my workplace; my auto club has had to send a service shopout to change the tire or pump it up. sometimes this would happen in my driveway. after warranty it becomes the owner's problem. i believe the mfr and dealer were aware of the problem. an owner of a 2004, new at the time of purchase, also has a cracked wheel. unless this problem is corrected, it will continue to cost purchasers more monies and accidents if driven over 30-40 miles per hr. this is a mfr's defect. a vehicle in this condition should not be driven on long trips at a high rate of speed, such as on the expressways and interstates. it is dangerous regardless of speed. once air is put back into the tire, within a day's time, driven or not driven, it starts going down. basically, just being parked, it will go down anyway. with the ethics of the dealership in this area, they probably did the same thing as i've been doing., adding air to the tire and returning it back to me. thank you. *tr

With no prior warning signs, key will not turn ignition. i was unable to get to work and subsequently lost $96 in wages, minus taxes. i cannot afford $200-$500 to fix something that will be replaced with the same faulty part, thus having to fix it again in the future. i searched the internet and found thousands of references to this problem, which makes me wonder why there is no recall. if so many people are having the same problem, wouldn't that indicate a faulty part, installed by ford itself. some people report having to replace the ignition numerous times, and that ford has not redesigned this part, nor have they admitted it is faulty or offered a recall. what a disappointment to thousands of consumers, which surely will affect future ford sales. when will ford own up to this problem???*tr

We bought this two yrs ago from ford dealership and up to the date it broke down not one problem . we do all the maintenance plus some all buy certified mechanics . this was our only car . the engine blew at under 200xxxkm . these are all highway km as we are commuters . there is no way this engine should have blown at that many km without some kind of warning sign . before the day it blew there were no knocks nothing ran like a top . we have never taken this car over 100km on the highway as its our only mode of transportation . we still owe 140000 on this hunk of crap . im just wondering if this is the norm for the focus engines . im just baffled because like i said there was absolutely no warning signs up till the morning it happened it started to sputter and lose power . the misses dropped me off at work made it to the shop barely and its never started since . the mechanic says there is no compression in number 4 cylinder and it was just in the shop for a tune up maybe a month tops before this happened . any help or info would help . there aren't that many out there that care about the little man so i'll take any help or advise i can get . thx tania and derrek eberlie *tr

The right front coil spring failed. the bottom of the upper piece of the coil came down and rested on the top of the right front tire. this caused the car to pull to the side and destroyed the tire. this happened at low speed and there was no incident. but even at low speed, the tire was destroyed in only a few feet. had this happened at highway speed, the near simultaneous pull, suspension sag, and tire destruction could easily caused a wreck. ford has acknowledged a problem with these springs in early my foci and extends the warranty on these springs. what they don't acknowledge is the potential hazard from such a spring failure. *tr

In the last 5 years i have replaced a air conditioning hose 3 times ! my mechanic claims it to be a bad design and he sees it often with this model and year ford focus 2002. *tr

A couple years back my passanger motor went out and had to get it replace. now my radio does not work and my cd's are stuck in it. i have written ford but got no responce. please help. *tr

Failure of ignition to turn on. programmed ford focus keys fail to turn on ignition. *tr

2002 ford focus side airbag deployed while driving. consumer states that the airbag deployed with a loud bang. stated that it was kind of an explosion. *kb the consumers son experienced ringing in his ears, reduced hearing and a severe headache from the explosive force of the air bag. *jb

My car has frequent problems with the steering column, ignition locking which became problematic when i stalled in traffic and nearly caused a multi car accident because i could not start the car. *tr

2002 ford focus x3, everyday i have problems with my ignition. i inset the keys into the ignition and the car locks up and the keys won't turn. i have to pray to try and get it to turn. well today it finally gave up on me and i had to leave my car at my moms for good. *tr

The front springs on the 2002 ford focus are faulty. the front passenger side spring was cracked , and took the car to goodyear to get repaired, since it's out of warranty (including the extended warranty i purchased). i then lettered ford, and they said in november 2004 they mailed a notice to customers ( which i never received) notifying them of f the problem with the springs. they said there is no recall, but they are repairing under a customer satisfaction program. they said i should have brought my car to the dealer and it would have been repaired for free. they would not reimburse me. i even tried to negotiate and asked them to at least reimburse me what they would have paid their dealer but they refused. this car also has defective brakes and rotors. when the car was under the original 3 yr 36,000 mile warranty , the front and rear brakes and rotors needed to be replaced. ford said they could not repair the rotors or cut them, and brakes and rotors are excluded from the warranty. it cost me over $ 500 for brakes and rotors on a less than 2 year old car. a few yrs later, same thing, front brakes and rotors , and again, i was told the rotors can't be cut, they always have to be replaced. *tr

I drive a 2002 ford focus wagon, mileage 85,578. two days ago i had trouble starting it. i did get it started but everytime i took my foot off the accelerator the engine stall. there was no check engine light warning prior to this or during the event. i was able to drive my car home, but had to restart it each time i had to stop. the next morning it drove fine but i took it to a ford dealer for diagnosis and repair. i was told it was a fuel pump failure and it cost me over a $1000 for repair. (parts lister were sender, gasket, kit, tube, gasket, filter). in researching recalls i found that model years 2000-2001 were having this exact same problems and a recall was determined for this. i do normal driving - 70% highway, 30% in town. my car is just over 5 years old, i don't believe that normal wear and tear should cause the fuel pump to fail. it seems to me that this is some kind of defect in the original part or assembly. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus zx3. while driving 60 mph, the check engine light illuminated and the vehicle began moving very slowly. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the diagnostic indicated failure at the transmission main control body valve. the dealer replaced the main control valve. the manufacturer stated that there was no recall for the failure. the failure and current mileages were 53,000. updated 09/25/08 *bf updated 09/26/08. *jb

The car's check engine light came on and started stalling, had it checked and was told that the car was only running on 3 cylinders and was recommended to put an additive in the engine to try to loosen up stuck valves...a week after that the car, we were driving the car, parked it for about an hour and it wouldn't start. we finally got it started after a few minutes and it sounded like there were rocks in the engine. had it towed and have not done anything with it because we cannot afford to spend $3000 to repair it and we still owe $5000 on it. we bought it used 3 1/2 years ago. we have found that ford replaced the cylinder heads on these cars because of the problem but no recall was issued by ford to prevent further engine damage. we understand that at this point the whole engine would need to be replaced because of damage to the pistons. the person who checked our car said that he had taken the cylinder head cover off and found a broken spark plug which suggests extensive engine damage. *tr

Driver side tail light and brake light. the housing is shaped so that you can't take the lightbulb out w/o breaking it. i told them to do whatever to make it work can't afford $118.00 to replace a manuf defect part. *tr

Tried to turn the ignition to start my car and the key would not turn. its a 2002 ford focus 2dr hatchback. it left me stranded for a few hours until i could have it towed. it seemed like the tumblers did not recognize the key. i could not shift out of park so i couldn't even push it out of the spot it was parked in. the entire ignition switch has to be replaced and the car restarted. *tr

Ignition switch failure in 2002 ford focus. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact was experiencing difficulty turning his key in the ignition of his vehicle. it took him 2-3 hours after leaving the store to start the vehicle. the failure occurred very frequently. the dealer advised him to go to a locksmith to remove the cylinder. the current mileage was approximately 76,000 and failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

I was driving to work. i live 7 miles from work. at a stop light my car started shaking very bad and the engine shut down. it would not start again.. i had it towed to my brothers house and started researching the symptoms... everything i could find leads to engine failure, caused by a thrown rod or broken piston. after checking the compression in the cylinders # 1-3 no problems about 75 psi and #4 was 0. i believe that the #4 piston or rod is broken or otherwise rendered useless causing the complete engine failure. the vehicle has 85500 miles and has been maintained per the owners manual. *tr

Steering wheel locked and ignition key would not turn, leaving me stranded. *tr

While my wife was driving on i-95 the right front coil spring suddenly fractured and in the process wedged into the tire destroying it and the strut. luckily she was able to get to the side of the highway. the vehicle is a 2002 ford focus. ford knows about this problem and it has happened to many focus'. *tr

Key gets stuck in ignition. *tr

My 2002 ford focus ignition switch will not turn. the steering wheel is locked because of this problem. the ford dealership says this is a coming problem with these cars, but there is no recall. the charge will nearly be $500. *tr

Key will not turn in the ignition. had to call a locksmith to fix for over $200. the car was fine but would not start at all. the problem got worse and worse to the point i was stranded after about a week. *tr

My 2002 ford focus has a known ignition problem per don davis ford but no recall has been issued. the key will no longer turn at all. the dealership offered to replace the ignition switch for $400. *tr

I had to replace my front brakes at about 20,000 miles and again 30,000 miles later. i understand there is a class action suit against ford for it's early brake problems. *tr

My front passenger side floorboards leak a water when it rains. after being "fixed" 3 times, my car is now rusting! *tr

I have heard from many of ford focus owners of their problems with their ignition key getting stuck or not turning. i have been experiencing this problem for a few weeks now, where i have been left stranded at night or in harsh weather conditions. i believe that since this si not an isolated problem with a few vehicles and also considering the implications if vehicles not starting because of this problem in an emergency situation, should be enough to request to ford company, take responsibility for the design flaws in the ignition system. *tr

My ignition switch on the 2003 focus wagon, locked up. a tow truck driver, hit it to release. i took it to the dealership for repair, and they said it would be $338.00. this is an ongoing issue with this model for years according to web blogs. i spoke to ford and they would not help me, and stated this was not a recall issue. we have 4 focus in the family. our 2002 had the same problem -but was repaired under warranty. this should not happen and must be addressed as a safety issue. *tr

Went to the grocery store about 10pm when i was done got into my car and the ignition would not turn. i sat there trying for a long time and nothing. it was obvious the ignition was locked up. got my car towed the next morning to the ford dealership, which did not open until the following monday. they finally were able to look at it and said the ignition tumbler had to be replaced and the cost for that is $453.00. i was extremely disappointed because i am already on a tight budget and there was no event that led up to the ignition defect. *tr

The ignition is locked on my 2002 ford focus. nothing led up to it. apparently this happens to focuses often. i need to have a locksmith replace it, at cost to me, when ford knows about this problem and has taken to action to remedy it. *tr

Continual oil leakage from the lower engine block of a 2002 ford focus 5 door hatchback. this results from an engineering problem, per my firestone service person. the right side cv axle mounting brackett is attached to the lower crankcase, and the axle torque has over the 73,000 miles we have driven the vehicle cracked the lower crank-case. when there is pressure on the engine, the crack opens and oil leaks. i have seen the crack with my own eyes. according to the technicians, if this is the case with this vehicle because of the engineering, there are probably other instances of the same thing happening. *tr

1. two days before the engine died i noticed it was having problems starting first thing in the morning, like a sputtering. then it would go away and the car would drive fine. the car had a transmission fluid leak and so i continued to make sure it was at the right levels. 2. the day when the engine died it had been running normally. i had stopped at the store. when i got back in my car and turned it on the engine made a popping noise and then the engine "turned over" and started making a thwaping noise, like cardboard in contact with a fan blade. after towing it to a mechanic (it wouldn't start, it kept making thud-ish thwaping noises), who had worked for ford previously, he said that the 4th piston had broke and was grinding on the side of the engine block (he had taken a look at the timing belt - ok- and was testing the gears that the timing belt attached to. 3 turned with the right torque but the final one at the bottom of the engine block didn't turn unless torque greater than what was normally needed was applied. when it turned there was a thwap sound inside the engine). what made me wonder is he said that this always happened with this model on the single overhead cam engines at around 90 to 120 thousand miles. he said that he repaired numerous similar incidents with this type of engine, even guaranteeing that opening up the engine would show that the 4th piston (farthest on the right facing the front) broke. i hate to think what would have happened if i had gotten on the freeway and the piston had broke. 3. the cost to replace with a new oem engine was more than the value of the car if i were to personally sell it (based on kelly blue book) and so was the cost for a used engine ($1200 was the lowest, compared to the duel overhead cam engines for the focus which i found used for $500. seems the demand for that style engine is high). i have not repaired it. i am considering selling it to a scrap yard. *tr

Key won't turn in the ignition. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 30 mph, the vehicle began to drive roughly. the contact looked at the trip odometer and it displayed all zeros. the contact pressed the trip odometer button and the vehicle began to drive normally again. the contact took the vehicle to a dealer and they stated that the dpfe sensor failed and needed to be replaced. the contact stated that there was an extended warranty on the dpfe sensor, but the failure did not occur at that time. the current mileage was 66,773 and failure mileage was 66,300. updated 4/2/08 *cn updated 04/02/08 *tr

When i put my key in the ignition, it doesn't turn. i got stuck while shopping and had to have a locksmith come out. he informed me that my key was fine, but the ignition switch was the problem and that he has responded to many of the same calls for the same problem on the 2002 ford focus. he suggested there might be a recall due to the high volume of responses. so i called a ford dealership and they then informed me that they had been receiving a lot of the same calls, but there was no recall in effect. the man i spoke to gave me the ford 800 number to call and issue a complaint, which i did. now i have to unfortunately go spend $300 plus dollars on repairing my ignition switch even though ford is aware of the faulty part. please recall 2002 ford focus ignition switches! *tr

Approximately 3 weeks ago, while driving on the interstate (~65 miles per hour), a cooling system light came on (2002 ford focus, manual transmission, 46,000 miles), and instantaneously, the car stalled. it almost threw me into the windshield. the car recovered and did not die, and i was able to get to where i was going. it happened again a few days later while making a right hand turn (~20 miles per hour). i brought it to pep boys, who could find nothing wrong. it stalled and died two blocks away from pep boys, so i brought it to the ford dealership. i asked them to check on any recalls because i have noticed that many focuses have this problem. they called me to tell me that it was definitely the thermostat , thermostat housing assembly and o ring, and i needed an oil change (which was done at pep boys one week earlier). they wanted $1100.00 to fix it, so i took my car home. today, i drove it to a mechanic, and it killed twice, and stalled three times (driving no more than 30 mph). the hazard light came on by itself while i was driving. the mechanic just called to tell me that the fuel pump is bad, and that is what was causing the stalling. it is a shame that i could have been killed in this car, and no recalls have been done on the 2002 ford focus for faulty fuel pumps. *tr

Clutch leaks fluid. fluid runs down stem of clutch pedal, loosening the rubber pedal pad, which proceeds to fall off in certain situations while vehicle is in motion. also clutch fluid is supplied by brake fluid reservoir!!! this leak can potentially cause brake failure as fluid leaks out. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the gear would not shift out of park. the failure occurred twice in three weeks. he allowed the vehicle to run for over an hour; however, the gear would still not shift out of park. the vehicle can only be driven if an emergency button is engaged, which also does not allow the gear to shift out of park. an independent mechanic stated that the failure was electrical and a wire that connects to the brakes needed to be repaired. the vehicle was purchased in may of 2007 with a 1,000 mile or 30 day warranty. the fuel system was unknown and the vin was invalid. the current mileage was 86,332 and failure mileage was 86,302.

There were no injuries or crashes, however my speedometer reading stops working and i do not know how fast i am going. when this happens my odometer stops working too. since the odometer stops working, this gives a false reading on how far i have been traveling. in other words if the odometer stops at 500 miles and then it starts working ten miles later, it picks up at 500. i do not know what the true reading is anymore. i have had so many malfunctions that i do no know the true readings of my odometer. *tr

Engine stalls then turns off. i give it gas and it seems to get worse. idles down to zero and turns off. i have to wait a couple of minutes, then it will run. it usually will keep happening every few miles until i stop for several hours. i can no longer drive on the interstate/expressway, too dangerous when it stalls at 75mph. *tr

I never experienced a problem with my ignition cylinder, no semi locking, no glitches nothing, then all of the sudden i go to start my car to leave the grocery store and the key won't turn. so i had to wait 3 hours with my 87 year old grandfather in a freezing car with no heater (cause the key wont budge) of a grocery store parking lot for a locksmith to come and fix and then to pay him $400. my complaint is not the wait, but that this from what i read is a problem occurring in these ford focus faulty ignition. if this where something that only happened to me, then that would have been my problem, but its not. so now we are out $400 because of cheap merchandise that should have been recalled and replaced for free because too many people before me have experienced this same problem. please investigate this problem further and let get a recall going so no one else has to bear this burden. thank you for your time and concern of this matter. sincerely madeleine mellott *tr

I was in a car accident, monday feb 11th at 7:15 am. my seatbelt was broken during the impact and my air bags did not deploy. my car is considered a "total loss", therefore i can not fix the damages to it. if my seatbelt broke due to the impact, then why didn't my air bags deploy? *tr

In 2006, i had purchased a used 2002 ford focus se. a couple of months after my purchase, my right rear power window would not go up using the power button. about 3 weeks later, the left rear power window also stopped working and stayed down. the windows had to be propped up with tape and door stopper wedged in order for the windows to stay up. when finally taken to a mechanic, the mechanic said both power window motors had to be replaced at the cost of $400 each. *tr

I could not but the key in the ignition and the steering column is locked up. it seems like it is stuck in the start position. so now i have to get the car towed. *cn

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving 10-15 mph, the vehicle would not stop when she applied the brakes. in addition, the contact had to put the gear shift indicator into the park position to stop the vehicle. the mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. the failure mileage 103,800 and current mileage was 103,900. updated 02-14-08 *bf the consumer stated to a ford dealer the previous owner installed decorative overlays to gas and brake pedals. updated 02/14/08 *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact was unable to start the vehicle when he inserted the key into the ignition. the steering wheel locked. the mechanic stated that the internal components of the ignition lock cylinder failed. the steering column and lock cylinder assembly were replaced and there were no further occurrences. the current and failure mileages were 75,378. updated 03/14/08. *lj

The 2002 ford focus se comfort wagon has been a continual problem of not staying in alignment (named the rear wheels worst that the front) for more than 5000 miles before needing addition adjustments. tires have lasted less than 20,000 miles (regardless of manufacturer) before totally worn out and needing replacement. *tr

My wife was driving the car, and had just turned from the parking lot to the road when the car stalled and would not start again. she was able to coast to the side of the road where the car was towed to the ford dealership. ford has told us that the fuel pump failed and needs to be replaced. the car is 5 years old and has less than 50,000 miles on it. *tr

When i attempt to start my car the key will not turn, when speaking with a dealer on the problem they explained to me that this is a problem very very common with the ford focus and agreed that this should be recalled due to the number of cars that need the key cylinder replaced, sometimes multiple times, due to this issue. *tr

'02 ford focus zx5 has shown continuous problems with ignition. first, the key would get stuck and the transmission would not shift out of 'p'. then, the key would intermittently get stuck in the ignition. this occurred with increasing frequency, and it is now stuck permanently. i have not yet taken it to get fixed, but based on phone inquiries to repair shops it will cost me anywhere from $200-500 to get it fixed. *tr

Ignition lock defective. *tr

My key wont turn in the ignition most of them time leaving me stuck and in a dangerous position. *tr

When the rear window, (both), is raised over a period of time,(3-5 yrs), the upper cable retainer on the window elevator,(its made of plastic), breaks off allowing the window to drop down. this is both a security& a safety issue. i have old parts i've replaced the right rear elevator in 4/07 now the left has failed.(11/07). *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the front passenger side door will not open or unlock. the door is completely stuck. through online research, the contact discovered several complaints, but no recalls. the powertrain was unknown. the failure and current mileages were 70,000.

2002 ford focus the ignition locked up and the key would not turn to start the car. this happened in 9/2004 and again 11/2007. both times we were stranded, had to have the car towed, and it cost almost $400 both time. *tr

2002 ford focus zts firestone tires with flat spots. customer states that the flat spots would make a noise at certain speeds. mechanic told the consumer that they no longer carried firestone tires and they couldn't help him. *kb the consumer was able to get the tire pro-rated, however the new tires started to experience cupping. the rear view mirror was loose, the sway bar bushings, front link pins, rear suspension bar, rear side bracket and front struts were all replaced. *jb

My foot pad on my clutch pedal became slippery due to leaking hydraulic fluid out of my clutch master cylinder on my 2002 ford focus zx3. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving approximately 70 mph, the vehicle began hesitating , surging, and then lost all power. the vehicle was pulled off the road before it completely shut off. the vehicle restarted after being parked for a while. the dealer stated that they would not repair the vehicle unless it was paid for by the contact. the dealer also stated that the fuel delivery module failed. there was an investigation (ea02022) that was opened and closed. the current mileage was 125,000 and failure mileage was 71,380 updated 3/4/08 *cn

Have a 2002 ford focus that has had the steering wheel locked up again. last time i was able to turn the wheel hard enough to get the key to turn and start the car. this time no such luck. right now it's sitting in the parking garage at work. guess i'll have to call sam packs ford to come fix $$$$$. *jb

I have a 2002 ford focus zx5 and my ignition locked up. dealer said it is not on any recall list and therefore i need to pay to have a new ignition cylinder put in it. cost is $200-250. *tr

Both rear passenger window regulators failed on my 2002 ford focus se wagon outside of warranty. the windows were never abused / mis-used in any way. this is an obvious design or manufacturing flaw, yet i had to pay for the entire cost of replacing the regulators. ford was requested to provide some assistance but declined to offer any. *jb updated 03/05/08. *lj

Ford focus 2002, 69,000 miles. on 8/22/07 driving on the freeway my car stall it was towed away. ford called me and told me it could be my engine that's ruined due to the time chain. *tr

The car was running hot had to use a/c to keep the fans to cool car i took car to my mechanic and he found that the switches for the fans and the rest of the car was burned out and would have cause a fire if i had not brought the car for a checkup it would have caught on fire and i am 3 months pregnant. 2002 ford focus .the mechanic had to replace the switch and the whole wire system it cost me $225.00 i am scared if i did not take the car for a checkup to see why the fans were not working i don't want to know what would have happened. *tr

Left front strut coil spring broke at approx. 45,000 miles causing the focus to become undrivable. if the broken spring would have gotten into the tire, it would have also destroyed the tire. the coil spring it's self could not be replaced. the struts must be replaced in pairs. both front strut assemblies were replaced at a cost to me of $595. *jb

2002 ford focus se 4 cylinder shutting down while driving. dash board goes out and then the engine shuts down. battery was replaced and it is still doing it. sometimes it starts back up if i let it sit for awhile, but sometimes i have to get it jumped. very unsafe and scary when it shuts down while driving on the road. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. when the contact places the key in the ignition, the key fails to turn as if the steering wheel is locked. however, the steering wheel is not locked. the dealer stated that the failure is due to a failed mechanism inside of the steering column, which is common in vehicles of this year, make, and model. the ignition repair would cost an estimated $350. the vehicle has not been repaired. the vin and engine size were unknown. the failure and current mileages were 70,000.

2002 ford focus zx5- one of the center caps on the 16" wheels fell off while driving the vehicle. the caps are defective since the tabs that hold it onto the wheel seem to just break off (cheap). the cap covers the lug nuts. *tr

The window regulators are defective for the two rear windows in my 2002 ford focus. the first incident occurred about a year and a half ago when the back left window just fell while the vehicle was being driven. the windows are never lowered since we live in florida and always use the a/c. the same thing happened to the right rear window about 6 mths ago. this is obviously a manufacturer's defect and should be covered under a campaign or special policy. this has not been repaired since the cost is excessive and should be covered by ford. ford should step up and release a special policy to cover this unnecessary issue. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. he wanted to purchase a kayak holder from thule. thule advised him that they would not warranty his vehicle because the roof rack for his year make and model did not pass there crash tests. there had been no failure to date. the current mileage was 50,000.

Car was shaking violently while idling. was fine while driving, but when gas was not applied it would shake and die. dealership quoted $80 just to look at it. i went to auto zone for free computer analysis, which said oxygen sensor needed replaced. i replaced it, but the problem was not fixed. a random gentleman at auto zone said it sounded like an air leak. i used starter fluid to lightly spray on hoses in engine to find a leak (engine revs when you hit a hose with a hole). i spent 4 dollars replacing a small rubber elbow and fixed the problem. the existing elbow right in the back center of the engine was burnt completely through with about a 2 inch hole. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that she was unable to turn the ignition when the key was inserted. the dealer has not inspected the vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 60,000.

2002 ford focus ztw wagon. diving on highway and vehicle lost power. pulled from highway and had vehicle towed to service center. repair facility replaced fuel filter explaining symptoms were consistent with restricted fuel system. three days later vehicle exhibits same problem. towed to service center where a plugged/clogged fuel pump screen was found. repair facility stated this was a common issue on prior year (2000 - 2001) focus. receipts and used parts available. *jb

2002 ford focus ignition locks ,can't turn key to start car. *ak

I was involved in an accident where my car hit the center divider, spun out of control, flipped over onto its hood, and slid down the freeway upside down before hitting the center divider on the driver side once again. my air bag did not deploy at all causing my head hit the steering wheel, the front windshield, and a few other places in the car. *tr

Ignition failed , key will not turn. *ak

The front coil spring broke while doing 70 mph on the highway and the coil spring dug into front tire. locking of front tire forced me off the road. thankfully, i was able to come to a rest in the borrow pit. *ak

I own a 2002 ford focus and the key got stuck and i couldn't start it or take the key out. i had to have it towed to the dealer since ford had made it so difficult for the average person to work on it. they had to replace the ignition and left a metal shaving mess in the car at my cost. is this how all ford vehicles and dealers were now. i also missed work due to this incident. *ak

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the ignition switch constantly locks up and will not turn. when she places the key in the ignition, it also fails to turn. she has had the ignition replaced twice within one year. ford stated that the ignitions were re-modified due to a large number of complaints and that she would have to pay if she wanted a new one. the current mileage is 68,800 and failure mileage was 68,000.

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the ignition switch locked and the contact was unable to start the vehicle. the key will not turn in the ignition, therefore the vehicle will be towed to the dealer. the current and failure mileages were 96,000.

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. the contact stated that the left rear wheel began to fall off the vehicle. he stated that he had to have the bearings replaced. while researching the internet, he discovered that this failure was first noticed in 2000. ford advised him to call nhtsa since there were no recalls. the engine size and a valid vin were unknown. the current mileage is 57,500 and failure mileage was 55,000.

Ignition locked with key in it. towed to ford dealer and ignition drilled out and replaced at around $300. happened a second time. locksmith called. ignition drilled out and replaced for around $50.00. hasn't happened again in about 3 years.*ak

Front springs assembly popped out of plate and punctured my tires. *tr

Tl* - the contact owns a 2002 ford focus wagon with a current odometer reading of 57,5000 miles. on march 13, while driving in heavy traffic on dry pavement the contact tried to decelerate by applying the brake pedal and the pedal was pushed two to three times until coming to a complete stop, narrowly avoiding another vehicle in front of the contact's vehicle. also, on march 19, 2007 while driving in heavy traffic in the morning the same problem occurred, the brakes did not work, the contact made a hard right hand turn, causing the vehicle's rear end to swing to the left, while the front end continued to swing right toward the guard rail. after coming to a complete stop the vehicle was struck on the rear driver's side by another oncoming vehicle. the contact struck her head, but required no additional medical assistance. the failure mileage was 57000. *ak

1) no warning symptoms 2) failure is that ignition key will not turn. car will not start. this is a mass defect, but fort apparently is not issuing recall. 3) have not done anything. car was towed to my home, and is sitting there useless. dealerships tell me it will cost $300 to fix, but ford should repair this for free. *jb

Tl*- the contact stated that the 2002 ford focus was iinvolved in a crash on 03/2006, which had the passenger front strut previously repaired. the vehicle now had a noise coming from the front of the vehicle. the contact replaced all tire. he took the vehicle to the dealership, and they informed him that the tie rod had backed itself out of its position. the dealership stated that they could not understand what caused the tire rod to slip. he did have the stabilizing link repaired after the crash. *ak

I was driving home from work on the freeway when my brake light and traction control lights came on and it felt like my back end was fishtailing. i pulled off the road and called aaa. as aaa was towing my vehicle, the right rear wheel came off. the wheel could not be located and to my knowledge did not cause any accidents or injuries to other vehicles. it was determined that the rear wheel bearing had failed and the repair bill was in excess of $2,900, including the damage that occurred to the rear spindle, control arm and suspension. my vehicle is a 2002 ford focus. the previous 2 model years were recalled for rear wheel bearing failure. *nm

2002 ford focus with 80,000 stalled on freeway at speed of 60 mph without any prior warning. potentially very serious situation, but there was no accident and no one was injured. car was towed to ford dealership where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump had failed. we are trying to get ford to replace the defective fuel pump as a warranty, but nothing has happened thus far. *jb

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 ford focus. while driving 55 mph on the highway he attempted to use the cruise control and it activated and deactivated without warning. the vehicle lost power and shut off. no warning indicator lights illuminated. the contact was unable to restart the vehicle and it was towed. the road conditions were clear. the dealer informed the contact that the battery cables were corroded and the power lead fuse panel was inoperable, the cables and ground circuits needed to be replaced. the mechanic repaired the vehicle. the failure and current mileage was 117,300.*ak updated 03/19/07. *jb

Ignition key has locked up and will not turn. *jb

Gauges have been surging along with the headlights. this time was different though as the gauges never returned to normal position and i drove all the way to work ( 13 miles) not knowing my speed ,mileage nor temp of my car. at the same time my radio was on and when i tried to turn down my heat from 4 to 3 it turned off any sound from the stereo. when i reached work i let my car set for a few more minutes when finally my gauges surged once again and returned to normal. i bought my car a year ago and told the dealer about it then (the surges always returned to normal until this evening) and the dealer just commented that there was nothing they could do. *nm

Clutch assembly has a leak of fluid into the interior of the car (down the clutch armature to the clutch pad and to floor mat, if significant leakage) which has a) caused the clutch pedal pad to become slippery and fall off due to the fluid seeping behind the pad [after market replacements not available due to relative youth of car, therefore necessitating service at dealer], b) causes the brake light to come on sporadically due to a drop in brake fluid (clutch hydraulics share a reservoir with brake system), although no finding of corresponding brake trouble can be made [problem temporarily disappears when fluid level topped off] and c) causes sporadic clutch "softening" and decreased effectiveness. issue has been brought to the attention of both dealer and independent service providers several times, but none can find a fault with the braking system as indicated by the error light and therefore none indicate that a trouble exists. the leak is not obvious upon visual inspection of the braking system and the problem does not appear to have a negative impact on braking power (unless left too long and brake fluid levels drop significantly). unable to locate precise location of leak (suspect either reservoir or some associated line to clutch hydraulics) or to determine why only clutch system appears to be impacted. 1) no noticeable/known events leading to failure; uncertain how long condition existed prior to initial documented problem 2) see failure and consequences noted above 3) no correction in place yet as dealer service does not yet acknowledge problem and did not "find" problem at recent 60k service work-up (included total systems check and full brake inspection with fluid top offs) problem with brake light firing manifest approximately every two weeks (since first noted in november 2006) due to fluid loss, particularly when temperature drops below 30 degrees fahrenheit. issue is "resolved" by adding brake fluid to reservoir. *jb

2002 ford focus ignition switch wont turn, locked up. *nm

Tl*- the contact stated that the 2003 ford focus had ignition lock cylinder problems. since 08/2006 when he put the key in the ignition it would not consistently turn over. he stated that for the past 4 days the key will not turn over the ignition, and he has been without a vehicle. he called the ford dealership, and was advised to tap on the key while the key is in the ignition to get the key to turn the ignition switch. the contact found on a website called automotivetalk.net, and a number of complaints about the same problem with other owners were listed. the website stated that various locksmiths described the failure as the tumblers in the ignition switch malfunctioned. the contact could get the key out of the vehicle, but could not turn the key to get the ignition to start. the contact did file a complaint with the manufacturer, and he will have a case number available for the hard copy. the current mileage was 80000, and the failure mileage was 73000.*ak

Two separate 2002 ford focus automobiles have had the ignition lock break, making it impossible to turn the key, unlock the steering column, or start the vehicle. both these incidents occurred within a couple of months of each other. in the first case, there had been a gradual increase in the difficulty in turning the key in the ignition lock. in the second case, the failure was abrupt and complete - normal operation in the evening and total failure the next morning. the two vehicles involved are a 2002 ford focus 3-door hatchback (zx3), and a 2002 ford focus 4-door sedan (zts), both times it was necessary to have the vehicle towed to a dealership (specifically, veterans ford in metairie la) and have the lock replaced and two new keys made at the cost of $375 for each occurrence. *jb

I had just gotten off work and went to leave. i tried to turn the key in the ignition and it wouldn't move. to make a long story short, it was my ignition switch. the guy at the ford dealership new exactly what i was talking about when i called, stating it has happened several times to the focuses. the tow truck driver stated that same thing. ford says it is not a safety issue, but it definitely can be. i will never buy a ford again, especially not one from archie cochrane in billings, mt. they are a bunch of money hungry jerks who are unwilling to take responsibility for their wrong doings or have any sympathy for a customer. *jb

I own a 2002 ford focus lx and i experienced a lock up failure in the ignition system that caused me to be unable to use my car at all. i had to pay for towing, replacement of the piece and labor. i understand ford knows about the massive failure that this piece in their cars has experienced and has done nothing to replace the piece. i had my 4 year old with fever and needed to get him to the hospital, the car was the only car available for my use, but couldn't use it at all. i want ford to do something about this. thanks. *nm

Ignition jams, key will not turn in lock. internet search turns up hundreds of complaints of the same nature. read http://www.consumeraffairs.com/automotive/ford_focus.html for more detail. i had to pound on the key with a flashlight to get it to work. problem getting worse/occurring more often. i had previously purchased a replacement key, thinking the old one might be wearing out, it only works in the doors, it will not work in the ignition at all. *nm

Tl*- on december 18th of 2006 while coming out a drive-thru, contact states that the engine thermostat went above normal . the gauge temperature reached the top of the register. the contact stated in order for her engine not to over heat she had to drive at a speed of 45mph. the contact currently has the vehicle at the dealership and they stated that the problem with the vehicle is that the resistor that controls the cooling had burned out and part of the harness had melted. the contact states that she has been on the nhtsa website and there are 24 similar complaints. if the invoice for repair is needed contact can provide a copy of the invoice.

The window regulator has gone out in two different windows--both back windows which were never lowered-- in my 2002 ford focus. the first incident was a year and a half ago when the back left window just fell as i was driving down the street. the same thing happened to the right rear window on dec. 1, 2006. this is obviously a defect since the same thing happened to one rear window in my daughter's 2001 focus, and i have recently seen two different focuses in my area of town that have their back windows held up by packing tape, just as mine was! the local ford dealer told us it would cost $500 plus to fix each of the two windows, so we took the car to an independent shop where we had to pay $221 in 2005 and will pay approximately that amount again when we take the car in on dec. 20. *nm

My ford focus 2002 stalls, sometimes it stops completely. it stalled out on a bridge which interfered with traffic. i took it to tipton ford twice for repairs and the problem still exist. *nm

Exhaust gas return (egr) line failed at exhaust manifold mounting flang . this failure allows carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide to seep into the passenger compartment of the focus. co poising can cause: 1)death a) the driver of the ford focus passes out and dies in a crash b) the driver of the ford focus dies from co poising 2)organ failure it is interesting to note that you can't attach a photomicrograph's to this complaint form? *jb

Fuel pump quit on my 2002 ford focus - car stalled in traffic. this same problem on year 2000 and 2001 ford focus have been given extended warranty but not the 2002. *jb

In late october 2006 i took my 2002 ford focus for vibration/grinding noise coming from front end. ford walker in clearwater, florida said that my engine/trans. mount were working properly. ford kept my car for 1 week and i still had the same problem. i took the car back to ford the very next day because of the same problem. again their service manager and regional managers told me that nothing was wrong with my car. ford charged me $100 for my deductible and didn't fixed my problem. i then took my car to another place where they replaced my right side engine mount which was completely broken. the very same piece ford walker lied to me stating it was working properly. *jb

2002 ford focus ignition locking up. it just cost me $285.00 to have a locksmith come to my house where my totally disabled ford focus sat. the locksmith completely replaced my ignition and showed me the difference and the problem with the ford oem ignition. the locksmith told me that he has become an expert in ford focus' ignitions due to this faulty part. there is no way in the world that this problem that has happened repeatedly to so many people should just go away. ford needs to be accountable for this problem and make it right for the american ford car buying public or we should stop buying ford's! *nm

Water leaks into passenger side floor board everytime it rains. *nm

(1) vehicle with approximately 40k miles exhibited hard starting and occasional stumble for 6-8 weeks. (2) failure was clogged fuel pump and vehicle would not start. (3) correction was replacement of fuel pump with updated unit. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle was involved in two separate front end collisions and both times, the front driver side airbags did not deploy. on the first occasion, the vehicle was traveling 40 mph on normal road conditions, and 30 mph on the second incident. both times the contact was wearing the seatbelt; there was no prior warning lights to indicate there was a problem with the airbag. the contact sustained moderate injuries and a police report was taken. the vehicle was taken to a local dealer after the first accident, who determined that the airbags needed to be repaired and performed the repair. after the second accident, the vehicle was taken to another dealer who could not duplicate the problem with the airbag. the vehicle was currently at the dealer for further examination. the contact encountered similar complaints on the nhtsa website.

Clutch pedal disintegrated, investigated it and found out that hydraulic fluid is leaking from clutch master cylinder. dealer said it is not covered by warranty. i think it should not had worn out prematurely when the car have only 32500 miles on it. *nm

The key stopped turning the ignition switch. the car cannot be started. *nm

The transmission slips and shifts extremely rough. other times when the times comes for the transmission to shift, there is great hesitation. at times it doesn't change until the very last high rpm. the shifting patterns have been off completely. horse power as well as torque are lost due the faulty shifting. *jb

My ignition switch has been giving my daughter problems and now stop working all together. i have heard similar complaints with this car ford focus. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 65 mph on normal road conditions, the front driver's air bag deployed without warning. the vehicle was taken to the service dealer, who determined that the air bag sensor/control module needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was also notified.

After the key is inserted into the ignition, it will not turn despite any wiggling of the steering wheel, stepping on the brakes, begging, or pleading. it has been difficult to turn before and we have successfully made it turn, but has never left us stranded until now. my husband is stranded as i write this waiting for someone to come pick him up from a restaurant. we have no way of operating the vehicle. we will have to have it towed to the dealership. *jb

The speedometer on my 2002 ford focus suddenly drops to zero. it often takes several minutes to reset and often does this repeatedly. it has been happening with increasing frequency this started after the warranty expired but it is a safety issue that ford knows about and will not correct. they claim that i must replace the entire expensive instrument cluster. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 55 mph on normal road conditions, poor braking action was noticed. there was no warning light illuminated to alert the driver. the contact noticed a presence of hydraulic fluid in the driver side carpet. the vehicle was taken to the dealership, who determined a leak from the clutch master cylinder, which was located inside the vehicle. the clutch master cylinder and the brake master cylinder, located in the engine compartment had a common reservoir. the clutch master cylinder affected the fluid level of the brake master cylinder. the dealership indicated there was no recall for this defect. the manufacturer had not yet been contacted. updated 02/06/07. *jb

My problem is with my 2002 ford focus. the ignition and steering wheel constantly lock up and make it impossible to start the car. this has been happening frequently for the past 4 months. *jb

Ignition lock cylinder failed for a second time since 9/16/04. had to be replaced by dealer. *jb

I have a 2002 ford focus zx5 that is well maintained. within the first 2-3 years, i have had to replace the front brakes and rotors. in 2004 i had to replace the battery. in 2005 i had to replace the right rear window motor. presently the left rear window motor isn't working; the window will not go up. the rear front window is not working properly and the air bag light comes on each time the car is started and stays on. the cd player had to be replaced in 2005. in 2006 all four tires had to be replaced because of factory dry rot. i regularly service and maintain the car, and have approximately 28,000 miles on it. i take excellent care of my vehicle and feel this car is not made with quality parts and that it is not safe. although i drive at normal speeds, it does not get the mileage stated on the sticker. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle had problems with the electrical system while driving 35 mph. the vehicle stopped and could not be restarted after numerous attempts, neither the air conditioner nor the power windows worked. the vehicle was taken to the dealership several times but could not duplicate the problem. the contact expressed that the electrical problem was getting worse because the vehicle was not getting the necessary power and became slower. there was not a regular response when the gas pedal was depressed hard.*ak

Starting having difficulty turning my key in ignition for 2 days. on the third day the key would not turn at all. had to have car towed to a repair facility and the estimated bill is $350.00 due sometime today. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated without warning, the vehicle would not start and was towed to the dealership who determined the ignition needed to be replaced. the vehicle worked properly for two years, and then the vehicle wouldn't start. after an hour of trying, the vehicle started and was taken to an independent repair shop for inspection.

The window regulator on the rear window on the passenger side of my wife's 2002 ford focus broke when she attempted to roll the window down using the electrical controls. once the window was rolled down, it would not roll up. the parts manager at the ford dealer informed me that all of the rear passenger side window regulators of the 2002 ford focus' break. this is dangerous because a small child could fall out of the vehicle. additionally, since the window cannot roll up, if it is raining visibility out of the rear window is nil. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle would not start on three different occasions. a new battery was installed but the problem persisted. the vehicle was taken to the dealership who determined the battery connector cable to the motor was the source of the problem and a new connector was installed. the contact was aware of recall #02v288000, pertaining to the electrical system:battery:cables which described the vehicle's electrical defect. the vehicle was not included in the recall due to the vin. updated 8/31/2006 - *nm

2002 ford focus, the vehicles ignition cylinder will not turn. i can place the key in the ignition but it will not turn to start the vehicle. this happened three or four times but i was able to get the key to turn, but this time i couldn't and i am towing it to the dealer to have the ignition cylinder replaced. *nm

The ignition on my 2002 ford focus with 60,000 miles locked up when i put the key in. what i thought would be a fast trip into the post office lead to a six hour event of trying to get my car started, calling ford, and aaa., to make matters worse it was during a thunderstorm. after six hours my car was towed to a local mechanic where the ignition was worked on for a costly price. *jb

Faulty ignition; had to call locksmith mobile and get whole cylinder replaced. just like many other occurrences i've read up on, key would not turn. was told this was a very prevalent problem with this model. in the weeks leading up to the replacement, i found the key was increasingly harder and harder to turn and start the car; it would take an extra little tug to start. *nm

My 2002 ford focus se wagon has had innumerable problems. firstly..melting battery cables due to poor and faulty wiring that could have caused an explosion of the battery had i not had to pay to get it fixed along with purchase of two new batteries thanks to the melting battery cables causing a short in the system. it subsequently killed the alternator which had to be replaced. it also subsequently killed the thermostat and the solenoid switch which caused overheating and dying problems with the car while driving. most recently the passenger side wheel bearing went out and was causing driving problems unable to control car. now more recently, it had to have a faulty tie rod placed which nearly caused me to have an accident. and as of last friday, its back in the shop again this time for engine stalling at 65 miles per hour which nearly caused yet another accident because i was passing another car and mine suddenly began vibrating so bad and then lost power and i had to struggle my way to the median. this car is dangerous and ford refuses to do nothing about it. i have paid out nearly 2000.00 on all these problems which were similar to issues already recalled and yes i am mad. i have called ford and complained but to no avail. *jb

The first week of me purchasing my car at garnet ford in chaddsford, pa, i noticed i was having problems with my car not starting. this has only continued to happen more. also, my car seems to want to stall at times upon slowing down or when i'm stopped. the car will start riding rough and shaking indicating the car is going to stall. i brought this to the dealers attention on many occasions and they told me that because the problem was intermittent and they could not re-create the problem there was nothing they could do to correct it. these are problems that started during the first week of me owning the car. the car was given to me this way and garnet ford is saying the problem is with my iac and throttle body sticking but those two things are age related problems and i advised them that this problem has been happening since day one. they have refused to look into this problem further and they are not taking responsibility for what is happening to my car. i'm very upset with garnet ford for giving me a car with these problems and i expect them to look into what is causing the problem and fix it on their dime not mine. if this does not happen, i will seek other ways at getting their attention. *jb

I am having problems with my car not starting on occasion. also, the car seems to want to stall at times upon slowing down or when i'm stopped. *jb

I am having problems with my car not starting on occasion. also, the car seems to want to stall at times upon slowing down or when i'm stopped. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated the front passenger side tire tread separated from the tire, destroying the front control panel of the vehicle. the tire indicated the recommended psi as 34 and it has been kept to that standard. the tire was approximately one year old when this incident occurred. there was no abnormal bulging and the vehicle had no vibration. there was also no more than 15000 miles on the tire.

Dt*: the contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, it was unresponsive. the vehicle was towed to the dealership, where they determined a connector in the ignition needed to be replaced.

1. i was driving my 2002 ford focus wagon back from a camping trip and i was going about 60 mph on the freeway 2. all of a sudden there was a "crack"/"bang" from the back of the car, drivers side, the car continued without jolting/swerving (i.e. no affect to the driving of the vehicle), however, after another few miles the rear drivers side wheel was making a high pitched sound, plus cracking, plus some jolting as the bearing realigned itself at times. i stopped the car and the heat from the wheel was incredible, one could have fried an egg on it (this wheel was much hotter than the others). unfortunately this happened on a stretch of road where there are no towns, no cell phone signal, etc, i was forced to drive the car to a town, max of 40 mph on a 60 mph stretch of road, i had a baby in the car and was scarred that something would happen to her. in the town, i left the car, had to call a friend to drive me home. i must say it was the most unpleasant feeling in the world. in addition, this happened on a saturday night, where all car shops are closed! 3. repair shops open tomorrow, the repair is yet to take place. *nm

2002 ford focus stalled without warning. mechanic replaced fuel pump assembly and fuel pump relay. *kb ***nar*** *jb

When turning on my 2002 ford focus zx3, it tends to have a very rough idle, sputtering and stalling. i have replaced the fuel filter, spark plugs, spark cables, pcv valve and my ignition coil. but even after all of that my car still sputters, stalls and has a rough idle....i don't know what to do, being a college student out of my home state of michigan. i have taken it to auto zone and had it hooked up to the code reader and the attendant said everything was fine... this is my last straw.. *jb

2002 ford focus sedan manual transmission with 80,000 miles. with no warning the engine acts as if it is going to stall, vehicle hesitates, jerks and sputters. this literally causes the vehicle to jolt forwards and backwards and shakes the passengers inside the vehicle. this is a very scary event, especially at 70+ mph speed or when in traffic. highly concerned that the vehicle is going to simple shut off while on interstate 95 which could be deadly. the ford dealer where the vehicle was purchased and maintained has run a diagnostic test that showed no abnormalities. the following week the key would not turn and the vehicle had to be towed with ignition/steering repairs. the vehicle was re-examined while again in the shop and driven again by the service team and they were unable to provide a useful diagnosis of the engine hesitation problems. we need a resolution to this problem and it appears that no one can appropriately diagnose the problem. *jb

My 2002 ford focus with 80,000 miles stalls when going high speeds, and it has happened 5 times, to date. the last time i was going 55 mph on an entrance ramp to the freeway, with over 1/4 tank of gas when the engine stalled, vehicle lost power, including power steering. i had to slam on the brakes and stop in "v" where road split, came very close to having an accident. took it to ford dealership at recommendation of ford, determined it was the fuel pump. the first person we talked to at ford said they would fix it once we took it in and pay for diagnostic, the second person we called at ford after taking it in said it is our responsibility to replace the part. i am extremely concerned about this problem, it is a major safety hazard to lose steering and power at high speeds. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated, while driving over a bump in the road, at 45 mph, the suspension failed, causing the wheel to bend on impact with the road. the bent wheel and all shocks were replaced. the dealer informed the contact of a service bulletin concerning the suspension directing the dealer to replace springs only if broken. when the manufacture was contacted, replacement springs were offered at cost.

Driving my 2002 zx5 ford focus around pittsburgh, with less than a 1/4 tank the engine started stuttering. then the car stalled. i turned it back on and drove about a 1/4 mile when it started stuttering and shaking pretty bad again. when i tried to accelerate, there was no power and the engine stalled again. i waited a little before turning it back on. it did the same thing twice more; once it stalled when i was doing a left turn at a busy traffic intersection and the other while driving down a crowded avenue. fortunately i was able to make the 2-hour trip back home without any incidents. i took it to the ford dealership in my town and they told me they needed to replace the fuel pump, fuel filter and also perform a fuel flush. the total cost is roughly $600.00. i have been looking in the internet and there is a history of failures with the fuel delivery module on 2000-2001 focus. ford has claimed that the problem was solved in 2002. my bumper-to-bumper warranty expired this past january and the dealership says that since my car is 2002 the extended coverage program 03n01 does not apply in my case, thus i have to pay for the repairs. i disagree and i do not feel that the cost should be my responsibility. my car shows all the symptoms described on the 03n01 document, which is a quality issue that ford should have resolved and clearly has not. it is unsafe driving a car that can stall without warning leaving the driver stuck in a dangerous situation. *jb

Always keep my car checked regularly, changed my brakes in march,but my abs just went down; even if it is a different part, i am wondering if it is normal to have to change the abs so soon, my car has only 46000 miles. *nm

Paint cracking underneath clear coat. *jb

2002 ford focus ignition problem. key will not turn. my daughter, 17 years old was stuck in parking lot, late in the evening! this has happened on several occasions. *jb

Ignition lock was jammed on my ford focus 2002 and i had to replace it twice so far. it cost me close to $400 canadian. i only have 40,000 miles on it . this has been such a frequent event. ford is not taking any responsibility yet. *jb

Dt: the contact stated while driving 20-25 mph on a major roadway, the vehicle began to jerk as if it were going to stall. the accelerator pedal was depressed causing the vehicle to travel through an intersection however it eventually completely stalled. the vehicle would not restart and all the lights on the dashboard were completely darkened. a new battery was installed by the contact and the vehicle driven home. about four hours later, the vehicle began to jerk again and stalled. the vehicle stalled four times throughout the day. when this occurred with the vehicle about a year ago, the vehicle was taken to a dealer who determined the cable wire was not connected properly. the contact expressed that the cable wire may not be the problem and will check to see if the alternator may be the source of the problem. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated that while the vehicle was parked the ignition switch locked up. the key fit in the key slot but key and steering wheel could not be turned. the vehicle was towed to the dealership where they determined that the ignition switch had to be replaced. the invoices for the repairs to the ignition switch are available.

I have 2002 ford focus se that cuts out and stalls while making right hand turns. i took to the dealer 18 months ago and they couldn't find anything wrong. now it is doing it 5 times a day and other focus owners are saying that theirs cuts out as well. ford has no tsb that i could find for it but it is very. *nm

My ford focus 2002 is starting to stall & hesitate while driving. i originally had believed it was bad fuel but it is recurring & once it stalls it is difficult to nearly impossible to keep running when putting it into drive. i have had it towed once & looked at by my mechanic, who is puzzled at this point (fuel additive, oil change, filters changed, spark plugs cleaned). it seems to be worse when the gas gage is @ or below a 1/4 of a tank. i have read that there was a similar problem with the 2000-2001 models & am inquiring if anyone with a 2002 is reporting such incidents. i bought the car used (from a ford dealer) with 12,000 (i think) miles on the speedometer & have been fairly happy until just the last 60 days. i can tell you that i had no problems until i ran very low on gas one night & stopped & filled up at a station that i normally do not use, but it is a station that does a great deal of business in the area where i work. i thought that i may have gotten some bad fuel or had run the tank so low that "gunk" from the bottom of the tank had gotten into the fuel. i used some "fuel additive" & i know that my mechanic (after towing it) also used a fuel additive...everything was fine for a couple of days but then it was hesitating/jerking while i was driving to work on a 1/4 of a tank of premium fuel (my mechanic suggested i only put in $10.00 of gas in case it was the fuel pump). my mechanic does not believe it is the fuel pump because once he got it to run & he had it running hot he had no problems...he feels i may need to just wait it out...stalling while in traffic is a bit too adventurous for me!!! *nm

I was leaving work late one night and could not get my 2002 ford focus zx3 to start. the ignition was locked and so was the steering wheel. no amount of turning the wheel or jingling the key worked. the car recognized that there was a key in the ignition as it began to 'ding' but no matter what i did the key would not turn in the ignition. luckily there was a company car available that i could take home. i commute over 50 miles one way to work. walking, bus and taxi are not available options for me. i am a young woman working in downtown phoenix and i no longer feel secure in my vehicle. i have researched this extensively on the internet. it could be a worn key tip, the keys are microchipped for anti-theft security so a new one can only be made at the dealership and must be the same number as your key. it could be faulty tumblers, ford created their own ignition to save money and the tumblers may not fall correctly, or fall to far in to allow the key to fit! there is no current recall, a p05 is in progress, and there are no technical service bulletins listed. if my car is no longer under warranty, despite my purchase of the extended warranty it will cost anywhere from $35.00 for a new microchipped key, to $500 for drilling a new ignition and new keys, a tow, and labor. automotivetalk.net has been the most helpful website so far, but i wanted to add my voice to the list in order to get a recall rolling and have ford pay for this cheap ignition that fails repeatedly. i will refuse to pay for the replacement cost on this obviously poorly engineered part. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 45mph the vehicle veered toward the right. a clunking sound came from the front of the vehicle. upon inspection the independent repair shop determined the front coil spring fractured. the front coil spring needed replaced.

Firestone firehawk gta p205/50r16, front left tire has bubble on sidewall. this is the second tire with this problem. i replaced the first one. *jb

Ignition key would not turn to any position. no warning of impending failure. car could not be driven, had to be towed. *nm

A year ago, the driver's side turn signal light on my 2002 ford focus wagon burned out. in trying to replace it at a local auto parts place. the socket was so tight in the lens/reflector assembly that it could not be removed. i took it to my dealer, kain family ford in london. i learned that the problem was that the fitting for the socket had warped from excessive heat, apparently. the dealer searched to see if there was a technical bulletin and found one instance in which a pizza driver in a similar vehicle had a similar problem. they were able to pull the light out and with a pocket knife make the new socket fit in the assembly, and charged me the hourly rate for the work. i suspect this is a manufacturer's defect, because i've heard of two other instances in the same type of vehicle in this area with the same results. i recently replaced the passenger side headlamp and fount the same warping. i have yet to take it to my dealer, but will. is there a way to search repair records for this vehicle to determine if this is a defect and should be recalled? i learned of this site from click and clack on npr's cartalk. *nm

The front right bearing and spring needed to be replaced due to corrosion. the bearing was frozen and the spring was popped out so far it almost popped the front right tire. the car is a 2002 ford focus - not that old to have something like this corrode and almost cause an accident. i didn't see a recall on any of the parts for my car or anything suggesting shields should be installed so that if the springs pop at a high speed at least it won't puncture the tire. i would like to see a recall on the parts or have the nhtsa require that shields be installed. i spent $578 to correct the problem - replaced front right strut, mount and bearing, spring, and alignment. *nm

My niece's 2002 ford focus passenger side airbag went off with no apparent cause. ford says 'sensor' indicates an accident, but there was none, and charged $95 for this. ford refuses to analyze this further, and remaining airbags no longer function. we believe that airbag sensors/systems are defective. *nm

Passenger side coil spring is fractured. *jb

The ignition switch locked up in my car. i have had three other friends with the same car say that there ignition switch did the same thing. *jb

Ignition switch on my 2002 ford focus with 34,000 miles failed. required a tow and replacement. total cost of replacement was $290. ford will not acknowledge that there is a quality problem with the ignitions. there are lots of failures of them. this should be recalled. thanks tom rolland. *jb

I have a 2002 ford focus and my ignition locked up again and this time i could not start my car i was stranded for an 2 hours waiting for a tow truck to get the car. when i parked the car it was not straight so i caould not park it straight to wait to get it fixed . i called a repair guys and he said that this is very common what can we do about this. i was told it is going to cost me about $300.00 i am a single parent how does ford motor company believe that we have any trust in the vehicle when they know that this is an issue and do not fix it at there cost in stead of ours. *nm

Stalled, power loss, rough idle. *jb

Turned on my light switch to drive home at night and noticed my dash lights were non-operational. got out of my car and did a walk around and found that my tail lights were not working either. i did an internet search and found postings regarding this failure on other focuses. i've provided a link http://forums.focaljet.com/team-tech/457187-taillights-out-problem-found-serious-safety-hazard.html?highlight=dash+lights+tail i called ford they did not care and would not help. i am the original owner and the car has 45,000 miles on it. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle the ignition locked up, after multiple attempts the vehicle started. this problem continued intermittently, but the vehicle was not inspected by a mechanic. the vehicle then stalled without warning at an intersection and the ignition locked up, a locksmith was contacted to replace the ignition. the ignition locked up a final time and the vehicle was towed the contact's residence. the dealership was alerted and an ignition switch was ordered, but the vehicle has not been repaired.

The ignition switch locked up, not allowing the key to turn. *nm

55,000 miles on the vehicle. on 3/25/05, while parked & locked, the ignition malfunctioned on its own, resulting in a fire that burned the steering column. the fire caused other damages and heavy smoke within the sealed passenger compartment. the fire extinguished itself with the lack of oxygen. pictures of the wiring harness, steering column and interior are available with the insurance company claim file. *nm

My 2002 ford focus has a ignition lock problem. the key is impossible to turn. i had to call a tow truck and also pay $400 plus tax to fix this problem that i have found out is widespread. *nm

At vehicle start up, my wife heard a loud pop, followed by engine sputtering, and smell of gas fumes. my wife took the kids out of the car and ran away for fear of fire. the following day, we had it towed to the dealership. the dealership told me a spark plug blew out of the engine and striped the engine block. i called ford motor corp. they said they could not help me with the repairs, since my vehicles warranty just exspired. the car only has 35,000 mile on it, and has had other major electrical problems at 25,000 miles. now i am paying for a car that doesn't even run, i guess i should have known better than to buy a ford. ford has lost a customer forever. *nm

Have had an ignition freezing up problem and researched it online and noticed this has been an on going problem with ford. i have a 2002 ford focus. first time i have had a car ignition freeze up. *jb

Car sputtered, stalled, and died in traffic on two different occasions (one month apart), requiring towing. i would describe the symptom as "fuel starvation", like a bad fuel pump or filter. both times, it occurred with a warm engine, 1/4 tank of gas, and accelerating normally from a stop. mechanic subsequently detected no problems, except blown fuel pump fuse. *nm

The ignition switch of the ford focus years 2000-2002 for sure may be other years become jammed which could lead to crashes. i am worried every time i drive my car. this item needs to be recalled by ford motor company. *jb

Failing clutch master cylinder. this is not a part that has a recommended replacement term. this part has failed prior to the tune up mileage. it failed less than 2k miles out of warranty. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 60 mph the vehicle lost power. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for inspection. upon inspection, the dealership determined the fuel delivery module needed to be replaced, however no repairs were made. there is a nhtsa recall, # 03v482000, regarding the fuel system gasoline. the vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the vin.

Dt*: the contact stated while slowing down at ten mph and putting the vehicle in neutral the rpm's drop to 500. this causes the vehicle to stall or sputter intermittently. the dealer can not duplicate the problem and no repairs have been made.

The ignition solenoid fails on this model. upon searching online and talking to a few locksmiths it would seem the ignition is substandard/faulty in my car. how exactly does a keyed lock fail? is this a known issue? *nm

Dt*: the contact stated while driving at highway speed the left rear wheel bearings came loose. the vehicle physically felt as though there was a flat tire. the contact pulled over and parked the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop. the independent repair shop personnel replaced the rear spindle assembly, the left rear wheel bearings, as well as the hub and drum of the suspension. *nm the contact's mechanic called ford beforehe did work on vehicle. it was a metal to metal sound. this could have easily been deadly. however, contact was in right slow lane an dwas able to pull off the highway. *ak

On 01/10/06 the ignition of my ford focus zx3 (2002, 46000 miles)) locked up. i was unable to turn the key and start the car, blocking the entrance to a parking garage. an automotive technician was able to hot-wire the car so i could drive it to the closest dealership. i have contacted ford over the phone because i did purchase the extended warranty with the car. ford does not feel responsible for this incident and will not cover the repair cost under the extended warranty. i have researched this issue online and was able to find several thousands of other ford owners with the exact same problem. the locking of the steering column seems to happen over and over again, as the locks that are being used as a replacement are of the same bad quality as the originals. *jb

Dt: the consumer stated while driving at 35 mph the vehicle began to vibrate. the steering wheel was hard to turn and the consumer lost control of the vehicle. the vehicle fish tailed across the road and struck a mail box. at some point during the skid or impact with the mail box, both rear wheels dislodged from the vehicle. additionally, the bolts holding the rear seat dismembered and the rear seat was ejected from the vehicle. one of the vehicle occupants died as a result of the accident and another was injured. a police report was taken at the scene. the vehicle was deemed a total loss. *jb

Ignition will not turn. clutch master cylinder leaks. *jb

Vehicle has stalled numerous times without warning, once while a semi was following close behind. after the vehicle stalls, i have to wait anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours for it to start back up and not stall. i have noticed that the 00-01 models are covered by recall for a defective fuel pump but my 02 model is not covered by it. i have also noticed that the 02 model could have been manufactured with two different types of fuel pumps. the fuel pump the car had installed depends on what date it was manufactured. i unfortunately have a vehicle within the date range of being manufactured with the older and defective fuel pump as my vehicle was built in october of 2001. why is my vehicle not covered in this recall when it was manufactured with the exact same defective part that the 00-01 models have? *jb

Dt*: the contact stated after driving on bumpy road conditions a clanking noise was coming from the front suspension. the contact inspected the vehicle, and determined the sway bar link wore out, and the tie rod ends cracked. the contact replaced the sway bar link and front tie rod ends. the vehicle was not seen by a dealer. *ak updated 2/7/2006 - *nm

I just bought a 2002 ford focus. my key wont turn and my steering wheel is locked up. on-line i have noticed this is a huge problem with focuses. i am going to get it fixed, but am concerned because it seems to be a big problem that will continue to re-occur. i have been without a car for sometime, and was stranded. luckily it happened at my apartment and i did not have to have the car towed immediately. *nm

Three instances. vehicle electrical system (dash, gauges, lamps, etc) suddenly go dead. engine then surges and stalls. power steering and power brakes fail. vehicle fails to restart. 1st instance (12/2004): dealer had failed to properly reconnect electrical connectors after recall service. accident occurred, minor injuries. 2nd instance (1/22/2006): dealer found no problem. vehicle restarted. 3. 3rd instance (2/3/2006): dealer found faulty alternator/alternator wiring. *nm

Engine stalls repeatedly while driving at all speeds. often the car will not start after stall. vehicle is still under extended warranty and has been serviced four times, none of which have fixed the problem. *nm

Ignition does not turn on 2002 ford focus. i cannot turn the key. i have looked around on the internet and there were a lot of people who had this same problem. i fixed it by tapping the key with a hammer as i turned the key. the dealership wanted me to pay them $400 to fix this problem, but i thought ford should just fix it before they make their worthless cars.*ak

The events leading up to the failure were daily use. the clutch master cylinder is located inside the vehicle. it is a very common failure for it to begin leaking, dripping on the carpet and eventually causing the rubber pad on the clutch pedal to fall off. this in itself is dangerous, but the hydraulic clutch utilizes the same fluid reservoir as the brake system, so the brakes could be affected by a leaking clutch. on my vehicle, i replaced the clutch master cylinder myself. when i was under the car, i noticed a drip from the drain hole in the bell housing- the slave cylinder is leaking, too. these are not "consumable" parts of a car. the simultaneous failure of both indicates that either they are woefully under-engineered, or the seals they used are not compatible with brake fluid. because of the corrosive nature of brake fluid, having it drip into the carpet and padding of the interior of my car is a bit of a concern. all in all, this is a major shortcoming that compromises the safety of the vehicle. *nm

The clutch master cylinder leaks at a premature mileage. i only noticed it at around the 42k mark but it has happened for an unknown amount longer. the leak goes through the clutch pedal and into the interior of the drivers side cabin. it gets all over the carpet and can cause future damage to my carpet and possibly floor. the fluid is very corrosive and since its on the same system as the brakes it also affects my brakes. this is a very serious problem and i was not covered under warranty since it was out of warranty even though this is a very serious problem that seems to be happening to a lot of ford focus owners out there. *nm

My foot pad on my clutch pedal became slippery due to leaking hydraulic fluid out of my clutch master cylinder on my 2002 ford focus zx3. now i have stains all over my carpeting and shoes. my clutch began not releasing due to this as well and the plate burned up. *jb

Dt: the contact stated the vehicle would not start. the vehicle was towed the dealership and it was determined the fuel pump failed. the fuel pump and iac valve were replaced. there were no warning indicators prior to the failures. *ak

Ignition switch lock-up. no previous problems. not covered by warranty. vehicle only has 55,000 miles. cost to repair approximately $300. *nm

45,000 mile car has leaking clutch master cylinder. clutch pedal is wet and slippery with brake fluid. i've had to add brake due to the leak. i'm afraid that my brakes will go out or that my foot will slip off of the clutch pedal. i still havn't had it fixed yet because the replacement part will likely fail also. it's a common problem according to the dealer i took it to for an estimate. *nm

Dt: contact stated there was a nail in the front passenger's tire. upon replacement of the tire the dealer found that the front passenger coil spring broke. the dealer replaced the front passenger coil spring. *ak

Dt: the contact stated when starting the vehicle the engine will rev without warning. this problem only occurs on morning starts and in cold temperatures. he immediately turns off the ignition and restarts the vehicle. this procedure remedies the problem. he plans to take the vehicle to a dealer for further inspection of the problem. *ak the replaced the throttle position sensor. updated 12/27/05. *jb

At around 35,000 miles my father noticed a grinding noise on the front of his focus. thinking that it was the screech of a warning indicator he parked the vehicle until he could have me look at it. both front rotors were severely ground down with the left inside pad being totally down flush with the metal. this shouldn't be normal wear. back brakes showed signs of normal if not less than normal wear. this should not be normal wear and tear on a vehicle with this few miles on it. i had to replace both rotors prematurely. we will keep the old parts for thirty days in case they are needed. *jb

Dt: the contact stated the ignition locked, and the key/steering wheel would not turn. the vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they found the ignition cylinder needed to be replaced. the vehicle was repaired, and there have been no problems since then. *ak

Dt: contact stated while stopping at a stop light the vehicle was rear ended. it was pushed into the guard rail. upon impact, the front air bags or side air bags did not deploy. all of the occupants where wearing their seat belts. injuries were sustained. police report was taken. *ak

I recently purchased a used 2002 ford focus. i have been having trouble with the brakes, the radio, and water leaking in through the front passenger side. the brakes squeak everytime i apply them. the radio only works for one minute and then it fades out, all you can hear is static. the most important of these problems is the leak. it has rained really hard three times in the past month, and all those times i have found the carpet in the front passenger side soaking wet. i have taken it back to the dealership from which i bought it, but they say that it is not covered under the 90 day warranty. i have reaserched on the web and have found that there are many complaints like mine. the ford company should be made responsible since they are the manufacturers of the car. *nm

2002 ford focus zts locked ignition --tumblers were out of synch? found out that this was a common problem but the dealer won't authorized to fix it without charge. paid $293 for repair. seem to be a problem which could be a recall issue. thank you for your concern. *nm

After stopping at a stop light i was shifting through the gears on my manual transmission and when i went to shift in to 2nd gear, i missed 2nd and accidentally went into 4th but realized it before letting off the clutch, it then got stuck and would not move from that gear. i could not get anywhere to get it fixed so i was forced to sit on the side of a major road in 20 degree weather for more than 45 minutes. *jb

I purchased a 2002 ford focus zts and the factory installed tires had problems starting with the 2nd tire rotation at 12,000 miles. the car was serviced at a firestone dealer and the 18,000 mile rotation the manager recommended that the tire wear was so bad that rotating the tires would cause excessive road noise and to leave them where they were at. i complained to the ford motor dealership and they did nothing, even ford motor's customer care toll free service said they could do nothing. the car has only 21,000 today and the tires sound like i am riding on wooden tires. *nm

Engine accelerated at a high speed while shifting from forward to reverse (and vice versa). to overcome the problem i maintained heavy pressure on the brake and tapped the accelerator. *jb

Ford focus 2002 zx5 over 65,000 miles recent ofl change approx. 3 weeks ago. engine cutting off after turning over when shifting from park into drive almost every day. engine cutting off while driving at any speeds but most notably during or after a turn - with loss of power steering - able to restart in neutral while in motion - this happens an average of every 3-4 days. constant noise from the rear