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The Focus is a nice-looking little car. And it replaced the truly execrable Escort. There, we said something good about it. Unfortunately, for way too many owners, that about exhausts the list of compliments. The Focus has so far set a record for safety recalls (would you believe 10?) and it may just be getting started.
It's unfortunate for everyone when an economy car has this many problems. It's especially rough on the poor customers, who presumably are on tight budgets and unable to pour time and money into keeping their supposed economy car running.
Here are a few of the more recent complaints:
Michelle of West Columbia TX (05/02/08)
I have had problems starting my 2003 Ford Focus for the past month. I have sat in the parking lot of my workplace twice and jiggled with the ignition for about 5 or 6 minutes each time and it started. Tonight 5/1/08 I cleaned my car getting ready for a road trip to Oklahoma and I tried to start it for an hour. My husband tried to start it, we wiggle and jiggled the steering wheel and did everything we could think of......it is broken.
Craig of Charlotte NC (04/27/08)
I have a 2003 Ford Focus. The ignition has locked up. I put in the key to start it and it won't turn. I went on line and read 100's of complaint about this same thing. Ford NEEDS to do a recall.
Craig of Charlotte NC (04/27/08)
I have a 2003 Ford Focus. The ignition has locked up. I put in the key to start it and it won't turn. I went on line and read 100's of complaint about this same thing. Ford NEEDS to do a recall.
Brenda of Chino CA (04/26/08)
I bought my daughter a 2003 Ford Focus as her first car. We have replaced the ignition cylinder twice and tonight I got a call and though replaced less than a month ago, she is stranded at her school, with her roomates 8 year old with no way to get home. I will have the vehicle towed to the mechanic who just replaced the mechanism in the morning to get it up and going for her again. It is curious as it has locked up and wouldn't turn on, it has refused to release the key and turn off, and now it won't let her start it. How many young women need to be put into harms way before Ford steps up to the plate to admit it's mistake related to this part. She could be stuck at work when she closes or at school when she takes her night classes and be at the mercy of any passerby. Where is the corporate conscience of Ford.
Don of Siloam Springs AR (04/24/08)
The ignition switch on my Ford 2003 focus will not turn. I have had to stay home from work and lose a day in pay. The car has less then 52,000 miles and I bought it used less then a year ago. I understand it will cost about 300+ to have it fixed. That is a weeks pay for me and the only reasion I got the car in the first place was to save money, and since I have 5 more years of payments,I can hardly afford to pay for parts that should not be wearing out so soon.
Storm of Owings Mills MD (04/15/08)
Bought a brand new 2002 Ford Focus. Since the purchase, I have had so many repair issues. First it was the Fuel pump replaced in 2003. Ford would not cover the charge under the recall for bad fuel pumps since my Focus was a 2002 and not a 2001. The steering wheel links were replaced twice, the ignition key gets stuck. The list goes on and on. Just a terrible experience, I will never buy a Ford vehicle again.
Theresa of Paradise CA (04/14/08)
My 2002 Ford Focus wagon has developed a starting problem. After being driven and parked, the car will not start again until it has been sitting for 1 hour or more. When you turn the key there is power for radio, lights, etc., but absolutely no sound of the engine trying to turn over. After sitting long enough, the car will suddenly start fine and run. This is an intermittent problem. The dealer has not helped - the computer does not indicate a problem, so unless they can get it to happen there they have no way to figure out what is wrong.
J of Sparks NV (04/12/08)
2003 Focus. Bought new. Replaced alternator at 3 yrs old, now at 5, ignition key cylinder is locking up. FORD has managed to AMBUSH its own customers but because i'm sure they have bought and paid for years worth of ingition cylinders, they don't want to pay for updated more reliable ignition components, just like the old day auto industry that gave birth to Toyota and others who could and would change when necessary to provide a quality, reliable product.
Tori of Slc UT (04/09/08)
The ignition switch froze up and the key will not turn on my 2003 Ford Focus; I am amazed at the list of complaints regarding this, why has Ford not recalled this obvious flaw?
Tiffany of Portland ME (04/09/08)
My 2004 Ford Focus is having ignition issues. I can't turn the key in the ignition--it is completely locked up. Geico is under the impression that there is a recall for this issue, but the local Ford dealers totally deny it. So I guess I will have to come out of pocket to fix it.
Gloria of San Mateo CA (04/09/08)
I purchased a used 2004 Ford Focus ZTS July 2007. Today I tried to start my car and the key wouldn't turn. I turned the steering wheel while turning the key and it still would not turn. I called a tow truck and the service man hit it with a tool and it turned. He also told me that it was the 4th Focus that he received a call for with the exact same problem. He said that it is a very common problem and that the ignition cylinder needs to be replaced. I can't believe how many complaints there are on the internet regarding this problem. What can we as consumers do to get Ford to approve a recall for this very common, aggravating and costly problem.
Toni of Glendale AZ (04/04/08)
Purchased my 2000 Ford Focus over 3 years ago. Have had several problems with it. First the wires for the starter which caused the battery to start sparking and burned out the starter. Ford replaced the wires which were part of the recall, but I had to pay $600 to replace the starter and battery. Had to replace tires several times, they keep getting worn out. Had to replace the alternator once a year. Brakes went out, with no warning, almost caused an accident. No emergency brake. Electrical problem that no shops have been able to fix. Will cause loss of power and then start again. Ignition locked up at 130,000 miles. Which I have heard happen alot to these cars but is not a recall. Transmission had to be replaced, it completely burned out. In one week, the power steering pump and fuel pump went out in the car. I will never buy another Focus again!
Fred of Corpus Christi TX (04/02/08)
Ignition Switch keeps freezing up I have to hit it with a hammer to get it to work. There should be a recall on this.
Willie of Winston Salem NC (04/02/08)
I bought my 2003 Ford Focus LX brand new. I've had scheduled maintenace on it as suggested. I also purchased the extended warrenty. Since I've had the car they have had to replace the motor and transmission mounts, install a new ignition system, replaced the top oil seal, now the motor block is shot. They tell me they've found slug in the motor, but I have my oil changed every 3,000 miles as suggested, and the extended warrenty people will not cover the repairs, I've been told the cost will be 4,800 dollars to replace the motor block. They say it's from lack of maintenance. I have receipts for each oil change. I've also had nothing but repair after repair with this Ford car. What is really going on? Now they are telling me that I can either pay for the repairs out of pocket or trade it in as is. A mechanic told me that the motors were built defective and he has two other motors from the same car 2003 ford focus in which they had the same problem replacing the motor block. How can I prove that there is a defect in motor and it's not lack of maintenance for this problem?
Carol of Baltimore MD (04/01/08)
My 2000 Ford Focus ignition went bad while out one day, could not get the key in and when forced in it would not come out.
I was stuck with a car that had a key locked in the ignition. I live in Baltimore, Maryland and it was a theft issue to have a key just sitting in the ignition. I found a great locksmith that fixed the ignition for WAY less then Ford was willing to do it for. Ford should pay for the faulty part and back up the product they are making.
Christopher of Sacramento CA (04/01/08)
I bought my 2003 Ford Focus brand new. Since then, I've had the ignition cylinder replaced 3 times, costing me over $1200 total! I've had the alternator replaced, costing over $400. And I just recently had the master and slave cylinders in the transmission replaced, the flywheel resurfaced, and the clutch assembly replaced, costing over $1900!
Dana of Beverly MA (04/01/08)
2001 Ford Focus ignition failed when I stopped for coffee today. Tow truck person charged me $45 to hit the key real hard so I could drive it to the dealer. $350 later, it should be fixed. Recall on this would be nice.
Philip of San Gabriel CA (04/01/08)
My key locked up in the ignition and would not turn anymore. When I wanted to get it towed the tow guy knocked the key straight into the ignition (the direction the key is inserted itself). In the Focus there is a cylinder that needs to drop and by punching it in you force it to slide in. This isn't a permanent solution. In the LA area A To Z Locksmith will come to you and exchange the ignition with a non-Ford ignition for $280. Takes an hour, you don't have the defective design anymore but you can use original keys! Ask any locksmith for his license!
Larry of Bellingham WA (03/31/08)
I'm a locksmith and we do see these all the time. I would recommend using a locksmith that belongs to ALOA and your state association of locksmiths. You can use a screw driver & hammer with the key inserted, put the tip of the screwdriver BESIDE the key on the face of the lock, tap the screwdriver (NEVER THE KEY) with the hammer, try little taps to hard taps, keep trying the key. If you can get the key to turn, your next stop is a locksmith! DO NOT continue to use this method because it will fail and you will be stuck where you are and with a much bigger bill. With the key turned, it's much easier to remove the cylinder and replace it. A locksmith can key the new cylinder to your existing key (which is important with these transponder keys). The way the transponder keys work on Fords is that you must have 2 operating keys to open the programming. If you are down to 1 key we will charge you and extra $50 ($75-90 depending on key) to hook up our expensive computer to force open the programming to take the 2nd key. Once you have 2 keys, then it's easy to program more keys (up to 8 usually). We recommend having 3 keys at least and once you loose one, replace it RIGHT AWAY, then you will never have to pay the extra $50. If you can't get the key to turn, a locksmith might be able to, or then he'll have to drill the lock out and replace it. If you experience ANY problem with these ignitions, take it to a locksmith. If it's having a problem, it's easier/cheaper to change when the key still works. This problem will not go away, it will get worse, don't put it off! Good luck and buy a GM next time!
Christine of Eagle Mountain UT (03/31/08)
The ignition froze up on my 2002 Ford Focus. Gus from the Ford dealership called this morning. It is going to cost over $500 to fix it, plus $90 to have a new key made. He says it takes two keys to fix it. Plus a $60 towing fee. This is more than half my income for a month. I am in a financial mess,
Elizabeth of Dayton OH (03/31/08)
I have a 2002 Ford Focus and my key would not turn to start my car. I put the key into the ignition and it would not turn no matter how hard I tried.
Deana of Ashtabula OH (03/30/08)
I bought a ford focus 2000.I purchased the car new.This car has nickeled and dimed me for the whole 8 years.I have had to buy wheel bearings(front)the rear ones were replaced with the recall,coil pack,struts,springs(front+rear),lower a-frames,rear a-frames,timing belt and a complete motor(the original motor blew-up before 65,000 miles)and yes I had regular oil changes,tires,and all fluids checked every 3,000 miles.I haven't received any recall notices in the last 3-4 years.To find out what else is wrong with my car,the dealership wants a $60.00 diagnostic fee.I stopped doing my maintenance there.Also to make matters worse I purchased the extended warranty when I bought my car at the dealership and the first time I tried to use it the dealership informed me that it was no good because SmartChoice 2000 went bankrupt.Yes I signed up for the class action suit for that one and still haven't heard anything back.Right now my rocker panels are so rusted I have to be careful I don't cut myself on them getting in+out of the car .The rust started 1-2 years after I bought my focus.The ignition key is stuck in the ignition and has been for a few years.
Hal of Knoxville TN (03/28/08)
Ignition cylinder on my 2004 ZX3 locked up, the tapping the key with a hammer works. Dealer said it was covered with my extended warranty, but when they took it apart they called and aid it was not covered and would cost over $500. I told them just put it back together that was $52 for nothing. Ford got a winner there. That how they are making there money.
Christine of Lebanon CT (03/28/08)
The famous ignition lock-up issue, and I can't start my 2004 Ford Focus. I did a web search when this happened two days ago, and was amazed to find the problem pretty much global (as wide-spread as Focus owners), and Ford has done nothing. This is obviously a defect of design, given it is most likely due to inadequate materials in the ignition. I'll be shelling out the money to get it fixed as well. At what point is an issue like this REQUIRED to become a recall? This is a safety issue - I bought the Focus as a commuter car since I drive about 35 miles to work (one way). And not just me - what about people for whom the issue crops up at a remote rest area or in some dangerous part of a city?
Belinda of Wilmington NC (03/27/08)
Looks like the 2006 Ford Focus may experience the same problems! My key will turn but I can't get it out of the ignition, the steering won't lock and neither will the transmission. One year ago I traded a 2001 Ford Focus after experiencing ignition problems several times as well as major electrical problems. I thought it was just at random that I got a bad car. Guess not! All of these should have been covered under the extended warranty, however, the Ford dealership didn't see it that way. Is there anything that can be done to protect the consumer from Ford fraud?
Susanne of Tacoma WA (03/25/08)
Yes, I too have had the miss fortune of dealing with the ignition of my 2004 Ford Focus. I was told that they all have the same problem with the ignition. The cylinder goes bad. Not covered under warranty and has been a problem for many years. However the new one they installed is a new design and should work well. So $400 in the hole for a problem Ford should pay for, not the consumer.
Luis of Long Beach CA (03/22/08)
My ignition will not turn when I insert the key. I have a 2003 Ford Focus ZX5 and the car has never given me extensive problems. I was shocked at how long the complaint list is for this one problem. If any of you out there know someone with a Focus that has this same problem, please urge them to go on here and file a complaint. Do NOT be silent about this people. DEMAND a recall now.
Greg of Oak Harbor WA (03/16/08)
The door latches on this vehicle has a tendency to fail. I have had the right front door latch fail, It initially blew the fuse for the power lock, but then failed to lock or open by key or interior latch as well. $269 in parts and 4 hours at $88 per. Now the trunk latch has failed, neither power nor key will open the trunk and I cant access the trunk to open it manually because the rear seat fold down latches unlock from inside the trunk. While both of these items are just an inconvenience at this time (fortunately I don't have melting ice cream or important papers in the trunk) it could definately become a major safety issue. Imagine being in a wreck and being unable to exit a burning car because the locks down work.
Patsy of Radcliff KY (03/12/08)
i have a 2002 ford focus it has been in the shop three times and today i picked it up from the shop only to have it slow down 4 times and have to pull over to the side give it gas to make it seem normal i have never had this kind of problem before the mechanics that have repaired it have replaced parts every time this is stupid.
Leticia of Goleta CA (03/11/08)
I have had to replace the ignition on my 2000 Ford Focus 4 times in the last 7 years, each time costing me $400.00. The key will not turn the ignition. I have been stranded and have had to be towed further than my AAA would allow,causing me towing fees. This is ridiculous.
Jennifer of Sidney MT (03/08/08)
The Ignition Cylinder in my 2000 Ford Focus SE Wagon broke after the vehicle was no longer after warranty. My car locked up in a public parking lot and I thought I was going to have to have it hauled as it was also stuck in park and I could not put it in neutral. After research on the internet I found that there are far too many Focus owners who have encountered these same issues.
Terry of Springdale OH (03/07/08)
2003 Ford Focus has had noisy rear brakes since new. I had it checked soon after buying it and was told that there was nothing wrong. I have since found out that this is a problem with all Focuses and that Ford is aware of the problem. Ford has issued at least 1 TCB to correct this problem. This particular fix has now been discontinued because it didn't work. Call Ford consumer support and was told that it isn't their problem. Even though I had taken to a Ford garage twice during it 36000 mile warrant for noisy brakes.
Alic of Haltom City TX (03/07/08)
My car is a 2000 Ford Focus. In 2003 It was still under warranty and I had to have the ignition replace when my key broke in it. In March 2008 the key is not turning and the steering wheel is locked and won't turn either. My car is no longer under warranty, and there's no telling how much it will cost now to have it fixed. I think these cars should be recalled for ignition problems, because there is just too many people with the same or similer problems.
Cynthia of Helotes TX (03/06/08)
My Ford Focus is having trouble w/ the ignition key. Apparently I am not the only one. It does not turn even w/ the spare key. The other day and today I was trying to turn the car on for at least 5min before something finally clicked and I was able to turn the key. I'm also having trouble w/ it turning on. I had that fixed when I first got it (it was under warrenty). It has since returned, now that the warrenty has expired. I don't understand why a recall has not occured if so many people are having problems w/ this.
Alan of Avon IN (03/06/08)
I have a 2003 Ford Focus. The ingition cylinder failed/froze locking up the steering wheel and the transmission in PARK. The key would not turn and I had to have the car towed to a dealer to get it fixed. I had used the car earlier in the day but when I went to drive home from work in the evening, I could not turn the key in the ignition.
Ralph of Southfield MI (03/04/08)
I have a 2000 Ford Focus Station Wagon I purchased new. The ignition key will not turn in the lock and the car is stuck in the driveway. I have never had this happen to any car I have ever owned. This Focus has 71,000 miles on it.
Don of Circleville OH (03/01/08)
I have a 2000 ford focus, and I have had the ignition switch replaced 4 times. The warranty has ran out and now the switch is locked up again. I will never ever buy FORD again.
Mirella of Danbury CT (02/29/08)
I have the same story that many other Ford Focus owners have: an ignition key problem. My car is in great shape, never had problems and then a few months ago I couldn't get my key to turn in the ignition. A tow guy happened to come along and with a screwdriver, jammed my key in just the right place to get it to turn. He was not surprised at all by my problem, and said that these cars always have this problem.
Rachel of Seattle WA (02/25/08)
My Ford Focus ignition is broken, and will cost about $350-$500 to fix. I had to pay a locksmith to come out last night just to get me home. He mentioned he thought there was a recall on the ignition due to due the high volume of calls for the same reason. So, i called the ford dealership nearest to me and they stated that there was no recall at the time but recomended that i report it to Ford to help issue a recall. I did call to report the problem, but what do i do now?! Do i pay to have my car fixed out of my own pocket, or hope that ford recognizes the problem and issues a recall on their faulty parts.
Amy of Lake City PA (02/23/08)
i can not begin to tell you all the issues i had with this car. i know see it wasnt just me and my bad luck that car is just a bad seed!! not to mention i was upsidedown with other car loan rollovers and having to put soo much $ into this piece of junk! we had it like 2 months and my husband drove it to south carolina from PA and broke down ended up finding a ford dealership who replace our fuel pump (no charge ) cause of the warrenty then a year later needed a new fuel pump cuz a recall i had severl recalls...not to mention the freakin car eats tires!!! i put a new set on 1x a year...and i have had alignments /tires rotated. i cant afford to get a new car but i am thinking i have to i champian ford i complained to them numersous times about charging me and i had a warnanty and i had bad expereiences there its so long ago i cant remember everything all i know is i told them i will never come back and never buy another car from them again. now my car was stalling and you would start it up and it would not go it just stalled itself out. we put in a new transmission wasnt it thought it was the battery not the battery got a new starter not the starter..with the new starter now it starts but will not go...this car is known to me as the ford FUc*us! i wouldnt take this car if it was free....
Linda of Bishopville SC (02/22/08)
I had the ignition of my 2001 Ford Focus lock on me while I was delivering a piece of mail to a low rent apartment complex. I had to have my husband rescue and later in the evening, once I got off work, I had to have the car towed to my house. We bought another ignition switch (the entire steering column) only to have that iginition switch lock up as well. Finally, I had the car towed to the local Ford dealer's repair shop. They had to drill the switch and replace it. This cost me $377.08.
Connie of Berkley MI (02/22/08)
I have a 2002 Ford Focus SE with JUST 60,000 miles on it, once it hit 60,000 miles LITERALLY I began having transmission problems, feels like it slid in to neutral while driving (at third gear) this is an automatic too! That was how it started, just about two weeks ago, NOW it won't go in reverse AT ALL! Why should I have to pay to replace a transmission, on a 5 year old car, with LOW miles, that has been PROPERLY driven, maintained, AND serviced! I think it is SICKENING that FORD doesn't recall this OR the ignition problem although THANK GOD, I haven't experienced THAT one yet! Thanks a LOT FORD! Hmmmmmm, and you wonder why you LOSE money??? I will NEVER buy another Ford EVER!
Amber of Pittsburgh PA (02/21/08)
Just like many of the complaints about the ignition lock up i have read, my key would not turn. I have been told it is probably the tumbler when i called a Ford dealership, and that they have seen this before!! Pricing to fix this was in a range of between $300-400. I read on here about using the hammer to get the key to turn and it works! If soooo many people have this issue and not with just one Focus model, why hasn't Ford done anything about it or recalled any of them. I always thought that a Focus would be the car for me but now, I dont even know if will ever buy another Ford!
David of Danville KY (02/20/08)
Well guess I am not along with the locked igination on the Ford Focus. My wife was stranded last night in the cold weather, unitll a tow truck could haul off this piece of junk. Not quite sure as to the cost, I'll cross my fingers that the service guy will take it easy on me.
Tom of Indianapolis IN (02/19/08)
I want to share a a quick fix with fellow Focus owners who have experienced the ignition key lock-up. This tip was given to me by the guy who just charged me $75 to fix the problem. He said it's an on-going thing but he was nice enough to tell me how to fix it myself - which I do on a frequent basis. 1) get a hammer 2) insert key in ignition 3) give 4-5 firm taps (not too hard, not too soft) 4) should free up the ignition to let you turn key 5) store hammer under driver's seat (you never know when you might need it!) The guy also recommended spraying WD-40 or some other kind of penetrating lubricant into the key slot but honestly, it doesn't seem to make a difference. But the hammer sure does! Try it!
Sarah of Rochester NY (02/19/08)
I recently had an issue in which my driver side door would not latch and close, which left me stranded until I got some help. After 45 minutes of figiting with it I was able to close it. Even more recently (about 1 hour ago) I went to turn my ignition and it didn't turn over. I have had to leave my car overnight in a parking lot before the towing company can haul it to a Ford dealer. The ford dealership said that there had not been a recall on this issue but there have been so many complaints,I am very surprised.
Alexis of Danielson CT (02/15/08)
I bought from a dealership a 2002 Ford focus at the end of November. It is currently February and my warranty expired just in time to leave me stranded at a gas station in the middle of nowhere. I got out of my car to buy a drink, returned and the ignition wouldn't turn, the steering wheel locked up and the shift panel wouldn't budge. When I contacted the dealership they were aware that it was a common problem, (of course didn't feel it was enough of one to warn me before I bought it,) and I would have to pay for repairs. I can't believe there isn't a recall on this!
Rhonda of Mascotte FL (02/14/08)
The ignition switch got stuck on my Ford Focus and I cound not start my car. I took it to Ford and they charged me 500.00 to replace the ignition. It is now doing it again. The car was only two years old the first time it happened. Now I am having trouble with the car stalling out on me while I'm driving. If I brake to slow down or stop, the car shuts off. My mechanic cannot find the reason for it.
Patrick of Glenolden PA (02/13/08)
2000 Ford Focus Wagon About a week ago I heard a very loud BANG as I was pulling into my driveway at home. I looked around and didn't find anything and figured I probably drove over something. Turns out it was my front right coil spring BREAKING. Not knowing this I drove the car lightly for a several days before noticing that I had brake fluid dripping from my left rear wheel (I had recently replaced the rear brake cylinders and brakes). I took the car into my dealership who charged me $266.13 to replace the rear left brake cylinder and brake pads. Turns out they also noticed that BOTH FRONT COIL SPRINGS were BROKEN. They replaced both under TSB # 03M02 at no charge but I can't help but wonder if somehow they contributed to my cylinder leak. It just seems odd to me that a brand new cylinder would suddenly start leaking for no reason.
Jackie of Erie PA (02/13/08)
I recently bought a 2001 ford focus. By the look of all the other complaints I'm sure you know what my problem is. Yesterday at the grocery store my ignition locked up. The car is in their parking lot right now because I am broke and I was hoping to find an easy fix. Now that I read some of the other complaints looks like I am going to have to find some money somewhere to fix it! I am a single mother, I'm not sure I want this vehicle under different circumstances, my daughter and I could have been stranded in a more dangerous situation. Thank you Ford for nothing!
Tara of Mont Clare PA (02/12/08)
Without any warning 2003 Ford Focus ignition locked. Nothing to do but leave car, have it towed, and pay hefty repair and towing bill. After looking online, this appears to be a major problem with many Ford Focus owners. This should not happen. Especially on a car that is only five years old.
Kristen of Dallas TX (02/11/08)
Ignition issue for me as well. Ford dealership acted shocked as if this never happens...HAHAHAHAHA!
Robert of Lincoln Park MI (02/09/08)
I have a 2000 Ford Focus ZX3, and it's been recalled more than ten times and been to the dealer more that five times in the seven years I've owned it. When the car wasn't even six months old I had to take it in and have the stabilizer bars replaced. I've had nothing but suspension problems since. Both front coil springs broke in the winter, and the dealer told me that it was due to faulty weatherproofing. I've had to have every single wheel bearing replaced, in some cases twice. Every set of tires I put on it get abnormal wear on them, in most cases resulting in the steel belts poking through the sidewalls. My anti-lock brake sensors and air bag sensors both went bad within a year. My clutch pedal return springs broke, making the car undrivable because of a part that cost less than five dollars. The PLASTIC thermostat housing shattered in the winter... stranding me at work. The fuel system stalled my car a few times while driving on the freeway, almost killing me several times until it was recalled. Now the key is locked in the ignition, and the only way to get the car to start is to hit it with a hammer. I just leave it in there... no one in their right mind would steal this hunk of junk. Every time I go into the dealer the representatives chuckle when they see my vehicle history on their computer. I don't think it's that funny.
James of Burke VA (02/08/08)
I have a 2004 Ford Focus ZX3. I started having the ignition problem about a month ago. Haven't taken it in to get it checked out yet but will be doing that soon. Glad I decided to do some research on the subject. I've noticed that, in my case, the problem gets worse with cold weather. And with the temperature fluctuating almost daily, it's really easy to guess whether or not I'll be experiencing the problem each day.
Lisa of Palm Beach Gardens FL (02/06/08)
Another casualty to add to the list of Ford Focus ignition misadventures! My ignition began to give me trouble when I turned the key--todya it won't turn at all. Went online to find helpful hints with regard to a remedy and found an army of folks with a shared experience. This car is a 2000--we also own a 2005! I can only wait for the fun to begin with that one. Any reasons why Ford doesn't deal with this?
Melissa of Sandy OR (02/06/08)
I purchased a 2003 Ford Focus a year and a half ago. It had 50,000 miles on it. Between 2-3 months after purchaes, the alternator went out in it. Now, I am at 70,000 miles and the car sputters and has a hard time gaining speed, the panel lights for the fuel system are constantly cycling on and off. I have had this vehicle maintenanced very regularly. I was told that I will need new rotors and brakes because every Ford Focus with stock brakes has to have the rotors replaced because of the way the stock rotors are. I have had a tire rod bend from slidding into a curb at LESS then 5 miles per hour. NOW>>> I can't even get the key to turn in the ignition. I am furious about the trouble I have had with my car. The ford dealership salesmen all know me by first name!!! I will tell everyone I know just what I think of this company and this car. The only thing reliable about this car is that it WILL leave us stranded in the WORST possible situations.
Amanda of Pasadena CA (02/05/08)
Ignition problems. The key would not turn in the ignition. I had to replace this twice (once in 03 and once in 06) out of my pocket it was not cheap. Ford should make this a recall, it seems to have happened to many people. Other than that I have had MANY problems with the Focus. For one, the interior started peeling off right after I purchased it in 2002. Not the whole panel has come off. There was a recall for the fuel pump. Problems from just this year (June 07-Present) June: I have had several problems with corroding battery cables. September: The cables continued to corrode ruining the battery - had to get a new batter November: Missing firing and bad sparkplugs January: Car stalled, left us stranded: needed new timing belt February: Car stalled - stalls when idling, waiting to hear back about problem.. Total cost for less than a year: over $1300 I've had it with this LEMON!
Jose of Staten Island NY (02/05/08)
For everyone with the ford ing problym theres away to fix it and avoid ever having to deal with it again. every one goes back to the dealer were they would put back the same crapy old style ign. I work for pop a lock a locksmith company and every time i get ford ign cal i explaine to the customer whats going on and that there a replace ment ign that would not jam up anymore. The price on one of these jobs are from $100 to $200 dollars.
Jayson of Mechanicsville VA (02/04/08)
This past Friday, my wife was left stranded at work in the middle of the night because her ignition switch failed in her 2003 Ford Focus. She works in a very bad area of town and we live roughly 35 minutes away . Needless to say, I picked her up, towed the car and got the ignition switch replaced. My mechanic told me he sees at least 2 Ford Focus' a week with the same problem come through his shop.
Adam of Alexandria IN (02/03/08)
I have a 2003 Ford focus zx3, i bought it in christmas 2002 and had no problems with mine. In June 2006 my windo cranks broke. I did not have the money to replace mine so i removed the door panels and move the windos manualla up and down. It does not bugg me cause i drag race and road race my car about twice a month during the summer months. I drive it regular bases until winter then i drive my 72 f-100 truck. At the same time, i have had sway bar end links replace. See! I already changed my tires as soon as i got my car, so i can drive it on the euro-tune suspenion with z-rated tires. August 2006 my key got stuck. It was the ignition switch. I neever have replace mine i just leave the keys in it. I park in a shop at home. Then later that month my o2 light came on and flash off and on. I have a programmer from Focal Sport. Its great what it can do! Now I have 98,890.6 miles on it and it started to run funny. It still shows the o2 problem and EGR problem. When the weather gets warm out, it will get a complete tune up with some aftermarket performance parts and ford performance parts. Yes ford should fix the problem with the keys, and the emmission lights comming on and going off all of the time, plus the EGR system problems. If you would like more info, contact Consumer Report and they can contact me!!!!!! Thank you
Gia of Sacramento CA (01/28/08)
I have had SEVERAL problems with this car. One one occasion when it was being towed, the tow truck driver told me that he had one and he got rid of it because of the ignition locking up. He said it was a big problem. He told me to hit the key really hard 3 times with my palm and it would turn. I thought it was kind of silly, but then my ignition did eventually lock up on me. I tried the driver's trick and it worked.
Lisa of Woodstock GA (01/28/08)
Faulty ignition switch on a 2000 Ford Focus with only 80K miles on it. This is the third time it has happened to me. I have been able to jam the key with my hand into the ignition in the past to get it started but today I had to use a hammer. No amount of jiggling or turning the wheel would do. The car is currently sitting at the dealership where I am waiting for the damage to my checkbook.
Tim of Richmond TX (01/26/08)
2002 Ford Focus. Ignition cylinder locked at 40K miles. Towing and replacement covered under extended warranty. Total bill was about $500. Ignition cylinder locked again at 95K miles. I drilled it out and replaced it - was not going to pay the outrageous mechanic charges. Now it's acting up again. Fed up.
Jennifer of Gold Beach OR (01/26/08)
I am beyond sick of the problems with my 2000 Ford Focus! I am one of the many people who have experienced the wonderful (hah!) locking ignition barrel. In May 2007 I couldn't get my key to turn in my car until literally pounding it in. The problem continued over two days, so I ended up leaving my key in the ignition and locking the car with my spare key, so as to stop the poundings. I had to take my Focus into the dealer for a different repair & was told that although this problem is common, I would have to pay at least $500 to get it fixed- with no guarantee that it wouldn't cost more if additional labor time was required. UGH!!! I decided to leave the key in. That lasted until a couple weeks ago when the spare key broke off in my door & I had to take the key from the ignition for the first time in months. Now I can either pay $500 or more for a new ignition barrel, etc. or I can get a new spare key at the dealer(because if you only have 1 key, a locksmith can't make a copy-UGH again!!!)- $65 for a spare at the dealer- Really!!! This was the first ever New car that I ever bought and I was so excited back in January 2001 when I bought it. Now, I look back at all of the $$ I've shelled out over the years & all of the recalls & can't believe it.
David of Lancaster PA (01/22/08)
I, along with what seems like ten thousand other customers, was stranded in the freezing cold when my Ford Focus ignition cylinder locked up. I'm sure all of the lawyers who review these complaints have heard this one thousands of times, so I will hold the details. Suffice it to say, it is absolutely absurd -an absurd failure of justice- that Ford continues to deny this is an issue and is aided by the unwillingness of anyone to prosecute via class-action suit. I am not excited about being a part of any litigation, but this is ridiculous and this company should be held accountable. What if someone were to get stranded and be injured or killed as a result? When my cylinder locked up it was below 20 degrees outside, and without being able to turn the key you cannnot turn on your heater. What if some poor mother got stuck somewhere with children in the car? It's unreal. Someone please have the courage to file suit on our behalf, and you will have a ready support network of tens of thousands.
Rachael of Telford PA (01/21/08)
Wow all the same complaints about the ignition in focus's. Christmas day I was leaving a Christmas party when I went to start my car to my surprise the key wouldn't turn. I tried giggling the key to get it to work, turning the steering wheel, nothing worked. I had to get it towed the next day which cost me 65 bucks to go about 5 minutes away. Took it to a ford dealer and they told me it was the ignition that had to be replaced and it would cost me 500 bucks. I was surprised to hear that a car that is only 4 years old would have such a major problem. i kept up with regular maintenance and things like that so such a major problem came very unexpected. Luckily when my dad bought me the car from a dealer he got an extended warranty for 1,000 extra which covered the repair for the ignition so it only cost me 55 dollars to get it replaced. I warn anyone who is going to by a ford focus to either pick something else or get an extended warranty, it will come in handy when you least expect it!
Jon of Yakima WA (01/20/08)
I had the ignition of my Ford Focus lock me out last night. I came here simply looking for info on the problem, I never expected this! This is beyond ridiculous! This isn't just some annoying problem, it dangerous and it's happening to a car that is extremely common. I will continue to warn everyone I know about this lack of quality, safety, and most of all integrity exhibited by Ford.
Jason of Talbott TN (01/16/08)
I along with several other people, have a bad ignition switch in my focus. I just hit 60K miles and was told that is about a $300 repair.
Michael of Lauringburg NC (01/15/08)
The ignition key locks up, doesn't allow the key to turn.
Michelle of Duncan OK (01/15/08)
I was at the local Wal-mart parking lot when my ignition wouldn't turn. My husband went on the internet to search if there have been others with this problem and see if they had any suggestion as to how to fix it. He found pages of people with the same complaint. The fix will probably be a new ignition but the temporary fix was to hammer the key in with a rubber mallet while turning the key. Again, it won't fix the problem but at least it'll get you home. I've also had problems with the car stalling or not being able to go above 50. It happened once on a major freeway near rush hour in Austin. This wasn't the first time it had happened. Ford wasn't any help then and it happened so infrequent and random. We pulled off & the next day it seemed to do fine. Again, I've searched the net for solutions. Found that the problem was the same for the 2000 & 2001 Focuses but they were supposed to have had it fixed by the newer models. It's has something to do with the fuel system pluggin up. Since, I've kept a good supply of fuel injection/system cleaner and gas treatments on hand and I haven't had a problem since.
Janice of Centreville VA (01/13/08)
Looks like I am the lastest victim of a defective ignition lock cylinder. My daughter's 2001 Ford Focus(less than 28,000 miles on it) locked up on her at a grocery store parking lot. After checking online for any info about what could be the problem, I was dismayed to read about so many others who have had the same problem. I ended up locating an automotive locksmith who was able to give me a ride to the stranded Ford. The locksmith said that she sees this problem all the time w/ Fords and Chryslers. I did not understand all of the technicalities of locking cylinders but she basically said that she could replace the defective cylinder w/ a less expensive one ($300) which she would only guarantee for the standard 3 months. She stated that they often need to be replaced (something to do w/ sidebars.) She said that she would guarantee the more expensive replacement for 1 year and stated that I shouldn't have to replace again it at all. After reading online about all the people who have had to have their cylinders replaced over and over, I decided to have the cylinder replaced w/ the more expensive one. To the tune of $480. I also asked the locksmith about hitting the key w/ a hammer as some desperate Ford Focus owners have done; she said it should be done w/ extreme caution. She stated that it can damage a pin. She stated that if the cylinder is replaced, the key will turn in the ignition but the car will not start w/ a damaged pin. I got the impression that this would require a trip to a mechanic. (Coincidentally, I also have a Jeep Grand Cherokee and had to have the ignition lock cylinder replaced as well.) Due to what appears to be Ford's lack of accountability and unresponsiveness to this obvious problem, I will not be buying a Ford in my lifetime and I doubt my daughter will either. I will also be sure to relay to my friends and co-workers the numerous problems that people on this website have had w/ the ignition lock malfunctioning.
Christine of Cornish ME (01/10/08)
I bought my Ford Focus ZX3 5 speed new in May 2003. It currently has 108865 miles on it. Until last week, I felt I knew the car pretty well, warts and all. I've had three problems of significance: front wheel bearings degraded, the thermostat failed and the hatchback lock latch wouldn't catch. Ford corrected these problems at their expense since the car was still under warranty at the time. Last week, 1/3/08, after completing an errand I returned to my car only to find the ignition bound tight. I twisted the wheel a few times and nothing. Baffled, I tried it again and the key turned, the car started and off we went. It had been wicked cold, so I put it off to that. The next morning, however, the ignition was locked up tight. I had never encountered this sort of problem in a car before - ever - had never even heard about it. A mystery.
Adrienne of Miami FL (01/08/08)
My reason for writing is not a complaint but an answer for the ignition switch problem on the Ford Focus 2001. A Locksmith came to my rescue and fixed the problem. He removed a pin or part in the ignition and said that he has seen this problem a couple of times a week on his routes. Easy solution that Ford doesnt want you to know about. I havent had problems again. This was probably almost a year ago that he fixed it and my daughter never has problems starting her car anymore.
Colleen of Chicago IL (01/07/08)
2004 Ford Focus. Week before Christmas the ignition locked, just like everyone else's story here. Friend at work has a 2000 and he has had it happen three times. This week, the altenator failed. Total bill for December 07 and January 08= 1500.00. If it keeps up like this all year, I will spend what I paid for the car in ten months. I am really sick of it, and I too hope that an attorney gets on this case and gets me back the money for the ignition at the least. You should not have to pay for a part like that. Ridiculous
Peggy of Orlando FL (01/06/08)
I bought an '03 Ford Focus ZTS in '06-26000 miles for less than 10k, I thought i was getting a good deal! My lights die every 5 months. My key turns (so far) but recently my car starts for a few seconds then dies. When I force it (I put my foot on the gas), it starts ok but then it shakes. My car shakes for as long as I go under 50mph and pulls as if my engine was goin' to die. Everything I read online is telling me that Ford has been having issues with ignition switches & locks! I just found an article saying that people in CA have sued Ford for this issue in '06.
Gay of Deer Park TX (01/06/08)
We are among the growing number of consumers suckered into purchasing a Ford Focus. What a waste; we originally thought this an ideal first car for a teenager. Not so big they have trouble learning to drive in it, easy to maneuver, four doors with roomy interior. Alas, that is where the compliments stop. When I bought the car from an individual, I told him my teenager would be driving it, often late at night and alone, and would he be honest about its reliability and anything wrong with it. He could stand there with a straight face and tell me it was a great car. I have learned different! We got the call like so many others that she was stranded because the ignition locked up; we have replaced the alternator twice in a year and now our mechanic who is getting rich off our little jewel tells the next thing to go will be the motor mounts.
Dale of Glen Carbon IL (01/06/08)
Ignition switch locked up on my 2004 Ford Focus.
William of Rome GA (01/04/08)
I cant turn my ket in the ignation to start my can the part looks cheep. I went online and read more than 50 complaints how many does it take for Ford to recall this Im 72 yrs old on a fixed income and cant afford this 320.00 to fix it I have had the car a couple of months and have drien it very little and now Im stuck hear at home and cant get out. HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kristi of Papillion NE (01/03/08)
I bought my son a 2004 Ford Focus last year. He came home the other night and told us that the key would not turn on the ignition. I went to Ford to ask if this is a common problem and if there is a recall, they said it's very rare. Upon further investigation, I am finding it's VERY COMMON. We had to have the car towed and fixed at our own expense. Ford knows this is a problem and will not adress it. THey told me they'd fix it for 400 to 500 dollars. Luckily, I found an honest mechanic who fixed it in 10 minutes for 150.00.
Ben of Ankeny IA (01/03/08)
My Ignition Cylinder gave out on 01/02/08 at 100,000 miles. Cost of towing and replacement estimated at $335.... we'll see. It was a fun little present Ford's Flawed Focus gave me as it was my birthday. It must've known. Current temperature while diagnosing problem.... 5 degrees.
Eric of Valparaiso IN (01/03/08)
Got a Ford Foucus. Stering wheel locked up and the key woud not turn. This was in 2004. got the lock cylander replaced. Now on New Years Day 2008 I go out to start my car up for work and the same thing happens again. This part needs to be recalled or fixed for free. There is obviously a flaw in the part & I understand this is a common problem in the ford focus.
Tracy of Camp Hill PA (01/02/08)
Two weeks before Christmas I went to pick up my teenage daughter from a school dance. When I came back outside and tried to start the car, it wouldn't start. It wouldnt start because I couldnt even get the key to turn in the ignition. The steering wheel was locked, the gear shift was locked, the key was locked in place (although I could pull it back out). Nothing would move or start. So, I left it sit and had it towed the next day to the dealership. The dealership said that the Key Ignition Lock needed replaced. Come to find out, this is a common issue with the Ford Focus. That was $260 right before Christmas. Now, 2 weeks after Christmas, I have a creaking noise coming from the front of the car. I take it back to the dealership and they say the lower left control arm is broken and once they replace that, they can check to see if anything else needs repaired on the suspension. That will be another $360 please. I am a single mom of two; one teenager and one 4 year old. This is just not in my budget, obviously!! A 2003 Ford Focus with only 32,500 miles on it should not be having these kinds of problems!
Dave of Sault Ste. Marie MI (01/01/08)
My daughter has a 2001 Ford Focus.The key will not turn in the ignition. This is the third time that this has happen. Yes just like the rest of the people that own a Focus she will have to pay a fortune to get it fix again! I hope a attorney gets going on this problem real soon. I think this is a real hazard besides being costly.
Shawn of Edgewater MD (12/31/07)
I have an '03 Ford Focus with about 90k miles. Haven't had many problems but just two days ago the ignition lock cylinder locked up. I spent $15 for one of those on-line shell answer men and he told me it was the ignition lock cylinder. I spent two days on-line looking for solutions with no success. At last I realized I was stuck with a minimum $120 towing bill on top of a $375 repair bill, all this only several days after Xmas (no sympathy expected but cash flow reality). Fortuitous as it was, my original tow schedule was canceled because the locked up ignition also locked up the transmission and steering column. Unexpected consequences, the dispatcher of the tow truck told me they stick the key in the locked up ignition cylinder, tap it lightly with a hammer or something else, turn it back then forward and the key should rotate out of the locked position. I did this and it worked the first time. Saved me a $495 bill.
Gabrielle of Spring TX (12/31/07)
Have a '04 Ford Focus with 66k miles. stopped to fill up the gas tank on my way into work. got back in the car and couldn't get the key to turn. had to have car towed to shop, looks like it's going to cost about $425 including the tow. Was 3 hours late to work. I had never heard of this issue with the ignition switch until today...I though i had bought a good economy car...guess i was wrong. Hearing that people are having to replace this part multiple times is encourging me to trade in my car. i had been looking at the Ford Edge but after my experience today and reading about other experiences i'll be shopping someplace else!!!
Diedre of Torrington CT (12/30/07)
well i was in the middle of noware in last summer i was taking my kids to swim that day,got there ok windows were down and like i said i was five miles from a main rd,turned car off,after done swimming with the kids went to get back into car to start it and it was locked up i had to replace the ignition swicth but worce of all i had to walk five miles to a phone to call tripple aaa,the guy on the phone from tripple aaa told me he had alot of calls from people with ford focus,he told me to call for to check if it is a recall,wicth should be on the warrenty it says it covers all electricall parts up to 100,000 thousend miles and my car only had 40thousand miles on it,plus the rear lacth for the trunk is broke,took it back to get it fixed three times door handels break like crazy and ford does not want to stand by there car because it is junk i dont recomend anybody to buy a ford focus at all
Jordan of Salinas CA (12/29/07)
I can put the key into my ignition but it will not turn. I'm surprised this has happened to soo many people and Ford has not announced a recall or offered to fix the problem.
Alan of Shawnee OK (12/29/07)
I have a 2003 Ford Focus that the ignition switch has locked up on. My daughter drove it to a friends house and when she came out to leave the ignition was locked, you can't turn the steering wheel or move the transmission. I went and talked to the local Ford dealer. The service manager told me that was a common problem on the Focus. After a fifty dollar tow bill the dealer tells me it will cost three to four hundred dollars to fix. I see numerous complaints on the Ford Focus ignition locking up, seems to be a serious problem but apparently Ford is unwilling to fix the problem. Count me in if there is a class action suit!
Kent of Jemison AL (12/29/07)
I own a 2001 ford focus and it has been a peice of junk ever since we bought it now with a little over 100000 miles on it the engine has had a comeapart and we can,t find a used engine because it seems to be happening to a lot of focuses.The bad thing is my wife traded a perfectly good Toyoto for it.how stupid
Brian of Mashpee MA (12/28/07)
I Own a 2001 Ford Focus ZTS with 100k, It's been a reliable car up until now, I've been experiencing engine sputtering,stalling, The gauges go erratic with the yellow exclamation point ! lighting up, causing me to pull over & dieing on the side of the road, I go to start it up again, & it just dies. Now my transmission is slipping in every gear because of this problem. I have all the receipts & the transmission has been properly serviced all it's life. I checked the fluid last oil change & It was bright red, now it is burnt (black) with clutch material. Now I have to shell out $$$ for a new tranny, thanks ford
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Cheryl of Morgantown WV (12/26/07)
I am the owner of a 2003 Ford Focus. On December 14, 2007, I was preparing to leave town on a trip to see a friend for an early Christmas get-together. I had several days worth of clothing and the holiday gifts packed in the car. My last stop before leaving on the 2 1/2 hour drive was to gas up. Much to my dismay, after filling up the tank, I discovered that the key would not turn in my ignition. To make a long story short, I had to have the car towed, rent a vehicle for the trip, and have a new ignition cylinder installed. The entire episode cost me $600.00. The tow truck driver told me that this is a common defect with the Focus, as I have subsequently discovered by reading online complaints.
Jayne of Wasco OR (12/24/07)
Yesterday we arrived at the sence of my 17 year old car accident. While attempting to shift down to slow down on a sharp curve my sons, ford focus 2002 se 4dr lost power as the engine died. The music turned off and came on but the engine refused to turn over not only did he lose his power steering but he also lost his brakes. As for the car it was totaled as he slammed in to the embank at 50 miles an hour. Luckly for us All 4 kids are not hurt just mild whip lash and bump and brusing. We were told by the police officer to make a complaint to the ford focus company.
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Vinnie of Tampa FL (12/20/07)
I returned home from work on 12/16/07 and had to go out again to find the steering wheel of my 2004 Ford Focus locked. I tried repeatedly to unlock the steering wheel but the ignition key would not turn.
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Linda of Aurora IL (12/19/07)
I was preparing to leave work when I discovered I could not turn the key in the lock. The key would insert, but the steering wheel would not turn. I called my insurance company and Ford service for advice, but nothing worked. I am preparing to have my vehicle towed and to spend nearly $500 dollars to repair the same thing that many of you online have reported-- a vehicle with approx. 30,000 miles, inoperable due to a defective part. I was hoping to walk out to the car the next day and find that it was just a bad dream, but no luck on that!! I, too, believe Ford should listen to its customers and stand behind its product.
Jamie of Nevada MO (12/19/07)
My daughter who is 17-years-old wanted a newer car. I let her shop and find a car that she could afford the payments on and would be reliable for a few years (at least until she pays it off). She found this Ford Focus and was very excited. I was a fool and trusted that Ford would make a good product. WRONG!!! BIG MISTAKE!!! I helped my daughter through the paperwork and opted not to buy the extended (very expensive) warranty. The warranty was $3000 extra for only a year. Who would imagine that one could have that many problems in a year. It has now been three months and I will never buy another Ford product as long as I live and neither will my family and most of my friends. The first problem was the rear passanger window. It will not roll up. She uses a pencil to keep it up. Great for the security system. I guess that is not a big deal because we can just have the window put up permanently for a minimal charge. The big trouble started on a Sunday night when my daughter closed the restraunt she works at and went out to the parking lot alone at 10:30 at night. The key would not go into the ignition. Luckily she had a cell phone because she works on the outskirts of town. She had to leave her car there. I wish someone would have stolen it that night. (Remember the window doesn't roll up and is only held up by a pencil.) Her boyfriend brought her home and she was in tears. I looked up Ford Focus ignition on Google and discovered that this is a very common problem with these cars and that Ford won't do a thing about it because it is not a safety issue. This is a safety issue. For example if my daughter did not have access to a phone that night, or if someone was stranded with a small child in the middle of nowhere in the dead of summer. I think that when a vehicle has a recurring problem no matter what it is the manufacturer should fix it. I will tell everyone I know this story and post it everywhere I can on the internet. DON'T BUY FORD, they DO NOT back their products.
Jerry of Henderson NV (12/19/07)
Like most other owners, my 2003 Ford Focus had the ignition locke up on it. I just had it towed to a repairman to get it fixed.
Kristy of Salt Lake City UT (12/19/07)
The ignition cylindar on my 2000 Ford Focus, which has only 51,000 miles on it, had to be replaced about a week ago. Two days later the air bag light turned on all the time. Two days after that, as I was driving, I heard a loud pop in the steering wheel--I'm guessing the air bag partially deployed. It is currently at the repair shop.
Luz of Pinellas Park FL (12/18/07)
I purchased a 2004 Ford Focus for my daughter with my tax return money to help her get a car since she is a student and is very limited in her income. But this car is a piece of crap! The ignition locked up and we had to have it fixed twice. Ford better request a recall, because if anything happens to my daughter because she is left stranded due to faulty parts and something as stupid as a locked ignition. I will sue them. I don't want my daughter stranded and become a target for crime because Ford refuses to acknowledge a locked ignition problem, after we see numberous, hundreds of people complaining about the same thing. This is not coincidence! Oh, and not to mention the other problems with the car with multiple trips to the mechanics.
Alberto of Dallas TX (12/17/07)
Ford Focus ignition problem, same case as other people
Amy of Davison MI (12/13/07)
The ignition on my 2003 Ford Focus locked up and cost me $304.78 to replace. There goes the rest of my Christmas shopping!
Annie of Alamo GA (12/13/07)
My 2000 Ford Focus started having problems with the key. It would stick and I could not get it out. I finally sprayed it with WD 40 and it helped. Also my ignition started failing. Sometimes I would have to turn the key 10 times to get the engine to turn on. Seems like this is a common problem for all 2000 Ford Focus. Question, is this problem related just to the 2000 model or does it continue into the later models?
L. of North Hollywood CA (12/11/07)
My 2003 Ford Focus is a Lemon! I am having transimission problems that will not go away after several repairs, I am having some sort of electrical problem with the lights and the locks and most recently my ignition is locked and my car won't start.
Rebecca of Oakland CA (12/08/07)
I have a 2003 Ford Focus SE and today my ignition locked itself out of nowhere. I never had a problem with my steering wheel locking before. I was leaving the gym with my boyfriend when my car wouldn't let my car key turn on the ignition. I had to call AAA to get my car towed on a Saturday near my car repair shop which was closed and I have to wait until Monday to get my mechanic to look at it. I am a full-time student that doesn't have much money to begin with and need my car to work and commute from city to city. I am worried that I may have problems going to and from the very distant places that I need to get to with the ignition locking. I am on financial aid and student loans and cannot afford to put money into this defect. Ford should no doubt take responsibility for this very common problem. If I can't rely on my car, I can't work therefore cannot generate income. Please, please, please consider a class action suit against the Ford Motor Company and I will gladly contribute. I do have class action attorneys that I know and have worked with that I will contact about this very problem.
Cara of Lakewood OH (12/08/07)
My 2001 Ford Focus ignition locked up today...Praises that I was at home and didn't have to be anywhere, however, paying to get it fixed along with a tow doesn't sit well with me. Ford is quite aware of this problem and refuses to issue a recall. They will get an earfull from me Monday morning. Hey, I'll make sure bad publicity costs them just as much as a recall would. Make sure you post everywhere you can and let Ford know that we will not stand for this. We thought we did a good thing by buying American to support our economy but got the cheapest parts and most expensive labor. I say God Bless America, but I'm buying a Honda next time!
Kurtis of Lakewood WA (12/07/07)
I along with many other customers have been held liable for a faulty part provided by Ford Motor Company. The ignition tumbler/module was admittedly faulty and was replaced by a better part that Ford currently invests in for its Focus modules. I called Ford corporate office and was told that Ford will not take responsibility for its actions to its customer base. I was told that the part is considered a usual wear and tear item and is not covered under warranty. I have yet to find any other auto manufacturer that has this problem with its vehicles. I have also read numerous complaints filled with consumer affairs and other websites concerning the same issue.The tumbler ignition /module is poorly documented in repair manuals, hard to obtain, and extremely expensive relative to its original production cost. I researched a life expectancy of ignition parts and found that there is no set life expectancy. I did, however, find a blog that stated electronic ignition parts should last up to 100,000 miles as a minimum standard. How is the consumer supposed to hedge themselves against property damage that is not considered an industry standard defect? Ford's number one argument is that the part has not been recalled because it posses no immediate safety issue. Is it not a safety issue of the customer if the vehicle is rendered acutely un-operable in a life threatening situation? I'm sure business insurance companies would be afraid of liability and damage claims as a result of Ford's negligence to hold the original whole sales parts manufacturer at fault to its customers dissatisfaction. Would you buy a vehicle from a company that practices unethical business behavior?
Eric of St. Petersburg FL (12/07/07)
The Ford Focus Ignition switch problem will not go away. Today is Dec 7 and this will be the 3rd Ignition switch installed in my 2001 Ford Focus.
Nikolay of San Diego CA (12/01/07)
I have a 2004 Ford Focus with 67,000 miles on it. My ignition switch has locked down. It looks like this has been an ongoing problem with the focus line for years.
Star of North Hollywood CA (11/30/07)
The Ignition Lock Failed was not able to unlock the Steering Lock. Happened at car wash ! When I calles AAA - I was told that the FORD FOCUS is famous for this !! Also hundreds of other people have same experience, yet FORD will not do anything about it -
Kenneth of National City CA (11/30/07)
The 2003 Ford Focus I own has a problem with the ignition. My wife was stranded at the store on one time & was unable to make it to work another. I had to stay home from work to get her car fixed.
Linda of St. Petersbury FL (11/25/07)
The night before Thanksgiving I stopped at a store before going home. When I came out to start my 2003 Ford Focus (30,000 miles), the ignition was locked up. Couldn' start the car, move the steering wheel or change gears. The manager of the store told me the car would be fine overnight. The next morning I showed up to find my car had been towed. It cost 120.00 to get it back, another 50.00 to tow to dealership and 400.00 to fix the ignition cylinder. I googled and discovered that this is a defective part and that Ford is very aware of the problem. I would like to be part of any class action suit to try and recover the money I spent on Ford's mistake. As a single mom with limited resources, this feels like being cheated by a company that I had trusted.
Michele of Anderson SC (11/22/07)
I have a 2004 Ford Focus with 31,000 miles on it. My ignition switch has locked down. It looks like this has been an ongoing problem with the focus line for years.
Mike of Troy NY (11/21/07)
Ford Focus ZX3 2001. Ignition won't turn. Day before thanksgiving stopped to get gas in an area that I have been told is bad (muggings, robbery etc) went to start car and the key wont turn. Locksmith said it is the Ignition Lock Cylinder. Had to replace. Thousands of complaints on this and no resolution from Ford. I am original owner. Is there a class action in NY I can join?
George of Fort Worth TX (11/14/07)
My 2003 Ford Focus 2003 hasn't caused me too many expenses, yet, knock on wood. I did replace 2nd alternator at 30,000 miles for $500. Luckily, first one was still under warranty. I came to this site to read about the ignition switch sticking. My did so today, but I put my foot out the door and gently rocked the car forward and backword. This unlocked the ignition switch. Thank Goodness!!! In the meantime, I'm going to spray WD-40 and hope that fixes it. I'm really concerned after reading all of these messages. Paid $8500 cash for car in December of 2004. Have spent $500 total thus far so I guess I've been lucky. Transmission sometimes sticks but the car is only driven by my wife to work, church, or her mom's for 4,500/miles total per year. Hopefully will last another 2-3 years and then were getting a Hybrid.
Idi of Parma Heights OH (11/14/07)
Like everyone else, I got in my Focus, put the key in the ignition and it would not turn. This was on a Sunday and I was starting a new job the next morning. I ended up paying $89.79 for a rental car in addition to $155 to a locksmith who installed a new ignition switch. The locksmith says that thanks to Ford, he's been keeping very busy and cannot believe that there has not been a recall.
Kellie of Salem OR (11/13/07)
The ignition switch on my 2003 Ford Focus failed when the car is only 5 years old.
Donna of Hemet CA (11/10/07)
I had to pay $200.00 to have my ignition replaced on my Ford Focus 2003. I really think if there are so many people having the same problem Ford should stand by it.
Erin of Syracuse NY (11/08/07)
My 2005 Ford Focus has had issues with the door latches becoming rusted out and making it so the doors do not latch properly. I had the first door fixed on 10/1/07 and was charged $155 for the repair. At the time I questioned that it should be covered by the company because in a 2 year old vehicle, it is obviously a defective part. I was told that it is not covered and that it is a common problem with this vehicle but there was nothing that could be done about the charge.
On 11/5/07, the same thing happened to the opposite door, except this time, the vehicle was moving and there was a child in the backseat.
No one was injured, but I was concerned about the safety issue of this. I checked and found a recall that had been issued from Ford Motor Company on 2000-2005 Ford Focus vehicles for a problem that allows corrosion to build up, rust the door latch and cause the door to possibly open while driving. I brought the recall notice to the dealer to have the second door fixed and was told that the recall does not apply to my vehicle. I do not understand this because my vehicle is a 2005 Ford Focus which is exactly what the recall was for and I was denied.
Clearly my vehicle was having the same problem that others had and were recalled for. I was told that the recall does not apply to me and I paid $150 for the repair (the second one in 2 just over a month for the same problem). I have contacted Ford Motor Company and they refuse to help me. I feel this is a safety issue and it easily could have caused serious injury to my passengers.
I do not understand why there is not a recall on this vehicle. I purchased a new car rather than a pre-owned one for the piece of mind that it would be a safe, reliable vehicle. Now, 2 years after purchasing the vehicle, I am facing safety concerns and paying out of pocket to repair them.
Jared of Brea CA (11/08/07)
Key ignition barrel replaced twice due to locking up. Fuel pump replaced because car was stalling on turns. Trunk lock replaced because truck wouldn't close. Radiator housing replaced due to coolant leaks causing overheating. Front ball bearings replaced after causing problems with the elbow joint which would result in the wheel falling off. Now driving home my A/C quit, headlamps shut off and the heat stopped simultaneously while I was driving in the dark, wipers came on and power returned to all components briefly before shutting off permanently.
Kohle of Portland OR (11/05/07)
I have a 2002 Ford Focus and the ignition has locked up twice in 3 years. The key will not turn and we have been stranded and towed both times. It has been almost $400 to fix each time. Ford needs to start taking responsibility for their substandard product. We should ALL come together for a class action law suit and show them that this is unacceptable.
Lamar of Myerstown PA (11/02/07)
I have a 2000 Ford Focus that has 116,000 mi. on it and its had its share of problems since i have. I bought it used with 30,000 mi. on it. I since have had problems with the engine idling rough which it still does because i don't have the money to get it fixed at a garage and from the sound of some other people this is a pretty common problem.
The worst problem i had with it was that the key switch locked up and my girlfriend got stuck at college 10:00 at night all alone and she couldn't get the car to start. i had to go and disassemble the key switch and break the key switch tumbler out so i could get the tumbler lock pin out to unlock the steering wheel. i don't have the money to get it towed. i have it to where it starts and drives again and trying to save up money for the repair bills which could range from 250. to 500. dollars depends on were you live.
This car has shut off at intersections a few times already which i am ready to get a new car i am sick and tired off dealing with car problems. I just want a car that does what they say it can do. As far as i'm concerned Ford should stand behind there cars if they want to sell them. If someone asks me what i think about Ford i tell them that they should never buy one i have been left sit by other Ford vehicles already i'm not impressed by Ford quality which there is none.
Keith of Alert Lea MN (11/01/07)
Bad ignition switch; key won't turn to start. Repairman to my garage twice to try and remove the switch with no luck. So far I don't have a cost yet, but I'm sure it won't be cheap
Christian of Florissant MO (10/31/07)
Purchased a pre-owned 2002 Ford Focus in Feb 2005. The vehicle was supposed to be a Certified Used Vehicle. Took the vehicle back in to dealership less than one month after owning vehicle and service adviser told us that we needed to have new tires and brakes. We finally got them to fix this at their expense, seeing as how the vehicle was supposed to meet certain criteria to be certified used. Since we have owned this vehicle we have had to have this car in the shop repeatedly for various problems with the car(bad sway bar links, egr tube and various noises that the car made while driving it).
The dealership never addressed any of the noises stating that they could not reproduce the noise. Of course once we left the dealership there was the noise again. After having to repair the egr tube and spending 260.00 to replace, pick up the vehicle and not even 2 miles after leaving the dealership, the check engine light comes on.
Called the service adviser to let him know and his response is to put gas in it and drive it another 150 miles. I told him that they should look at the vehicle since they just had it and did work on the car that it probably had something to do with that. He told me no and to do what he had said. So we did that and the light went off and then came right back on. The same code was given both times. We decided to check it ourselves, since this dealership seems to have incompetent people working there.
After battling with them now for almost two years and getting close to the end of our warranty, we decided to call Ford executive office to complain about the lack of proper service at this dealership and all of the problems we have had with this car that was supposed to be CERTIFIED USED. After all, this is a program that FORD nationally advertises right. Now 1300 miles after my warranty expires my transmission goes out and neither the dealership or Ford itself wants to do anything about it.
They want me to provide them with receipts of when I worked on the car, because since I am not the dealership I am unable to properly work on a car. I told the Ford executives that every time I have taken my vehicle to the dealership it has cost me a lot of money, and they still have not properly fixed the vehicle to what the standards of the CERTIFIED USED program were supposed to be.
The gentleman at ford told me that they don't really do much about dealerships that sell Ford vehicles under the program that never met the guidelines to be in the program to begin with. And to top it off, after finally getting to see what I guess is the copy of the checklist done on the vehicle prior to us buying it, the work was not even done by Ford mechanics.
Mila of Newington CT (10/30/07)
I had a problem with my ignition switch. I towed my car to the dealership on Friday at 12 pm,the car was done partially after i yelled at the manager at 3pm in Saturday!!!. They only started doing my car Saturday Morning!!!
Then when i came to pick up my car i found some things that were not before! The manager is claiming it has nothing to do with changing the ignition switch. First of all i paid $343!! and now i have to fix more after they fix my car.
Can somone explain me the who is responsible for this breaks after i pick up car at their dealership:
1.The horn does no work anymore. 2.The airbag light is on now, never was before. 3.When you turn the steering wheel on the turns it squeezes a lot. 4.The fog light is not on anymore, you need to hold in order to be stay on. I am very upset and disappointed.
John of Columbus OH (10/30/07)
2000 ford focus we bought new, all problems: o2 sensor, front axle engine dies, stereo shuts off by itself, engine dies in street traffic and on highway ignition switch stuck. Ford Focus is a Death Trap and American Garbage why is there not a class action lawsuit against Ford.
Bonnie of Oxford NC (10/29/07)
I purchased a Ford Focus about 10 weeks ago. The car was a 2005 and it had about 50,000 miles when I bought it. The day after purchase I noticed that there was a drip inside the car over the gas peddle. While checking that out I discovered that the gear shift was black taped together.
I carried the car back to the dealership where I purchased it and they repaired the problems. It was about 7 weeks into me owning the car when I started noticing that the front brakes were squeaking. I took the car back to the place of purchase for service. While I was there I was told that I needed to replace the front brakes, a CV Axle, and the back brakes had a TSB on them.
I had the front brakes fixed, the car serviced, and the CV Axle put on. I paid nearly $11,000 when I bought the car and now I had to spend $272 more on it, and that was only because I had a warranty. The CV Axle was $500 on its own. I was told that the only way to fix the back brakes was to replace the brakes and the drums and whatever else that entailed. This work is $530 and they won't promise that this will take the squealing sound out of the back brakes. The service manager said that was the way Ford suggested to fix the problem. I am just looking for an inexpensive way to FIX my car. No maybe's, just fixed.
Michael of Kennesaw GA (10/29/07)
I own a 2000 Ford Focus LE with 80,000 miles approx. My wife drives the car, one morning she simply placed the key into the ingnition and it would not turn. I have never heard of such a problem with any car. I searched the internet and found just not this site reporting the problem. But, many others with the same issue. I called Ford and they refuse to acknowledged this as a recall issue. I refuse to pay $500 for a defective part from the manufacturer.
Latoya of Tallahassee FL (10/29/07)
I am also having continuing problems with my 2001 Ford Focus. It started back in 09-21-2004. While leaving work one day,I tried to turn my key it wouldn't give in any direction. I have been stranded several times with this same problem. I had the ignition replaced which costed $430.00 plus towing fees of $35.00 dollars. I learned my key would get worn out to the point that it would cause my ignition to break. If you catch this problem before your key breaks the ignition you wont have to get it replaced (so I think). So that was about 80.00 dollars to reprogram my key every time. (walmart doesn't have the ability to copy it) I have now replaced my key about three times now. It's a very inconvenient problem to have and very expensive for the years that I have owned the car. It is now 10-29-07. Now here I am about to replace the ignition again and all I wanted was not have to pay out of pocket again. I know it's not a guarantee it wont break again.
Orlando of Cicero IL (10/29/07)
The ignition on my 2001 Ford Focus locked up and will NOT turn. I went to a Wal-Mart today (10/28/07) that's about 7 miles from my house and when I came out, I went into my car, put the key into the ignition and the ignition just would not turn. I tried moving the wheel from side to side while attempting to turn the ignition key but it did not work.
I spent 4 hours in the Wal-Mart parking lot trying to turn my car on the and the ignition would not turn so I had to give up. Now I have to miss a day of work and hire a locksmith to diagnose the ignition problem and fix it. So this ignition problem is going to cost me 1 day of lost wages, plus repair costs.
I looked on the internet and noticed that way too many Ford Focus owners have had the same ignition switch problem so why isn't anyone doing anything about it? We should all mount a class-action lawsuit against Ford for putting a defective ignition switch on the Ford Focus and then refusing to recognize that it is a real problem and NOT just a problem that's attributable to a few people.
I will never buy another Ford Focus or any other car manufactured by Ford for that matter. Why buy a product from a company, in this case Ford, which makes defective products and then is denial about its products being defective and thereby turns its back on the consumer? I am extremely upset about this so if any current or former Ford Focus owners want to do something about this, please count me in!!
Bruce of Mt Pleasant IA (10/28/07)
my daughter took her 2000 ford focus to ford for a battery problem. they installed a new alternator and with labor charged her $502.16. I checked at our local ford dealer. Labor should have been 1/2 and they should have use a rebuilt alternator. Total cost, 302.72.
Arne of Roscoe IL (10/28/07)
Both my 2001 Chrysler Sebring LXi Converetible and my 2001 Ford Focus have had ignition switches that locked up/broke after I shut the car off and the key would not turn. Both had to be towed and repaired to the cost of approximately $300.
Shane of Brownstown MI (10/27/07)
Have a 2003 Ford Focus. Ignition is frozen. Cannot believe what a common problem this is. No wonder everyone's buying foreign these days.
Kermet of Clinton OK (10/26/07)
I recently purchased a used 2001 Ford Focus and have experienced difficultly in getting the ignition key to insert. After reading all the complaints here, I wish I had not bought this car. All Focus owners should send a complaint to the National Highway Transportation Adm. and report this as av ehicle defect (http//www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/)
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Martha of Webster TX (10/25/07)
2000 Focus Wagon (115,000) 10/25/07 Replaced the ignition switch (368.00). I knew it was coming. This summer while picking up my oldest child at camp I couldn't get the key to even go in to the ignition. Luckily I had rolled the windows down in the car. I had my three year old as well as my new born with me. I called the dealership (which I try to avoid at all costs) and the man in the repair center told me get a hammer or something and just bang your key in the ignition. I did what he said and was able to get all of us home and out of the heat.
After that, my key would only go in the ignition one way. Today, after piling all three kids into the car, the key wouldn't go in again. I tried spraying my key as with silicone spray but that didn't help. Then, like an idiot, I did what the service department had said early and jammed the key into the ignition. Unfortunately that didn't work and the key was stuck without being able to start the car.
I piled everyone back into the house, called AAA (an actual company that helps people), then called the dealership to let them know my car was on it's way. How convenient they had an ignition switch already there waiting! Before I called my husband to tell him the bad news (we are on one income now) I researched this problem on the web.
I'm shocked to find I'm now part of a club. Why is there not a recall on this? Why is there not a law suit for reimbursement? As with other people, this is not my first problem with my car. My breaks have squeaked since I got the car, as well as all subsequent breaks. The front end grunts and grinds. I've had the fuel pump replaced. Two weeks ago my engine light came on. I took it to the mechanic so he could replace a valve that melted. That cost 200.00. I should have saved the 3,000.00 it cost to get the new transmission and spent it on a foreign made used car. This is my third, and last Ford automobile. Three strikes Ford, you are out!
Sarah of Ladson SC (10/21/07)
I bought my 2003 Ford Focus Wagon brand new in October 2003. Within less then a year after I bought it, the brakes started squealing really bad. Every time I take the car in to the Ford dealership to get the oil changed, I ask them to check the brakes because they make such a terrible noise of squealing and gringing. Each time I am told that is normal due to the type of brakes on the car.
The last time asked about it, I was told that my brakes was fine but ford does make a brake pad that will quiet down the noise but it will not get rid of the noise. My husband is a certified diesel mechanic and has already spent well over $200 replacing the front and rear brakes. The brakes have already been replaced twice. The squealing noise just keeps getting worse. I am afraid that they may give out one day when I am driving. Also, I have had to get the radio replaced twice in the Ford Focus.
Once for no apparent reason the time on the clock defaulted to a 24 hour time setting instead of a 12 hour time setting. It would not allow me or the dealership to change it back to a 12 hour setting. The second time my daughter had just bought a brand new CD and opened it in the car and inserted it into the CD player, the CD player would not play. When she would hit the eject button it would tell her that there was no CD in the changer.
The dealership claimed that they could not get the CD out and that they would have to send the radio/CD player back to the factory and they would send back her CD once they removed it from the CD player. It has been over six months and we still have not gotten the CD back yet. I keep calling the dealership and all they keep saying is that they have not received it back yet. Both times the radio was replaced I had to pay a $50 deductable for a faulty radio and CD player that came that way. Another problem that I am having with the Ford Focus is that when I am driving and it starts to rain, I see steam roll off the top of the hood. So far it only seems to do it when it rains.
I have reported this to the dealership as well and have been told that it is from the insulation under the hood that holds the heat and causes the hood to get hot and that it is normal. I have never seen another car that has done that. If the hood is getting that hot I am afraid of the car catching fire at some point. I don't feel that the car is worth what I paid for it and I will never buy another Ford product.
The Ford Company doesn't seem to want to fix the problems that the cars were manufactured with. They do not have the consumers best interest at heart. Nor do they seem to care that it is the consumers hard earned money that is used to purchase these vehicles. I am very disappointed in the Ford Focus as well as the Ford Company that manufactures the car and promotes it so highly. I feel like I have been shafted or taken for a ride (in a poorly manufactured automobile).
Randy of Haslett MI (10/17/07)
I have 5 Ford Focus's for a small business range from 2003 -2005. With in the last week 3 of them - the ignition key froze up. it would not turn. I had the Ford Dealer fix the problem. I asked them if this has been a problem with the Focus, they said no, yeh......
Faynett of Leavenworth KS (10/16/07)
I have bought my Ford Focus (2003) 4 years ago and currents have 57,000 miles on it... not only have I had to replace an O2 sensor, an egr thing, and p something valve (amounting in apx. 500 dollars) NOW the stupid key wont turn to start the car, so i do some research so i wont get suckered by the dealer and find that this is a MAJOR issue with the focus.. and yet when i check the ford website.. there isnt any recalls... and by the way, my radio is having issues... but the ignition lock at 57,000 miles that is what PERTURBS me the most... and it just happened.. no warning... get off work put the key in the ignition and it wont turn.... thought it was a random thing... turn the car off when i go pick up my kids again it happens.. after jiggling the key it turns took a couple of minutes.. thought maybe the key wore out????? then the next morning.. it took over an hour to get it to turn. so i leave the key in the ignition so i know that until i can afford to replace the stupid thing i can get to work... some oh and then i forgot and took the key out on accident .. i literally cried..i am a single mother thinking i bought a car 1) afford the payments and 2)the gas and what i got is a pain in the rear...and a dwindling pocket book i will NEVER NEVER by another ford.... Toyota here i come ...
..
Sj of Naples FL (10/15/07)
Bought a new Focus in April 2006. Car has right at 21,000 miles and it needs it's THIRD alternator. First one was changed at 5,000 miles, problem solved? Nope, now it needs another one. Took it in for service for a readily available part. Two hours later I was notified Ted to come pick up car that the alternator could not be located from Miami to Tampa, no dealers or parts supply houses had this readily available. Two hours of my time wasted. Part was special ordered on 10/01/07. That was over two weeks ago. Car is still awaiting part, car runs but I'm afraid to drive it in fear of the alternator totally going out completely. It just has a high pitched bearing whine right now.
Jeff of Shingle Springs CA (10/15/07)
I bought a 2002 ford escape NEW in 2002, it has been a lemon since day 3, the windshield has been replaced 3 times (it splits where the defroster blows on it), the exhaust manifold back has been replaced 4 times, the pto 4 wheel drive unit poured fluid needed rebuilt, the front brakes & rotors are junk, been replaced, the sun roof movement parts exploded & fell onto me (needed replaced) , the engine BLEW up @ 68,000 miles, replaced with a bad engine, replaced after 300 miles, replaced with another engine that left me stranded in Oregon (I live in Ca), waiting for extended warranty to replace it AGAIN, been into Ford for several recalls, I used to be a ford Guy, NEVER AGAIN! WHAT A HUNK OF JUNK!
Bruce of W. Babylon NY (10/15/07)
On Tuesday, September 25, 2007, My vehicle, a 2002 Ford Focus, V.I.N. 1FAFP38372W147007, became disabled on a major state parkway during operation. I was en route to work accelerating at a speed of 48-50 miles per hour. There was a sudden, piercing, grinding sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. As I attempted to slow down, the rear of the vehicle began to sway out of control. Just as I managed to slow down and pull over to the curb driving at a speed of 5-10 miles per hour, the rear passenger's side wheel and drum actually broke off the spindle and spun onto oncoming traffic. The rear suspension actually dropped to the street. Luckily, no one was injured and there was no further property damage.
Emily of Denver CO (10/14/07)
I bought my 2000 ford focus used in 2003. Since I've had it I have had 2 recalls on it and 2 other problems that I have had to fix that are not recalls but should be. I had to have things replaced in which the mechanic and ford dealership has told me several other ford focuses have had the same problem, but there's no recall. I have put way too much money into this car than it is worth. And, now, it has overheated on me twice and this last time it will not start. I am never buying a ford again.
Angela of Beaufort SC (10/14/07)
We are first time owners of a 2001 Ford Focus and the followings things are wrong with our car: 3 un-operating windows fuel pump had to be replaced a/c does not work handles above window in the backseat have broken lighter does not work radio volume control on the fritz broken steering colum, have to keep replenishing steering fluid
Paul of Cary NC (10/13/07)
Product: Ford Focus 2003 The ignition cylinder has stopped working, so now the key cannot even turn to start the car. The key can be inserted, but not turned. It has become progressively worse over the past week or two, and now it seems permanently stuck. This is a terrible situation, and luckily I'm at home, and not stranded someplace. I tried to get it to turn for nearly 2 hours now with no luck. I've read that thousands of Ford Focus customers are having similar problems with their ignition cylinders (key cannot turn), and that Ford has done nothing. Ford should do something about the substandard ignition cylinder parts they've used in these cars. They owe Ford Focus owners new, and better made, ignition cylinders so we don't get stranded someday!
Ruthie of Grover Beach CA (10/12/07)
Wow I cannot believe how many people have had the same problem I have had with our 2000 focus. My ignition failed to start on my way to the airport for our summer vacation. Thanks to some awesome friends we made our 5am flight with just seconds to spare. Had the ignition fixed upon our return (85k miles on car). Then 80 days later my ignition went out again! This time I could not turn the car off! Again this was after picking up my Mom in law at the airport! I think i will stay away from the airport with this car from now on! Thankfully the first repair still had ten days left on its warranty and Midas fixed it for free :) Love you Midas! Needless to say I am extremely unhappy and will never in my life buy another ford again! We are trading this in before the ignition goes out again.
Phil of Dumfries VA (10/12/07)
I've had numerous problems with my 2001 Ford Focus SE Wagon (85k miles). For a very long time I had problems with it stalling out while driving on the highway-a very dangerous situation to be in on the beltway around Washington DC. My wife was returning from the dealership after they had worked on the car for this issue and it stalled out on a multi-lane highway.
Our toddler was in the back seat and there was a semi truck behind her and one next to her, fortunate she and my son avoided a deadly situation, but it could have been very bad! After many visits to the dealership they seemed to have remedied that issue. The rear latch does not function properly and the button on the dash for the latch has not worked for a long time. I've had brake issues. I can't even count the amount of times I replaced the rear brakes. The radio does not work properly-the buttons are cheap and have broken.
It gets terrible gas mileage and it has hesitated since the day I purchased it. The latest issue is the ignition. I stopped at a 7-11 and I could not get the ignition to turn when I attempted to leave. It has been there for the last two days as I try to figure out what to do. I have tried everything to get it to unlock with no luck! The local dealership wanted to charge $450.00 not including towing. I looked at getting a replacement from an auto parts store--the cost was $180.00 and would take three weeks to get it in! Ford should recall this item and for that matter recall the entire car! Our other car is a Honda and the replacement for this Ford will be a Honda!! Hey Ford---another customer lost!
Augie of Belleville IL (10/10/07)
Like many Ford Focus owners, I'm fed up with the many known problems with the ford focus from the coolant system to the ac/heater issues. I've had to replace the transmission, thermostat housing, coolant system, radio knob (actually melted) on my 2001 Ford Focus and now I have to add a key ignition switch to the list.
Ron of Wichita KS (10/09/07)
2003 Ford Focus - Ignition Lock problem. Totally locked up on me. $300 plus later, dealer gave me the sucker grin as I walked out with an empty wallet. Ford customer service people were no help at all and actually hung up on me when I suggested a recall for the ignition switch problem. The first girl told me they had no control over what their dealers charge. MY only recourse was to let Ford know that I WAS considering a Fusion for the wife but after this problem with the Focus, no way am I looking at another FORD product. I wonder how they can afford to ignore their field problems and keep any kind of customer base. This conspiracy with their dealers is just WRONG!
Kris of Philadelphia PA (10/08/07)
For the third time since I had my 2001 Ford Focus, I had to have the ignition cylinder replaced again. This is a part that should never break. The first time this happened was on 2/21/03. Luckily it was under warranty. The second time, September 12, 2005 I was stranded at a grocery store. I had to get someone else to drive my son to school. I paid $328.28 for this repair. On August 23, 2007, this happened again. I was out of town on business and my mother had to take my car in for repair. The charged her $445.95 for this repair. g
David of Cypress TX (10/06/07)
2001 Ford focus 61000 miles. ignition switch locked up, i'm stranded, cant pick up my kids in time at daycare
Tara of Columbia SC (10/05/07)
I have had my 2001 Ford Focus for less than 2 and 1/2 years, and up until now it has been a pretty good car, with the exception of the brakes wearing extremely quickly. Yesterday, while getting on the interstate, with no prior warning, the car just turned off. It doesn't even have 60,000 miles on it. My husband and I were stranded on the interstate in rural South Carolina, 50 miles from home. Luckily this situation did not occur in heavy traffic. The consequences may have been deadly. We are new to the state, so we don't know anyone to help us out. We had to wait an hour and a half for a tow truck, pay $200 to get it towed to a repair shop, and found out today that they can't figure out what's wrong. This resulted in a $60 tow to a dealership, where it is going to cost $90 for the car to be looked at. Including the $20 to have it looked at by the repair shop, we have spent nearly $400, and still do not have a working vehicle. Originally from metro Detroit, and with relatives working in the auto industry, I had bought into the Buy American thing. I can honestly say that my next car will be Japanese.
David of Lexington KY (10/03/07)
My 2000 Ford focus has had many problems, 1st is the fuel pump died on a trip to Massachusetts, it died in Morgantown, WV. No dealers around the area could get it in for a week, so we ended up having family tow the car to Mass. from WV because the dealer there could do it, and luckily this WAS a recall, that we never knew about though.
2nd Problem, left us stranded on a trip to Fort Lauderdale Florida at 2am at night outside of Orlando. This problem was the Wire going into the coil harness is stretched so tight it wears and breaks.
3rd problem, both back windows have 'fell'. There is a nylon piece that holds the cables inside of the regulator, this nylon breaks, and the window falls while driving. It happened on the passenger side about a year ago, and a month ago the driver side. This is a costly repair as you have to purchase the entire assembly, they do not sell repair kits.
4th problem, the ignition key today was stuck in the ignition, it would not turn, could not be removed, would not start etc... After reading online there are many people with the same issue, I tried WD-40 to no avail, but tapping the key with my pocket knife did allow the key to turn and start, but it is still stuck in the ignition and cannot be removed. Other problems that have not left me stranded yet, but surely will:
There is a banging/clanking noise sounds like in the front suspension, the engine idles very roughly, the fan belt has been replaced and still squeals and squeaks sometimes, the breaks are very loud and squeal, even after having new ones put on.
Debra of St. Louis MO (10/01/07)
I own a 2003 Ford Focus SE Wagon. It has 45,000 miles on it, and so far I have had to replace the ignition, all four tires, brakes, and now the alternator. Obviously this has cost me a large chunk of money, and the car isn't even paid off! SOMEONE NEEDS TO START A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT AGAINST FORD--it looks like the ignition problem would be a good place to start!
Tonya of Owensboro KY (10/01/07)
same problem as many other consumers. my ignition key goes in but will not turn. take it in and out several time and in will turn on like nothing is wrong with it. i have a small child and i worry where i will be stuck when it finally goes out; if i don't find a solution first. hey ford; how about a recall. or should we be complaining about the bbb for not having a recall! i don't think ford is the blame for the recall; just the junk switch. has anyone tried bypassing the key with some type of switch
Beverly of Powder Springs GA (09/30/07)
We live in Georgia and purchased a 2006 Pre-owned Ford Focus a month ago for our daughter to take to school with her in Louisiana. We got a call from her saying that she could not get her key out of the ignition. The key is able to turn and the car still runs, and can turn off and on. We immediately searched online for a solution to her problem only to find that this is a common and recurring problem with the Ford Focus and it is not covered under warranty. The only comfort we have being so far away from her with this problem is that it happened while she was on campus. What can we do to have a recall of the Focus for this ignition problem?
Brian of Reseda CA (09/29/07)
2000 ford focus ignition key will not turn.
Andrew of Austin TX (09/27/07)
I owned a 2005 Ford Focus Station Wagon and had a rear end collision while stopped at a light. As a result of the poor seat construction, my lumbar spine was wedged in the gap between the seat cushion and the back cushion during the impact. At the time, I had the seat lowered for comfort. Unfortunately, as you lower the seat, you also create a gap between the seat cushion and the back cushion, exposing the lumbar spine to that gap. This is where my lower spine was wedged as a result of the rear-end collision.
The back cushion has too little support to keep the spine from buckling and wedging itself, butt first. (Yes, my butt isn't THAT big) Now, the gap wasn't that big for me, only about an inch or so. Imagine now a rear end collision with a tall person sitting in that seat, where there is a considerable gap between the seat cushion and the back cushion, say maybe two or more inches. In a rear end collision, with the front brakes applied, the rear of the vehicle actually buckles upward and forward, while the bodies in the car move down and back, as in my case (since objects at rest [my body] respond only after the impact to the vehicle). Just watch all those dummy commericals...
This is a SERIOUS safety hazard if you manipulate the lever to lower the seat cushion. FACT: The european ford focus driver seat moves as an entire unit (both seat cushion and back cushion move together as a unit, never creating such a gap) FACT: The u.s. model is the cheap alternative to give the impression of a adjustable seat. Instead, the lever lowers and raises only the seat bucket portion for the driver, while exposing a gap between it and the back cushion. The back support stays in the same place ANOTHER FACT: All european models have headrests in the back seat ANOTHER FACT: Al u.s. models have NO headrests in the back seat TALLY: U.S. MODELS ARE UNSAFE FOR REAR-END COLLISIONS Focus your Whiplash, Ford!
Tom of Torrance CA (09/27/07)
I have a 2005 ford focus with 46000 miles on it. this morning 09/27/2007 when park the car at work, i could not take out the key. went to google and saw soo many people have similar problem that unheard of from other cars.
Dave of Angus, Canada (09/27/07)
2004 Ford Focus ignition. Steering wheel locked solid,you could insert the key, but it wouldn't unlock the st/wheel. Went home and picked up my spare key to try it,but it didn't work either.If this is a recurring problem, then Ford should paying for our costs.
Jim, Car Yard of Fresno CA (09/26/07)
We have purchased several Ford Focus vehicles to sell at our used car lot. Every one of them has the ignition problem that over 500 people have already complained about on this site. The key gets stuck and/or will not turn. There should definately be a recall on this. The cars are generally great, other than this and the stock radios that NEVER work!
Richard of Hutto TX (09/24/07)
the ignition for our ford focus has locked up. we have had our car half way in the garage and half out for a week or more we havent had the money to fix it so we have to live in fear ever night that some one mite still our things out of our garage this is not a new problem i have always went with ford and have a f-150 and after i pay it of i am thinking of chevy right about know.
Bob of South Bend IN (09/24/07)
Key and the ignition was giving us problems for several months and had a new key made but made no differance. Finally had to have a new ignition that they had to drill out old one to repair. Total repair cost was $ 397.55. My car salesman said to keep an eye out because this was about the 20th Ford Focus customer that has had that problem. thank you.
Gina of Lagrange IL (09/24/07)
My key won't turn once placed in the ignition. I was stranded at a gas station at night, and a mentally ill man came up to me asking for a ride. I struggled with the key and steering wheel for 20 minutes scared for my life.
David of Ringwood NJ (09/20/07)
My 2001 Ford Focus was towed to this dealership with a faulty ignition lock. Mahwah Ford gave me an estimate of $860 which I felt was suspicious. I had checked on the internet and found this to be a rather common problem for which Ford had issued a service bulletin and repair kit. I called another Ford dealer who was familiar with the problem and quoted me $250--less than one third the price quoted by Mahwah Ford. I called Mahwah Ford and talked to a service supervisor who said that they could 'try' to repair it for less--leaving me with the impression that the bill would likely still be very high. I paid to have the towed to the other dealer who quoted $250. The car was repaired correctly and on time. To add insult to my towing expense, Mahwah Ford charged me $40, admitting that they did not touch the car. The $40 was apparently the standard charge when a car is brought in, regardless of whether or not any work is done on it. So, I paid $40 for an estimate that was more than 3 times the going rate and a tow charge to boot. I would not recommend patronizing Mahwah Ford under any circumstance.
Lydia of Portage MI (09/20/07)
One day the key would not turn in the ignition of my 2003 Ford Focus. I have read several examples of this exact same problem and believe Ford should initiate a recall and offer reimbursement to those of use who have had to pay several hundred dollars to correct a problem that is very rare in other types of cars.
Alicia of Charlotte NC (09/20/07)
i was going to bojangles about 4 weeks ago i get in my car and tried to start my ignition up, but my key wouldn't turn,the brakes,and my steering wheel had locked up. I was so upset.I called the ford place and they say they cant send anyone out to fix until a week or. So i called again and their office was closed.My car has just been sitting at the end of my three car drive way, and i have been stuck in the house. What should i do?
Fred of Calhoun KY (09/18/07)
i have a 2003 focus and my ignition switch is sticking. i guess i'm lucky. replacement at our local ford dealer is only around $230. and mine hasn't completly gone out yet. you can fool with it for 10-15 min and it finally turns. my bigger problem will be when i go to replace it. i had a viper alarm/remote start installed and i don't know how that will affect me with the new switch.
Marie of Hudson NH (09/18/07)
Ford Focus wagon first model year 2000. This past January the wheel bearings failed while my husband was driving on a major highway. He managed to get off the road safely but others have not been so lucky. This should have been a recall. Cost us thousands to repair and tow the car.
Dan of Madison AL (09/17/07)
Brought my 2005 Ford Focus ZX5 to my local dealer due to allot of valve ticking from #1 or #2 cylinder. They had my car for 1 month total, when I went to pick it up it had been damaged. They initially tried to blame the damage on me, but eventually fixed the damage. After having my car back for 3 days, it was clear something was VERY wrong. The valve ticking was still there but now there was all kinds of spark knock (detonation)as if there was a timing issue. The service manager said this is normal for this car, I insist it's not normal at all, he promptly threatens to have me removed from the property ! Wanting to avoid conflict, I call Ford Customer Service, they tell me that some detonation and valve ticking is normal for this car according to the technical hotline. Still in a state of disbelief, I decide to take the car to a different Ford Dealer. They tell me,and I quote their service manager :Ford is telling us that if the customer can't hear the noise with the hood shut and the windows shut it's not an issue, end quote. Woody Anderson had my car for an additional week and claim that based on the previous quote there is nothing we can do for you. Keep in mind these dealers have had my car for 5 weeks, my wife and I were without our car, we had to shell out money for a rental, I lost LOTS of time from work, and it's still not right ! Unbelievable !
Edward of New Albany IN (09/17/07)
Ford Focus product was definitely a falling apart junk. Ford Focus 2000 had major mechanical repairs done transmission blew up, EGR valve broke off engine, ignition went out twice and rubber mounts on engine mounts rotten off.
Ramona of Wellston OH (09/15/07)
We purchased our daughter a 2001 Ford Focus LX in 2005. A few months ago she started having trouble with the key not turning the ignition on. There seems to be a lot of people experiencing the same problem. How do we go about getting a recall for this problem?
Donna of Chino CA (09/14/07)
The ignition stopped working for the second time. As it is not under their 12 month warranty, the told me I was out of luck. I explained to the rep as it has happen previously (which they verified with the car vin #), that it was obviously a defect in their product. I asked, how can they expect me to repurchase the same defective product again. They said I had no other alternative. The quote I got from Ford Service was $375.00 plus labor and towing. (No ignition, no starting the car.) So.., I called the So Cal Auto Club. They stated that I could have a automotive locksmith over in an hour and fix it on sight. According to the tech, he fixed one just yesterday, and has fixed quite a few previously. Oh, it cost me a total of $232.00 (no tow and no wait). In reviewing the internet for recalls, I saw numerous complaints about the same problem. This was our third and final purchase of a Ford vehicle. They lost a customer because they were unable to take responsibility and accountability for selling and replacing a defective product. Thanks for listening.
Dawn of Glassboro NJ (09/10/07)
I am another Ford Focus owner that is having problems with the ignition not turning. I had the EGR tube (which is a common problem with the Focus) replaced for $150 on Thursday and then on Saturday I came out of a house where I was dropping something off and the key wouldn't turn. The husband of the house (a stranger) spent an hour trying to figure it out. I think he got mad and just hit it, and it started. So now I am driving my hitting my key every time I need to start the car. I am sure this won't work for long, and plan to try the WD-40 trick. I sent a nasty-gram to Ford a few minutes ago, so maybe that will help. I have always like Fords and hate that it has to be this way.
Tim of Auburn NE (09/10/07)
My girlfriend bought a 'new' Ford Focus in 2002, it has gone through 4 different 4 wheel alignments and still eats tires a 60,000 mile treadwear tire last about 20 to 25,000 no matter how often we rotate. The starter went out at 50,000 miles so new a parts store didn't even have out yet had to go through a dealer over $300.00, and it was not covered by warranty. The transmission went out at 36,500, you got it 500 over warranty not covered $2500.00. Now it is in the shop at this moment the alternator shorted out and fried the battery let myself, girlfriend and 2 of her daughters stranded on a country road 2 miles front home in the middle of the night.
Lori of Chambersburg PA (09/10/07)
I own a 2001 Ford Focus. I have replaced the ignition twice because my key did not turn. It was VERY costly since there is a computer chip, or so i was told. It now seems that my car did not need a tune up but something is wrong with it because it sputters and dies. I was told there is a recall on the fuel pump which I am now researching.
Lori of Chambersburg PA (09/10/07)
I own a 2001 Ford Focus. I have replaced the ignition twice because my key did not turn. It was VERY costly since there is a computer chip, or so i was told. It now seems that my car did not need a tune up but something is wrong with it because it sputters and dies. I was told there is a recall on the fuel pump which I am now researching.
Patricia of Clayton NC (09/08/07)
I have had numerous problems with my ford focus 2001. From the wiring to numerous flat tires due to the alignment being out of balance and now my engine is out. Have they had a recall on this model yet? I had the car worked on in May, June, and now having to replace a engine is truly hardship on my life.
Kathleen of Puyallup WA (09/05/07)
The ignition would not work this morning. I went to put in the key, and it just wouldn't move forward or backward. I tried gently jiggling it but that didn't work, nothing worked. I went online and see that I'm not alone but that there aren't very many options for me. I can't afford to pay for a new ignition.
Shannon of Albright WV (09/04/07)
I was suppose to make a fast trip to the Dollar Store to get laundry soap and dish soap then back home to do my work. I got in my car and couldn't get the car to turn over. I called the Ford garage where we had just bough it one month ago. It was towed there and fixed for $300.00. Why has Ford not recalled this. I called and they told me to have other people who are having this problem call them, they said they didn't know it was a problem!
Christine of Virginia Beach VA (09/02/07)
The transmission on my 2003 Ford Focus suddenly quit working on August 14, 2007. I took it to a transmission shop and the technicians there told me that it was skipping 2nd and 3rd gear and the overdrive was gone also (it's an automatic transmission). The car only had 53,000 miles on it at the time, which seems to be too soon for a transmission to go out. I've owned other cars that I've driven for more than 100,000 miles without replacing the transmission. The guy at the transmission shop said that there seems to be a problem with Focuses losing their transmissions too soon -- it has happened to a friend of mine also who has a 2002 Focus with about 60,000 miles on it. When I asked a dealer about a recall or technical bulletin, they said there are no known problems with Focus transmissions. I find that hard to believe.
Michael of Virginia Beach VA (0 | 
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