Ford Focus Reviews

I, too, have had to replace the ignition switch in my 2000 Ford Focus twice. What amazes me is that the dealer says there is no way around it. You have to replace it with the same piece of junk.

I have had my 2000 Ford Focus since 2002. In December 2003, in the midst of a blizzard at 9 pm, my key would not turn and I had to have it towed to the only garage that was open to the tune of about $100 and have my ignition cylinder replaced to the tune of $240 plus taxi fare home and back to garage since I didn't want to drag anyone else out in the blizzard. On 10/14/08, not even 5 yrs later, I went out to find the same exact issue - it's at the garage now!!!! The 2 tow truck drivers that responded claim that every time that they respond to a Focus tow call, it's always the same issue. When I called the garage - a Ford garage mind you, the mechanic said that Ford really ought to issue a recall since they deal with this problem all the time. I have owned about 12 cars in the last 25 years and have never had to replace an ignition cylinder!!! Twice in 5 years on the same car, ridiculous!!! I called Ford and complained and they made it sound like they had never heard of the issue. It's time to change that - HELP!!!!!

Faulty ignition coil on Focus. Left stranded, car unusable.

I am the owner of a 2001 Ford Focus. And mother of 2. I have had numerous problems with Ford Focus and its ridiculous that Ford is not willing to do a thing about it. The ignition doesn't work and I am stuck hitting the key just to get it started. This is an issue I don't like sitting in a parking lot trying to start my car I feel this endangers the safety of me and my children. Nor do I know when I am going to be somewhere and the ignition just won't turn at all and I will get stranded with my kids.

Hello - I would like to add myself to the list of Ford Focus owners who have had their ignition switch seize. The website - ** states there are several complaints and a class action suit.The link to the class action website does not work. I hope this helps.

10/07/08 2001 Ford Focus: Ignition switch locked up and we can't move the car. It's no wonder so many people buy Japan made cars. This needs to be taken care of. Put me on the list for a class action suit.

I had this car for 6 years, with zero problems. My husband took it to the bookstore one day, came back out and the ignition would not turn. He went to the local ford dealer with the title and registration and got another ignition built up for it. He couldn't work on it in the parking lot, so at midnight when he got off work, he had it towed back to our house. On the way home, on the back of the tow truck at 1:30 am, my ford focus's engine caught fire. The tow truck guy luckily got my car down off the belt before HIS truck caught fire. This was the first instance where I had any problems out of this car, and I was VERY shocked. Even more shocked to find out that this has happened several times before. Luckily I had JUST paid my car off the previous May, so we didn't owe anything on it. But now I have another car payment that I am not happy about!

2001 Ford Focus ZX3 - This car has been a complete waste of money. I had the fuel pump problem (recalled about a year later), my ignition is currently locked up (I keep the key in the ignition and a hammer in the car in case it gets pulled out - put the key in, hit it with the hammer and it will turn), and I'm currently having some bizarre electrical problem. Oh, the driver's seat weld also broke, the CD player doesn't work properly, the cruise control comes off and causes the accelerator to stick all the way open (that's safe...) so I disconnected it, and then of course regular maintenance and repairs that you actually expect. I don't trust this car and I wish a meteorite would fall on it in a parking lot and smash it flat! I will never, ever drive a Ford car again as long as I live.

I called Ford Motor company to let them know that my key would not turn the ignition. I was told that my warranty expired two weeks before.I would have to pay for my ignition to be repaired. I told the customer service line that I found out that the ignition problem has been going on with the Ford Focus since 2001-2003. That Ford should pay for my ignition. Ford told me that they don't do recalls that it was the Highway and Safety obligation to recall. I own a Ford Focus 2003.

I called the ford motor company to let them know that my key would not turn the ignition. The customer relations person told me that my warranty had expired. I would have to pay for the ignition to be replaced. I told ford that they knew about the defect and that they need to recall it and repair my car for free. I was told by the customer service line that ford does not do recalls the highway and safety are the people to do the recalls. Ford Focus has had this ignition problem from 2001-2003. My Focus is a 2003.

2004 Ford Focus Ignition problem. Got in the car today and to my surprise, the key would not turn. tried and tried, but it would not budge! I was at the automotive store picking something up, so he tried. Then another guy that works for AAA towing tried, but said he sees this all the time.

I own a 2004 Ford Focus. Tonight, the ignition went out and after doing some research about the problem, this is a very common problem owners have with their Ford Focus. Ford should recall this ignition and fix the problem. On the petition website, there is over 2000 signatures of people having the same issue.

Both rear tail light housings melted at 45000 miles (2004 ford focus wagon). Dealer will not cover and charges $250 each time to replace a burned out bulb because the housing cannot be removed to get to the $2 bulb.

Ford is aware of the problem with the key sticking in the ignition yet will not do anything. this car was purchased used from a ford dealership and the part that is available to correct this was not replaced

I was told by my local ford dealership that the valve seat broke and destroyed my engine. my engine was at 100,000 miles and after doing some research i find this is fairly common on this engine around this mileage. i believe this is an unreasonable defect. my car is a 2001 ford focus.

I purchased a 2006 and a 2007 for two of my daughters. So far, the cars have been excellant. No complaints or problems. Great gas milage. I'm am currently considering buying a third Focus for my wife.

After reading numerous blogs, I've been waiting for my 2002 Ford Focus ignition to lock up....it happened 9/10/08. At least I was at McDonald Restaurant and not stranded out in the countryside. Wish Ford would do a recall to eliminate this problem.

i have a ford fucus 2004 my ignition gets stuck and it takes 2 hours some time four it 2 turn and now my key will not turn at all. when i called the dealership they tell me its not under warranty. i have 2 other friends with the same problem

Ignition key lockup. I could not start the vehicle, a 2003 Ford Focus. Searched the web and found a quick fix (NOT on the Ford site) by tapping the key with an object while the key is in the ignition. It worked, but proves a bad way to have to start an American vehicle - having to tap the key to get it started (sounds like something one would see in a third world country). From all the complaints on various web sites it seams that Ford Motor Company should repair the faulty design and/or defective parts. I never had any ingnition key in any vehicle, Ford or otherwise behave such as this over the last 50 years that I have owned vehicles. About time to buy from a non union over seas company that is proud of their work and not just concerned about benefits. Which is a sad commentary or an American to say but true

2006 Ford Focus ZX3 with 40, 440 miles. Key stuck in ignition. Luckily I have the premium care warranty so it only cost $100 deductible. Told teh dealership that I understood this was fairly common with this model and they claimed they had seen it a few times

I read about ignition switch failures on 2000 Focus models about three months ago and was waiting for it to happen. Day before yesterday it did. Ignition Lock Assembly had to be replaced. My ZTS has made frequent repair trips to the dealer. The Dealer was all smiles. Seems like Ford would take better care of its image with a Recall. Cost was $455.00

The ignition switch on our 2003 Ford Focus has frozen and it is impossible for it to be fixed without paying for someone to do it. By the looks of the complaints it appears to be time to file a class action lawsuit.

My 2007 Ford Focus had the battery light come on for brief moment one day for about a quarter mile than went off. I was puzzled so took it to an AutoZone and they checked the battery and said it was good. A few days later while driving the airbag light on the drivers dash came on and then all the gages went flat. I pulled over immediately and the radio came on by itself and on the lcd said low battery. I checked under the hood for any visable issues and then told my son to turn it of and start it back up. It wouldn't start but clicked and the radio would come on with the message low battery. I had the ford focus 2007 towed to the nearest dealer and left it on a Sunday. I called them early Monday morning to discuss the issue and they told me it had started right up. I explained what I have just written and the service adviser told me they would get back to me. At 4:30 pm they called and told me they traced the problem to the alternater and it was putting out the wrong volts so the brain was shutting down the car. The tech told me it would run me $545 since it has 42522 miles on it and the 3/30,000 warranty is out. Then they told me there was a bit of a problem though and that was the alternater was not available until two months from now. I ask them if I was suppose to just let my car set at the garage for two months waiting on a part? The dealership told me they found an after market alternater at Nappa for $345 which she told me was higher than Fords. I ask her if they would make an adjustment to the cost of the alternater since Ford was out. She gave me to customer service and I called them. They were rude and pretty weel told me I was screwed. The lady at customer service basicly threatened me and told me if I purchased an aftermarket alternater that they would not help with anything. I told her I had to have my car for work and she told me that was not her problem basicly and that if Ford did a recall on the alternater at some point since I was buying an aftermarket one I would not get paid back. I have always supported Ford but I will never buy another Ford vehicle because they don't stand behind them and the customer service does not put the customer first. In my business we even take a hit sometimes on products to assure our custo,ers are satisfied and brings them back year after year. No wonder Ford is struggling with the product their selling and the way they make things right for the customer.

i have a 2003 ford focus 2 alternators have gone bad, 2 batteries have gone bad, the ignition has gone bad, and now the car has hit the end of the road, it wont star anymore. and I am done paying for repairs, I tried to get ford to send be a towbar for the car and they wont send one. I think they should install one at the factory so you can pull it to the house or shop with one of your good running vehicles. there should also be a warning sticker on the steering wheel that warns the operator not to exceed 55 mph in the first 10,000 miles or the car will explode.

How many times must the same thing happen in order to make Ford recall the Focus due to the Ignition troubles?? I had to have mine replaced a few years back to the tune of around $500 and 2 tow bills! I was raised by a Ford Family and have always had a Ford myself, but the quality of my 2002 Focus is really making me look around at other autos. I won't be buying Ford again! There are already over 2000 signatures on a Petition to have Ford Recall the Focus - if you haven't yet signed - please stop by http://www.petitiononline.com/FocusIC/petition.html and do so. Hopefully something will be done and soon! From the sounds of things my ignition may be locking up again!!!!

I have a 2001 Ford Focus which I own at this point. I purchased it new from Future Ford. It has been a great car until a year ago. I had the rear windows fall through the doors. The first time the dealership charged me $150. Recently for the same exact repair (because it happened again) they charged me $350. I had them pull up the previous year's record and they noticed the difference but would only take off $30. The second time my husband took off the door thinking it would save us money but obviously it did not. Then I had them look at an air conditioning problem. The same time as I had the window fixed, the dealership said I needed a new thermostat. I told them my A/C was working great. They then told me that well, it won't for long. So, I had them replace the thermostat. After that the A/C has not worked right this summer and continues to blow warm air only on the passenger side. They claim that it needs a new accumulator for $700. I took it to someone else who said it was just the hoses they did not hook up properly. Isn't there anything you can do to protect yourself from such blatant rip offs from the dealer? These deceptive practices seem extreme to me. Ironically while I was standing there waiting for my car recenlty with the window problem, another customer who had a simple oil change noticed that when they returned the car it was running really poorly and it was making a horrible sound. The salesman (I guess that it was you call the guys who greet you at the service area), just shrugged his shoulders. She looked at me and I said - ask for the manager - this is rediculous. Boy -- that dealership really takes people for a ride.

I bought my 2003 ford focus less than a year ago. Everything was fine for about 6 months until I heard a ratteling.. I ignored it for awhile until i had to go in because my headlights wouldn't turn on!! I go into an auto shop and find out that the ratteling was my sway bar. Apparently it was completely worn down. I was told this was not a saftey issure but needed to be fixed. The problem with my lights was that the connection in the handle near the steering wheel was completely worn off.. After 250 dollars for parts and labor, i thought everything was alright. NO!!! I was wrong. I went to San Fran just to visit. I parked on a very steep hill an of course cranked my wheel... We get pizza, come back and my key DOES NOT TURN at all.. I call all around to see what i should do.. I was told to yank on the wheel, bang on the ignition, try and roll the car backwards, try pushing it back and fourth to unlock the steering wheel.. a man that lived near by gave me some WD40... nothing worked. By this time its almost 9. I call all around and a locksmith said he would repair it for 250$ after he hit the ignition for over an hour with a screw driver and a hammer he gave up.. I asked him 'please i need to get home! i cant be stuck in san fran, is there ANY way you can START my car?' he said, 'well sure, i can DRILL A HOLE in the ignition and that should work until you get a new one.' So 250$ later, i made it home safely, and figured i would be ok for awhile... NOPE! a day later it happened again, it started right up after i beat it with a flat head screw driver though! **** Ford.. Im just waiting to see what happens next.

I am a mother of 14 month old twins and my ignition on my 2003 focus wont turn! i have been reading all of these complaints and im wondering if somehow we can come together and get lawyers to file a class action lawsuit! this is very hard on my family, considering the fact that this is the only car we have. If i have to take my kids to the hospital i guess i will have to call an ambulance! this is such [lies]. I am more than likely going to try a locksmith, then going to get a lawyer (both which i cannot afford) but something NEEDS to be DONE! If Ford would step up and say that there is a problem, and fix it, then i might consider getting another one.

My ignition and steering wheel has locked and won't unlock this is the third time. Paying for Tow Trucks and travel time back and fourth, I am so disappointed in Ford with this problem. They fixed one time for my daughter when she was 9months pregnat and stressed out with my focus. She was stranded 25miles from home. This truly needs to be resolved by Ford.

The Ignition Key cylinder broke on our 2000 Ford Focus ZX3

My 2001 Ford Focus has had the ignition replaced not more than three months ago... now it's completely locked up again. At the time I had it replaced I heard from the two truck driver and the mechanics that this is an extremely common problem - now looking online I see that it is more of an epidemic!

I have a 2005 Ford Focus. Since buying this car new I have had to repalce the same half shaft twice, the manual transmission has been rebuilt 3 times for 5 gear whining. The last time they had my car for 7 weeks and now I have to take it back again for 5th gear whining. Each time they want to collect the 100 dollar deductible. I finally called the customer service hot line and complained (1-800-392-3673) and they made it so I did not pay the deductible.

Just like many,many people on this website,I parked my car yesterday and haven't been able to get my key out of the ignition since,my boyfriend' dad looked at it for an hour(he works @ John Hine Pontiac) and I work at a Lexus dealership and had my service department look at it and they couldnt fix it either...I called Ford and they said this happens all the time and it would cost $100 to determine the problem (just to get me to take it to them) then they wouldnt say how much to fix it..I don't understand why this isn't a recall since it is happening so much and apparently it will just happen again anyway so why should I have to pay to fix it?

The car only had 109,000 miles on it, but now I understand why. I don't even know what it is going to cost to fix it and I havn't even made my first payment on it yet. I will never buy another ford- new or used. The car only had 109,000 miles on it, but now I understand why. I don't even know what it is going to cost to fix it and I havn't even made my first payment on it yet. I will never buy another ford- new or used.

I purchased a new 2007 Ford Focus in 2006. After a year the brakes started to squeal. When I took it back to the dealer for repair they told me the warranty would not cover the repair since the brakes were still in good shape. They did say they could replace the pads for $800.00. I had no luck appealing this to their national customer service department. The noise drives me nuts. I will never ever buy another Ford. This would never happen with a Honda.

The ignition on my 2002 Ford Focus has locked up. The key goes in and out, but will not turn. I called the local Ford dealer, and they said I would have to have the car towed in, they would drill the lock and replace it. The Service Manager said that the cost would be $400-500. He said this is not usual, and Ford did not have a recall on it. I have heard on the national news about Ford Focus ignition problems, and i have read about many of them on the internet. It sounds like Ford should have some responsibility here.

I am continuously replacing tires on my 2007 Ford Focus SES sedan VIN 1FAHP34N47W162409. Tires are rotated every 3K miles, along with numerous tire alignment checks, however even that doesn't save the life of the tires. The entire car shakes horribly at highway speeds once the tires wear to a certain point, concerning me with future suspension damage. The tires seem to wear MUCH worse on the rear. At 16,000 miles, I replaced all 4 tires due to abnormal outside tire wear. Now at 28,000 miles(12,000 on new tires), I am again replacing two of the four. This set had a 55,000-mile warranty, but I barely got 12,000 due to abnormal wear

My 2004 Ford Focus has the same ignition problem so many report. It started fialing, but i jiggled and it would work, so I didnt take action. Then, on a Mon morn when I had t be at work, it would NOT turn. I got a locksmith who tried for an hour without luck. I had to have flatbed tow to dealer, as others could not fix. Ford dealer charged $491 including a $2 shop materials fee. !!

My Ford Focus SE ignition cylinder froze and has caused me a bundle to replace. I hear this is a huge problem and it should be recalled. But of course, Ford has not recalled it and is waiting for someone to get into an accident due to this greed and negligence. I will NEVER buy a Ford ever again.

My key to my 2006 Ford Focus is stuck in the ignition and won't come out. I looked online and took the advice from your website. None of these remedies solved my problem. I guess I will have to give in and call alocksmith or try to get the part and do it myself. I am sure Ford will not sell the part as mthey would rather have me go to the dealer. I am upset about this as I bought the car earlier this year. It had less than 45000 miles, and shouldn't have this type of problem unless the problem was always there for this vehicle. There are too many postings just on this website to not be a major problem. I hate to say this but I may have to look at buying a foreign vehicle. I am hearing of too many problems with American vehicles-especially Ford. I am suspiciuos of the door handles breaking, and wondered if this has happened-it seems like a design flaw that is going to end up in them breaking.

I too had to replace my ignition on my ford focus.4times to be exact and was told my key was doing .I needed to replace the 2 keys at 35.00 a pop.Needless to say i never heard of such a thing and got my keys free

I have had the ignition switch replaced on my Ford Focus 5 times. Two of those 5 times the switch had to be replaced before the warranty expired. The three times I had to pay to have my towed and I paid over $250 to have the switch replaced each time. I will contact an attorney for legal advice.

I own a 2003 Ford focus zx5 and I have had numerous key ignition problems. Unfortuanatley there is not much i can do about but i refuse to pay an obscene amount of money to fix a problem that so many people are having and Ford is not taking responsibility for. I am now planning to sell my car and purchase a more durable economy vehicle I will never purchase another Ford product, and this is after falling in love with my car.

I owned a brand new ford focus in 2000. After only a few months the ignition locked up and the key wouldn't come out and wouldn't turn. I had it towed to the dealership and it was replaced under warranty. The entire ignition was replaced..nine monthes later the exact thing happened with the brand new egnition. it happened a 3rd time , but this time it wasn't covered and they wanted me to pay 350.oo for it. I argued, called ford headquarters and they all said the same thing. It doesn't have a recall on it and theres nothing they can do. I told them that if this were a safety issue I bet the recall would already be done but was met with no support from Ford what so ever. My parting words to them were that if they were willing to lose a customer over 350.00 that probably would have bought ford again and again,then I would tell everone that would listen how poorly they treated and took care of their customers, I have never bought another ford, I sold it within a month and have kept my word. It is 2008 and I still haven't forgotten how little they backed their product and failed to take care of their customer.

We had the same trouble as many other consumers on this page. We own a Ford Focus and the key would not turn. We had been having some trouble for a while and then one morning the key would not turn at all. Luckily my husband checked this site so that we did not take it to the dealer but instead we had a locksmith come. He did an excellent job but said he has this problem so much that he carries several spare cylanders in his truck. He said that once he's replaced the cylander he's never gotten a call back that this type has broken.

I have had my Ford Focus ZX5 for three years, it is the worst car I have ever owned. The very second the warrenty was up the center console lid fell off. The very day it was up. This was just a taste of things to come. When I first bought the car, I was annoyed when I parked the car and was unable to withdraw the key. I called the warranty people and they told me to hit it with my shoe. I did, and they said to hit it really really hard with the shoe. I tried that. Finally I tried turning the wheel back and forth and the key came out. When I first bought the car the back door lock stopped working on the door intermittently, and every time I took it to the dealership there would be no problem with it. Now that the warranty is up the door hasn't locked in several months. Now the key will not come out of the ignition. I can turn the car on and drive it around. But with the back door that doesn't lock, It is just a matter of time before someone sees the key in the ignition and tries the doors and drives off with my car. I called the dealership and they actually had the nerve to ACT SUPRISED when I told them of these problems! I HATE FORD AND WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD AGAIN. My KIA was 100% better then this ford and they really had a bad, reputation. In my opionion they have more class then ford will ever have. DONT BUY FORDS! The workmanship is shoddy and they do not stand behind there products.

I am having a very similar problem that most people seem to have with their Ford Focus. My key is stuck in my ignition and will not come out. No amount of pulling will make it budge. It seems that the key will not turn all the way to the locking position, so it is stuck.

We bought a 2004 Ford Focus ZX3 from a private seller.We only had it 2 months when the ignition went out,thankfully in happened in our driveway.My husband can fix it,and has been trying but its a pain in the behind.He'll get it done,but it's fighting back.We were very dissapointed to read all the blogs on this problem,hopefully once it's fixed it won't happen again.Now were worried about the front springs,ours makes a funny noise when we go over any kind of bumps.And we been reading that is another problem that this car has,so NOW we are most likely are going to replace that!!and he can do that to.Other than that Cuca(our car's name) drives very well.Thanks for all the heads up. info!!

In August of 2004 we drove up to Lithia Ford of Omaha, Ne and bought a 2005 Ford Focus. We didn't even get out of Omaha when a tire blew out. Back to Lithia. We found out the tires on our car weren't sold in Nebraska and it would cost almost $300. to buy a new one. With a great deal of aruguement Lithia replaced the tire.

I had the exact same ignition locking problem that has been so well documented here. The advice I took from these pages? DON'T GO TO THE DEALER! Go to a locksmith. Luckily I got mine started one last time by tapping the key in with a screwdriver handle and drove it to the locksmith, who told me to leave the engine running or they'd have to drill it, costing more. The guys at Pro Lock and Safe in phoenix hooked me up with a new ignition for 88 bucks and a new transponder key for $60. Way better than the $360 minimum the crooks at the Ford dealership were charging. If you can get your car started with the tapping method, drive it to a locksmith who does transponder keys. they'll also probably use a better ignition than the constantly crappy ones from the dealer (as so well documented here).GET THEE TO A LOCKSMITH.

Similar complaint as many, many others concerning the 2000 Ford Focus Ignition Switch. Key gets frozen in the lock when cold. Key sometime having problems turning. However the latest issue was the key will now no longer go into the ignition switch and had to have the car towed and facing a $350.00 bill plus towing to get it fixed.

I am facing a reacurring problem, with my Ford Focus. And it is very irritating. My key wont turn in my ignition again. I have already replaced the ignition twice, and now it's happening again. Stuck not being able to use my car.

I have a 2004 ford focus and am having the same problems with the key others seem to having . If I take the key out the car will not start when I try putting it back in. Last night the ignition would not move al all and I had the car towed, I live in area that has recently been surrounded by fire, and yesterday there were many lightening strikes that started more fires. We live on a mountain with limited access out and not having a functioning car is not an option, I have knee disability (on limited income) and a 3 year old.....why has this not been recalled?????

I am outraged by what is apparently a very widespread problam with the ignitions locking up on the Ford Focus cars. It has happened several times to us, and this most recent one has left the car sitting in the driveway for over week. NOW we are driving our economic Surburban which gets 11-13 miles to the gallon. WOW. I cannot believe with so many consumer complaints about this happening, that more is not being done. Should'nt there be a class action lawsuit against Ford for this? I would gladly add my name to the list if it would mean them taking responsibility for their actions or lack there of. Economy cars are usually for the middle class, and with Gas prices and the overall economy, some of us can barely pay the bills and put food on the table, yet were supossed to just keep pouring money into this ridiculas Ford Focus. Some one said even replacing the cylinder of the ignition wont fix the problem, that it will just keep happening. This is really outrageous! I personally will never buy another Ford product ever again, and will tell everyone I know the same. Someone really should do something about this iginition problem!!! Thanks for listening..

I have a 2005 Ford Focus ZX$. Last night I tried to turn my car off and take the key out of the ignition and it would not come out. I sat in the car for about 25 minutes trying to get it out, it finally came out. This morning I went to school, when I got there the key would not come out of the ignition. I had to get to class so I had to leave the keys in the ignition. I went out during my break to try to get the key out and it came out but then the ignition locked and I could not start the car. The tow truck driver told me this was a known issue with Focuses. I had to take it to a Ford dealer and it cost me over $300 to have it fixed. There is a serious problem here. Ford needs to step up to the plate and take responsibility for this.

2000 focus ignition lock replaced in 2006, i was told it failed because too heavy a keychain. I have 3 keys! Replaced both broken rear springs in 2007, never towed, drove overloaded, or had more than 2 people in it. Passenger front coil spring just broke, waiting to get the runaround at the dealer in the am. Overall not a bad economy car, but I believe Ford should realize the recurring problems are defects in the product, and not operator error.

the ignition of the 2003 ford focus locked up and the ford dealership is telling me that it is not a recall after reading all the complaints I am very disappointed in this. My daughter and granddaughter have been stranded for 4 hours trying to get this fixed.

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. I sustained a lumbar injury where my spine was wedged in between the cushion due to the poor construction. The driver seats in these ford vehicles are constructed such that tall people have to lower the seat. Instead of the entire seat lowering (as with the european model), the US model separates. The lumbar cushion and back support remain in place while the seat cushion is lowered by a lever, thereby creating a significant gap between the seat cushion and the lumbar cushion. My spine was damaged as a result of this gap. I would like to highlight that this separation does NOT occur in the european models of the ford focus because the entire seat moves as a unit (rather than the lower portion only). I have pictures to prove this. Please contact ASAP. I would also like to notify FORD about this issue. 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

I have a 2000 Ford Focus, i don't know where to start because there is so much wrong with it, i called the Ford dealership they say there is no recall's , how ever the ignition one day just locked up now it is hanging there and have to start it with a screw driver , the transmission is messing up still and the rear door just comes open even though it is locked , the front door won't open , among many other's, does any one have any idea where i start to help get this stough fixed?

since i got my 2005 Ford Focus SES ZX4 at a Demo price i'v had he worst luck with this car, dont get me wrong I love my car. But, the cost to keep it in one piece is costing me an arm and a leg! first when i bought the car, they charged me $100 for a full tank of gas, $100 bucks! and they didnt put any gas in it. then, someone hit and run my car. the driver side was flattened. and then i had to get my rims replaced, but the dealer never replaced them and charged me for new rims, then someone backed up into my car and totaled the rear passenger side trunk, after i had to get the brakes changed, charged me $1500 to replace all parts for the brakes. rotors, pads...etc. then, my windshield wiper blades flew off the car and scratched the windshield up like crazy, n then im on the highway and rocks cracked my windshield, then after a month i got a tune-up from the dealer and it went from 1hr $50 tune-up to a 6hr $400 1 rear wheel barring. 6 FREAKING HOURS! and all they had to do was remove the wheel and brakes remove old barring and replace it with grease. and install everything again. after that i had little problems, when when i was driving with my girl in the car, going 40km/h i put the brakes on and they locked up almost making me smash the truck in front. but it stop when i hit the curb. then in winter i was going 30 down a street and the brakes locked up and the car slid into a curb and almost did a roll over in this guys house. and the front passenger side axel fell right off. cost me $2000 to replace. damn this car cost me money i could have bought a freaking ferrari by now. hahahah well.

i am an embarr as? owner of a 2003 ford suckus (focus)and i too have had the infamous locking ignition problem which is the key would not turn at all i have had this very inconvience issue 3 times. the first two times i had my farther come by and he wiggle it t o frakin death and after about 45 min. he got lucky and it started the 2nd time it happen i was stranded in the bmv parking lot so i called my soon to be brother in law he came and wiggled the key and the sterring wheel untill his fingers was turning red after he decided to give to give up it just clicked and turned after about 40 min. so my brother inlaw told me not to turn the key all the way back into the locking position turn it just far enough to kill the acc. i have been driving it useing this method for about 1 week. then my brilliant farther completly forgot about my igition problem and out of habbit took the key completely out of the ignition once again so i callled my brother inlaw again he spent about an hour trying to mimick his solution he did before but this time no luck. so he did some research on the net and thats when we found out how bad the ford suckus really was but i saw three post stating to try tapping the ign. with a hammer so after we read it we decided you no what what the hell car is on its way back to the dealership in heath, ohio so we grabbed a hammer went back to the car he tapped the key with the key in the ignition twice and low and behold it worked, I paid 17,000$ dollars for this car still owe 1 1/2 yrs left and can't get a 350.00$ nationwide factory defective part replaced free of charge ask yourself one question is the customer allways right?

Key couldn't be removed from ignition. First two times I eventually managed to remove it. The third time, I could not and brought it to Heritage Ford. Shortly thereafter, they called to say they had no problem in removing the key. I recovered my car and drove it for four days before it happened again. This time I watched while a service employee tried, to no avail. When they finally fixed the problem, they told me something sticky had caused the failure of permitting the transmission to enter Park and thereby permitted removal of the key. They told me my WARRANTY would not cover this problems and charged mmy $308!! I mantain it was under warranty and should have been fixed at no charge.

My 2003 Ford Focus ignition switch would not allow the key to turn. It cost approximately $450 to replace. This also occurred to a 2000 Focus I had owned. I am a loyal Ford customer, having purchased 12 Fords since 1985. All of my children and their spouses drive Fords. I asked Ford to reimburse me for the repair, and they basically said tough. I have seen how many other owners have the same problem. Why isn't there a safety recall. I could see someone stalling in traffic, and not being able to move off the road because the ignition is locked. This could cause a life threatening situation.

Well where do I start?I have a 2000 se Ford lemon sorry focus first of all the recalls where enough,changed the brakes once every year sometimes 2 sets finally changed rotors at my expence. Then the valve cover was leaking oil at 65,000 caught the car on fire,did the repair myself, fuel pump went left me stranded was a recall but wouldnt replace it till it happened, struts replaced at 20,000 then at 80,000 coil spring broke it was a silent recall check into it if it happens to you now the rear left hub is seperating from the brakes a known problem but they wont fix it,it has more rust underneath the car then my old galaxie that was sitting in a field needless to say I will never buy another Ford They should buy them all back and put them where they belong the scrap yard!!!I bought a new car so i didnt have these headaches I dont know if it will make it to 100,000

We purchased a 2007 Ford Focus 3-Door S on 8/15/07 with manual transmission to be used for towing behind our motorhome. The vehicle was successfully towed for aproximately 7000 miles until May 16, 2008 when it caught on fire in the engine compartment while being towed for about one hour. The vehicle was totaled. Inspection by fire department personel verified that the transmission was in neutral and the parking brake off. This is our second incident of a Ford Focus catching on fire while being towed. This occured with 2001 Ford Focus SE that had been towed aproximately 50,000 miles without incident until May 2007. Not only was the car totaled, but back end of the motorhome caught on fire and resulted in it being totaled as well.

We have a 2002 Ford Focus. From day one, we've had nothing but trouble with it. The front springs were broken (mom seems to think this was bought this way). My wheel now wobbles and I have to have a new sway bar. The windows won't roll down in the back. My radio turns on only sometimes. The windshield wipers when shut off, won't go down into the correct position, they stop dead center of the window. My trans went early on - that was $2,000. Oh and I don't know if this is just dumb luck, but both the front and the back windshield had to be replaced - the back one suddenly blew out when my husband was driving it. Lastly, the doors never want to open - we have to yank them open because the handles are so stiff.

I bought my 2002 Ford Focus brand new. I just paid it off about 3 months ago. In the time I've had it I've driven from TX to LA multiple times back and forth. Many places across Texas and recently from TX to KY then to MI and back to KY. I have 126,000 miles on it. In the time I've had it, when it was bran new I had some sort of clog that caused water to collect on the passenger side. Easy fixer-took it to a Ford Dealer they took care of it. About a year later my air conditioner clutch mysteriously fell off (yes really) I paid 400 to get it fixed. Then no problems until two days ago, I had not kept up with preventive maintence (except oil changes every 3-5K) and on a trip back to KY from MI, about 9 miles to my destination, the water pump went out, causing the timing belt to go (both of which should have been replaced about 40K ago) so it ran hot and blew a head gasket... I hate to be too positive here since I am facing a bill I can't afford (just started law school) to pay, but my little red car has taken care of me... I was hoping to keep it for 3 more years... I am not sure what's going to happen even after this repair now...

I would like to complain about my 2002 Ford Focus. First off my trunk door will not close. Secondly several weeks ago my rear right window started sliding down by itself and would not stay up. Now the other side is doing the same. From the reviews I have read this seems to be very common with these cars. I'm hoping they issue a recall because this is geting very expensive.

I bought my 2004 Ford Focus SE 3 years ago. Two weeks after I bought the car it rained and my horn quit working. I took it back to the dealership and they fixed it. One month later I drove through a puddle and my horn quit working again. This was the beginning of a very frustrating love hate relationship with my car and the Ford dealership. I have had my horn replaced 6 times with the dealership. Each time I requested a copy of the work order, and I was told it would be mailed to me - they never mailed me any papers. I went to the dealership to get the paperwork in person and Ford claimed they had no records of working on my car - EVER. I went to a mechanic in October 2007 and he fixed the problem - for about 9 months. Again it rained, I drove through a puddle - and voila my horn quit working - FOR THE 8th TIME. I finally moved the horn myself today and am waiting for another rain storm to see if the issue is fixed. My initial thoughts are I will be back under my car again in the near future. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD AS LONG AS I LIVE. You would think the company that invented automobiles would be able to install a horn correctly - or at least find a lasting solution (i.e. reposition the horn, or move the horn to a new place under the hood) after the second time I took it in. The dealership actually told me there was no other way to position the horn, and it couldn't be moved because there is not room under the hood. Funny how a female who only works on minor issues found a way to move the horn, and reposition it. Guess Ford needs to hire someone with a little common sense and decent work ethics.

03' ford focus zx3 40,000 miles only a few problems so far even tho its 5 years old now, but today the ignition switch is stuck like the thousand of others that listed the same problem, i call the dealer they said $87.00 just to find the problem wouldnt give me a price to fix it over the phone, looked online ignition switch runs about $40.00 but, how much will the labor be on this item if it takes an hour to replace?? i would be more then happy to repair it myself if i knew how to replace it, but it has the anti-theft key system on it, so i wont try, ide just probably brake something else, will take to dealer tommorow for an estimate, but i will tell them just replace the ignition switch nothing else. FORD DO YOURSELF AND EVERYONE THAT HAS PURCHASED A FORD A FAVOR, RECALL THIS IGNITION ISSUE!!! AND ANYOTHER MASS ISSUES with a FORD!!!

I had no idea I was only one out of 1 million (Ex) Ford Focus owners with brake and ignition problems! I WAS the owner of a 2000 Ford Focus. It was purchased 7/2001 with only 11 miles on it! A few months down the road I began having brake problems. The dealer told me that it was normal wear and tear and not covered under warranty. This happended 3 times with in the 1st year and instead of giving Ford even more of my money, I took my car to my mechanic which was cheaper, but still not cheap! I also had my ignition lock up on me twice. The first time I was stuck for more than 3 hours and had to be towed 30 miles to the dealership. The second time, I let it sit for a very long time and finally I got the ignition to turn over. Needless to say, I traded that piece 'o trash after owning it for only a year!

I have a Ford Focus 2000 SE and it is the worst piece of crap ever! First off, my 2 back window's electronic buttons are gone. They've been gone for a while, 2 years. It blew a head gasket and after getting that fixed, I have to constantly watch it because it overheats so easily. My front driver side wheel bearing had to be replaced, and after that I still have to keep constantly getting tires because it eats them. Literally, it wears them down so fast and so bad, the metal is showing. My button(s) to unlock and lock the doors doesn't work. My fan to cool my engine is suspended in mid air and makes an awful noise. I've paid to fix this twice. I've also had previous experience with the ignition locking up. It's done it a handful of times in the past, but now, it seems to be completely gone. I can no longer jiggly the wheel, push in the brake. I now HAVE to hammer the key in for it to turn over. I took it to a mechanic and he told me that EVERYTHING under the hood is loose and it needs to be replaced, it was gonna cost me $$2,000, I'm a student for crying out loud, how can I afford that?? A car is suppose to last longer than 8 years. I have all the mantinance records for it, so it was taken care of.

Ignition locks up on 2003 Ford Focus

I have a 2001 Ford Focus SE. I went to the hospital because my dad had major surgery. When I got there I exited my car as usual. When I returned to my car to go home my key would only go in half way. My car had to sit for almost a week at the hospital because I could not get it started. With all that was going on at the time I finally got a locksmith to look at my car. He seemed to be amused by the fact that he had replaced the ignition on several hundred of the Ford Focus's and Ford does not care. Needless to say over $500 dollars later I had to have the ignition replaced. While my dad was in the operating room I had to deal with the awful stress of that and the fact that my car could possibly get towed from the hospital parking lot. I did a search and there are what seems to be thousands of people with the same problem and some have even had it happen after replacement. Where is the class action suit?

We bought a 2000 Ford Focus - ZX3, our first brand new car. We have had to replace the ignition 3 times now and just found out as we tried to leave that it has gone again. It has cost us a lot of money and stranded us many times. We have never been so disappointed in a car or a car company. Since we have owned the car it has had a strange problem around 2200rpm, but no one at any dealership knows what that could be?!?! How could they not? SOMETHING must be done.

My 2000 Ford Focus had a recall on the front springs. My right front spring failed and was replaced before the recall and Ford reimbursed me for the cost of the repair. I wanted Ford to replace the left spring but they would not saying it hasn't failed. This happened a few years ago. On Monday May 12 I took my Focus to Royal Oak Ford suspecting that my left front spring was broken. I was told that the recall had expired and the mileage cut off was 150,000 miles. My car has 154,600 miles. The service man told me I could call Ford customer service but he hasn't seen anyone get anything from Ford once the recall expires. Totally discusted I then took my car to where I get all my non warranty or recall work done and had it repaired.

So far, my windshield wipers have broken, the volume has never worked on my radio. I can turn the dial down and it will get really loud. This also gets annoying when trying to set the time. The scan button has broken. On the freeway it got stuck in gear as I was accelerating from the on ramp to on coming traffic. The new thing is that it won't start. I have to let the engine cool about an hour before I can get it to start. Lights, radio, air/heat work fine. I was told that unless the problem happens when it is at the dealer they cannot find what is wrong. The tests they ran all came back fine. I will never buy a Ford again.

The ignition lock cylinder on my 2002 Ford Focus ZX3 stuck and my car wouldn't start. I had to spend $65.00 for the Motorcraft Replacement Part. Then I had to pay a locksmith $30.00 to make the key fit & it took my friend and I 21/2 hours to get the thing replaced. I heard that Ford would reimberse my costs for this repair due to the fact that the problem was due to Manufactorer's Defect.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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!

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.

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 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!

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.

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!

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!

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,

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.

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.

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.

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?

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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....

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

Ignition issue for me as well. Ford dealership acted shocked as if this never happens...HAHAHAHAHA!

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.

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.

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?

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

The ignition key locks up, doesn't allow the key to turn.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Ignition switch locked up on my 2004 Ford Focus.

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!!!

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

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.

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!

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ford Focus ignition problem, same case as other people

The ignition on my 2003 Ford Focus locked up and cost me $304.78 to replace. There goes the rest of my Christmas shopping!

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?

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.

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.

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!

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?

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.

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.

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 -

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

The ignition switch on my 2003 Ford Focus failed when the car is only 5 years old.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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).