Recalls

CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
STEERING - LINKAGES
02V289000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 03/05/1999 to 05/31/2001V (Vehicle)44656902/10/2003MFRFORD MOTOR COMPANY11/06/200211/06/2002
Defect SummaryCertain passenger vehicles have loose pinch bolts that secure the lower control arm to the steering knuckle have been reported.
Consequence SummaryLoose pinch bolts could exhibit noise, vibration and, in extreme cases if left uncorrected, separation of the joint or fracture of the ball joint stud, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryDealers will inspect the steering knuckle pinch bolt for tightness and correct as necessary. owner notification began february 10, 2003. owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
NotesAlso contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
STEERING
792801/01/20007928612421The vehicle may exhibit a mil on and dtc p1518.06/08/2000
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
1603207/01/2002636224Information on north american built vehicles which were not equipped with a perimeter / active anti-theft alarm system. *tt11/06/2002
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - POWER STEERING FLUID
1338310/01/19996092184Subject regarding excessive power steering noise and fluid foaming inthe reservoir on initial engine start-up. *tt11/27/2000
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - PUMP
748311/01/1999610849Updated information regarding the power steering pump pulley on vehicles built prior to 10/06/1999 and equipped with 2.0 spi engines. *tt05/16/2000
736211/01/1999610788Brief information stating that the orange o-ring on the power steering pulley is for assembly purposes only and is not used for service. *tt05/15/2000
1341910/01/1999609684Vehicles built prior to 10/06/99 equipped with 2.0l spi engine will have a 7 rib power steering pump pulley driven by a 6 rib belt. *tt04/06/2000
730810/01/19996090884Experiencing excessive power steering noise and fluid foaming in the reservoir on initial engine start up. *tt03/31/2000
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
1349711/01/19996092228Subject regarding the power steering pulley. *tt11/28/2000

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STEERING
03/20/2012132000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. the contact stated that the steering wheel seized without warning while driving on the highway. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was unavailable and the current mileage was 132,000. sm.
03/20/2012132000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. the contact stated that the steering wheel would lock without warning, while driving on the highway. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was unavailable and the current mileage was 132,000. nw
11/11/2011
 I was on my way to work when thankfully i decided to stop at the gas station and get gas. as i was getting out of my car i lightly tapped the steering wheel and it popped off. i freaked out and looked at was happened all my steering wheel was hanging by was the wires to my horn and airbag. i had to get it towed back to my house. i called ford headquaters and took it to the dealership and asked if they could fix it for free since there are recalls on that car. they refused and stated its my responsibility to fix the car outside of the warranty stage. i understand that but it's not like it's something little that broke or something inside the engine. it's the steering wheel. you can't drive without that and that's never supposed to break. i'm so upset no body even tried to help me at ford. i'm never buying one again.
11/14/2011
 Steering column locked up and will not allow key to turn in ignition, cannot get steering column to unlock no matter what is done
11/11/2011
 I was on my way to work when thankfully i decided to stop at the gas station and get gas. as i was getting out of my car i lightly tapped the steering wheel and it popped off. i freaked out and looked at was happened all my steering wheel was hanging by was the wires to my horn and airbag. i had to get it towed back to my house. i called ford headquaters and took it to the dealership and asked if they could fix it for free since there are recalls on that car. they refused and stated its my responsibility to fix the car outside of the warranty stage. i understand that but it's not like it's something little that broke or something inside the engine. it's the steering wheel. you can't drive without that and that's never supposed to break. i'm so upset no body even tried to help me at ford. i'm never buying one again.
11/14/2011
 Steering column locked up and will not allow key to turn in ignition, cannot get steering column to unlock no matter what is done
10/18/2011168005
 The ignition on my 2000 ford focus is defective in that the key does not go all the way into the ingtition. this problem appears to be systemic with the focus. the car is stranded in the path of oncoming cars and presents a danger to the public. systemic issues across a large span of vin numbers present a safety issue and a general public nussiance. cars are stranded in intersections and places of business because of defective ignitions that are known to ford. these issues are on blog sites in large numbers. i trust the transportation and safety board will recognize the significance of this problem. i am requesting an investigation that i am sure will reveal public safety concerns by the sheer number of incidents of this ignition failure.
08/12/2010106000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. while stopped at a traffic light the contact noticed that the steering wheel had suddenly locked without warning and could not be moved in any direction, the contact also noticed that the key would not release out of the ignition. seconds later the contact was able to pull the key from the ignition and restarted the vehicle, after the restart the contact noticed that the vehicle began to function normally. the vehicle has not been diagnosed and there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 106000. bml
08/25/20091800001
 The key will not turn in the ignition for no reason, steering wheel is locked and unable to turn key on a 2000 ford focus. *tr
04/22/2009550001
 Key will not turn in ignition. apparently, this is a known defect with ford focus models from the year 2000. there is nothing that precipitates the problem- it just doesn't work all of a sudden. luckily, the car was parked at my office building- but it could have happened anywhere. i called a locksmith and he came and replaced the ignition. he said that there is no guarantee that it won't happen again. *tr
02/11/2009670001
 Faulty ignition switch. the same major problem everyone else is having with the ford focuses. ignition cylinder locked up on me without warning. stopped to get gas and when i went to put key back into ignition it wouldn't even go in at first. i though i was in the wrong car. finally forced key in ignition. it took me a long time but i fortunately was able to finally jiggle it free and get engine started. first warning sign was in 2006 when it temporarily gave me a problem, but now it was being a constant problem. i had done my research on the internet as well and called around to different locksmiths. i was able to drive veh to a locksmith and have a new ignition cylinder replaced. they did not have to reprogram the keys as i see ford is charging all of these people besides their ridiculous labor on their defective parts, in which they are still replacing defective parts. it cost me under $100 to have repaired with reassurance the ignition would outlast any keys that i have to the veh. ford is pathetic for not admitting this defect and having a recall. yes it is a safety issue!!!!!! when you never know that unsuspecting your keys lock up and won't turn the ignition. *tr
02/07/20091120001
 The steering column locked. dealer says the tumbler lock fell apart so a new lock and keys are necessary. mid 400 dollar cost. *tr
01/08/2009600001
 2000 ford focus ignition cylinder failed twice in 4yrs. this last time i was stranded in the cold, by myself at 1am. missing work, spending money on tows, parts and labor adds up. not to mention the danger involved with being stranded, all because your key wont turn. *tr
11/23/20081280001
 This incident is not all too tragic, no injuries or deaths. my 2000 ford focus hatchback has a steering wheel lock problem. a horribly common problem. it's based on a design flaw that the ford motor company has done nothing to rectify and are now looking for a tax payer funded bailout from congress. this problem has become costly for many and in virtually all cases i've heard, repairs haven't worked. please help us. *tr
10/26/20081090001
 Last night i drove my car to work just fine and this morning when i tried to start my car my ignition wouldn't turn and the break and shifter felt like it locked up! it was just fine until this morning and i hear it is a common thing! *tr
05/25/20081
 The ignition locked up on my wife's ford focus for the umpteenth time and had to be replaced due to the tumblers and other parts breaking. this is the second ignition that we have had to replace since we bought the car in 2000. *tr
04/28/2008750001
 Ignition locks up and key will not turn. the steering column is locked. *tr
05/18/20046000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. while driving 35 mph, the contact could physically move the steering column up and down through the steering wheel. the steering wheel was loose and was tightened at an independent mechanic's shop. most recently, the contact discovered that the steering column needed to be replaced. the ford dealer was unable to find any failures, but an independent auto shop performed a diagnostic. ford informed the contact that the vehicle was too old for them to assist, despite its low mileage. the failure mileage was approximately 6,000.
02/01/2008999601
 I parked my car one night in a parking lot. the car was parked for less than 10 minutes. when i came back my steering wheel was locked and i could not turn the ignition to start the car. the lights and radio work so the battery is not dead. two aaa roadside workers tried to turn the ignition and it did not work. *tr
12/15/2005104/15/2000
 When steering to the right the steering catches then suddenly releases resulting in temporary loss of control. i have spoken with the local ford service department about this issue and they told me it was nothing to worry about but may have something to do with the power steering. *jb
10/10/2005304/11/2000
 My key won't turn in the ignition. therefore i had to pay $140 to tow my car back home. i researched the problem and i see that there are thousands of the same complaints all over the internet with the same make and model of my vehicle. 2000 ford focus. i haven't taken it to the dealership yet, because it is not under warranty anymore, and according to the stories that i have read, they will not do anything about it, except charge me for a new one. i honestly think that there should be a factory recall on this part, because of me and the thousands of people that this has affected. *nm
03/16/20051250002
 Consumer would be unable to turn the key inside the ignition switch. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak consumer adds ignition is stuck when attempting to start vehicle. both rear doors will not open due to vehicle not starting. clock spring and steering lock assembly were replaced. *tt
11/01/2004304/01/2002
 The vehicle's steering wheel came off twice while driving. *nm campaign id number : 02v289000. the consumer stated that she was almost killed three times while driving this vehicle. transmission failed three times. the vehicle had been in an accident and the information was not given at time of purchase. *tc
10/01/200013000103/07/2000
 Defective front brake rotor. *ph during the inspection the consumer was told that the defect was not covered under the vehicle's warranty. other vehicle components also malfunctioned. the vehicle's trunk latch broke, the check engine light illuminated twice, the cd player became inoperative and the steering wheel locked up. *nm
08/01/20031
 While driving steering wheel had a lot of play, the steering is very loose, which made it hard to keep vehicle in its lane upon making a left or right turn. also, when making left or right turns vehicle made a squeaking noise. contacted the dealer along with the manufacturer. *ak
09/15/200349200
 First one: ignition locked. one night after classes, i went to start my car and the key would not go into or turn the ignition lock. i called my ford warranty and they sent a tow truck. the tow truck driver informed me that he is familiar with the problem on the ford focus, as he had had many calls to pick up cars with the same problem. second one: after returning home from driving to the store one saturday, i parked as usual and tried to pull up my hand brake which would not go up or lock into place. i then noticed that the little button you push in the release the handbrake was located all the way into the assembly not allow it to lock. i plan on taking my car in november to be repaired. my ford warranty will cover it since its a few thousand miles under warranty.
08/15/20030
 At the end of february i was involved in an accident due to the steering locking up my ford has never ran the same since our local ford dealer sent a mechanic out to do a report on my vehicle and nothing was ever resolved now i am stuck with this car that seems to be the next ford joke. i have made several complaints since the accident and thanks to a possible steering knuckle problem in which was worked on previously to the accident it looks like ford really should consider selling to a reputable company.
10/15/2000820
 Extreme amount of problems and recalls, vehicle has low mileage. in addition to listed problems, severe rear tire cupping at 7000 miles, may be attributed to loose rear wheel bearing. power steering pressure hose leaking, a/c still not fixed correctly cold lasted for about a month drivers door lock wont lock interm. rear trunk latch wont release from inside car. fuel gauge erratic, caused driver to run out of gas on a bridge. maf sensor failure, caused driver to be limited to 15 mph on freeway till next exit. vheicles radio stuck on with key removed causing battery drain---happened twice and was fixed. vehicle is a lease due back for return in august. cant wait to be rid of this headache but feel sorry for whoever buys it... i would still like ford motor co to reimburse me for the lease payments made for the amount of downtime and time vehicle spent at the dealership to fix some of these problems......thankyou
03/15/20030
 I drive 25000 miles a year to and from work approximtly 115 miles a day and 70% of that is on open interstate hiway. stop and go is less than 20 miles a day. tires completely wore out at 41000 miles. tires started humming at 10 to 15000 miles. i constly complained about front end and tire noise. i put a set of goodyear aquatred tires on at 41476 miles. they also started humming, so the front end was lined up. this did not stop the tires from humming. now car has 80000 miles, tires are scarming go down the road fast or slow. frontend suspension has been making clanking or thud type noise. just recently turing left geting off interstate it felles like the right front is changing geomitry. car turns left vilently - must corect stering. this will happens without notice. this car is extmly dangeras. when driven on ice and snow, it will brake lose when going staright for no reason and start to spin out. brakes wore out at 45000 miles. $400 to fix front brakes only. i have never had to put brakes and tires on a car at less than 50000 miles. more like 65 to 75000 miles.
10/15/200235000
 Car is only 2yrs,8mo. have currently expended over $4000.00 on repairs. problem with seals allowing fumes in car from other vehicles running beside mine. the noise and wind shear level is very unsatisfactory. squeal noise and thumping feeling from pressing on brake pedal. hesitation on accelerating into traffic flow. poor quality on parts and workmanship from manufacturer
03/15/200310000
 The brakes have been looked at three time because of noise and it's been serviced several times. it's in service right now and has been there for two weeks. i don't know if they are working on it or if they are repairing other things or what. i haven't had heat throughout the coldest part of the winter. the seat belts don't work and the paint is peeling. the car has locked up not letting me start the engine twice, then just out of the blue it decided to start. i tried to turn in and the car dealer at ford said he wouldn't touch it, didn't want it. we bought it aug. 9 2000-ford credit, simple interest 6.5 --first payment september $456.99 a month they say we owe too much to trade in ???this made no since. now i know what's been going on. my husband has been out to sea usnavy for almost a year and i'm scared to drive it i'm a nervous wreck about this car and i don't know what to do. there has been is so many recalls on this car i don't know if they have fixed them or not
07/15/20030
 Have had nothing but trouble with my focus the brakes wore down while i was on vacation and i was stuck driving for a bit on metal to metal....which ruined my rotor.....then the battery after almost 3yrs. has caused my car to not want to start twice......each time i have had to clean off the built up acid on the battery so that a clean connection can be made.....the paint keeps on chipping, my anteena has become frayed, just recently my car's steering wheel locked up on me and the key wouldn't turn in the ignition......it is in the shop as i write this.....and from what i have heard i am not the first person to have had a problem with the cylinder.......the car seems to be slugish when on the inerstate.......the focus is a dangerous car and ford co. needs to do something about it..... jeremy
03/26/200046000104/08/2000
 Steering wheel is locked and key will not turn so car will not start. after doing research i have found that this is very common and may even happen again after being repaired - typical cost is $250 - 300. *ak.
9
 The consumer experienced two defects with her vehicle. *ph the back passenger seat belt was placed in backwards per manufacturer, the volume on the radio increased and decreased without control, the gear stick slid off the post, the vehicle stalled when going to a complete stop, the power knob to the radio would become sticky whenever the sun was present, the trunk would not open, the ignition switch jammed twice, the rear view mirror was stuck in the open position, and the steering wheel adjuster did not exist. the consumer requested compensation. *sc *jb
02/16/200466992105/17/2002
 I have a 2000 ford focus and my steering column locked up in december of 2002. i took it to a ford dealership and they replaced the ignition. i have been having on and off problems with my steering wheel locking and the key not turning to unlock it. luckily before february 16, 2004 i was able to keep trying and finally unlock it. it is now locked again and the same ford dealership is saying that i will have to pay again to get it fixed and that the part was had a warranty of 12 months or 12000 miles. my parents have a 1988 ford escort gt my father has a 1994 ford mustang gt and my mother has a 1997 acura and haven't had any problems with the steering locking up. i believe that something is defective in the 2000 ford focus causing the lock up and that ford should have a recall on this because i shouldn't have to replace the ignition every year. *jb
300002
 Vehicle hesitated/stalled. also, a steering problem and a burning smell. this vehicle was recalled for these defects. however, the same problems continue to exist. *ak
11/01/2003104/01/2002
 Various problems with 2000 ford focus.*mr while driving the steering wheel almost came off in the driver's hand. the vehicle was towed to the dealer. the dealer refused to give the consumer a loaner while the vehicle was being repaired. *nlm the steering wheel separated from the steering column due to a bolt breaking when the vehicle was making a left turn at approx. 25 mph. *mjj *cb
07/31/2003821901211/27/1999
 Constant squeaking noise when the brakes are applied. i've already replaced the rotors, brakes, brake pads, and drums on several occasions since buying this focus about 3 years ago. also my steering wheel locked on me one day in april of 2002 the key would not fit into the ignition to start the car i have no idea why this would happen from one day to another. i had my vehicle towed to the ford dealership and they didn't know what the problem was caused by. they said that they needed to update the lock cylinder. luckily i purchased the api extended warranty that cover the car for 100,000 miles. so the cost of the work done for this was $427.20. all but $50.00 of which was my deductible was cover by this warranty. the problems didn't stop here. i also have had to get the cd systems that came installed in the car replaced. the was a constant clicking noise with the cd player and 90% of the time the cd's wouldn't even play. i called the dealership and they said that they could replace it for me but that it wouldn't be coverer by the warranty so i would have to pay for it out of my pocket. i ended up having a new system installed but not from the ford dealership, i took it to circuit city. recently this month july 2003, my car has been staling and shutting off at stop signals and stop light also just shut completely off on the freeway thank god no accident occurred. i called the dealership to report this problem also my check engine light would come on and off several times and they said to bring it in and they would check the engine light but that i would have to pay $165. 00 just for them to check the light and it would be more $$$ to repair what ever problem it was. i was fed up by then. *ph
03/18/20031000001
 While driving, the steering wheel locked up, which caused the vehicle to veer into a ditch. *jb
11/15/20034980001
 The vehicles steering failed. *nlm
05/09/20031040001
 While driving, the steering failed, which made the vehicle difficult to control. *jb
01/24/200350000610/31/2002
 The steering wheel had a knocking sound. *jb there was a recall on the battery cable, and the pinch bolt has caused a lot of problems. (the problem still exists) the vehicle will knock when turned to the left. the front axle bearings were damaged along with the seal. the battery cables had a short circuit and the cables still have a corrosion problem. the vehicle stalled while driving, the steering wheel locked, and when the vehicle is turned off, it won't start, you must allow to cool down. the consumer felt that this is a fire hazard/recall #02v288000 scc
1
 The steering wheel separated from the column.*jb
 The vehicle made noise in the rear passengers side of the vehicle which caused loss of control while driving. there was a recall related to this problem recall # 02v-289000. *nlm
09/02/2002
 3 recall notices had been received regarding defects on different parts. consumer will further detail notices. dealer has been notified.*ak
02/07/2001
 While driving vehicle would shut down without prior warning. power would completely go out, no steeering or hazard lights. consumer would turn engine off, and start back up. this has occurred on numerous occasions. dealer was unable to duplicate, so was not able to provide remedy. *ak
3
 Was making a turn after slowing down and steering wheel locked up. vehicle continued in same direction. then, approximately 1 minute later steering would unfreeze. have been having same problem since vehicle bought new. it was an intermittent problem. have taken to dealership 3 times. was informed by mechanic cause of steering lock up could not be found.*ak
03/17/2001106/02/2000
 Ignition and steering locked up, key would not turn, vehicle was parked. *ak there was noise in the right side of the vehicle due to rear outside mirror failure. the transmission slips on accel. there was vibration in steering at 45 mph and up. the high sqealing on rainy days when turning left or right was caused by drive belt malfunctioning. the ignition locked due to cylinder assembly problem. *yh
01/04/20010
 While driving could feel left side of vehicle is pulling to side where sometimes ir could lose control of vehicle at high speed, and steering could lock to left side without prior warning. *ak
STEERING - COLUMN
05/18/20046000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. while driving 35 mph, the contact could physically move the steering column up and down through the steering wheel. the steering wheel was loose and was tightened at an independent mechanic's shop. most recently, the contact discovered that the steering column needed to be replaced. the ford dealer was unable to find any failures, but an independent auto shop performed a diagnostic. ford informed the contact that the vehicle was too old for them to assist, despite its low mileage. the failure mileage was approximately 6,000.
04/02/200880000309/15/2000
 1. there were two instances over the past 3 years where my car wouldn't start initially and it took 15 minutes to finally be able to turn the key. 2. i stopped at a gas station to fill up my car which is a 2000 ford focus zx3. i had may 7 year old daughter with me and when we went to leave my ignition locked up. after an hour i had to call someone to come get my daughter as it was 9pm and she had school in the morning. i had someone else come by to see if they could fix it but that was to no avail. finally after about 3 hours total i had to call a for a tow back to my house as the steering wheel was locked up and i could not even roll the car out of the way because i couldn't turn the wheel to get around the gas pumps. i searched online to see about a recall due to this cars history and to my amazement i found web forum after web forum of complaints about this issue. all you have to do is search the web for ford focus ignition lock and you'll see what i mean. this is definitely an issue and can be potentially very dangerous. being stuck and unable to put your car in neutral and move it to the left or right and out of the way, being stuck in extreme weather conditions...possibly with a child or even just being stuck for hours at a time. i read on instance were a women wasn't able to get towed for 6 hours and read another example of a man who had rented a focus only to have it lock up while at a rest area on the highway. it appears that ford is simply ignoring this fault and it's costing people $400-$500 every occurrence. some people have had to pay to have it replaced 3 times or more. please look into this and try to do something about it. it has been a serious issue. 3. i have get the car towed to a dealer to pay the $400 to have it fixed and hope it doesn't happen again or i can find a locksmith who can come to my house, drill out the ignition and replace it which is cheaper than the dealership but not by much. *tr
12/19/20071
 Cracked ignition. jammed steering column. both were replaced. old part is available. *tr
12/17/200656000103/15/2000
 Steering wheel nut came out of steering wheel when wife was driving 10 mph and tried to make a turn. because contact didn't have warranty for part, he was responsible for the repairs, and wants to know if this is something he should be held responsible for. contact wants to know if there were any other complaints with the same problem. *nm
07/31/200664000207/09/2006
 Steering column locked, key will not turn in ignition. *jb
10/21/200548000108/29/2000
 Steering wheel adjustment is failing, difficult for adjusting lever to stay in locked position, sometimes disengaging while vehicle is being driven. dealer says that the entire steering column must be replaced at a cost of $1000, because individual parts are not available to fix the problem. ford has no technical service bulletins for this problem, and i am not aware of any secret warranties that apply. *nm
05/21/2005
 Car worked fine through the day; put key into ignition and it won't turn. (seems this is a common problem for ford focus cars...(that's what aaa told me and it's verified in letters on internet.
05/17/200556884112/12/2001
 Without warning the ignition locked up and would not turn. tow truck fee $75 ,ford repair bill $406.41. i purchased this car used in 2001. i have talked to the original owner and this part has already been replaced. however ford will not cover the parts failure because it occured with a different owner.
07/15/200360000409/15/2000
 Bought vehicle with a bad fuel pump. dealer replaced it in july 2003. steering column would not work, and dealer replaced it on march 19 2205. middle of april 2005 steering column failed again. will not replace it because it was not under warranty. also , the hatchback door latches are not working properly *ak
02/12/200450000508/01/2003
 I am having problems with the ignition in my 2000 ford focus zx3 not turning over, apprently after research and 300.00 later, it is a defect in the tumbler.*ak
12/08/20041
 Fatality vehicle fire, dec. 8 2004. my husband is the original owner of a 2000 ford focus, subject to numerous service visits to bill brown ford, livonia mi for: ignition, steering column, wheel bearing, brake, rear window control, seat belt &trunk latches, overhead light and engine light. the vacuum line & fuel pump & valve assembly were replaced 2/03, followed by stalling. in 6/03, a/c compressor & manifold line replaced. fuel line & pump failure in 8/03, resulted in gasoline spill on residential street minutes after parking. bogging followed repairs, pcm reprogrammed & leaking pvc tube replaced 1/04. fuel pump again replaced. in 8/04, our 24 year old son took ownership of this problematic car. we are uncertain as to whether vehicle malfunction caused a 35 mph collision with a fire hydrant. an immediate engine explosion and fuel fed fire trapped my son and his passenger. described by police as a relatively minor crash which would not be expected to claim lives, the subsequent unexplained engine fire claimed two young lives. a malfunctioning driver's airbag was also detected. this incident was originally reported to nhtsa by my husband (#10104088). i am supplying these additional facts for your clarification. please correct your posting of 0 injuries as there were 2 fatalities. please take effective action to save lives, as these trouble plagued vehicles seem to become more lethal as they age. confirmation of receipt of this information is requested. *nm *sc *jb
09/11/2004506/08/2000
 Ford focus 2000 steering column locks up... key will not turn, sterring column is locked up tight and the car is not able to start. this has happened at least five times. i have managed to start it with much frustration and time spent. now i can not get it going at all.
09/05/2004104/30/2004
 I am out-of-state in a large city and yesterday my key would go into the ignition, but would not turn. i had to leave my car overnight in a fairly bad neighborhood. i have seen a lot of reports on this site about the same thing going wrong in the focus. i am having the car towed to a dealership today and will have to pay a holiday fee because today is a holiday and in the mean time have no form of transportation. i will have to rent a car tomorrow (the rental car places are closed for the holiday). i just went on a 4,000 mile trip, some of which went through very desolate parts of nevada--what would have happened if this would have happened then??? i had no cell reception in most of that area. if ford doesn't think this is a safety issue, they are wrong. i have already had the fuel delivery module replaced due to its failure. luckily, it was covered under a recall. because of the ignition problem, i will incure a towing bill, the repair bill, and a rental car fee, not to mention the huge inconvenience and stress. i expect the totally cost to be $500+. i hope that ford recalls this problem, as i do think this is a safety issue. they need to stand behind their product, and it seems as though they are not willing to do so. if they don't change their ways, i will surely never buy a ford vehicle again.*ak
05/23/2004202/20/2000
 In march 2002, my 2000 ford focus lx had the steering wheel lock up and the ignition lock up so that i could not turn the key or start my car. it had to be towed to the dealership and they ended up having to drill out the ignition lock cylinder, rebuild it, and replace broken steering column parts. now yesterday, may 23, 2004, the same thing occurred - steering wheel locked, key would not turn, car would not start. i had to tow it again to the same dealership, and get the parts replaced again.*ak
03/26/200046000104/08/2000
 Steering wheel is locked and key will not turn so car will not start. after doing research i have found that this is very common and may even happen again after being repaired - typical cost is $250 - 300. *ak.
03/12/20041
 Returned to car after 1 hour of not driving, the key would only go about 3/4 of the way into the ignition. i tried all three keys that the dealer had given me, and none of them would go into the ignition. called aaa, paid $175 to have a locksmith replace the springs in my ignition where the key goes, said that this could happen again, and in that case, the entire ignition would have to be replaced. aaa covered $50 of the cost. is there a recall for this? this is not the first complaint of the same type on this site! what is ford doing to help this? i refuse to continue to pay $125 every time my key won't go into the ignition. i was lucky enough to be home when this happened, but what if i wasn't?*ak
03/04/20041
 Key wouldn't fit in the ignition one afternoon. tried another key, same result. i hear it is something in the steering lock cylinder, possibly a tumbler. called ford, and they said that there is no recall on this yet, but probably soon. cost about $150 plus a towing charge. rats. *ak
07/16/200371050110/20/1999
 70,000 miles and ignition lock is broken, drove the car in the morning, went out in the afternoon, put key in, wouldn't turn..had to be towed and replaced costing me $250 cause they state it's not a covered part under my extended warranty. also, tow truck driver stated he has towed hundreds of ford with same problem, some even with only 400 miles on them * ridiculous**ak
01/21/2003
 The vehicle was park without prior warning the steering column lock up and will not un lock the vehicle was towed. please provide additional information dealer is aware of the problem. ts
1
 Consumer stated while driving 40mph the front of the vehicle vibrated violently while braking. please provide any additional information.*jb
12
 The consumer has experienced the following: the replacement of the left dash board cluster (temperature gauge inop from the time of purchase), reattachment of rubber seal around driver door window, reattachment of fuel pump, reattachment of headliner in rear of vehicle, uncrimping of fuel line, lubrication driver door handle(sticking), lubrication of catch on rear passenger side door(had come open while vehicle was in motion), replacement the turn signal switch in steering column-had to be turned off manually, persistent noises/vibrations in the front end of vehicle starting at 36k miles and was told that the tires had tread that was too narrow/were high performance which wasn't needed/was also told that the vibration was caused by improper tire care and tire cupping, the left rear shock needed replacement, and the radio goes out-sometimes goes out when the heat is turned up high. scc
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
01/27/20082
 Anti-theft steering wheel locked and car won't start - 2nd time. *tr
07/02/200790000406/15/2001
 The 2000 focus has had many problems with the steering wheel locking. we put the key in and it wont turn. we have been stranded many times and this is costing us al ot of money to have a lock smith fix it, as welll as having it towed and the hassles of trying to get home when it happens in another town(twice). this needs to be fixed by ford- i see it happens alot with others who own this car.*ak
05/27/20071300001
 Tl*the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. on may 27, 2007, the steering wheel detached from the column while driving 35 mph. the failure occurred without warning. the vehicle was towed to a mechanic. the purchase date and engine size was unknown. the current and failure mileages were 130,000.
10/05/2006202/01/2000
 Steering column and ignition locked up for the second time on 2000 ford focus. left stranded and had to tow vehicle again. *nm
06/11/2006702/15/2002
 2000 black ford focus zx3 my key (same key that came with the car) will not start my car. . . .it will not turn over at all. and also i can't get my steering wheel to unlock to make matters worst. this problem doesn't happen often but it happens more than it should, and this time i can't even get it to start at all. it happens about 3 times a year and i can get my car going in about an hour. but, this time my car has been sitting in my drive way for 3 days now. i have called the dealership 3 times. the first time someone gave me advice but, it didn't help. and the last 2 times they have failed to call me back! *nm
05/30/200685000105/03/2003
 Ford 2000 focus ignition locked, aaa said this is a huge problem with focus and no recalls. *nm
05/14/200695780606/28/2004
 I have been having problems with the key and ignition in my 2000 ford focus for over 6 months now. the key once inserted into the ignition will not turn the lock, which has resulted in leaving me stranded several times, once in below freezing weather with an infant. upon research online trying to determine what the problem is i am finding this is an extremely common occurrence, and have been subsequently told by two mechanics that it is a defect in the ignition construction that ford refused to recall. i have had to have the ignition cylinder replace and re-keyed at a cost of over $400. *nm
11/13/200580000204/28/2002
 Dt: the contact stated when trying to start vehicle the steering column locked. she had the vehicle towed to a mechanic the first time this happened . currently, the vehicle experienced the same problem while parked. the repairs will be at contact's expense.*ak
08/13/200536000105/30/2000
 The ignition interlock failed on my 2000 ford focus. the key would not go into the ignition, so the steering wheel would not unlock and i could not turn the wheels so that when it was towed ($80) out of the parking space it almost hit another car. they had to drag it up onto the flat bed of the truck. the tow truck driver said that he alone tows one focus per week due to this problem. i live in a large town and cannot tell me that there are not hundreds of reports of this problem. i was quoted the repair cost of $260 instantly when i called the dealer, how often does that happen. i can see why ford does not recall this item, it is too much of a money machine!! how many thousands of repair have to be made before they recall this? *nm
09/29/200124000109/29/2001
 Dt: consumer states that steering wheel locks up, which causes the key not to turn in the ignition. the consumer has to work with the steering wheel to get key to turn. consumer has taken vehicle to service department, and the technician stated that vehicle has an anti-theft system, and that is why it is having steering problems. *ak
03/25/2005107/05/2000
 The ignition on my 2000 ford focus is locking up to the point where i cannot turn my key. the car has 47,000 miles on it. i was stranded for 20 mins the other night trying to get the key to turn. spend up to 1 to 2 minutes now each time i get in my car reinserting the key until it finally turns. i have also tried my spare key, which is brand new, with same results. from what i have read, this is a common problem, and probably only a matter of time until i have to replace the ignition switch.*ak
02/19/200572000110/05/2004
 My steering wheel locks and will not budge on my 2000 ford focus.*ak
02/04/200547000106/01/2000
 For the past week, i have had trouble turning the key in the ignition. it's as if the ignition is locked, along with the steering wheel. i had been able to move the key back and forth and have been successful in getting the key to turn (actually turn so the car could start). today, however, no amount of 'jimmying' did the trick. the ignition was locked and the key would simply not turn - at all (even after i tapped the key into the ignition with my palm as i turned the key as recommended by a ford service mechanic). subsequently, i had to have the car towed to the town and country ford in portland, or so they could replace the entire ignition cylinder. this is costing me around $290!. i have read other similar complaints, and the tow truck driver - who also owns a ford focus zx3 - has been having similar problems. despite this, ford has not 'recalled' this faulty ignition cylinder and i feel this requires further investigation and, at the least, compensation by ford. *jb
12/13/2004205/05/2001
 I own a 2000 ford focus that has had the same problem happen to it again. approx. 2 years ago we had to have the entire steering column replaced because the mechanism had locked and would not allow us to turn the key. it has happened again and there is nothing we can do to get the key to turn in the ignition. this is ridiculous and we think that there should be a recall or something designated to assist with this problem. a 2000 model should not have this many problems with its steering mechanisms. info below is appropriate to latest incident. *ak
12/04/2004124000104/01/2000
 Steering column ignition lock. key inserted and won't come out, can't turn key - no steering, no power.*ak
11/10/200498000103/17/2003
 My mom drove my 2000 ford focus to the shop to have the brakes done. she had no problem inserting the key into the ignition and starting the car. i have never had any problems with ignition sticking or key not turning. when auto mech came out to move the car, the key could not be inserted all the way into the keyhole and would not turn. 2 mechs and my mom tried get to the ignition to unlock. we then called courtesy ford & were told this is a known problem w/ focus' & we would have to replace the ignition lock. this cost was est at $260. if this is a known problem with the 2000 ford, why are we having to pay for repairs?*ak
11/03/2004107/31/2002
 I bought a used ford focus 2000 in july 2002, since then the steering wheel locked a lot of times. i cannot start the car and haved to towed to dealership and replace the lock cylinder twice. this problem seems to be repeat every year or so. the lastest incident was yesterday. since the warranty was over, i have to pay by myself to replace the lock cylinder. i am wondering why ford doesn't let customer know this problem and provide life-time warranty. *ak
10/13/20040112/01/2000
 Within a 6 day period, oct 7th through oct.12th (2004), i experienced intermittent problems with my key getting stuck, locked, or not admitted into the key ignition entry. the failure took place, morning oct. 12th, 2004. my key was able to fully enter key ignition area, but was not able to turn the key to start the car. the consequence was i had no immediate transportation and was billed for the replacement part (cylinder lock) and labor (approx. $350.00). the corrective action was to replace the cylinder lock with strattec part number 707592.*ak
09/20/200429000108/28/2004
 Ignition key will not turn, subsequently i was stranded as i could not start the car. i just bought this car 3 weeks ago, wish someone had told me that this was an issue for these vehicles. car was bought for our daughter to use for school, we bought this vehicle for reliability now have to worry about her getting stranded somewhere.*ak
09/16/20042000010
 Key will not turn the ignition switch! this has happen several times over the course of a few years, usually fixing itself. this last time, nothing will fix it. i am checking costs now to replace the whole mechanism. *ak
09/19/20041
 Steering wheel locks up and key won't turn in ignition. *ak
09/07/200491000110/18/2000
 I parked my car and shut it off. when i came back to start my car i could put the key in, but not turn it. when i called ford they new of the issue and the service manger told me the following info it it:*ak it is designed so badly that even a perfectly new one can jam. in most lock cylinders the tumblers are pushed by springs to lock against an outer sleeve, and the key pushes them back in. with the focus they added a locking bar as 90 degrees to the tumblers, and that is what locks the sleeve instead of the tumblers. the problem is there is no solid connection between the key and this locking bar. it is only pushed by the tiny tumbler springs, wich easily jam. so the only current permenant solution is to remove all the tumblers. but since they cannot do this, they have to replace them as they come in, but they still break after replacement at my cost of almost $500.00. if ford knows of this issue why do they not fix this!
08/30/2004207/15/2001
 I have had the steering wheel lock and key unable to turn twice now. the first incident occurred in february 2003. the car had to be towed to the dealership and i was told the steering column had to be replaced and re-keyed. it cost $867 to fix. even though it was fixed, i still had to wiggle the steering wheel to get the key turned which at times took a few minutes. now a year and a half later, the same exact thing happened. i can't get the key to turn at all. when i called the dealership, i was told the warranty expired after a year and that ford was a real stickler on their warranties and i would have to pay about the same amount again. just a note - after only a year after purchasing the car, it squeaked like crazy anytime i used the brakes. even though the brakes were replaced, the car still squeaks.*ak
08/02/2004790001
 While turning steering wheel locked and the lost steering control. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak
07/28/20042
 The ignition was locked in place and it would not move at all. also, steering wheel was locked. dealerships replaced twice the ignition switch at consumer's expense. *ak
06/19/20041
 When pulling into a parking lot steering wheel locked up. consumer was able to park the vehicle. consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealership for inspection. *ak
10/06/19794
 Steering wheel locks and you cannot turn the key in the ignition at all. steering wheel, ignitions, and gearshift are all frozen. has happened 3 times before but this is the first time that the all 3 are stuck and can't get ignition to budge.*ak
06/19/200447000103/05/2003
 2000 ford focus key will not turn over when wheels are locked. have to tow car to dealership. *ak
04/08/2004500004
 The ignition of my 2000 ford focus has frozen repeatedly only to start working again several minutes later. it recently has not started working again and i am having to pay $200 to have the ignition replaced. this i dismissed as simply one of the down sides of buying a used car. however, after searching forums online and speaking with a local dealership i have found that this is a common problem with all 2000/2001 ford focus models. the person who came to tow my car to the dealership informed me that he responds to 10-15 calls a week due to the same exact problems with this make and year of vehicle. i was directed to the nhtsa website by one of the internet forums and was shocked to find how many defects had been sited with this particular car make/model however, this was not amoung them. this appears to be the most common problem occuring with this make/model of car as well. i just hope to never be in a situation where i need to be somewhere asap and my ignition suddenly decides not to turn.*ak
02/09/2004107/01/2000
 Ford focus zx3 2000, key will not go into ignition more than 1 - 2 inches and will not turn. steering wheel is locked.
01/09/200449400304/28/2000
 The securikey ignition cylinder is subject to repeated failures. initially the ignition will not turn until the steering wheel is wiggled. then after a time, the unit fails completely. this does pose a problem when attempting to restart the vehicle after a panic stop, where the engine stall/stops. especially un-nerving in traffice. 1st failure 9/30/2001 at 18,990 miles. lock cylinder was replaced. 2nd complete failure 1/9/2004 at 49,400 miles. currently the vehicle is experiencing the same problems and i am returning it to the ford service shop for another repair. the manager of the same shop stated that this is a common problem with this model year, 2000 ford focus, but that one replacement usually fixes the problem. i suspect there are no return visits since the prudent consumer would probably dump the vehicle in favor of a more reliable auto.*ak
12/26/2003500001
 When coming to a stop vehicle stalled. this caused the steering wheel to lock up. consumer managed to pull over and regain control of the vehicle. dealerships mechanic was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak
10/10/200331000102/20/2000
 Put key in ignition and it will not turn at all. steering wheel and shift lever are locked and vehicle had to be towed to dealer with wheels off ground. dealer say no recall or service bulletins have been issued but this is not true as i found several service bulletin on this web site. *la
09/20/2003600001
 Key cylinder lock went out and caused steering wheel and the key not to be able to turn. manufacturer and dealer will be notified of the problem.*ak
09/15/20031
 Consumer went out to start car and key would not turn, ignition was locked in place, it would not move. also, steering wheel was locked. consumer took vehicle to dealership, and they said they never heard off such occurrences. *ak
410001
 Steering wheel continuously locks up while in use. cause of the failure is undetermined. *ak
276041
 Consumer states while driving engine and steering column may lock up. there is no warning. dealer says ignition switch needs replacing.*ak
06/12/20031
 Consumer states while driving at 15mph on flat surface and with no warning steering wheel locks up. dealer notified. *ak
12/31/2002706/12/2000
 I bought my ford focus 2000, brand new in july of 2000. since then, i've had the wheel bearings replaced twice, the rear door stopped latching and i had to drive it to the dealer with my son holding the door shut, my alternator had to be replaced and still the lights get dim when i turn on the heater, the plastic and rubber door molding started coming loose and falling off right after i bought the car, the brakes have never stopped squealing, and now my key is stuck in the ignition and it won't come out. every time i take my car to a dealer, they always say the same thing oh, that is common with the ford focus. after reading all of the consumer complaints, i guess you could say these problems are common with the ford focus. i've had nothing but problems with this car and expect to experience many more because so far the track record for the ford focus is extremely poor. after reading the numerous complaints, i hope ford is forced into recalling the ignition cynlinder or switch whichever is to blame for the key to becoming stuck in the ignition and the wheel not locking while the car is in park. ts
STEERING - GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
10/25/200027510010/01/2000
 Dt: the consumer stated there were multiple problems with the vehicle. the brakes make noises and pulsated when the pedal was depressed. the vehicle was taken to the service dealer where the brake light switch and ignition cylinder switches were replaced. the dealer also turned the drums, replaced the brake pads and resurfaced the front rotors. there was a vibration in the front end when braking. the lower ball joint, right wheel bearings, right front sway bar link, bone socket, steering rack column and tie rod ends were replaced in an attempt to remedy the problem. the tail light covers retained moisture and condensation built up. the dealer replaced the tail light covers and fuses that were blown due to the moisture. lastly, the contact noticed the rear seat was loose and upon inspection the dealer discovered an anchor and hinge problem. the back hinge and pillar were replaced. *jb
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - POWER STEERING FLUID
05/26/20011
 Consumer stated that the technician found that the steering fluid was leaking under the front of the vehicle. *scc
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - PUMP
11/21/2001
 Power steering fluid leaked into rack and pinion, making it difficult to steer. took vehicle to dealer, and and replaced rack and pinion steering. *ak
06/10/2001
 While pulling into the dealer lots, a fire had developed in engine compartment. insurance adjuster inspected vehicle, and informed consumer that cause of fire was a power steering pump leakage. dealer was also notified, and no response was given at this time. feel free to provide any further information on this matter.*ak
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
05/01/2002631471
 While driving on highway lost control and vehicle hit highway divider on left side. then skidded to left side of highway and hit a guardrail and went into a tree. upon impact, frontal air bags did not deploy.*ak
11/12/2002102/01/2001
 Consumer was exiting a parking garage and placed vehicle in reverse. without warning, car suddenly accelerated and rear tail spun around 2 times then hit a parked vehicle. consumer did apply brakes with no success. ph insurance company informed dealership that there were two recalls that dealt with a defective throttle and speed control which was not performed on the vehicle prior to the accident. other problems included weezing noise while turning. power steering racked failed and replaced. lack of power steering in steering wheel. rear brake pad replacement. rear wheel bearing noise. defective wheel bearings replaced. tire punctured and replaced. hesitation on acceleration. fuel pump and gasket replaced. tires rotted out. key stuck in ignition. replaced malfunctioned shifter assembly. trunk lid wouldn't latch. latch replaced. *tt
05/01/2002210/01/2099
 When the fuel tank is less than half full and i am turning right, the engine will stall, if it does not stall, it will jerk into different gears like it is going to stall. one time it stalled while i was on a sharp curve and i lost my power steering in the middle of the curve and almost hit someone.*ak
12/02/2000111/05/1999
 When slippery out, the brakes will not grasp properly. therefore, the vehicle will slide. dealer can not duplicate problem.*ak consumer also experienced these difficulties as followed, power steering system (exploded, w/3-4 week repairs), trunk lock was broken, keyless entry system works improperly, the trunk lock has been replaced twice, the radio has been replaced 3 times & still occurs, the winshield arm recently broke, and concludes that the vehicle also slides in dry weather. consumer adds that she had filed a complaint w/ board of ford, the case was lost after recieving a loaner car (due to taking vehicle in for repairs) and says that she cannot afford to buy out the lease (will have to wait until oct 2002) *scc
02/05/20021212/01/1999
 In jan 2002 ford wanted to buy car back but said the car is 2 years old so it was only worth half of its value due to the car would have to go to an auction car was in shop 77 days then released and 4 days later parts went up again and car lost steering and brakes and had accident this is a serious matter and someone is going to be killed by this problem ford knows about this problem but seems they dont care. *ak
03/06/2002102/01/2002
 Front disc brakes - excessive squeal upon braking...took car to dealer. determined front brake pads & rotors needed replacement. only 16000 miles on car! also, rear drum brakes make squealing noise as well. dealer replaced them and turned drums. still squeals. also, emergency brake lever has excessive travel and poor brake holding capacity. took back to dearler twice, still poor emergency brake function. power steering assist suddenly failed when started car cold. steering was difficult and slow until car warmed up. happened for several day until took to dearler. said p.s. pump was bad and replaced it.*ak
11/27/20010
 While driving and making a turn to either left side or right side steering will make a loud noise. this could make consumer lose control. dealer was contacted. please provide more information. *ak
09/21/2000
 Consumer was driving at 4-5 mph coming from a dead stop to make a turn , turned a little wider and hit curb, leaving a mark size of quarter on tire. dual air bags deployed, causing loss of vehicle control. steering locked up, vehicle went over the curb. tire did not blow, and there was very little damage. front windshield completely shattered due to airbags deploying. dealer made a statement that there was airbag sensor in the wheel. *ak
STEERING - LINKAGES
12/01/2007126950508/01/2007
 Tl*the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. while driving 35 mph, the front end of the vehicle vibrated and there was a roaring sound coming from the front of the vehicle. as of january 3, 2008, the dealer had not inspected the vehicle. there is a recall for the steering: linkages (nhtsa campaign id # 02v289000) however, the dealer stated that his vin was not included. the failure mileage 126,950 and current mileage was 127,000.
07/15/200580000202/20/2004
 I searched in your page and you already have a campaign. the official nhtsa page concerning recall is #03v48200 and the nhtsa campaign is #02v28900. the engine of my car already crashed and i want to know where i can searched for the car's serial number that are included in this recall. *tr
10/02/20041
 In june 2004, i took my 2000 ford focus into sunset ford in westminster, california complaining about a vibration and rattle in the front end of my car. they charged me $80 and told me there was nothing wrong with my car. again, on august 12, 2004, i took my 2000 ford focus into sunset ford complaining that the vibration and rattle were still there and getting worse. they again charged me $80 for a diagnostic and told me there was nothing wrong with my car. in the early morning on october 2, 2004, i started to slowly accelerate from a complete stop and my car for no reason at all turned sharply and struck a curb. there is now major structural damage to my car that will cost thousands of dollars to repair. i contend that this major damage was caused by fords negligence in finding the original mechanical defect that i reported to them. i also contend that the symptoms my car was exhibiting were the same as described in your nhtsa campaign id #02v289000. *nm
02/06/20031
 The consumer's client was involved in a accident as a result of steering control. *ph after the accident, the consumer received a letter in regards to recall#02v289000. the consumer's insurance company requested reimbursement. *sc (lawyer on behalf elizabeth arreola on behalf of client lorna waddington) *jb
530001
 Steering pinch bolt popped out, and the front tire rolled into the front fender weld. as a result, vehicle lost steering. no crash occurred because vehicle was in the driveway at the time of the incident. steering pinch bolt recall 02v28900 was issued, but this vehicle was not included in recall due to vin. *ak
02/06/2003357491
 Problems with vehicle's steering due to ball joint separation. *mr the consumer lost control of the vehicle. the incident was caused by an improper torque on the pinch bolt. the consumer requested reimbursement. the consumer received a recall notice several days later. *scc *jb *cb
03/10/20031
 While driving sttering bolts loosened, making it hard to steer. *ak
1
 While driving, vehicle vibrated excessively which caused consumer to lose control and collided into an embankment. dealer advised consumer that tires were bad. consumer then received recall 02v289000 regarding steering pinch bolts that could cause excessive vibration. *tt
04/03/200336773207/10/2000
 The dealership refused to honor the recall for the pinch bolt 02 v 289 000 due to a discrepancy. *jb the steering wheel started to vibrate and the wheel shook. the vehicle was taken in for the recall, but the consumer was told that there was another problem which was with the oil. *scc
03/13/20031
 Due to the recall regarding the steering linkages, consumer stated the ball joints separated, recall # 02 v 289 000.*jb
03/05/200341000107/15/1999
 The power steering failed, which caused the vehicle to flip into an embankment. *jb *ts the consumer received a recall regarding the pinch bolts. *jb
03/05/20031
 Consumer was informed no parts were available regarding the pinch bolt, recall 02 v 289 000.*jb
1
 Consumer was informed no parts were available regarding the steering linkages recall # 02v288 000.*jb
02/19/20031
 Consumer was informed no parts were available regarding recall #02v289000 pinch bolts.*jb
102/01/2002
 No parts were available regarding the recall for the steering pinch bolt, recall number 02 v 289 000.*jb *ts
STEERING - LINKAGES - KNUCKLE - SPINDLE - ARM
03/23/2002101/01/2000
 Airbags deployed upon entering driveway, causing loss of control of vehicle resulting in accident. nlm
08/01/2001
 While driving under normal operating conditions heard an abnormal noise coming from vehicle while braking. dealer examined vehicle and discovered that left front brake pad was loose. since that time, consumer has experienced problems with brake pads needed to be replaced or examined because left side pad support knuckle: spindle arm was bent, and causing brake pad to wear. dealership was unwilling to assist in repairs of because vehicle was no longer under warranty. please provide any additional information/attachments. *ak
03/08/2001103/01/2000
 While driving on i275 nth i heard what sounded like the noise a flat tire would make.got off motorway to investigate, could find nothing wrong. got back on only to find the car starting to pull toward the passenger side. luckily i was near a rest area, pulled off. only to find smoke pouring from the rear wheel. it had siezed solid. it was taken to a dealer, who fixed the following, drum&bearing cup, spindle, retainer asy wheel, rotor brake sk, cap rear wheel and the abs sensor. refused to check other side as that had already(much early been fixed under a recall) while their they did find the cause for the fuel smell inside the vehicle, in circuit 15rl3(gn.rd) @ c-87 terminal was not seated in connector, fuel consumption has improved from 28mpg to 31mpg. local dealer and ford customer service both told me my concerns with the other rear wheel and the engine due to it's consumption of unburned fuel(not to mention mine)were area's they will not check, even if i feel they are potentially dangerous to myself and any passengers i may have.*ak
STEERING - LINKAGES - TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
03/23/200890982101/01/2003
 Tl*the contact owns a 2000 ford focus. while driving 30 mph, the contact heard a grinding noise. minutes later, the front end of the vehicle collapsed. she pulled over and noticed metal hanging from the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to the garage and the mechanic stated that the front passenger side spring struts failed. the mechanic replaced the sway bar links, the inner tie rod, the cb boot, the driver side axle, and the front passenger side hub bearing. the current mileage was 90,982 updated 5/19/08 *cn
10/20/20053
 Ignition switch would stick, since day of purchase...two months later, broken!! all the tumbler springs went out....$300!! to fix and one hour late to work. passenger outer tie rod boot is shot and the tie rod will not come off!!! $45 to replace!!! seat belt tensioner does not work properly at all!!!! *nm
06/25/200341500104/15/2002
 At 40,000 miles on my 2000 focus wagon, dealer tells me that the clunking noise i hear from front and rear will be fixed with a new front tie rod and rear shocks. visited dealer 3 times to fix a windshield washer leak into tailgate, filling light fixtures and seeping into rear of car. i have had my fan motor replaced and my rear door latches are not working correctly. all of many recalls have been addressed, we even received 4 new tires due to tread wearing. it took many trials to get a correct alignment. my stereo often will cut out for no reason. i am no longer under warranty and fear that this most recent suspension repair will be costly while i still make monthly payments on my vehicle. can you help? *jb
09/10/2002104/01/2000
 Vehicle stalled twice, then engine caught fire in battery area. please note that i live in canada, and site does not permit canadian address. actual zip is m4k 1m6 in toronto ontario, canada. vehicle is total writeoff. ford dealership denied knowledge of fire or stalling problems with focus.*ak
09/15/2001310/01/2000
 I work for a goodyear co. and everytime there is a problem i have one of our techs. check it out for me. first it was the brakes i was taking my children to the movies,as i was turning into the parking space i heard a grinding noise.the next day at work i have auto tech. inspect my brakes i had less than 10% left all around and the front rotors were cracked! my children and i could have died! i took the car to the dealer to marina ford they replaced front rotors,pads and rear shoes. three weeks later pads were down to 10% i did not bother going back to the dealer. our tech. at my place of employment replaced my brakes with good quality pads and shoes. i had th iside panel replaced,the windshield wiper motor replaced and the right front wheel bearing replaced! now my left front tie-rod is bent,my car shuts off when the gas is at the 3/4 mark and when making right turns,the emission lights up and the car stops! this is a problem car the ford focus. i found a web site and ther is over a thousand consumers who are not pleased with their focus too!
12/29/2000110/01/1999
 Engine just stalls every 3 months while driving. have had the same problem happen 4 times! the last time i wasnt under warranty and it cost me 500+...they replaced many things but it still continues. also after only 23000 miles my left caliper slipped causing extreme wear and tear on the brakes and rotors. cost 300 to fix that. *ak
05/04/2000103/31/2000
 The driver side tie rod and axle collapsed while driving the vehicle, loss of control resulted in accident. yh
STEERING - RACK AND PINION
09/01/20042
 At 77,230 the rack and pinion needed to be replaced because it was worn and about to break. also a week or two later at 77,300 miles the engine seized while driving. the dealership thinks that a housing ring came loose and welded on the cylinder. the engine was installed, but did resolve the problem. the vehicle has been shipped to the factory for further service. *jb
01/15/2003007/22/2002
 I own a 2000 ford focus with 86,500 mi. and was told that the front rack and pinion steering was shot. how can this be on a 2000 car?
12/01/200103/01/2001
 I have had nothing but problems with this vehicle just last month the cable and motor in the rear passenger side door window burned up and now will cost over $600. to fix i can not get the front rack & pinion fixed because it will cost $1800.00. the transmission is going out now it slips out of gear sometimes not at all. i just got the brakes repaired for the third time in may and they are again squeaking. i have all of my receipts for work done to this car. i am now having to put power steering fluid in once or twice a week. the automatic locks on the doors lock and unlock all the time, and the electric instruments turn off by themselves. (radio) the driving lights go out at times and will not come back on. please help me, i am a single mother and have complained to courtesy ford they want to charge me diagnostic $90.00 for each item i am complaining about and then the amount it will take to fix all of the things wrong. this vehicle i just recently found out has had six different owners before me and one was rental car company. i do not know who the rest of them were. courtesy ford had said there was only one owner. they will not listen to me and now the focus' have a front suspension recall that may have been the problem the whole time with the brakes and the tire replacements and the power steering problems.!!! please help me. dt
03/01/2000
 I purchsed this car new and have had nothing but problems. i kept telling the service people that the tires were wearing funny and they treated me like i was stupid. eventually, when the rack and pinion steering went out they realized that there was a problem. both headlights have had the rubber replaced. the wiper motor has been replaced. the car started hesitating and i found the pvc hose was melted and they couldnt seem to find a replacement part until i got really angry. the car kept hesitating and it got worse. i tried everything.. replaced the plugs, fuel filter. after the check engine light came on i took it to another dealer and he put it on the machine and 2 cylinders were stuck. after checking further, he discoverd the plug wires were melted! the transmission hesitates at times but the service people say they cant duplicate the problem, it must just be the way i drive. the ford focus is a lemon and ford needs to make it right with all the consumers. nlm
11/21/2001
 Power steering fluid leaked into rack and pinion, making it difficult to steer. took vehicle to dealer, and and replaced rack and pinion steering. *ak
12/03/2001104/01/2000
 Tried to put key into the ignition, key wouldn't go it. had car towed to dealer and it took a week to get fixed. had to argue to get a loaner car in the meantime and no one at ford was helpful at all and insisted that this was not a big problem. shortly before this happened, the steering and rack and pinion had to be replaced because of a fluid leak. last week, when attempting to start the car (it had not been started all weekend), the engine wouldn't turn over and the dealer had to replace the fuel pump. today while driving to work, the steering wheel became very loose and pulled away from the steering column. took the car immediately to the dealer and they put it back on. have had nothing but problems with this car. lots of recall work and all these other issues too. car is at dealer for service on average every four months. this was my first new car, but now i will never buy another ford and am getting rid of this one asap. *ak
10/26/2000405/01/2000
 This car has giving me nothing but trouble. this is the second one i have owned, the first one ford bought me out of because it was a lemon, and this one is worse than the first one. the ford focus is nothing but a lemon. i will never own another ford for as long as i live. ford needs to stand by their product and take this car back. it is obviously not fixable. i have this car in the shop at least every other week, i only have 5,955 miles on this thing. i hate this car!!!!!*ak
07/01/2000106/01/2000
 Nationwide insurance has ruled a manufacturing defect, auto body shop invovled also agreed, ford motor company has yet to review or acknowlege any error.
STEERING - RACK AND PINION - RACK
07/24/200001/01/2000
 Brake pads and rotors failed, worn out at less than 13000 miles. reported burning smell from brakes at 3700 miles. (dealer refused to place repair under warranty)..replaced both front pads and rotors. at 3700 miles bumping..grinding noise noted had to lower sub frame..upper rack assembly tightened ed bolt to rack and streering shaft. *ak
STEERING - WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR
03/26/200046000104/08/2000
 Steering wheel is locked and key will not turn so car will not start. after doing research i have found that this is very common and may even happen again after being repaired - typical cost is $250 - 300. *ak.
304885
 Ignition doesn't work, steering wheel locks and ignition cylinder occasionally comes out. also while driving, the steering wheel fell off. *la the vehicle overheated when the air condition was turned on, the dealer replaced a pinched wire behind the dash, the air condition was not cool enough, the evaporator core had a leak. *jb
12/01/2002
 The steering column has locked up twice states consumer. cause is unknown. please provide any further information. ph
1011/01/2099
 Ignition tumbler breaks and steering wheel locks up. can not start car. happened around 29,000 miles first time and 60,000 miles the next time. i also have a problem with the car stalling. going around corners and up hills it is like the car has run out of gas. you then slow down and it will return to normal. also happens on the on and off ramps of highways. very dangerous.*ak
06/01/200207/01/2001
 I beg of you recall this car. it will eventually kill somebody and their children. no safety defect listed. *ak
403/01/2001
 I have a 2000 ford focus zx3 that has been plagued with steering problems. on 4 separate occasions the steering wheel has locked up while i was in the process of making a left turn. only after bringing the car to a complete stop, was i able to turn the wheel. after having the car into the shop 3 times, the best the service technicians can tell me is that they are unable to find the problem since it is intermittent in nature. the last time was easily the most frustrating. while making a left turn, the steering wheel became immovable. unable to stop in time, i ran the right front tire of my vehicle into a curb. this is a repair bill that i had to pay because, according to the service technicians, the problem cannot be traced. while no injuries have resulted from this problem yet, it does have the possibility to become very dangerous and i feel others should be warned.*ak
03/01/2002
 While parking on the street without prior warning the steering wheel column turn to the right out of controland the vehicle hit the curb, the dealer is aware of the problem. nlm
02/07/2002210/15/1999
 While driving 20-25 mph and making a turn, there was no response, consumer is able to turn wheel 360 degrees. vehicle was towed to dealer, loose nut in steering column was replaced. on 11 feb 2002 at 20 mph steering was unresponsive again. vehicle still at dealership at this time. 2 piece steering column had disconnected. dealer cannot explain why, does not know how to remedy it. *ak the manufacturer stated that the press fit connection between the shaft and the joint failed due to steering cloumn assembly failure. also, steering column found retain nut loose causing the air bag light to ill and the horn inoperative. *yh
01/01/2000
 While driving 30-35 mph and making a turn the steering wheel locked up, causing loss of vehicle control, cause unknown. please give any further details.*ak
12/01/2001
 Steering wheel was not maneuverable due to a technical malfunction in steering column. vehicle failed to start because of steering malfunctioned. please provide more information.*ak
08/10/2000312/31/1999
 The steering wheel and ignition switch locked up, on another occasion the steering wheel locked up in the right position while the drivr was backing into a driveway, the rear wheel bearings had to be replaced due to road noise, the ignition switch came out of the steering column when the drivers attempted to remove the key from the ignition. nlm
05/09/2000211/15/1999
 Windshield had cracked and was replaced, approximately one month later the windshield cracked again in the exact same spot, nothing had hit the windshield on either times that it had cracked. air conditioner drains inside the car to the drivers side floor. brakes squeak, dealer replaced rear brake shoes, however noise is still there. steering wheel was peeling, dealer replaced it. vehicle will not start at times, dealer reprogrammed the pcm and replaced the fuel pump. transmission slips into neutral while driving, it will not shift into reverse until after about 10 seconds, dealer has replaced the mlp sensor and transmission range sensor to attempt to correct problem yet it still continues, transmission lines leaking and dealer replaced lines. noise coming from under the hood. hood rattled, dealer adjusted and lubed the hood stops. engine races at times, vehicle hesitates and feels like it is going to stall. *slc
06/30/2001106/01/2000
 On saturday, june 30, 2001, the steering wheel on my 2000 ford focus station wagon began to come loose. specifically, the steering wheel was unresponsive when turned slightly, and was only effective when turned sharply. then i noticed that the steering wheel was wobbling at the base -- i.e., the point where the steering column entered the dashboard. i drove to ted britt ford (where we bought the car) and left the car for servicing. on tuesday, july 3, 2001, the service technician at ted britt (jim kiefer of the brown team) called me to inform me that the steering column had been assembled improperly by the manufacturer. i understood him to explain that the bolts to the steering column had not been sufficiently tightened, and had simply come loose over time. he stated that he had never seen this same problem before. i note that the car has between 19,000 and 20,000 miles on it, and it took approximately one year since we bought the car for this problem to manifest itself. it seems likely that most people who bought 2000 ford focus station wagons have not yet put 19,000 + miles on them, so this problem (if general to all or many focuses) may still be latent in many cases. thank you for your attention to this incident.*ak
04/19/2001
 Steering mechanism has locked up, leaving consumer's daughter stranded in georgia. a dealership was repairing defect, and stated that problem was in coding of key that locked steering up. a specialist has to come in, and decide about locking mechanism. please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak
06/01/2000
 Had car 8mths, in shop 6 times never buy a ford again, never, problems from day one. no safety defect listed in summary. *ak
05/01/2000
 Over a period of about 3 days and 200 miles the steer wheel became loose and increasing as continued to drive. dealer took wheel apart and tightened.
 While traveling air bag indicator light would flash intermittently. dealer replaced sterring wheel. please provide further information. *ak

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