2002 Ford Focus Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2002 Ford Focus, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical28025.0%
- Engine11910.6%
- Suspension1099.7%
- Brakes746.6%
- Airbags726.4%
- Fuel system676.0%
- Tires & wheels665.9%
- Interior & seats534.7%
- Steering534.7%
- Body & structure524.7%
- Transmission443.9%
- Other / unspecified433.8%
- Visibility282.5%
- Driver assistance211.9%
- Powertrain (other)131.2%
- Seat belts111.0%
- Exterior lighting111.0%
- Heating & air conditioning20.2%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
I drive a 2002 Ford Focus Sedan. My engine light is on, warning light for trunk door ajar light is on (even though the trunk is securely locked, my front headlights due not work consistently (sometimes work, sometimes don't). My trunk does not always latch secure after I close it as well. I took my car to Advanced Auto Parts and had my engine light diagnosed. Engine codes that resulted were: B1318, B1881, C1947, B2438, B2434, P0457. The representative tested my battery and found that the voltage was slightly lower than it should be. My concern is for my safety as well as the safety of others. Do we have some manufacturer defects on this particular vehicle? Have other concerns which could be the result of vehicle wear and tear, or/and due to manufacturer defects as well. Inner tie rods need replaced as well as control arms/bushings, as reported to me by a mechanic. I have seen recall reports related to the 2002 Ford Focus in which there has been issues directly related to what I'm reporting, which is another reason I'm filing a report. Thank you. The contact wanted to add that the wipers are experiencing an electrical issue as well. When in use, the wipers cannot be switched off when it is at the highest position because it will not return in the downward position.
REAR RIGHT PASSENGER DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK/OPEN. WHEN TRYING TO UNLOCK I DON'T HEAR THE SOLENOID MOVING. WHEN TRYING TO OPEN FROM EITHER INSIDE OR OUT IF FEELS LIKE THE HANDLE ISN'T MOVING ANYTHING.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SMOKE FROM THE BACK SEAT. WITHIN A SHORT TIME, THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY FILLED WITH SMOKE. THE ENGINE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WERE NO FLAMES AND NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN NEUTRAL AND COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND LATER TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE OIL PUMP BURNED UP AND THE ENGINE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A FRIEND'S RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE SIX MONTHS LATER AND GAVE THE CONTACT A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 73,000. UPDATED 04/12/17 LJ *CN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AFTER TWO ATTEMPTS. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
I drive a 2002 Ford Focus Sedan. My engine light is on, warning light for trunk door ajar light is on (even though the trunk is securely locked, my front headlights due not work consistently (sometimes work, sometimes don't). My trunk does not always latch secure after I close it as well. I took my car to Advanced Auto Parts and had my engine light diagnosed. Engine codes that resulted were: B1318, B1881, C1947, B2438, B2434, P0457. The representative tested my battery and found that the voltage was slightly lower than it should be. My concern is for my safety as well as the safety of others. Do we have some manufacturer defects on this particular vehicle? Have other concerns which could be the result of vehicle wear and tear, or/and due to manufacturer defects as well. Inner tie rods need replaced as well as control arms/bushings, as reported to me by a mechanic. I have seen recall reports related to the 2002 Ford Focus in which there has been issues directly related to what I'm reporting, which is another reason I'm filing a report. Thank you. The contact wanted to add that the wipers are experiencing an electrical issue as well. When in use, the wipers cannot be switched off when it is at the highest position because it will not return in the downward position.
VEHICLE HAS ABOUT 108,000 MILES. I DID REPLACE THE TIE RODS CONTROL ARMS AND SWAY BAR OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME. THE MECHANIC SAID THAT THE SUBFRAME IS VERY RUSTED AND THE ENGINE COULD FALL OF IF THE VEHICLE IS NOT SERVICED IMMEDIATELY. I BOUGHT THE CAR AROUND 90,000 MILES AND HAVE ALREADY REPLACED FUEL PUMP AND OTHER PARTS UNDER THE CAR.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
Break lights won't work and was almost hit by another car, changed break lights changed light break switch checked fuses and wiring everything is good
AFTER 2 COMPLAINTS TO DEALER ABOUT REAR BRAKE VIBRATION/NOISE, THEY FOUND NOTING WRONG. ON OUR TRIP GOING DOWN INTERSTATE 40 AT 70 MPH THE BACK WHEEL COMES OFF MY CAR. THE WHEEL AND HUB ARE BROKEN,CUTS THE BRAKE LINE AND I LOSE MY BRAKE FLUID. NO BRAKES AND TRYING TO KEEP IT OUT OF THE DITCH. IF THERE WOULD OF BEEN A CAR ON THE SIDE OF ME. I AM POSITIVE THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN INJURY/DEATH. HAD EXTENDED WARRANTY. FORD PAID 0. SAID I HIT SOMETHING IN ROAD. NOW AT THE REPAIR SHOP AGAIN. THE WHEEL BEARINGS ON THE REAR ARE FROZEN . I HAVE TO BUY NEW DRUMS FOR BOTH SIDE AGAIN. *TR
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
HUSBAND WAS DRIVING APPROX. 35 MPH WITH HIS MOTHER IN THE PASSENGER SEAT DOWN A COUNTRY ROAD. DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED WITH NO ACCIDENT. PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG OR COVER BROKE WINDSHIELD. HUSBAND HIT BRAKES.
I HAVE A 2002 FORD FOCUS ZX5, MY DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET AT A SPEED OF 35 MPH WITH ABSOLUTELY NO IMPACT TO THE CAR. DUE TO IT DEPLOYING AND GOING OFF IT HAD HIT MY LEFT SHOULDER AND CAUSED ME TO SWERVE TO THE RIGHT, IF IT WASN'T FOR THE FACT THAT I WAS ALREADY IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE I WOULD'VE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND CAUSED A SERIOUS ACCIDENT AS THIS ALSO HAPPENED IN THE MIDDLE OF "RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC". I HAVE READ ON OTHER WEBSITES WHERE 2004 AND 2006'S SAME AIR BAGS HAVE DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON W/O ANY KIND OF IMPACT. THE NOISE WAS SO LOUD IN MY LEFT EAR THAT I COULD NOT HEAR OUT OF IT FOR OVER 45MINS, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT THAT WOULD'VE DONE TO MY INFANT IF THEY WOULD'VE BEEN IN THE CAR AT THAT TIME. I FEEL THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER AS I AM 5MONTHS PREGNANT AND IF THE FRONT AIR BAG WOULD'VE GONE OFF IT COULD'VE CAUSED MUCH MORE INJURY TO ME AND MY UNBORN CHILD. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND CONSIDER HAVING THIS MODEL PUT ON THE RECALL LIST.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SMOKE FROM THE BACK SEAT. WITHIN A SHORT TIME, THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY FILLED WITH SMOKE. THE ENGINE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WERE NO FLAMES AND NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN NEUTRAL AND COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND LATER TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE OIL PUMP BURNED UP AND THE ENGINE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A FRIEND'S RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE SIX MONTHS LATER AND GAVE THE CONTACT A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 73,000. UPDATED 04/12/17 LJ *CN
CAR WOULD NOT SHIFT CORRECTLY TO 3RD OR 4TH GEAR. ENGINE FUEL LIGHT WOULD APPEAR. *JS
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
ON 05/09/2014 AT APPROXIMATELY 1750 HOURS I WAS TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND ON INTERSTATE 95 ADJACENT TO MILE MARKER 99 LOCATED NEAR STUART, FLORIDA WHEN I SUDDENLY FELT A VERY STRONG VIBRATION AND LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT RIGHT AXLE, IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE TIRE CAUSING ME TO LOOSE STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY CAME TO A FULL STOP AND UPON FURTHER INSPECTION ON THE SHOULDER IT WAS REVEALED THAT THE SEPARATION OF THE TIRE TREAD CAUSED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGES TO THE VEHICLE TO INCLUDE FRONT RIGHT FENDER DENTS, BRAKING AC REFRIGERANT LINES, FRONT HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY, SIDE MARKER AND THE PLASTIC COVER THAT GOES UNDERNEATH THE WHEEL WELL. THE TIRE IS DESCRIBED AS A FIRESTONE FR380, 185/65R14 86S WITH DOT E26L 38B 3110 A30. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A PEP BOYS SHOP IN JUPITER, FL AND THE TIRE WAS TAKEN TO THE TIRE PLUS STORE LOCATED IN JUPITER, FL TO BE EXCHANGED. THE TIRES WERE ORIGINALLY PURCHASED AND INSTALLED AT TIRES PLUS ON OCTOBER, 2010 AT 77,600 MILES AND OVERALL THE TIRE HAD LESS THAN 20,000 ROAD MILES WHEN THE ENTIRE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED. PICTURES OF THE TIRE ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST, THANK YOU. *TR
ON 05/09/2014 AT APPROXIMATELY 1750 HOURS I WAS TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND ON INTERSTATE 95 ADJACENT TO MILE MARKER 99 LOCATED NEAR STUART, FLORIDA WHEN I SUDDENLY FELT A VERY STRONG VIBRATION AND LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT RIGHT AXLE, IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE TIRE CAUSING ME TO LOOSE STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY CAME TO A FULL STOP AND UPON FURTHER INSPECTION ON THE SHOULDER IT WAS REVEALED THAT THE SEPARATION OF THE TIRE TREAD CAUSED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGES TO THE VEHICLE TO INCLUDE FRONT RIGHT FENDER DENTS, BRAKING AC REFRIGERANT LINES, FRONT HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY, SIDE MARKER AND THE PLASTIC COVER THAT GOES UNDERNEATH THE WHEEL WELL. THE TIRE IS DESCRIBED AS A FIRESTONE FR380, 185/65R14 86S WITH DOT E26L 38B 3110 A30. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A PEP BOYS SHOP IN JUPITER, FL AND THE TIRE WAS TAKEN TO THE TIRE PLUS STORE LOCATED IN JUPITER, FL TO BE EXCHANGED. THE TIRES WERE ORIGINALLY PURCHASED AND INSTALLED AT TIRES PLUS ON OCTOBER, 2010 AT 77,600 MILES AND OVERALL THE TIRE HAD LESS THAN 20,000 ROAD MILES WHEN THE ENTIRE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED. PICTURES OF THE TIRE ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST, THANK YOU. *TR
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR LATCH AND BOTH FRONT DOOR LATCHES FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. UPDATED 11/08/16*LJ *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE HATCH DOOR INDICATOR LIGHT DISPLAY ILLUMINATED. THE REAR HATCH LATCH OPENED ON ITS OWN. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V246000 (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,846.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
OK SO I'VE HAD MY FORD FOCUS FOR ABOUT 3 MONTHS NOW I FELL IN LOVE WITH THIS LITTLE THING RECENTLY GOT STRUTS CHANGED IN FRONT AND BALL JOINTS BUSHINGS AND TIRES SO I KNEW IT WOULD NEED AN ALIGNMENT SO GOT THAT DONE NOW AT SPEEDS FROM 50-60 MPH THIS CAR STARTS FISHTAILING OUT OF CONTROL I DONT HAVE ALOT OF MONEY I AM NOT WORKIN AT PRESENT SO I CANT AFFORD TO TAKE MY USED CAR TO DEALER MUCH LESS TO ANOTHER AUTO SHOP. I TRAVEL 50 -70 MILES EACH DAY TO WORK AND I'M SCARED ITS GONNA FISHTAIL ME INTO A WRECK. MILEAGE 134000 APPLKE VALLEY CALIF.
THIS IS OUR FIRST YEAR DRIVING THIS FOCUS IN THE SNOW, WE BOUGHT IT IN 2011. WE HAD A SNOW FALL ON 11/1/2012 AND WE TOOK THE CAR OUT FOR A DRIVE. ANY SPEED ABOVE 35 MPH AND THE REAR OF THE CAR FLOATS (WIGGLES) BACK AND FORTH UP TO A FOOT. IT IS COMPLETELY UNSTABLE ON SNOW OR ICE. I DID SOME RESEARCH ONLINE, AND FORD APPARENTLY KNOWS THE PROBLEM,: DEFECTIVE REAR UPPER CONTROL ARMS, SINCE THEY DID A SILENT RECALL ON THESE IN 2006. NHTSA SHOULD INVESTIGATE THIS SINCE THERE ARE MANY MORE FOCUS OUT THERE LIKE OURS, AND FORD SHOULD HAVE TO RECALL AND REPLACE THE CONTROL ARMS ON ALL OF THESE UNITS FROM 2000-2004. I HAVE OVER 35 YEARS OF WINTER DRIVING EXPERIENCE AND I HAVE NEVER HAD A VEHICLE (EVEN THE OLD REAR WHEEL DRIVE MODELS) BEHAVE SO DANGEROUSLY ON SNOW AND ICE, EVEN WITH ALL SEASON TIRES ON IT. I CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THEY SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY HAVE TO DO SINCE THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY. HERE IS AN ATTACHED ARTICLE I FOUND ON LINE. OCTOBER 03, 2006 FORD MOTOR COMPANY TOLD DEALERS THAT THEY MAY NEED TO REPLACE THE REAR UPPER CONTROL ARMS ON FORD FOCUS MODELS. THE MODELS INCLUDE: 2000 THROUGH 2004 FOCUS SEDAN, WAGON, ZX3 AND ZX5 SERIES. FORD WILL CHECK THE REAR CAMBER AND, IF POSSIBLE, MAKE AN ADJUSTMENT. IF AN ADJUSTMENT TO THE VEHICLE'S REAR CAMBER IS NECESSARY BEYOND THE NEGATIVE END OF SPECIFICATION, THEN THE DEALERSHIP WILL NEED TO SOURCE REPLACEMENT REAR UPPER CONTROL ARM(S)." THIS IS CONSIDERED A "SILENT RECALL" WHERE UPON FORD MAY NOT NOTIFY OWNERS OF THIS CONDITION. . *TR
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
MY 89 YEAR OLD MOTHER BOUGHT A 2002 FORD FOCUS FROM LAUREL AUTO IN BOSWELL AND WHEN SHE WENT TO GET IT INSPECTED WAS TOLD THE FRAME (UNIBODY) IS RUSTED SO BADLY THAT IT CANNOT BE REPAIRED. THERE ARE HOLES ALL THROUGH IT. SHE PAID $5,000 AND HAS ONLY HAD THE CAR 1 YEAR. WAS THERE A RECALL ON 2002 FORD FOCUS FRAMES? THE GARAGE STATES THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN A FRAME IN SUCH BAD SHAP.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE DOOR ONLY OPENED WHEN MOVED LEFT TO RIGHT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN WHEN UNLOCKED. THE FAILURES OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V030000 (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHEN THE VEHICLE STOPPED IT BEGAN TO SHAKE. THE FAILURE RECURRED WHENEVER THE VEHICLE STOPPED. APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH LATER A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BEGAN ILLUMINATING ON THE DASHBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE CONTACT WAS TOLD THAT THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING. THE CONTACT WAS LATER TOLD THAT THE FAILURE WAS WITHIN THE TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,200 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 101,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2002 FORD FOCUS SE STATION WAGON. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. ENGINE HAS STRONG NOISE. THE CONSUMER STATED IT TOOK THREE TIMES TO FIX THE TRANSMISSION. THE WINDOW REGULATORS WERE REPLACED FOUR TIMES, THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING FAILED TWICE WHICH CAUSED COOLANT LEAK. ALSO, THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE AIR BAG SYSTEM AND THE COVER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. *JB
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
OHTSU FN7000 WITHIN ONE MONTH OF BEING PUT ON NEW TIRE WOULD DEFLATE ALL A SUDDEN WHILE PARKED SHORTLY. 4 HOURS OR LESS. CHANGED TO SPARE. TIRE HAD BELLE TIRE RUN A CHECK BLAMED ON BENT RIM. WHICH IS NOT BENT. THEY AIRED IT BACK UP AND SAME AGAIN A MONTH LATER JUST WENT FLAT. TOOK TO A LOCAL SHOP WHO HAS BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 30 PLUS YEARS SAID IT WAS A BAD TIRE IT WAS NOTHING BUT POWDERED RUBBER INSIDE SHOWING WIRES. TOOK BACK TO BELLE TIRE AND HAD TO ARGUE TO GET THEM TO REPLACE TRIED SAYING IT WAS DRIVIN ON WHILE FLAT WHICH IT WAS NOT. I'M AFRAID THE OTHER TIRES MAY HAVE HIDDEN ISSUES NEW TIRE LOOKED BUILT DIFFERENT EVEN SAT ON RIM DIFFERENT AND HAVE YET TO HAVE A ISSUE WAS CHECKED VIA DIFFERENT SHOP RIM DOES NOT LEAK. *TR
OK SO I'VE HAD MY FORD FOCUS FOR ABOUT 3 MONTHS NOW I FELL IN LOVE WITH THIS LITTLE THING RECENTLY GOT STRUTS CHANGED IN FRONT AND BALL JOINTS BUSHINGS AND TIRES SO I KNEW IT WOULD NEED AN ALIGNMENT SO GOT THAT DONE NOW AT SPEEDS FROM 50-60 MPH THIS CAR STARTS FISHTAILING OUT OF CONTROL I DONT HAVE ALOT OF MONEY I AM NOT WORKIN AT PRESENT SO I CANT AFFORD TO TAKE MY USED CAR TO DEALER MUCH LESS TO ANOTHER AUTO SHOP. I TRAVEL 50 -70 MILES EACH DAY TO WORK AND I'M SCARED ITS GONNA FISHTAIL ME INTO A WRECK. MILEAGE 134000 APPLKE VALLEY CALIF.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
THE MOTOR ON THE SUN ROOF AND ALL OF MY WINDOWS WENT OUT THE HANDLE ON DOOR FOR THE FRONT PASSENGER FELL OFF THE ,REAR DOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE ON THE INSIDE JUST FELL APART SOMETIMES YOU CAN'T OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE INSIDE OR THE OUTSIDE ITS LIKE THEY FREEZE UP AND A DAY LATER THEY OPEN (THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE ) SOMETIMES MY CAR JUST DIES OUT AND ALL OF THE PANEL GOES BLANK LIKE IT JUST SHUTS DOWN. *TR
THE MOTOR ON THE SUN ROOF WENT OUT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY I HAD IT FIXED THEN AFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRED IT WENT OUT AGAIN AND I COULDN'T AFFORD TO GET IT FIXED, THE MOTOR FOR THE REAR WINDOWS WENT OUT (BOTH PASSENGER SIDES) THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR DOES NOT LOCK BECAUSE THE MOTOR WENT OUT, AND KNOW THE DRIVERS SIDE WINDOW IS STARTING TO MAKE A NOISE LIKE IT GOING TO GO OUT ALSO AND THE DOOR LOCK IS MAKING NOISE LIKE ITS GOING TO GO OUT. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE FIRST OF ALL WHEN CARRYING SMALL CHILDREN IN THE BACK AND ANOTHER SAFETY ISSUE WITH THE DOORS NOT LOCKING MAKES IT MUCH EASIER FOR SOMEONE TO CAR JACK YOU. I HAVE NEVER HAD A VEHICLE THAT THE ELECTRIC WINDOWS AND DOORS AND THE MOON ROOF WENT OUT THIS HAS TO BE A DEFECT I HAVE GONE TO THE DEALERSHIP TO COMPLAIN AFTER THE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED AND I WAS TOLD THAT THERE ARE NO RECALLS AND THEY CAN'T HELP ME UNLESS I PAY. I CAN'T EVEN LOCK THE DOOR USING A KEY BECAUSE IT DOESN'T WORK. *TR
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
I AM WRITING THIS FOR TWO INCIDENTS HAPPENED WITHIN A TWO WEEK TIME FRAME. 1. THE ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED SINCE ONE PISTON PIN HAD BROKEN DUE TO WHICH THE WHOLE PISTON HAD BROKEN INSIDE THE ENGINE. THE WHOLE ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED AS PER MECHANICS SUGGESTION. I HAVE THE INVOICE FROM THE MECHANIC SHOP AND THE MECHANIC WOULD GLADLY PROVIDE MORE DETAILS IF NEEDED. 2. THIS WAS SCARY ! WHILE DRIVING AT 70 MILES AN HOUR ON CRUISE,THE CAR WOULD NOT COME OUT OF CRUISE CONTROL AND CONSTANTLY ACCELERATED EVEN AFTER TRYING TO USE BRAKES. (IDEALLY WHEN YOU FIRST TOUCH THE BRAKES, THE CAR SHOULD COME OUT OF CRUISE) ONCE THE CAR REACHED AT A SPEED OF 80 MILES AND I COULD NOT DO ANYTHING. WHEN THE CAR WAS SHUT DOWN ABNORMALLY, AND RESTARTED THE ISSUE CONTINUED AND EVEN WHEN IT WAS IN NEUTRAL, IT CONSTANTLY RAVED UP. I SEE OTHER PEOPLE HAVE RECENTLY FILED COMPLAINS FOR THIS AND EXPECT THE NHTSA TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT URGENTLY AS IN MY OPINION IT IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. THE MECHANIC MENTIONED THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE WAS STUCK IN THE HOUSING. CURRENTLY THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS BEEN DISCONNECTED BY MY MECHANIC AND I HAVE BOUGHT A NEW CRUISE CONTROL CABLE FROM THE DEALER AND HOPE TO GET IT FIXED SOON, HOWEVER EXPECT THE COMPANY TO TAKE CARE OF BOTH OF THE ABOVE ISSUES.
WHILE DRIVING MY 2002 FORD FOCUS ABOUT 45 MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED UP TO 85 MPH. I TRIED TO REDUCE SPEED BY STEPPING ON THE BRAKES STILL WOULD NOT COME TO A COMPLETE STOP I HAD TO PULL THE EMERGENCE BRAKE , STEAM WAS COMING OUT OF VEHICLE AND TURN THE ENGINE OFF BUT WHEN I STARTED IT BACK UP THE ENGINE IS STILL REVVING UP. *TR
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE SLIPPED OUT OF DRIVE INTO NEUTRAL. THE CONTACT CALLED FAIRWAY FORD (2761 E STONE DR, KINGSPORT, TN 37660), AND INFORMED THE DEALER OF THE FAILURE. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT HE HAD TO PAY A DIAGNOSTIC FEE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER DUE TO THE DIAGNOSTIC AND REPAIR COSTS. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL WHILE STOPPED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT SUBJECTED TO A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 137,000.
FORD DEALERSHIP IN WOODRUFF, WI REPLACED FRONT RIGHT DRIVE AXLE AND SEAL 4 TIMES BEFORE THEY GOT IT RIGHT AND THE LEAK STOPPED. THIS INITIAL LEAK WAS FOUND BY THE OWNER AFTER THE CAR WAS TAKEN IN FOR A FULL CHECK UPON PURCHASING INDICATING THE DEALERSHIP DID NOT INSPECT THE CAR AS THEY STATED AND WERE PAID TO DO. THE SAME DAY AFTER GETTING THE CAR BACK FOR THE LAST TIME SHIFTING PROBLEMS BEGAN TO OCCUR AND I HAD TO REPLACE THE OVERDRIVE SOLENOID BECAUSE THE CAR WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO OVERDRIVE. THIS SOLVED THAT PROBLEM BUT NOW THE CAR SHUDDERS BETWEEN 40-50 MPH AS IF IT IS SHIFTING BACK AND FORTH BETWEEN GEARS. NOTHING SHOWS UP ON A DIAGNOSTIC CHECK, MAY BE EXPENSIVE TORQUE CONVERTER PROBLEM. A LARGE NUMBER OF POSTS ON THE INERNET SHOW TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS AND SOLENOIDS ARE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH FORD FOCUS CARS AND UNFORTUNATELY SOME PEOPLE ARE LED TO BELIEVE THEY NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION WHICH THEY HAVE REPLACED PROBABLY DUE TO MISDIAGNOSIS AND AT A HUGE UNNECESSARY EXPENSE. *TR
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE MADE U-TURN AND CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT DID NOT PROPERLY RESTRAIN THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS TAKEN TO A NEARBY EMERGENCY ROOM TO BE TREATED WITH BACK, SHOULDER AND NECK INJURES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
FAILED TO RETRACT TO THE RATCHET. LEFT WITH LOOSE NON FUNCTIONAL LENGTHY BELT NOT PROTECTING ME FROM POSSIBLE CRASH. *TR
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
I drive a 2002 Ford Focus Sedan. My engine light is on, warning light for trunk door ajar light is on (even though the trunk is securely locked, my front headlights due not work consistently (sometimes work, sometimes don't). My trunk does not always latch secure after I close it as well. I took my car to Advanced Auto Parts and had my engine light diagnosed. Engine codes that resulted were: B1318, B1881, C1947, B2438, B2434, P0457. The representative tested my battery and found that the voltage was slightly lower than it should be. My concern is for my safety as well as the safety of others. Do we have some manufacturer defects on this particular vehicle? Have other concerns which could be the result of vehicle wear and tear, or/and due to manufacturer defects as well. Inner tie rods need replaced as well as control arms/bushings, as reported to me by a mechanic. I have seen recall reports related to the 2002 Ford Focus in which there has been issues directly related to what I'm reporting, which is another reason I'm filing a report. Thank you. The contact wanted to add that the wipers are experiencing an electrical issue as well. When in use, the wipers cannot be switched off when it is at the highest position because it will not return in the downward position.
TAIL LIGHT CONNECTION MELTS DUE TO BULB GETTING TOO HOT. IMPOSSIBLE TO REMOVE CONNECTOR TO REPLACE BULB. HAVE TO REPLACE ENTIRE LENS. MANY, MANY REPORTS ONLINE OF THIS HAPPENING. FORD DENIES AND REFUSES TO REPLACE. EXPENSIVE REMEDIES FOR CUSTOMERS. THIS HAPPENS ON FOCUS WAGONS AND MANY OTHER FORDS.
Heating & air conditioning
Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
From owner reports, verbatim
I HAVE HAD MY A/C WORKED ON AT LEAST 3 TIMES. ALSO HAVE HEAVY VIBRATIONS WHEN I JUST HAD IT ALIGNED 5/04/03. AND STILL HAVING HEAVY VIBRATIONS.AK
THE ORIGINAL FIRESTONE TIRES (205/50R16) WEAR OUT PREMATURELY. THE VEHICLE BECOMES UNSTEADY ON BUMPY, WET OR SNOW COVERED ROADS, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL. THE REAR TIRES VIBRATE AND CHATTER WHEN DRIVING ON WIND ROADS AND ON OPEN ROADS AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, ALSO THE REAR TIRES WERE SHOWING IRREGULAR AND PREMATURE WEAR. THE MANUFACTURER REPRESENTATIVES STATED THAT IMPROPER FACTORY ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATION WERE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEMS. AUTO DOOR LOCKS MALFUNCTIONS. THE REAR HATCH DOOR WAS MISALIGNED AND WOULD NOT CLOSE PROPERLY, THE REAR WINDOW WASHER WOULD NOT SPRAY PROPERLY AND THE REAR WINDOW WASHER NOZZLE FAILED, THERE WAS AN ODOR COMING FROM HEATING OR A/C SYSTEM, THE POWER STEERING LINE WAS LEAKING. THE TRANSMISSION WAS DIFFICULT TO SHIFT INTO 2ND GEAR AND REVERSE WHEN IT WAS COLD, THE CHILD RESTRAINT BRACKETS WAS PUTTING DENTS IN THE REAR SEAT *YH
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .