Ford Focus problems
The Ford Focus is a compact car (C-segment in Europe) manufactured by Ford Motor Company since 1999. It was created under Alexander Trotman's Ford 2000 plan, which aimed to globalize model development and sell one compact vehicle worldwide. The original Focus was primarily designed by Ford of Europe's German and British teams. Production of the fourth generation Focus began in 2018 in Germany and China.
Naming
The decision to name the new car the "Ford Focus" was made in early 1998, as Ford's senior management had been planning to keep the "Escort" nameplate for its new generation of small family cars. A last-minute problem arose in July 1998 when a Cologne court, responding to a case brought by the publisher Burda, ordered Ford to avoid the name "Focus" for the cars in the German market since the name was already taken by one of its magazines (Focus). This eleventh-hour dispute was resolved, however, and the car was launched with the name Focus.
First generation (C170; 1998)
Ford of Europe introduced the Focus in 1998 to the European market as a replacement for the Ford Escort. The Focus Mk 1 was awarded the 1999 European Car of the Year award. The project manager for the Ford Focus at Dunton was Rose Mary Farenden.
Ford of North America began marketing the Focus in September 1999 for the 2000 model year, with some changes from the European version. The car was launched as a three-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and five-door wagon; a five-door hatchback debuted in 2001.
In 2002, Ford launched its highest performance version of the Focus, called the Focus RS. It came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged Duratec RS engine, a Quaife ATB limited-slip differential, an AP Racing clutch, and a revolutionary design front suspension strut system called "Revo-knuckle"- as marketed by Ford, Sachs Racing dampers Brembo brakes, 18” O.Z Racing alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport tyres and a host of other performance changes, combined with a much more aggressive appearance, and was available only in Ford's Imperial blue. Tickford Engineering won the engineering contract for the research, development and to oversee production of the Mk 1 Focus RS. Tickford made substantial modifications to the base unit, with up to 70% of the base components either updated, re-engineered or completely redesigned. Despite the development being carried out in the United Kingdom, Ford produced the Focus RS in the Saarlouis plant in Germany between 2002 and 2003 making a limited run of 4501 cars only. This original Focus RS was only available in Europe; just under half (2147) of these were sold in the UK.
For decades, in the U.S., small cars like the Focus were seen as a tool to draw in younger buyers looking for a cheap basic transportation and to increase auto makers' fleet average fuel economies to meet U.S. federal standards. Ford was said not to be concerned about losing money on the Focus so the company could sell gas guzzlers for big profits. However, recent sales of new Focuses have been able to maintain lower or overall discounting incentive rates than many competing vehicles in its class. Many industry insiders view cars like the Focus as 'compliance cars' because of their role in helping to bring up the corporate fleet average fuel economy to meet current fuel-economy standards.
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Ford Focus model years
Common Ford Focus problems
The Ford Focus has been a popular car choice for many drivers, but it has had its fair share of problems over the years. This article will explore some of the most common problems with the Ford Focus, based on complaints from owners.
- Door Latch Problem: Some cars built between September and November 1998 had problems with their door latches which weren’t built to specification, preventing the doors from closing properly. This could be a significant safety concern, as it could lead to the doors opening during driving.
- Loss of Engine Power: The 1.6 petrol version of the Focus, built between January 1999 and January 2000, may exhibit engine cut outs, which are caused by a malfunction in the engine management software. This issue could lead to a loss of power while driving, which could be dangerous in certain situations.
- Oil Filler Cap Problem: Many 1998-2004 models had a oil filler caps which worked loose and allowed oil to drip onto the exhaust heat shield. This could lead to a fire hazard, as well as a decrease in engine performance.
- Automatic Gearbox Problem: Damage to the crankshaft position sensor often led to engines cutting out, specifically affecting 1.6 petrol Focuses with automatic gearboxes built between August 1999 and February 2000. This issue could lead to a loss of power while driving, which could be dangerous in certain situations.
- Wiper Motor Problem: Some early second-generation cars built between April 2003 and March 2005 had wiper motors which could overheat and fail due to water entering through the wiper arm spindle. This issue could lead to a loss of visibility while driving, which could be dangerous in certain situations.
- Engine Failure: A serious problem specific to 1.6 TDCi cars built between February and June 2004. Misaligned oil feeds reduced oil flow, causing premature wearing of the camshaft bearings and eventual engine seizure. This issue could lead to a complete engine failure, which would be costly to repair.
- Brake Pedal Sticking: Focuses built between November 2005 and December 2006 may exhibit problems with their brake pedals becoming stiff in cold weather, due to a non-return valve in the pump began to stick. This issue could lead to a decrease in braking performance, which could be dangerous in certain situations.
- Power Steering Problems: Models built between April and May 2008 could have had problems caused by inadequate power steering hoses, which degraded and allowed hydraulic fluid to seep out. This issue could lead to a loss of power steering, which could be dangerous in certain situations.
- Rear Hub Bolt Problems: Some models built between February and April 2007 had problems with the rear hub bolts which could work loose because they weren’t made to the correct specification. This issue could lead to a loss of control while driving, which could be dangerous in certain situations.
In addition to these issues, the Ford Focus has also been known to have problems with its dual-clutch automatic transmission, which can cause fluctuating engine revolutions per minute (RPM), pre-ignition at low speeds, and engine stalling. These issues can be particularly problematic for new drivers, as they can make the car difficult to control.
Overall, while the Ford Focus has been a popular car choice for many drivers, it is important to be aware of these common problems. If you are considering purchasing a Ford Focus, it may be worth having the car inspected by a mechanic to ensure that these issues have been addressed. Additionally, if you are already a Ford Focus owner, it may be worth keeping an eye out for these issues and addressing them as soon as possible to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.
What are the most common faults on a Ford Focus?
Ford Focus Common Problems and Solutions
- Engine Misfire. Problem: ...
- Engine Cuts Out. Problem: ...
- Air-bag problems. Problem: ...
- Brake hose problems. Problem: ...
- Oil filler cap problemOil filler cap problem. Problem: ...
- Door latch problem. Problem: ...
- Alternator problem. Problem: ...
- Key Stuck in Ignition. Problem:
Is a Ford Focus a reliable car?
The Ford Focus is reliable car, albeit petrol models slightly more so than diesel ones. In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, the Focus came ninth in petrol form and 11th in diesel form – the total pool was 29 in the family car class.
What years did Ford Focus have problems?
Compared by model year, CarComplaints.com identified the 2000-2003 and 20012-2014 model years as the most troublesome for the Ford Focus. Other model years proved much more reliable. Improvements finally showed in the 2015 Focus and the 2018-2019 Focuses received fewer complaints.
What years Ford Focus is best?
Most Reliable Years For The Ford Focus
- 2010 Ford Focus.
- 2011 Ford Focus.
- 2018 Ford Focus.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Focus years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Focus cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Focus model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Focus model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Focus years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Focus car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Focus , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Focus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Focus model years
A total of 1046 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Focus model years
There were a total of 306 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Focus model years
There were a total of 862 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Focus model years
There were a total of 35 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 19185 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Focus . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Focus vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- VIN: 1FADP3K20EL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, steering wheel seized, and felt very stiff. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 167,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-20
- VIN: 1FADP3K2XEL
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2014 Ford Focus due to recurring error codes P0456 (Very Small Leak Detected), P1450 (Unable to Bleed Up Fuel Tank Vacuum), and P2190 (System Too Rich at Idle). These issues relate to the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) and fuel tank system, which have caused symptoms such as intermittent Check Engine Light warnings, fuel odor, and difficulty refueling. These problems were confirmed by an independent service center during diagnostic testing, but the dealership refused to perform a goodwill fix, citing that my vehicle is not currently included in related recalls. This is particularly concerning because a large number of 2014 Ford Focus vehicles—approximately 1.5 million—have been recalled for similar issues with the EVAP and fuel systems, which pose risks such as fuel vapor leaks and stalling due to fuel system pressure irregularities. Although my VIN is not listed under the recall, the identical symptoms strongly suggest my vehicle should be included. I have not had the vehicle inspected by Ford or other representatives, but I urge NHTSA to investigate further as this is a significant safety concern that endangers me and others on the road.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- VIN: 1FADP3F23EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking abnormally and then stalled with the “Service Transmission” warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle shut off in the middle of the roadway. The contact was assisted by a Police Officer was nearby in moving the vehicle over to the shoulder. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The contact stated that occasionally while depressing the accelerator pedal the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that occasionally while driving and exceeding 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the horn and the hazard lights failed to function as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-18
- VIN: 1FADP3F21EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while reversing, the vehicle failed to reverse as intended. In addition, the contact stated that the gear shifter did not function as intended. The contact stated that the gear shifter did not go into park or drive. The contact had to use the parking brake. The contact stated that he tried driving the vehicle again, the contact was able to drive a short distance and the failure reoccurred. In addition, the transmission was slipping. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- VIN: 1FADP3K24EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I am the owner of a 2014 Ford Focus VIN [XXX] . I have had the car into an Authorized Ford Dealership numerous times. On the 2nd to last visit the Transmission Control Module was replaced at no cost to me. However, since then the transmission has malfunctioned again. It lurches, loses power and stalls. I took it back to the Ford Dealer and was told I needed a new transmission. I blame this on the extended length of time it took the Ford Motor Company to get the TCM and schedule the replacement. Am I entitled to any compensation or a buyback from Ford? What other steps can be taken to resolve my issue? Thank you for your time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-11
- VIN: 1FADP3K27EL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The warranty was extended on the transmission control module (TCM) instead of a recall. Symptoms of the TCM include “intermittent loss of transmission engagement while driving, no start, or lack of power”. All potentially very dangerous in my opinion. It is also my opinion (and others) that a failing TCM can harm the clutch. My TCM was reprogrammed in 2019 and the clutch (under warranty at the time) was replaced. Last week the TCM was replaced at no charge and the clutch was replaced again but at a cost of $3,571.77 this time. I was driving on an interstate highway when a warning light came on and minutes later the car went into neutral. Fortunately for me I was able to get off an exit and pull over on the exit ramp shoulder. I see online that many others are having similar problems. Some might not be as lucky as I was.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FADP3F25EL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: At stop sigh,another vehicle coming down from a hill with a high speed hit and crush my car from behind.Two back passenger doors bent and the trunk hood bent as well.This is why i'm requesting a salvage title.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-06
- VIN: 1FADP3K2XEL
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle sputtered and stalled. The vehicle was able to restart. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was running roughly. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V515000(Fuel System, Gasoline), and the contact replaced the purge valve; however the failure recurred. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the local dealer and to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-04
- VIN: 1FADP3K25EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while his grandson was driving at various speeds and accelerating and decelerating, the vehicle hesitated and shuddered abnormally. The contact stated that the vehicle also lunged forward while braking. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact’s grandson was informed that the clutch needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 92,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-01
- VIN: 1FADP3J25EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle shuddered while shifting into 2nd gear. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but had become a recurring failure. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the TCM and the transmission clutches needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact had been advised by the dealer that there was a manufacturer recall for the TCM (14M02 - TCM Extended Warranty); however, the vehicle was no longer covered under warranty. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Ford Focus 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-01
- VIN: 1FAHP3F21CL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Focus. While the contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred a short distance from the residence. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission clutch assembly failure. The contact was informed that the transmission clutch assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The contact stated that the transmission clutch assembly had been replaced in 2019, 2020, and 2021, and the repairs were covered under warranty. The contact stated that another Ford dealer had completed the previous repairs. The contact stated that in 2021 after the repair was performed, the contact was provided a discount if the failure reoccurred; however, the discount was not applied during the July 2024 repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 139,164.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- VIN: 1FADP3F26EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 to 40 MPH, the vehicle started jerking abnormally. The contact stated that while at a traffic light, the vehicle revved up abnormally. The vehicle failed to go into gear. The check engine and another unknown warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the vehicle had experienced transmission failure. The mechanic informed the contact that the transmission needed to be rebuilt or replaced. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, opened a case, and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-29
- VIN: 1FADP3F22EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH and ascending a slope, the transmission was struggling to shift into gears and downshifted abruptly. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the dealer determined that the transmission control module(TCM) and the transmission clutches needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the TCM replacement would be covered under Ford Campaign Number: 14M02; however, the transmission clutches replacement was not covered under Ford Campaign Number: 19N08. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1FADP3K23EL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Car failed to turn
Ford Focus 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1FADP3F20GL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle began jerking and stopped. The engine light was illuminated. There was an unknown red symbol displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined the transmission had failed. The contact called the local dealer, who referred her to the manufacturer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who informed the contact that there was no recall coverage, opened a case, and referred to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Focus
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 112 recalls for different components of the Ford Focus.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Focus 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-22
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:PUMP
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus and 2018-2022 Ford EcoSport vehicles. The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner may fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure.
- Consequence: A loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the oil pump tensioner assembly and oil pump drive belt, free of charge. If engine failure occurs due to a damaged oil pump belt and/or oil pump belt tensioner, Ford has authorized dealers to replace the engine assembly as an interim repair before the availability of remedy parts for the final repair. This repair will be free of charge (parts and labor). Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed June 20, 2024. A second notice will be sent once remedy parts become available, anticipated in 4th Quarter 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S64.
- Model: Ford Focus 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-22
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:PUMP
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus and 2018-2022 Ford EcoSport vehicles. The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner may fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure.
- Consequence: A loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the oil pump tensioner assembly and oil pump drive belt, free of charge. If engine failure occurs due to a damaged oil pump belt and/or oil pump belt tensioner, Ford has authorized dealers to replace the engine assembly as an interim repair before the availability of remedy parts for the final repair. This repair will be free of charge (parts and labor). Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed June 20, 2024. A second notice will be sent once remedy parts become available, anticipated in 4th Quarter 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S64.
- Model: Ford Focus 2018
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-22
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:PUMP
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus and 2018-2022 Ford EcoSport vehicles. The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner may fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure.
- Consequence: A loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the oil pump tensioner assembly and oil pump drive belt, free of charge. If engine failure occurs due to a damaged oil pump belt and/or oil pump belt tensioner, Ford has authorized dealers to replace the engine assembly as an interim repair before the availability of remedy parts for the final repair. This repair will be free of charge (parts and labor). Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed June 20, 2024. A second notice will be sent once remedy parts become available, anticipated in 4th Quarter 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S64.
- Model: Ford Focus 2014
- Report Received Date: 2020-06-08
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
- Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.
- Model: Ford Focus 2013
- Report Received Date: 2020-06-08
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
- Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.
Latest negative Ford Focus car reviews
Latest positive Ford Focus car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2013
I purchased my 2013 Focus SE hatch brand new two years ago and have had no issues with it whatsoever. The chassis is superb and the engine provides adequate power while returning over 30 mpg and easily over 40 on the highway. Although the interior has a lot of hard plastic, this is to be expected at this price point. I particularly love the cloth seats and the hatch, which holds a ton of stuff. The powershift automatic can be a bit unpleasant at low speeds (chattering, lurching), but works great when pressed. In my opinion, Ford delivers the best driving compact in the segment at this price. I hope the reliability continues to be good going forward. I sold my Focus after 4 years, so this is my final review for 45,000 miles of ownership. Ford rebuilt the powershift transmission, which helped, but did not eliminate the occasional shuddering issues. This is the only downside to the car (considering the price) and the only problem I encountered. The ride/handling was very good, the engine had decent power, and the mpg was outstanding. Although the back seats are tight, the hatch holds plenty of cargo and the layout and controls are good. The seat comfort was great and the car was actually pretty fun to drive.
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Vehicle year: 2009
After having an Escort wagon for 11 years and 100,000 miles (the clutch is still original), I decided to look for a second car. I test drove the Honda, but ultimately bought the Focus SES Sedan. The price was right, and I have had good ownership and reliability experience with Ford. Plus, the car is union made. In my opinion, Honda is like the Starbucks of the car world - you pay big money for average coffee.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I wrote a review on 20AUG2008 and I am writing part two today. I am still thrilled with my decision to purchase a brand new 2008 Ford Focus S. Looking back, I wish I had more time to consider the details of the S versus the other upgraded models, but I was in a rush to get out of my Land Rover. Fortunately, I have not experienced any major issues with my Focus, only having to change the tires and purchase a new battery. With approximately 56k miles on it, my Focus has never failed me. Although I have been considering purchasing another SUV, after reading reviews and seeing the cost of fuel, I am happy to stick with my trusty Focus.
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Vehicle year: 2013
I find it hard to believe that people who have written negative reviews have the same car as I do. While the transmission can be a little quirky at times, I believe that this may have a lot to do with the driver. I have owned a lot of vehicles, including Mercedes, BMW, Toyota, Nissan, and more, all of which I have enjoyed. However, I must say that I absolutely love this car and feel that it offers the best value for money that I have ever experienced. It runs great, drives great, looks great, and is incredibly comfortable, all while providing great mileage. I have even taken trips of up to 3000 miles in it! I am sorry to hear that those other folks did not have the same positive experience as I did.
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Vehicle year: 2015
This is my 3rd Focus and I decided to buy new this time, having bought used before and the cars were great. Although this one is great in most ways, the hesitation felt on acceleration is a big issue for me. Both of my previous Focus vehicles had quick acceleration, and I expected the same from this one. However, the transmission does not meet my expectations. When I bought this car, I thought it might be my last car, but now it will depend on how much I can tolerate the hesitation issue. I contacted the dealer where I bought the car and Ford itself, and both told me that the transmission has a unique response. However, after testing, the clutch in my transmission failed. The part was on national backorder for 8-10 weeks, but it was repaired last week and is running really well now. My gas mileage has increased dramatically. For anyone with transmission issues on your Focus and not getting resolution from Ford, there is a law firm that is putting together a class action suit against Ford, and you can contact them at www.attorneyzim.com. I'm also having an ongoing issue with a fuel odor that is very strong at times, and it is intermittent. I can't make it happen, and I can't get the dealer to take the situation seriously. My next Ford battle! Update November 2016: I don't drive a lot, so after owning this car for 1 1/2 years, I have only 13,000 miles on it. The transmission issue is okay, and my mileage dropped quite a bit for a while. Now I can get better pick up, but I have to push it a little harder and tolerate the revving up of the engine to do so. It sounds like a sports car when doing so.I prefer quiet cars, and unfortunately, I did not enjoy the sound of this one. Despite having taken it to two different places, the intermittent fuel odor persisted. Although the overall testing of the car indicated that it was okay, the smell continued, and it evolved from a gasoline odor to a combination of grease and gasoline. To avoid the odor, I had to turn my A/C up to the maximum to shut off the outside air. I reached out to Ford about the issue, but they did not offer any solutions. Update: 11/15/17, I no longer own this vehicle as I traded it in two months ago.
Are you having problems with your Ford Focus?
Kenneth Zieme 2025-02-22
Vehicle year: 2015
The 2015 Ford Focus caught my attention through appearance. However, I have had some issues with the car. It stutters at acceleration and makes noises during gear shifts, which has left me stranded before with no warning. I wish I had known more about the car before purchasing it.
Claude O'Hara 2025-02-21
Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased a brand new Ford Focus Hatchback in 2018. Unfortunately, the transmission failed three times within a year, which was a dangerous experience on the highway. However, I am confident in my decision to choose Ford and believe that this was an isolated incident.
Sigmund Prohaska 2025-02-19
Vehicle year: 2016
My wife and I purchased a 2016 Focus s e sedan for her to use in her retirement. The car was very stylish and pretty. However, within the first month, we noticed that the transmission was making a loud clicking noise when coming to a stop. We took it back to the dealer five times in the next two months, but they told us that it was just the car getting used to our driving. Unfortunately, six months into owning the car, it suddenly shut off and shook violently while we were at a toll booth. We were able to drive away, but we immediately went to the dealer and traded it in. We were disappointed to find out that we had lost half of the car's value in just six months, as we had paid $23,000 for it and were only offered $10,600 for trade-in. We learned a valuable lesson and will be more cautious in the future. It's important to do your research before making a purchase. Thank you for reading.
Santino Koepp 2025-02-19
Vehicle year: 2013
I had to get rid of my 2013 Ford Focus on 9-15-14, unfortunately at a loss. I experienced some transmission issues that have been mentioned before, including a scary moment when I almost got hit while entering an intersection and the transmission just stopped working. I was always told that it was supposed to run like that, but it clearly wasn't. At a routine 35000 mile oil change, I was informed that a seal between the transmission and engine had failed and oil had leaked from the engine. It was repaired and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that there was an extended warranty on the part and associated parts from Ford, although they didn't inform me until a week after the repair. Unfortunately, the shuddering eventually started up again and on 9-14-14, I noticed a burnt rubber smell from...
Kelvin McDermott 2025-02-17
Vehicle year: 2015
I purchased a used 2013 Ford Focus, but unfortunately, the transmission had to be rebuilt twice. Although I was initially disappointed, the dealership offered to trade it in for a 2015 model, which I thought would solve the problem. However, it turned out that Ford had misled their dealers about the transmission issues. Despite this setback, I must say that the car was great for my daily expressway commute, providing excellent gas mileage and a safe driving experience. The transmission had to be rebuilt twice, once at 35,000 miles and again at 65,000 miles, but I believe that it would have been worse if I had driven in stop-and-go traffic more often. Fortunately, the extended warranty covered the cost of the repairs. The water pump did fail at 75,000 miles, but that was the only other issue I had. When I reached 92,000 miles in just 3.5 years and started to worry about the transmission failing again, I decided to trade it in for a Subaru. Overall, I had a good experience with the car and the dealership, and I would recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable vehicle.