2012 Ford Focus electric problems

General information about Ford-Focus electric
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The Ford Focus Electric is a 5-door hatchback electric car that was produced by Ford. The Focus Electric is Ford's second production all-electric vehicle (the first being the Ford Ranger EV), and was made from December 2011 to May 2018.

The Focus Electric uses the same body (or glider) as the gasoline powered third generation Ford Focus. On introduction in 2011 it had a 23 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack, which delivered a range of 76 mi (122 km) according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. For the 2017 model this was upgraded to a 33.5 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack which delivers a range of 115 mi (185 km) according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The agency rated the Focus Electric combined fuel economy at 105 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (2.2 L/100 km) for the original model and 107 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (2.2 L/100 km) for the 2017 model, and ranks the Focus Electric as the most fuel-efficient car sold in the United States in the compact class. The Focus Electric was awarded the 2011 Green Car Vision Award at the 2011 Washington Auto Show.

History

The Ford Focus BEV was the concept electric car introduced by Ford Motor Company at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Focus BEV concept used the European Mark II as its donor vehicle and incorporated key components from Ford's North American hybrid technology, including the electric climate control system from the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

The Focus electric pre-production car was unveiled at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show under the new name of Ford Focus Electric, and this pre-production version was based on the Focus Mark III.

Deliveries for fleet customers in the United States began in December 2011, and it was released to retail customers in May 2012 only in California, New York and New Jersey, in limited numbers, followed by the other 16 initial markets in the third quarter of 2012. The European release was initially slated for late 2012, but was rescheduled to start deliveries in August 2013. Unlike some smaller volume electric vehicles marketed only in California or other markets where mandated, the Focus Electric was sold in all 50 US states.

Production of the Focus Electric ran throughout the cycle of the third generation standard internal combustion model in the US. Both concluded in May 2018.

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Common 2012 Ford Focus electric problems

The 2012 Ford Focus Electric has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the main issues is with the car's charging system. Some owners have reported that the car does not keep charge, which can be a significant problem for an electric vehicle.

Another common issue with the 2012 Ford Focus Electric is with the power steering system. Some owners have reported that the power steering (EPAS) fails frequently, which can make the car difficult to handle and maneuver. This can be a significant safety concern, especially at high speeds or in tight spaces.

The car's clutch has also been known to cause problems for some owners. In particular, there have been reports of clutch leaks, which can lead to a loss of power and difficulty shifting gears. This can be a significant inconvenience, especially for those who rely on their car for daily commuting.

There have also been reports of the car's windows not working properly. Some owners have reported a "waffle pattern" in their car's windows, which can be a cosmetic issue but can also affect the car's visibility and safety.

Finally, there have been several recalls for the 2012 Ford Focus Electric. One recall is due to a powertrain control module software problem that can result in a stall-like condition, increasing the risk of a crash.

Overall, while the 2012 Ford Focus Electric has many positive features, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and consider them when making their purchasing decision.

How long does a 2012 Ford Focus electric battery last?

The batteries should be good for 100K plus but many have experienced coolant leaks in the battery that have killed the batteries. Ford offers a refurb battery for $13k plus more to install it.

What is a common problem of Ford Focus 2012?

According to CarComplaints.com, the 2012 Focus has a whopping 5,000+ NHTSA complaints and seven recalls. Among the thousands of complaints, the 2012 Ford Focus's most reported sore spots are power steering failure, shifting issues, and shuddering and vibrations during takeoff.

What is the recall on the electric Ford Focus?

2018 Ford Focus Electric Recall

Description of Recall: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles with a 2.0L GDI or 2.0L GTDI engine. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, possibly causing excessive vacuum in fuel vapor management system.

How many miles does a Ford Focus Electric last?

Ford Focus Electric
Electric motor	143 hp (107 kW) synchronous motor
Transmission	1 Speed
Battery	23 or 33.5 kWh lithium-ion battery
Range	76 mi (122 km) or 115 mi (185 km) (EPA)

How long does a 2012 Ford Focus electric battery last?

The batteries should be good for 100K plus but many have experienced coolant leaks in the battery that have killed the batteries. Ford offers a refurb battery for $13k plus more to install it.

What is the biggest problem with Ford Focus?

Here are a few common Ford Focus problems reported by owners:

Alternator issues.
Water leaks.
Steering issues.
Brake issues.
Engine cutting out.
Bonnet won't open.

How long does it take to charge a 2012 Ford Focus electric?

Another advantage for the Ford is that recharging the Focus's 23-kWh lithium-ion battery from empty takes three to four hours on 240-volt power, or nearly half the time required for the Leaf (although we hear that Nissan will be upgrading the car's onboard charger for quicker refills soon).

Is Ford Focus SE 2012 a good car?

The 2012 Ford Focus feels like a European car in the way it's been tuned to provide both sharp handling and a refined ride. There's very little body roll in corners, while the sharp, communicative steering is a revelation given that it's electrically assisted.

2012 Ford Focus electric complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Ford Focus electric.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2012 Ford Focus electric recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Ford Focus electric.

2018-09-10

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 120V Convenience charge cords that were supplied with and sold for use with 2013-2015 Ford C-Max Energi and Fusion Energi vehicles and 2012-2015 Ford Focus Electric vehicles. Cords with part numbers FM58-10B706-AA, FM58-10B706-AB, FM58-10B706-AC, FM58-10B706-AD, FM58-10B706-AE and FM58-10B706-AF were manufactured without thermistors, and during vehicle charging, increased resistance in the house's outlet or wiring can cause the cord to overheat and melt.
Consequence: An overheated cord can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current cord with a new 120V convenience cord with a thermistor, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S24.

2013-10-30

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Focus Electric vehicles manufactured September 15, 2011, through August 23, 2013. In the affected vehicles, a powertrain control module software problem may result in a stall-like condition.
Consequence: An unexpected loss of power while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the power control module, free of charge. The recall beganon November 22, 2013. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S09. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

2013-10-17

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Focus Electric vehicles and 2013 C-Max vehicles equipped with the Intelligent Access Push Button Start System. In the affected vehicles, there is no audible chime when the vehicle is operational and the driver's door is opened. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence: Without an audible door chime, a vehicle owner may open the door and exit the vehicle without being reminded that the vehicle is still operational, leaving the vehicle susceptible to theft.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the door chime, free of charge. The recall began on October 30, 2013. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13C07.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Ford Focus electric problems:

Focus Electric won't start | Ford Focus Electric Forum

https://www.myfocuselectric.com/threads/focus-electric-wont-start.710/

Aug 22, 2012 ... Based on discussions with the service adviser at the dealership, initial indications pointed to a battery problem. After several days of working ...

2016 Ford Focus Electric : r/FordFocus

https://www.reddit.com/r/FordFocus/comments/172lc6d/2016_ford_focus_electric/

Oct 8, 2023 ... I've owned a 2012 Focus Electric (1st gen) ... Ford), due to the mentioned problem above. I ... 2012 ford focus transmission issues. 1 upvote ...

Numerous Issues - HELP! | Ford Focus Electric Forum

https://www.myfocuselectric.com/threads/numerous-issues-help.5016/

May 10, 2021 ... I have a 2012 Focus EV with 54k on it. If I drive on the highway (above 45 mph) i will only get approx 50 miles out of the charge, even ...

2012 Ford Focus SEL - Major Electrical Issues | Focus Fanatics Forum

https://www.focusfanatics.com/threads/2012-ford-focus-sel-major-electrical-issues.399714/

Apr 8, 2014 ... 2012 Ford Focus SEL - Major Electrical Issues · 1. Car wont shut off periodically, electrical systems, including stereo keep running for 30 mins ...