Owners have filed 1,198 complaints
about the 2002 Ford Focus with NHTSA between 2002 and 2024.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 6 of 20 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 40
Against the median year of the Ford Focus. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 94
18.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 65
38% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Ignition
12438.3%
Switch
5115.7%
Engine
319.6%
Frontal
299.0%
Fuel Pump
257.7%
Automatic Transmission
226.8%
Pads
216.5%
Rotor
216.5%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
202.6%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
658.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
14418.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
16421.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
15420.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
9612.5%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
9412.2%
150,000+ miles
314.0%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jan 2002peak 71Dec 2024
NHTSA investigations into the 2002 Ford Focus
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
AQ10001Opened 18 Nov 2010Closed 28 Dec 2015UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Fleet Vehicle Recall Completion Audit
On November 18, 2010, NHTSA's Recall Management Division (RMD) opened an audit query (AQ10-001) to investigate recall remedy completion by rental car companies on safety recall campaigns.It was expected to provide the agency an indication of how completely and how quickly rental car fleets perform necessary recall-related remedies on the vehicles owned and then rented/leased for use on the roadways.RMD queried three (3) major motor vehicle manufacturers (Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors) and requested data regarding completion figures for fifteen (15) discreet safety recalls.Analysis of this...
EA02022Opened 9 Sep 2002Closed 16 Jan 2004FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
ENGINE STALLING
CLOGGING OF THE FUEL DELIVERY MODULE (FDM) FILTERS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES CAN LEAD TO STALLING AND OTHER RELATED SYMPTOMS.THESE SYMPTOMS BECOME INCREASINGLY OBVIOUS TO THE DRIVER AS THE CLOGGING GRADUALLY INCREASES OVER EXTENDED PERIODS OF DRIVING.STALLING IN THESE VEHICLES IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR WHEN ACCELERATING THROUGH A RIGHT HAND TURN SUCH AS MERGING INTO FREEWAY TRAFFIC WHEN THE FUEL LEVEL IN THE FUEL TANK IS LESS THAN 1/4 FULL.MORE THAN 90% OF THE STALLING COMPLAINTS PERTAIN TO THE ORIGINAL DESIGN FDM INSTALLED IN MY 2000 AND 2001 (PARTIAL YEAR) FOCUS VEHICLES. FORD HAS DECIDED TO CON...
EA02023Opened 9 Sep 2002Closed 19 Feb 2003SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
FRONT SUSP COLLAPSE/WHEEL SEPARATION
SEE ATTACHED REPORT.
EA02014Opened 31 Jul 2002Closed 13 Nov 2002ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES
PE02044Opened 1 May 2002Closed 9 Sep 2002SUSPENSION
FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM
Recalls on the 2002 Ford Focus
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
12E007000
EQUIPMENT
RIDE CONTROL, LLC (RIDE CONTROL) IS RECALLING CERTAIN READYMOUNT ASSEMBLIES, P/N 746641MT AND 746646MT, WITH CORRESPONDING AFTERMARKET CUSTOMER PART NUMBERS: GABRIEL G56944 AND GABRIEL G56945, AND PRIVATELY BRANDED PARTSMASTER WITH PART NUMBERS G68944 AND G68945. THE READYMOUNT ASSEMBLIES WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET SERVICE EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2000 THROUGH 2005 FORD FOCUS VEHICLES. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH A NUT WITHOUT THE NECESSARY WASHER. THE ABSENCE OF THE WASHER CAN ALLOW THE READYMOUNT ASSEMBLY TO PULL APART THE TOP MOUNT.
Risk: IF THE ASSEMBLY SEPARATES DURING INSTALLATION, IT COULD RESULT IN INJURY TO THE INSTALLER. IF THE ASSEMBLY SEPARATES WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, IT COULD RESULT IN SECONDARY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
09E025000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
09E012000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
08E050000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
06E056000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.
Risk: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
06E049000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
06E026000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
05V030000
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH FOUR OR FIVE DOORS AND ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, A BUILD-UP OF CORROSION AT THE PAWL PIVOT AREA OF THE REAR DOOR LATCH CAN CAUSE A BINDING CONDITION OF THE PAWL THAT MAY AFFECT PROPER ENGAGEMENT OF THE PAWL INTO THE CATCH. THE OCCUPANT MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY OPENING OR CLOSING A REAR DOOR, AND EVENTUALLY THE REAR DOOR MAY NOT LATCH PROPERLY.
Risk: IF NOT LATCHED PROPERLY, THE DOOR MAY OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. IF AN OCCUPANT FELL OUT OF THE VEHICLE, PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2005025152,181 units in Canada
Other
Certain four door (sedan and wagon) and five door vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario may have faulty rear door latches. Corrosion build-up at the pawl pivot area of the latch can cause the latch to bind. The owner may experience difficulty opening or closing a rear door, and eventually the rear door may not latch properly. If not latched properly the door may open while the vehicle is in motion. Correction: Dealers will inspect the rear door latches. A latch that passes the evaluation will be lubricated to prevent future corrosion. A latch that does not pass the evaluation will be replaced.
Recall 200207611 units in Canada
Engine
Certain Focus SVT vehicles built with manual transaxles. There is the potential for the speed control cable to hang up at the throttle body bracket during high, wide open throttle operation, preventing the throttle from returning to the closed position when the accelerator is released. If this condition were to occur, it may be necessary to depress the clutch and apply the brake to bring the vehicle to a stop. Correction: Dealers will replace the throttle body and check for proper operation.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 73,000 milesMorrisville, VTFire
ENGINE
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
NHTSA complaint #10956772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 73,000 milesMorrisville, VTFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
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
NHTSA complaint #10956772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesDenver, COCrash1 injured
SEATS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE IDLING AT A STOP SIGN, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT DISENGAGED FROM THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT WAS INJURED AND RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
NHTSA complaint #10887440 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesOmaha, NE1 injured
AIR BAGS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10780660 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesBellevue, OHCrash1 injured
SEAT BELTS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10604779 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesBellevue, OHCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10604779 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Kennewick, WA
SERVICE BRAKES
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
NHTSA complaint #11632542 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cincinnati, OH
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sunroof Exploded. Empty Road, temp low 40s. No warning. I have owned the car since 2004. Though older car, <120,000 miles.
NHTSA complaint #11584343 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Marinette, WI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The drivers door will not open. It is stuck shut. Turning the key in the lock does not work. Broke outer handle trying to open door to assist elderly party out of drivers seat. Power lock fuse is fine. Took door panel off partly to expose cable, cannot push or pull cable to force open. Safety issue because owner is elderly. Cannot reasonably crawl in and out through passenger side. Emergency personnel would not be able to reach occupants in case of an accident.
NHTSA complaint #11534693 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Easely, SC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
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.
NHTSA complaint #11502938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Easely, SC
SUSPENSION
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.
NHTSA complaint #11502938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Easely, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #11502938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesChurch Hill, TN
POWER TRAIN
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.
NHTSA complaint #11355633 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 75,000 milesBloomsburg, PA
AIR BAGS
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.
NHTSA complaint #11291969 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 108,000 milesChicago, IL
SUSPENSION
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.
NHTSA complaint #11279301 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesSioux City, IA
SUSPENSION
AT SPEED OF 40+MPH AND UNEVEN HIGHWAY OR WHEN ENCOUNTERING A MANHOLE COVER THE REAR OF THE CAR SWAYS AND SHIMMIES LEFT TO RIGHT IN AN EXTREME MANNER. NOTICED MUCH WORSE WITH NEW TIRES THAT GRIP WELL. HAVE HAD IT INSPECTED BY A PROFESSIONAL WHO SAYS ALL VITAL PARTS LOOK OKAY. 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT DID NOT REMEDY. I SEE REFERENCES TO A DESIGN ISSUE WITH THE UPPER CONTROL MEMBERS THAT MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO REACH A CORRECT CAMBER SETTING. I DON'T TRUST MUCH ON THE INTERNET THOUGH, AND WOULD LIKE NHTSA GUIDANCE OR FURTHER INFORMATION. THANKS FOR ANY HELP YOU CAN PROVIDE, I APPRECIATE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11173264 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 125,000 milesTuttle, OK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #11066935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40 milesWilliamsport, PA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
ANTITHEFT HAS CAR LOCKING UP WHILE DRIVING
NHTSA complaint #10980406 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 73,000 milesMorrisville, VTFire
ENGINE
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
NHTSA complaint #10956772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 73,000 milesMorrisville, VTFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
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
NHTSA complaint #10956772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 4,000 milesBuchanan, MI
WHEELS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10944443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,000 milesDriggs, ID
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
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.
NHTSA complaint #10927017 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesBAY City, MI
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
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
NHTSA complaint #10905808 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 134,000 milesApple Valley, CA
WHEELS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10905560 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 134,000 milesApple Valley, CA
STEERING
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.
NHTSA complaint #10905560 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 134,000 milesApple Valley, CA
SUSPENSION
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.
NHTSA complaint #10905560 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,846 milesManhattan Beach, CA
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
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.
NHTSA complaint #10893424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesDenver, COCrash1 injured
SEATS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE IDLING AT A STOP SIGN, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT DISENGAGED FROM THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT WAS INJURED AND RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
NHTSA complaint #10887440 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120 milesDenver, CO
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE DRIVING 50 TO 60 MPH, THE SUSPENSION SPRING ON THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SNAPPED IN HALF. THE FAILURE CAUSED A SHARP POINT AND SHREDDED THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE TIRE AND SPRING WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120. UPDATED 08/17/16*LJ THE CONSUMER HAS SINCE SOLD THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 08/22/16.
NHTSA complaint #10887447 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 38,000 milesRipon, WI
SUSPENSION:REAR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD FOCUS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED, THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE REAR COIL SPRING WAS FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000.
NHTSA complaint #10825189 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesDavidsville, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
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.
NHTSA complaint #10787701 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.