Faults:

The brakes make noises all the time.

The blower fan was replaced at 46k.

The water pump went bad at 57k miles.

The power windows work and then stop.

Have had four sets of tires on car due to front problems.

The ignition just went bad so the key does not turn to start the car at 87k.

General Comments:

The gas mileage is fair, but look to overseas cars to be better. Overall maintenance standards are below par for the Focus SE. All the gauges are in good positions and easy to work. The engine is underpowered, but will do around town. The arm rest is in a poor position in the front seat.

Faults:

The only problem I've had with this car is that it has a sporatic hick-up. every now and then while driving, the engine will momentarily quit, the gages will flash and the engine will rev. but then as quickly as it happens it will go away. sometimes not happening again for days or weeks. does anyone out there have the same problem? and if so... what can I do. the used car dealer has done much testing, but with no success.

General Comments:

Over all it is a great car, good on gas, and fun to drive.

Faults:

I purchased a used 2001 Ford Focus in March of 2002. It had 43,895 miles when I purchased it. I've had odd ball problems and recalls, but this problem has never been recalled and is becoming expensive. At 68,055 miles on October 15, 2004 I had the ignition switch replaced at the dealership along with the steering column because my key was getting stuck in the ignition and I could not start the car. The bill with taxes totaled 363.68. Today, January 21, 2006 at 79,369 miles my key to my Ford Focus is stuck in the ignition and will not come out of the ignition. Yes, I am a women driver. Yes, I do not know the mechanics of a car. No, I am not stupid. 11,314 miles, 1 year and 3 months later I have to go back to the dealership to replace the ignition. I have found various similar reports on-line and will continue to investigate.

General Comments:

FORD MOTOR COMPANY needs to recognize the HUGE ignition problem.

Faults:

The car has started to rust in three places, the most serious being on the boot lid, where it is bubbling around the trim. The other two patches of rust are behind the door mirrors. I have approached my usual dealer about this, they referred the claim to Ford UK, who told me the car was to old for them to consider repairing. Beware of the anti-perforation warranty, this does not mean an anti-rust/corrosion cover. I have had several communications with Ford customer services, non have resulted in a satisfactory outcome.

General Comments:

Comfortable, reliable and economical car with fine handling that can upset much more prestige manufacturers cars. Shame it cannot match the finish, not hard for todays technologies.