2005 Ford Focus ZXW 2.0 from North America
Summary:
Not worth the headaches
Faults:
Mysterious charging system problem...
This car has been through 3 batteries and alternators. Tested the wiring from the PCM to the alternator, and they are OK. Just slipped in a new alternator (old one got burned up from overcharging) and the damn thing is still overcharging. Battery is new.
Why is this stupid thing still overcharging? The IPC communicates with the PCM through the CAN network bus line. Should the system not know when the battery is sufficiently charged? I have seen this same problem on the Internet in several other instances. Someone out there knows the answer, and Ford is not telling.
And as well, the instrument panel has had intermittent operation, and the radio sometimes turns on by itself. Weird.
Anyone know what the issue is? Besides cliff it, it's a POS, etc? Cause I know that already! Any feedback would be appreciated.
General Comments:
Other than the charging system issue burning up batteries and alternators, the car runs and drives very good.
Ford needs to take responsibility for its piss poor electrical systems.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 19th September, 2008
23rd Nov 2009, 16:55
This is the OP, chiming in once again...
Thanks for all the helpful feedback.. really? It made the effort of posting a REAL car problem all the more worthwhile =/
4th Feb 2010, 17:21
Sorry, you feel that way, but most readers read this to find out about the cars before making a buying decision, not to offer advice on fixing problems.
Seek out specialized Ford or Focus Forums.
Good luck if your problem isn't yet cured. If it is, you might post the solution.
14th Apr 2010, 10:37
I don't have an answer for you, but I have a Focus that does the exact same thing. I hope one of us finds out what it is. You're right, it's a shame Ford won't tell us anything.
27th Mar 2009, 14:35
Hello, this is the OP here.
Surely someone has read this article by now, as I had written it 6 months ago. Does anyone know what the answer is with this hunk of junk? There must be millions of other '05 Focuses out there, there must be some people affected by this garbage.
Hello??