Faults:

Slight coolant leak around waterpump area noted 1 month after private purchase.

Thermostat failed recently (Jun 09). Non-genuine replacement part not an option in New Zealand, $440nz for a genuine Ford replacement! The design of this component appears to be a money making attempt; thermostat assembly consists of metal spring/valve secured by plastic housing, which also incorporates the temp sensor. As the thermostat is routed between radiator & engine inlet (lower hose), had I not addressed this fault sooner, the metal valve & spring could well have caused extensive damage to waterpump impeller... I wouldn't expect change for $700nz+ for a waterpump!

General Comments:

Generally a good reliable car, economical although parts are expensive & non-genuine alternatives are not plentiful.

Faults:

Sports suspension gives a harsh ride.

General Comments:

I am quite happy with the car with the exception of ride quality. From what I had read before purchasing the car, I expected a ride quality similar to the 3 series BMW, which I still own. Any suggestions for modifications to improve the ride?

Faults:

Very costly injector problem after 2 weeks of purchase, repaired by main dealers but still runs rough when cold, smooths out when warm (they say there is nothing wrong with the injectors and it could now be the diesel pump).

Water pump leak (reasonable cost at local garage).

Knocking from rear of car over small humps (fault never found).

Excessive front tyre wear (just had tracking done for the 2nd time and a 2nd set of Pirelli tyres).

General Comments:

Being the Ghia X and full of toys, the car is a pleasure to drive and cruises on the motorway in 6th gear with little effort. Overtaking is a breeze due to the outstanding power the 2.0 common rail diesel engine provides. The cabin is fitted with very comfortable leather seats, and has plenty of room for all the familly.

Economy averages 38-40, and on the motorway I can get around 51mpg.

Faults:

Nothing so far, but I've not had car too long.

The driver's seat has got some wear on side bolsters though, but not too much. I think that was down to last owner catching them, more than wear.

General Comments:

This car is great. Handles power better than my T5 Volvo, but not as quick off the line. Once it gets going, there is not much in it.

It goes round corners better and faster than the S60 (too soft).

MPG is not as good as the Volvo, but I expected that after reading reviews; 20 MPG around town, and I got 33MPG on a run, taking my time.

The car feels solid and tight after 40k.

Great sounding engine when you get past 4k revs, but you will pay for that with fuel, but who cares when you are having fun.

I bought the saloon; it looks a lot better than hatchback, but is not as practical.

Faults:

Oil pressure sensor failure before 2,000 miles.

Reversing light switch failure 25,000 miles.

Minor rain ingress since last service May '06, intangible at first, but in Jan'07 - heavy rain - 2 litres water to front /rear foot-well passenger side.

Disaster! - I suspect leak is via pollen filter.

General Comments:

Car is less than 3 years old.

Only 1 year warranty is offered for rain ingress.

This is very disappointing.

In every way this is Ford's fault.