Ford Focus Common Problems and Solutions
Engine Misfire
Problem:
The engine on your Zetec keeps misfiring and occasionally judders while driving.
Solution:
All petrol versions of the Zetec with a 1.6-litre engine may experience this issue, which can be caused by one of two problems. Sometimes, it is due to a faulty Mass Air Flow sensor, and other times, by the Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor. Diagnosing this can be tricky because it typically doesn't appear as a fault code on your ECU. While you can replace the sensors yourself using our options, it can be quite a challenging task.
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Engine Cuts Out
Problem:
The engine occasionally stalls.
Solution:
This should only affect a 1.6 petrol Ford Focus built between January 1999 and January 2000, although it has been reported in slightly older versions as well. The issue here is a software problem. Take your Focus to a Ford dealer, and they should be able to reinstall the powertrain control module software for you. This isn't something you can do yourself.
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Air-bag problems
Problem:
The Focus built in March 1999 experienced recurring issues with the restraint system and airbags. The front and side airbags were known to deploy wrongly, and the seatbelt pre-tensioners failed due to a fault in the control module.
Solution:
This issue was also subject to a recall by Ford in 2000. This should no longer be a problem with this car.
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Brake hose problems
Problem:
The Focus RS, manufactured in December 2002, was known to have issues with the brake hose rubbing against the inside of the rear wheel arch. This was Ford's responsibility to repair, so you are entitled to ensure that they resolve it.
Solution:
As mentioned above, this was a manufacturing fault and was subject to a recall by Ford.
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Oil filler cap problemOil filler cap problem
Problem:
Many of the Focus models built from March 1998 onwards had issues with the oil filler cap, which became loose and caused oil to leak onto the exhaust heat shield.
Solution:
This was also subject to a recall by Ford in 2000.
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Door latch problem
Problem:
Some Focus models built between September and November 1998 might have door latch problems caused by a faulty small plastic piece, which can prevent the door from closing properly.
Solution:
This was subject to a recall by Ford and should already have been fixed on your car.
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Door Hinges
Alternator problem
Problem:
The Focus model produced between 1998 and 1999 is known to experience alternator issues, including short circuits or overheating. These problems were typically caused by a faulty harness that led to the cable coming loose.
Solution:
This was a manufacturer's fault, which was then subject to a recall by Ford. If it is now too late for you to join the recall, you may need to replace the harness and obtain a new wire.
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Key Stuck in Ignition
Problem:
The key in your Ford Focus's ignition is jammed and won't detach.
Solution:
Although this issue is covered under the manufacturer warranty, it tends to occur later on. It is quite common in Focus cars built between 2000 and 2003, and you may notice that the key becomes increasingly difficult to turn. Usually, you'll need to call a locksmith, but this will only serve as a temporary fix. For a more lasting solution, you'll need to find a replacement Strattec cylinder without the sidebar, which we stock. Then, replace the ignition cylinder with your new part.
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Overheating Control Module
Problem:
The control module is overheating, sometimes becoming too hot to touch.
Solution:
This issue only affects Focus 1.6 TDCi estates manufactured between 2004 and 2006, where an overheating control module is caused by a cooling fan problem. This can be more serious than it appears because driving on particularly salty roads can lead to engine corrosion. This corrosion can spread to the control module, causing it to overheat. In the worst case, it could even result in a fire. Replacing the cooling fan with one of our options should be done as soon as possible, but you also need to check how corrosion might have affected the rest of the vehicle.
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Cooling Fans
Stiff Brake Pedal
Problem:
The brake pedal becomes stiff, especially in very cold weather.
Solution:
The non-return valve in the brake pump is the issue here. It should only be a problem for cars built between November 2005 and December 2006, although it can affect any Ford Focus made up to 2011. You'll need to replace the non-return valve with a new one available here, which is a straightforward job, although it can be a little fiddly.
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Water leaks
Problem:
Any second-generation Focus might experience water leaks into the cabin caused by faulty window or sunroof seals. Check for damp patches inside and inspect the seals before purchasing.
Solution:
If this is a problem with your Focus, then you need to replace the affected seal to resolve the issue.
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Fuel pipe leak
Problem:
Any Focus manufactured from July 2004 to February 2005 could potentially have leaks in the fuel return pipe. These pipes were made from degradable materials that would eventually cause fuel to leak out.
Solution:
Again, this was another manufacturing fault that led to a recall in 2005.
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Fuel Pipe
Wiper motor problem
Problem:
Cars manufactured between April 2003 and March 2005 had known issues with the wiper motors. Water could enter the motor through the wiper arm, potentially causing short circuits and overheating within the motor, and in some cases, nearby trims might melt.
Solution:
This was a manufacturing fault and ought to have been recalled in 2005.
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Clutch Slipping
Problem:
Changing gears is not smooth and tends to slip when you press the clutch.
Solution:
Ford had to discontinue their dry-clutch, Powershift gearbox in 2015. Although it was only fitted to the lower-powered models, clutch slippage was a frequent complaint. They have replaced the entire system with a six-speed version. If your Ford Focus is affected, your only option will be a full clutch replacement, for which you can get parts from us.
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Clutch Kit
Power steering problems
Problem:
Models from April to May 2008 could have power steering issues. The hoses in the power steering system were not made to the correct standards, leading them to degrade over time. This caused the power steering to fail and revert to standard steering.
Solution:
To resolve this fault, you will need to fit the new revised hoses to your vehicle.
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Power Steering Hoses
Faulty Touchscreen
Problem:
The touchscreen in your Ford is unresponsive or has suddenly gone black.
Solution:
This is such a widespread problem that Ford has not only faced legal action but also seen a decline in credibility and customer satisfaction ratings. The issue is more prevalent in older models equipped with the MyFord Touch system. That system is plagued with faults and becomes even more unresponsive when it's cold. Ford has addressed the issue, and you can either visit a Ford dealer who will update the system for you or contact Ford, and they should send you a USB with the software update for you to install yourself.
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Engine Failure
Problem:
The engine keeps failing, sometimes even while driving.
Solution:
This is a common issue with any Ford Focus made between 2012 and 2013 equipped with a 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine. The problem stems from a leaking coolant, which requires a new 'Degas' hose to be fitted. You can easily check yourself whether the Degas hose has been installed, and if not, you can get one from us. A Ford dealer can assist with this issue if it needs repair. Ignoring this problem could cause your engine to fail, leading to the need for a full replacement.
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