2005 Ford Focus Consumer Discussions

Ford Focus Electrical and Lighting Problems

• Re: headlights and starting issues [achoward]

  Written by: drvette on Dec 24, 2011 12:34:18 PM

  There are several TSB's for the "05 Focus on issues similar to yous in part or whole, there may be multiple issues here. Keep in mind these are not "complete" TSB's but merely short descriptions. Type out ALL of your problems, in order that they occurred, inc weather, if the car was cold or just driven, or a "Hot-Soak" condition where you drove it in 100f temps, and let it sit ... Read More

2005 Ford Focus ZX5 AT Transmission wont shift into 4th?

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX5 AT Transmission wont shift into 4th? [modusoperandi]

  Written by: bdyment on Dec 7, 2011 4:45:44 AM

  Fourth gear is overdrive. You only have four forward gears. The overdrive lockout will let you change thru 1 to 3. Click the switch and you can use all four speeds.

• 2005 Ford Focus ZX5 AT Transmission wont shift into 4th?

  Written by: modusoperandi on Dec 6, 2011 1:36:31 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus ZX5 2.0L with the AT. My problem is that the car will not shift into 4th gear unless the car is in overdrive. I am hoping it is just a sensor or something I can fix myself on a weekend. Is there any hope?

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: Over revs [kingnick213]

  Written by: erik_m on Nov 26, 2011 1:04:02 PM

  I was having the same issue with my 2005 ford focus and replaced the solenoids from the company that you linked, I swapped out all the solenoids and it didn't cure the problem. My vehicle won't shift into second or overdrive still. Before I took it apart I had a code for solenoid L stuck open. Any one else having the same issue? Any help that might work? Thanks

2012 Ford Focus

• Re: the Focus isn't even remotely competitive with the GTI [bpizzuti]

  Written by: sandman_6472 on Nov 24, 2011 7:16:04 PM

  I disagree totally...our 2005 Mazda 3s drives so much better than the Focus SE I drove in the beginning of the month. To be fair, the Focus does have the smaller engine so it's not quite an apples to apples comparo. Even still, our 6 year old car has a nicer interior and exterior in my opinion and it beats by a mile the last generation Focus which was low rent ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• 2005 Ford Focus " Help Please"

  Written by: alwaysonthego on Nov 20, 2011 10:10:15 AM

  I was in town at a red light. When i took off, i made it into the median when the car just stopped pulling. It would not go into any gears at all. It was like it was stuck in neutral in all gears. When i pushed the gas it made a metal spinning sound for a few minutes then nothing. I had to coast it back into the turning lane. ... Read More

2008 Ford Focus

• Good sold cars

  Written by: tomcatt630 on Oct 23, 2011 9:08:33 PM

  The 2008-11 Focus was a good seller and the Euro one was overrated. Not all compact car buyers care about European car culture, and want mpg, reliability and low costs. The RS version is nice, but expensive and who can afford it? My 2009 is solid and I don't care that it's not the 2nd gen Euro one, which is ugly, and looks like a shrunken 2005 Ford Five Hundred, which ... Read More

Ford Focus Engine Problems

• Engine bucking

  Written by: mountainwolf on Sep 13, 2011 4:53:40 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus zx4 and the engine starts to buck when holding a steady speed. It used to do it once in a while now all the time.

Ford Focus Electrical and Lighting Problems

• Electrical problems

  Written by: mountainwolf on Sep 13, 2011 4:51:29 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus zx4 It has had some weird electrical problems. The trunk will unlock if the brake pedal is pushed. Also the left running lights front and back do not have any power. If you step on the brakes the front running light comes on. Now the drivers airbag light goes on and off intermittently. I

• Re: headlights and starting issues [achoward]

  Written by: steveinarizona on Sep 2, 2011 8:18:25 AM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus in the repair shop right now for an alternator problem. Our problems started about two months ago with the car acting up not starting, or when idling the dash goes crazy with lights going bright or weak and various electrical components not working such as headlights, radio, ect. We replaced the alternator for the 3rd time with another autozone warranty alternator and it lasted about ... Read More

• Tail light assembly keeps melting--Is there a recall anyone knows of?

  Written by: therays4 on Sep 1, 2011 9:58:48 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus station wagon. Last year the right tail light went out. When I went to have it fixed, I was told I had to buy the whole tail light assembly because the heat from the bulb and/or wiring had melted it. It cost us $300+ for the part and labor at a Ford Dealer. Now, the left tail light has gone out. I go to the ... Read More

• Re: Alternators keeps "burning up". [rachpach1984]

  Written by: steveinarizona on Aug 30, 2011 11:40:49 AM

  Have you found out what the problem is burning up alternators? I have a 2005 Ford Focus SE that I bought several years ago with 34,000 miles on it and now have 80,000. Recently the electrical started acting up doing pretty much all the weird things everybody else has described. Won't start but jumpstarts fine. Can drive it a few days no problem and then goes to acting up again. Had ... Read More

Ford Focus Care & Maintenance

• Re: 2005 Focus SES Alignment Problems [comanchero1]

  Written by: steveinarizona on Aug 27, 2011 1:43:29 PM

  I have a 2009 and a 2005 Ford Focus. My 2009 bought new we went through our first set of tires by 22K miles. I took it to the dealer to see what the problem was and they told me that Ford had a known problem with the camber and the only thing we could do is install some kit at our expense to correct this otherwise we will continue to ... Read More

• Should I trade my car in or fix all the probelms?

  Written by: redundant1 on Aug 9, 2011 11:13:47 AM

  I have about $3,000 left on my car loan and I can probably nitpick 3,000 things to fix on it. I have a 2005 Focus Sedan SE. 41,000 miles on it. - Needs 4 new tires. - One needs a rim/wheel from hitting a pothole bad enough. - The air filter is disgusting and needs replacing. Everytime I put my AC or defrosters on, I get black/brown **** on my windshield. ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus SES ZX5 Hatchback... [mcgilbert2]

  Written by: kingnick213 on Jun 29, 2011 9:31:29 AM

  Ford won't, its not the tranmission, its the solenoids, they out around every 60k miles, aamco is wrong, when its slips out of gear and clunks back in like that and you have no second gear its solenoid B. I swear you would think even a place like aamco would do a little research but hey at least geico is paying for and not you :)

• 2005 Ford Focus SES ZX5 Hatchback...

  Written by: mcgilbert2 on Jun 29, 2011 9:04:11 AM

  I was on my way to my sister's house in NY last weekend, and when I hit the gas pedal my car acted as if it was in neutral and just would "clunk" into gear. Took it to AAMCO...I have no second gear and according to them, my "transmission is toast." The car is a 2005 with 81k on it. Getting a "used" transmission...thankfully I had the wherewithall (don't ask me ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus---transmission problem [callyco]

  Written by: kingnick213 on May 13, 2011 6:49:30 PM

  Its a common problem for the shift solenoid to go out on a focus, its usually shift A at 60k and then the rest go out after all the way up to 120k and beyond. I changed all my mine at 60k, got them from ebay for $140 and no problems since, A went out on mine but after research I just replaced all of them and its good so far. ... Read More

2012 Ford Focus

• Ok, drove the Focus, Elantra, Jetta, etc...

  Written by: bricknord on Apr 29, 2011 10:31:29 AM

  Ok, I went and drove a Focus today. SE manual transmission sedan. I also drove a Jetta SE 2.5L with stick shift. I drove an Elantra GLS and Cruze Eco recently. I have not driven the newest Civic but owned a 2009. Impressions on the Focus: Felt very VW. I sold VWs from 2000-2005, and the Focus reminds me a lot of the VWs of that era as far as the ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus---transmission problem [callyco]

  Written by: dno36 on Apr 5, 2011 3:55:08 AM

  Now, I am not a mechanic, however, I play one on TV...LOL. Seriously, while not being positive, I do not believe that the bands could rub on the solenoids, as I believe they are not in close contact at all. How could 1 band rub on all the solenoids?? Yes I have heard of bands breaking before, and there are a number of reasons one could break, but from rubbing on ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus---transmission problem [callyco]

  Written by: tread7081 on Apr 4, 2011 8:47:00 PM

  Local shop has a few new transmissions. $1250 installed. 24month/24k mile warranty. I took it. Glad I did. I see the rebuild price.

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus---transmission problem [craftyrcf]

  Written by: callyco on Apr 4, 2011 6:43:36 PM

  Had to have the solenoids and 2nd gear band replaced on my Focus. Was shown the worn parts. The band had snapped in two. I don't know how it managed to stay on?? Mechanic said it rubbed against the solenoids eventually causing them to stick creating the shifting problems. No way to tell how long the band had been broken and wearing against the solenoids. Total repair cost was $1200. Even ... Read More

• 2005 Ford Focus---transmission problem

  Written by: craftyrcf on Apr 4, 2011 5:39:28 PM

  Went out of town, and while on the way the transmission decided to stop shifting from 2nd to third. Went the rest of the way pushing 2nd. and came back doing 40 mi. hr. on a 65 mi. hr. freeway. Lots of fun--hey!! I talked to a few mechanics, but it sounded like they were messing with me. I knew it was transmission but not what?? Went to AAMCO and they ... Read More

• Transmission problem

  Written by: callyco on Mar 27, 2011 8:14:07 AM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus ZX4. It has less than 30,000 miles on it. It started having transmission problems a week ago. I heard loud roaring, tried to accelerate and it wouldn't. Sounded like it just wasn't changing gears when needed. Stepped on the gas and the car jerked. The "O/D Off" light starting flashing and the "check engine" light came on. I took it to the dealer on a ... Read More

Compact Sedans

• Reverse Problems

  Written by: heather214 on Jan 25, 2011 11:36:23 AM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus manual transmission. The reverse is no longer working i was having trouble with the other 5 gears but they are now working. But the reverse just will not go into gear it will pop over into 4th. please help :) thank you

2012 Ford Focus

• Re: "Early 2011" availability... [markus5]

  Written by: igozoomzoom on Jan 1, 2011 5:16:24 PM

  I'm waiting too. However, not looking to go as high on option packages as you do. I have found that the larger wheels & tires usually result in more NVH and become quite expensive.. BTW, my 2004 ZTS Focus has heated cloth seats. they worked out pretty well. I was never big on leather. When I was car shopping in Dec. 2005, I remember test driving a 2006 Focus ZX4 ST, ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• 2005 Focus ST Update

  Written by: basiliskst on Sep 23, 2010 6:01:10 PM

  Our 2005 Focus ST racked up 110,00 miles before suffering an ignoble end in a car accident. It did its job and sacrificed itself to protect my daughter who was driving at the time. Hate to see it go as it was a truly superior and fun car. We really had almost no maintenance other than oil, tires, brake pads and regularly scheduled maintenance. At the end there where three "wear ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: 2004 Ford Focus Transmission Problems [nsk2]

  Written by: Timdrivesaford on Sep 21, 2010 3:45:31 AM

  I don't know if you found any of my posts about a similar issue that I have yet to resolve. My car is a 2005 Focus SE. OverDrive light flashes some, I have a check engine light on. Transmission is rough when I start up and it has a hard time going into drive when I first start. The code on the engine light shows a grounding problem with the speed ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• 2005 Ford Focus

  Written by: lhoagland on Jul 12, 2010 8:47:40 AM

  Has anyone ever heard of a problem with the Focus completely dying while driving? This has happened several times. The alternator has been replaced and all connections to the battery and starter have been cleaned. I don't want to throw good money after bad chasing this. Help ! ! !

Ford Focus Owners Tell Ford What you Want!

• Rebate for money spent on faulty transmission

  Written by: amydunne1 on Jun 22, 2010 3:50:29 PM

  When I first bought my 2003 Focus in 2005, it had transmission problems and was supposed to have been fixed. I just had it rebuilt and it cost me $2400. I think there is a transmission issue in these cars. Also, my truck lock don't always work, it gets stuck and won't shut right and the ford dealership couldn't even fix it, what is up with that? Been dealing with that ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: 2005 Focus 42000 miles no longer shifting. [merryem]

  Written by: merryem on Apr 8, 2010 6:13:59 AM

  Just to update. We took it to Ford. I had bought and extended warranty (don't remember doing that but they said I did) and it was to expire in 10 days! I guess luck was on my side! The trans was slipping and they rebuilt it. Cost $100.00. I think it should have been free but in the back of my head I think it was the driver and not the ... Read More

Ford Focus Care & Maintenance

• Re: 2005 Focus SES Alignment Problems [mrsdoni]

  Written by: steve502 on Mar 2, 2010 7:20:40 PM

  Here is the deal. Ford manufactors the Focus with a 2 degree negative camber. This makes your rear tires go defective as fast as 10,000 miles especially if you don't rotate your tires very often. You can get an alignment every month and it will not fix the defect. I have 24,000 miles on my focus and I have my third set of tires on it. I've did the research. An ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: 2002 Ford Focus Transmission Repair Instructions [smokifl]

  Written by: merryem on Jan 20, 2010 11:52:15 AM

  For those who did the repair #76 and #110 is the car STILL working. I have a 2005 and just came up with the same codes. My brother is a mechanic (one of the GOOD ones and thats from others not me and does not work for Ford!!!!) He is willing to do the work but I want to be sure this will fix it or just be able to get ... Read More

• Goes from drive to neutral all by itself.

  Written by: s_ann_2000 on Dec 16, 2009 6:19:11 PM

  I own a 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 automatic transmission and every couple months my gearshift lever will suddenly shift into neutral from drive. The first time I thought I bumped it into neutral, but by now I know I'm not. I can put it right back into drive and it's fine. I'm not sure if it's an actual transmission issue or just an issue with the gearshift lever. The car does ... Read More

• 2005 Focus Auto trans slips/disengages

  Written by: backyardmech2 on Nov 13, 2009 1:04:42 PM

  I have a 2005 focus automatic. It has 90000 miles. When in drive the transmission is slow to slip out of first. Then when it does there is no second gear and engine revs. Took it to ford dealer, and six weeks later they said it was a wiring harness problem and wanted $3500 to fix. They replaced the PCM and that did not fix it. I had them put the ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus SE Auto [yobynnad]

  Written by: dno36 on Oct 28, 2009 4:55:40 AM

  Hi Yobi, and welcome. Lets have you take it to an Autozone-type auto parts center where they will do a free scan for you , and give you the results printed for your assessment. It only takes about 5 minutes to do it all. There may or may not be one to many numerical codes given by the cars computer that correspond with a possible engine fault. After you get that ... Read More

• 2005 Ford Focus SE Auto

  Written by: yobynnad on Oct 28, 2009 2:06:38 AM

  Hi, new to the forum. My car doesn't accelerate good anymore. While driving, shifting from first to second, it will go ok. But from second to third, it will rev up and change gears. It doesn't maintain speed as it drops slowly and the car will joint with a gear change. Also, the O/D light will turn after a while if it keeps on going back and forth trying to change ... Read More

• Ford Focus Manual Transmission Problem

  Written by: sandybeach1 on Aug 7, 2009 8:38:41 AM

  2005 5 speed Ford Focus ZX5, purchased 8-23-04 (today is 8-7-09) warranty to 100K, driving it and klumking noise starts. Take it to the shop replaces right axle as bearings were bad. Get in to drive home......still making same klunking sound. Take back to shop.....can't find anything wrong with it....sending to transmission shop......transmission guy pulls apart finds 3 bad bearings. Car mileage dispalys 101.2K miles. Speak to salesman...nothing can be done. ... Read More

• Ranting about my Focus experience...

  Written by: radioempty on Jun 17, 2009 11:44:52 AM

  I bought a 2005 Ford Focus hatchback in May 2008 to replace my gas guzzler of an SUV. I loved the car, it had power, pep and looked great. However, I ended up disliking the lack of power options (no AC in the summer was a bummer). So I went to Bay Ford in Port Orchard, Washington and traded it in for a 2007 Ford Focus SE sedan. Almost right out ... Read More

• Ford Focus SE4 EX

  Written by: Timdrivesaford on May 21, 2009 10:59:35 PM

  I purchased this 2005 Focus used in 2007. Was great for the first year-plus and I put about 55K miles on the car. Then I started having auto-electric issues (which are chronicled in another thread on this site: battery died mysteriously, anti-theft fuse blew and shut the car down, alternator went up). A couple weeks ago, the transmission acted up. Shifted rough, and didn't feel like it was getting out of ... Read More

Ford Focus: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Re: Update on 2005 Ford Focust ST at 65,000 miles [basiliskst]

  Written by: wjtinatl on May 8, 2009 6:11:18 AM

  Couldn't agree more with the above post. Bought my '03 Focus SVT used in '06 when gas hit $3.20/gal. It had 15k on it then, now has 67k. Outside of tires (2 sets of z-rated hi-po rubber) and at-home oil and filter changes, in the past 50k, I have not spent any money on the car! Still on the original brake pads and rotors and the interior (black leather Recaro's) looks ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• 05 Focus Tranny Probs

  Written by: JiltedFordGrrl on Dec 30, 2008 12:54:21 PM

  Please add me to the list of Focus' with bad transmissions. I have a 2005 Focus ZX4 SES, I just rolled 40,000 miles. My transmission, in a 1 mile stretch of road, downshifted twice, went into neutral with no warning as an 18 wheeler was barreling up behind me with no place to pull over, luckily that is when it downshifted the 2nd time and I was able to pull ahead ... Read More

• 2005 Ford Focus - Automatic transmission 4F27E

  Written by: positronic on Nov 13, 2008 2:09:33 PM

  My Focus has about 51k and while driving it would appear to act like it is in neutral and suddenly kick into gear. I called around and some shops thought the tranny would need an overhaul. I took it to Ford who initially quoted me $1300 and said a band needed replacing. I called an Amco shop and between speaking with their tech and the Ford tech I was able to ... Read More

• i need help....blah!!

  Written by: josh5m on Feb 5, 2009 1:12:45 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus SE Auto... Nothing is "wrong" I just need to change my tranny fluid/filter. I am looking for a step-by-step guide on how to do it so I do not make any mess-ups. Is doing a full change okay or would it be better for me to pay the damned $200 ford wants to flush it out for me? Thanks!

• 2005 FORD FOCUS - A PIECE OF JUNK!

  Written by: jerrynashevill on Apr 3, 2008 5:19:44 AM

  Ford really dropped the ball on this car! Overall, it's a piece of junk with many problems: transmission (auto), engine, lights, tires, missing parts from assembly, etc., etc., etc. These problems are one thing and along with a certified Ford Dealership not honoring Ford's warranty just put the icing on the cake. Our 2005 Focus is GONE! We never plan to buy another Ford product again!

Ford Focus Sedan

• Ford Focus great experience

  Written by: basiliskst on Dec 8, 2008 8:01:55 PM

  I have a 2005 Ford Focus ST with the 2.3 liter I4 engine and 5-speed manual transmission. This was the sportiest model for 2005 and is fully optioned with traction control, sunroof, heated leather seats and more. I have 70,000 trouble free miles on the Focus now and still grin when I drive it. It is the most satisfying small car I've ever had. I've driven lots of highway miles between ... Read More

Ford Focus: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus Sedan [comp386]

  Written by: greenpony on Nov 25, 2008 5:59:40 PM

  >>Wow my MPG suffered after going to 100% highway. I recently moved and I go about 70 (yeah I follow the speed limit) on the freeway for my entire commute and I'm down to 29-30 MPG. I was getting better fuel economy going local with some minor gridlock. Very odd >> Not odd, really. This actually sounds just about right. Don't underestimate the effect of excessive speed on fuel economy. You ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus? [andersonnc]

  Written by: micweb on Nov 22, 2008 5:23:33 PM

  I just got a new Focus and a forward facing infant seat fits fine. Two will fit fine, since forward facing car seats don't extend much beyond the seat cushion, if at all. It's a different story with REAR facing newborn seats, which are REAL space hogs. I'm pretty sure a rear facing infant seat won't work well in the ZX4, I know it didn't work for us with a Neon ... Read More

• 2005 Ford Focus?

  Written by: andersonnc on Oct 27, 2008 8:23:13 PM

  Will two car seats fit well in the backseat of the ZX4? Currently I am driving a Chevy Malibu, so Im a bit concerned about transitioning from mid-sized to compact. Thanks

Ford Focus Audio and Entertainment System Questions

• Radio dead in Ford Focus Zetec 2005

  Written by: ladyb1960 on Sep 29, 2008 3:31:29 PM

  Hi - I came to switch my radio on by pressing the button but its absolutely dead. Everything else seems to be working on the dashboard so I suspect a fuse but cant seem to identify which fuse it is from the fuse chart in the manual. Has anyone had this problem or can point me in the right direction please? Thanks.

Ford Focus: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Update on 2005 Ford Focust ST at 65,000 miles

  Written by: basiliskst on Aug 4, 2008 10:20:19 AM

  I previously reported mileage after about 2,000 miles of experience with my used 2005 Ford Focus and 27,000 total miles. At that time I was getting about 27 MPG. Now with 65,000 on the clock, it is time to update that report. It's all good. Over the 40,000 miles of driving, I'm averaging slightly better than 30 MPG. The ST is still rock solid and a joy to drive. I decided ... Read More

Ford Focus Tire and Wheel Questions

• Nitrogen in tires--why?

  Written by: sandy18 on Jun 18, 2008 1:57:57 PM

  Just bought a 2005 Ford Focus.They had added nitrogen to the tires for various reasons, like better mileage, etc. I never heard of this before. Does it really make a difference? Also, we were charged $99.00 for license plates,later finding that under the dealer plates covering the license,that the plates woudn't expire for another 5 months.We immediately brought this to their attention. Buyer beware...

Ford Focus ZX3

• 2000 ZX3

  Written by: rincon1840 on Apr 16, 2008 4:16:59 PM

  124,000 miles. I'm pretty sure I got a good one. Problems: A/C resistor blown (warranty) Recalls (two visits, great service) Head gasket (warranty) Passenger side rear-seat access lever (twice!) Windshield seal separation, bottom by wipers (warranty) Uncomfortable seats! Broken mount for hood latch (interior). I shove it under the dash. Good: Brakes changed at 74,000 Gas mileage still between 27-30mpg I bought this cause it was cheap (13,000) and it reminded ... Read More

2008 Ford Focus

• And the kicker is!

  Written by: mschmal on Feb 20, 2008 10:42:24 AM

  "Today's new Mustang rides on the Jaguar S-type platform but still using the solid rear axle" This statement is not quite correct. The Jag S/LincolnLS platform known as DEW proved way to expensive for the Mustang. After struggling to engineer the cost down to make it viable to use in the Mustang, Ford decided to adopt components from other Ford platforms, especially in the suspension department. So where did Ford find ... Read More

Ford Focus Owners Tell Ford What you Want!

• 2008 Ford Focus revealed at Detroit Show

  Written by: basiliskst on Jan 7, 2007 11:21:42 AM

  www.autoweek.com The revised 2008 Ford Focus was revealed today (01/07/2006) at the Detroit Auto Show (North American International Auto Show for purists). www.naias.com I haven't seen any interior shots or driven one, so my comments are tempered. The changes on the outside are mostly cosmetic to make the car look longer and leaner without much more than surface detailing differences. The roof line appears unchanged. The wheel arches are less of ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• Re: Take me OFF the list of 2003 Focus owners who have transaxle problems.

  Written by: zombietom3 on Oct 30, 2007 8:30:20 PM

  I was wondering if the valve cover has any indication, but then I found this on a forum, describing the way to tell a PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) from a Zetec, "Intake manifold [on the PZEV] is towards the front of the car, and the exhaust is towards the back and therefore doesnt run under the engine...." Then I looked at a couple of Ford VIN decoder tables, and VIN ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ST [basiliskst](It's even better than the BMW!)

  Written by: creakid1 on Oct 20, 2007 11:17:17 PM

  "Observations? It is still a joy to drive with perfect on-center feel and tracking (lacking in so much of the competition). The Focus goes where it is pointed with a sense of purpose and control. It exits a curve with wonderful torque and power." The Focus may not have the comfy long springs found in luxury cars like VW, Accord & Mercedes, but the sport suspension of the U.S. Focus ST ... Read More

Ford Focus ZX5

• Re: DRL [maw536]

  Written by: evandro on Oct 22, 2005 9:32:52 PM

  Yes, I stopped at a Ford dealer and they ordered the part (see evandro, "Ford Focus ZX5" #555, 30 Aug 2005 9:09 pm). HTH

Ford Focus Sedan

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ST [basiliskst]

  Written by: creakid1 on Oct 9, 2007 9:46:15 PM

  My '05 ST's power remote trunk release was so oversensitive it popped open the trunk whenever there's water (heavy rain or car wash). The dealer initially failed to admit it b/c I didn't point out that it's water related. When I brought the car in again, they blamed on my recent removal of the rear spoiler w/ the holes plugged but not sealed with plastic plugs. This problem seemed to improve ... Read More

• 2005 Ford Focus ST

  Written by: basiliskst on Oct 9, 2007 4:23:49 AM

  My 2005 Focus ST with the 2.3 liter and 5-speed manual transmission is still running flawlessly at 47,000 miles. Observations? It is still a joy to drive with perfect on-center feel and tracking (lacking in so much of the competition). The Focus goes where it is pointed with a sense of purpose and control. It exits a curve with wonderful torque and power. There is a lot of road noise, addressed ... Read More

Article Comments - 2008 Ford Focus First Drive

• Huh?

  Written by: drive571 on Sep 30, 2007 8:51:17 PM

  This review takes an awful lot of pot-shots at the Toyota Corolla, considering that that car is also about to be redesigned--a 2009 model will appear in early 2008. Also noteworthy: the Corolla will be an all-new design, rather than a rehash of the current platform, like the '08 Focus. All the talk about tech is also a bit funny, considering that the Focus' engines are unchanged since 2005, its automatic ... Read More

2008 Ford Focus future vehicle

• Re: 2008 Ford Focus future vehicle [jedi787plus]

  Written by: klx74 on Sep 28, 2007 1:57:38 PM

  I don't know maybe I am reading to much into the bad mouthing of a cheap nice car that works I own a 2005 and the car is sound and not one bit a problem except for breaking the center console once, if that is a major problem I guess I just over looked it. Ok it is a face life but I do believe it will compete well since they ... Read More

Ford Focus Transmission Problems

• 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 Transmission Issue...

  Written by: sesro1978 on Sep 25, 2007 7:20:07 AM

  Hi- I have a 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 (manual transmission). Recently I've noticed that while driving at 35mph or above (usually in 4th or 5th), the transmission seems to "hitch" or "skip" (not sure how to best to describe this...). Additionally, occasionally when I go to start the vehicle it doesn't always turn-over immediately. Both of these things don't happen on a regular basis but just every now and then... I ... Read More

Ford Focus Care & Maintenance

• Re: 2005 Focus SES Alignment Problems [comanchero1]

  Written by: mrsdoni on Sep 7, 2007 3:37:37 PM

  Hi Comanchero1. Yep. I've had two places tell me the rear suspension is faulty. I wish Ford Motor Co would offer to replace it. The best of luck with yours! Doni Marie~

• Re: 2005 Focus SES Alignment Problems [mrsdoni]

  Written by: comanchero1 on Sep 7, 2007 7:42:18 AM

  Hello Mrs Doni, I have a similar story. I bought my daughter her first car, she makes the payments. A 2006 Ford Focus. This will be the THIRD SET of NEW TIRES !!! And its only 48K miles. I didnt realize it happen so fast thjat the REAR TIRES were wearing out. A Firestone dealer told me that he had a customer with only 8K miles and the REAR TIRES wore ... Read More

• 2005 Focus SES Alignment Problems

  Written by: mrsdoni on Jul 31, 2007 11:09:24 AM

  Hello all. This forum seems very informative and I am hoping it will suggest a fix to my problem. I bought my adorable 2005 Ford Focus SES brand new. It now has about 45,000 miles on it. It is a super fun car to drive and gets great gas mileage! However, it is eating tires very quickly. I replaced the first set of tires at 22k and now I need new ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• Re: Still Lovin' my Focus ST [waynebengston]

  Written by: creakid1 on Jul 14, 2007 10:19:54 PM

  If you don't care about ride comfort, then go ahead w/ the other multi-link compacts like the 1-series or Mini Cooper. One reason I traded in my '05 Focus ST for an '07 Focus ST is b/c the Focus ST has the suspension retuned for more comfort after the '05 first-year model, as the '05 setting was taken directly from the SVT/ST170 (except the lowered springs). Consumer Reports is about the ... Read More

2008 Ford Focus future vehicle

• Re: Why do we get the left overs???? [dj2big]

  Written by: creakid1 on Jul 4, 2007 9:10:55 PM

  "FORD FOCUS 2008 IS A 2007 IN MEXICO!!!" No, it's not. Our '08 looks embarrassingly ugly. I don't want to be seen in one. :D & I'd rather get our '07 ST w/ the big 2.3 (no turbo, please), which no one else gets: http://www.fordvehicles.com/cars/focus/features/specs/ http://www.gulfcoastnews.com/RT2005FordFocus.htm The newer "foreign" Focus, which is what Mexico also gets today from Europe, w/ a too-wide body is somehow less handsome by comparison: http://www.ford.com.mx/vehicles/vehicles.asp?idModel=FOC Eventhough ... Read More

Ford Focus: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 ST 2.3l manual [basiliskst]

  Written by: dball1 on Apr 21, 2007 10:19:59 PM

  Ditto to most everything written here. I too bought a used 05 ST with 25775 miles on it. My mileage has been consistently at 29.8 for the past three months. I gave up a fully loaded 05 Altima and paid cash (11288 incl tt&l)for this car and I absolutely LOVE it. I had a 96 Escort all the way till last summer when someone hit my daughter on the highway at ... Read More

• 2007 Ford Focus ZX4 ST 2.3l manual

  Written by: waynebengston on Mar 18, 2007 10:59:20 AM

  I've got 9950 miles on my 2007 ST. The comments on the 2005 ST also pertain to the 2007. It is a wonderful little car, IMO, the best "bang for the buck" in compact cars today. If I could change one thing, it would be to make it RWD. I traded a 1999 Miata in for the Focus, and the Focus is as much fun, in it's own way. If it ... Read More

Ford Focus Electrical and Lighting Problems

• Door Chime/radio questions in 2005 ford focus

  Written by: breannabananas on Mar 3, 2007 10:17:29 AM

  Is the driver's door supposed to chime when it is opened and the key is NOT in the ignition? All my other cars did this only if the key was in or the lights were on. Mine is chiming and didn't know if it was supposed to. Also, every time I start the car, the radio and clock reset themselves. The clock goes back to 12:00 noon and the radio goes ... Read More

Ford Focus Wagon

• Re: Cargo Cover [orcish]

  Written by: zxw on Feb 19, 2007 7:06:45 PM

  Hi there ! My first Focus was a 2005 ZXW SES model with several nice options, but no cargo cover. While I would NOT recommend the dealer I purchased it from (Pacifico Ford in Essington, Philadelphia) I would wholeheartedly recommend the Focus wagon with a cargo cover, but if purchased separately from a dealer just look at the cover before you pay for it as they tend to warp in storage. ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• Re: 2008 will be here in the spring. [mschmal]

  Written by: comp386 on Nov 9, 2006 9:05:53 AM

  I never quite understood why the manufacturer doesn't just lower the price especially since the Focus starts every year with a 2500 rebate. I was deciding between the Mazda 3 and the Ford Focus in 2005 and was sold on the Focus because it was about $1000 less OTD than the entry level Mazda 3. Probably not completely what Ford was looking for in selling their vehicle, but it's a sale ... Read More

2008 Ford Focus future vehicle

• Current Focus vs 2008

  Written by: basiliskst on Jan 15, 2007 6:07:16 PM

  I like the current Focus well enough to own a 2005 ST. It's not pretty, but it does look purposeful and European. The ST is a real joy to drive. The 2005-2007 Focus certainly looks better in person than it photographs. The tall architecture makes for great interior room, but also makes the wheels and tires look smaller than a lower slung car like the Civic. The new 2008 has much ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• 2005 Ford Focus ST, European heritage

  Written by: basiliskst on Jan 3, 2007 6:35:30 PM

  Creakid1 asked, I have a 2005 black Focus ST. The leather/suede seats are good, but not great. I'd prefer the ability to independently tilt the seat bottom front and back and some adjustable lumbar support. That said, the seats remind me of some of my older European cars, an R5 and a Volkswagen 411. Both had very comfortable if basic seats. Like the Focus they were more chair height, with wide, ... Read More

2008 Ford Focus future vehicle

• Re: You guys sound like you know the C-1 Focus [lmgt1]

  Written by: creakid1 on Dec 26, 2006 7:16:09 PM

  BMW-esque steering feel? That depends on which BMW. Many are sadly numb, including the Z4 & especially the earlier ones w/ electric power steering. In the late '90's, British car magazines dared to complain about how the E46 3-series, w/ or w/o sport package, lost the involving steering feel after the E36. So I waited for the new E90 3-series sedan, but still found its steering feel no match for the ... Read More

Ford Focus Sedan

• Re: European Focus for 2010. [basiliskst]

  Written by: creakid1 on Dec 16, 2006 8:42:27 PM

  "The refresh in 2005 still looks like the original Focus. People pay for fresh styling." But the new C-1 wide-body (That's right, over 6-ft wide, it's even wider than the Lexus LS430!) Focus MkII is actually less handsome looking than our unique '05-07 face-lift Focus MkI. The MkII may be quieter & have slightly better ride & handling, but not the steering feel or the light-weight nimbleness of the MkI. The ... Read More

• Re: European Focus for 2010. [comp386]

  Written by: basiliskst on Dec 13, 2006 7:00:55 PM

  Mschmal also makes the point that excellence does not necessarily mean the Ford of Europe chassis and that styling both interior and exterior are strikes against the current model. On all of that I agree. The refresh in 2005 still looks like the original Focus. People pay for fresh styling. And the 2005-2007 dash styling is actually worse than the original in my opinion, speaking as an owner of 2005 ST. ... Read More

Ford Focus Owners-Meet the Members

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 ST Black [basiliskst]

  Written by: quietspirit on Nov 15, 2006 7:11:31 PM

  How about keeping us posted on the 2002 Mercury Cougar and the Volkswagen, also? I'm researching for my first car and would like to know the pros and cons of each brand.

Which Hatchback?

• Dumb move Ford

  Written by: randydriver on Nov 13, 2006 9:11:52 PM

  I love the Focus 3-door.....I see them everywhere. My brother has a 2005 yellow 5-speed and he loves it..but he hates the sedan. I see more 3 doors than I do the sedan in my neck of the woods. Where is this new small car, Ford is setting on to long, supose to be.

Ford Focus Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 2005 Focus Base Model [rwhaugen]

  Written by: quietspirit on Nov 11, 2006 3:11:41 PM

  I'm suspicious about the same sales pitch, too! I'm looking at an ad about the 2007 Ford Focus on sale with lots of rebates and markdowns on it. The net price is $8995. It didn't indicate whether the vehicles had manual or automatic transmitions. Being a first-time carbuyer, I assumed the price were for all the models regardless if it were manual or automatic. Then when I call the dealership, a ... Read More

Ford Focus: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 ST 2.3l manual [basiliskst]

  Written by: explorerx4 on Oct 18, 2006 5:06:00 PM

  imo, great review. i have an '04 zts with the same drivetrain. the engine is amazingly flexible. my car has slightly smaller tires, so it gets a bit better mileage. it has never been on a 250 trip. wish i had that exhaust system to 'st' has.

• 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 ST 2.3l manual

  Written by: basiliskst on Oct 18, 2006 7:55:39 AM

  These results are for a 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 ST with the 2.3 liter Duratec engine and 5-speed manual transmission (as are all STs)and 25,000 miles. I bought the car used but there are no obvious signs of wear. It is fully optioned (so I assume the heaviest version.) It easily passes for new. It does mean someone else did the initial break-in of the engine. The original owners were happy ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus Sedan [bananaboat]

  Written by: comp386 on Oct 9, 2006 6:55:39 AM

  Wow my MPG suffered after going to 100% highway. I recently moved and I go about 70 (yeah I follow the speed limit) on the freeway for my entire commute and I'm down to 29-30 MPG. I was getting better fuel economy going local with some minor gridlock. Very odd .

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus Sedan [comp386]

  Written by: bananaboat on Oct 3, 2006 5:53:23 AM

  I'm on the 2nd tank for a 2007 sedan with a 5-speed. Roughly 50/50 driving and I've averaged 32 and 32.5 mpg so far. My driving is usually about 80% highway and after more miles, I'm hoping to see around 35 mpg based on my past two Fords with Duratec engines.

• 2005 Ford Focus Sedan

  Written by: comp386 on Sep 25, 2006 6:13:04 AM

  I started out getting about 28 MPG in 50/50 city highway driving. A year and a half later I'm getting about 32 MPG. This is the first car I've driven where I've actually gotten better milage than the EPA 26 city 32 highway.

Ford Focus Owners-Meet the Members

• 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 ST Black

  Written by: basiliskst on Sep 16, 2006 9:54:28 PM

  I've always had at least one light weight four-cylinder manual transmission car in the family. This 2005 Focus ST is my latest addition. So far I'm very pleased. It currently has about 25,000 miles. The ST is not tuned or geared for all-out fuel economy but still is reliably delivering 30 mpg at west of the Mississippi Interstate speeds (70 mph+). I'd guess that the 2.0 liter will do better and ... Read More

Ford Focus Recalls and TSBs

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 (SE) [explorerx4]

  Written by: maep on Sep 3, 2006 9:23:59 PM

  The ignition problem where your key won't turn is NOT a warranty item after the first 60,000 km in Alberta. You have to pay for it yourself, Ford dealers are very expensive for this! In Edmonton call Dial Locksmith who will do it for under $200 usually. Ford charges anywhere from $400-700..I've been thru it all at the end of May!

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 (SE) [haataa]

  Written by: explorerx4 on Sep 3, 2006 4:56:05 PM

  that should be covered under the warranty.

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 (SE) [tom71]

  Written by: haataa on Sep 3, 2006 4:43:46 PM

  i'm pretty sure I'm still under warrenty but the ignition key isn't a warrenty issue... it costs a "cool" $300... each time it happens. :(

• Re: 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 (SE) [haataa]

  Written by: tom71 on Sep 3, 2006 12:46:39 PM

  hataa, Is you're Focus out of warranty? If not, the ignition key being stuck issue should be covered by the warranty. It sounds like Focus's (especially earlier model year ones), have had this problem a lot. If you're car is out of warranty, I would ask the Ford dealer if they will fix it at no charge. Sometimes a dealer will for cronic problems that they have a "Technical Service Bulletin" ... Read More

• 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 (SE)

  Written by: haataa on Aug 16, 2006 6:31:50 PM

  When I tell people that I have a Ford Focus ZX4 SE, I feel proud... up until today. My key is stuck in the ignition... I can turn the car on, but I can't remove the key. I've wiggled and jiggled... for nothing. I see that this is a common problem (that I wish I would have know about before my purchase last year) with a common temporary fix, shelling out ... Read More

Ford Focus Wagon

• Re: Leaking Rainwater [rmsmallll]

  Written by: jeannad2000 on Jul 12, 2006 11:51:06 AM

  I purchased a 2005 Ford Focus in October of 2005. After a rainstorm in November of 2005, a major leak occurred, leaving over 2 inches of water on the front, passenger floor. The dealership fixed the car. In July of 2006 I found water in the same location. After the dealership looked at the car, they stated that it is coming from a different location (not where they originally sealed it). ... Read More

• Impressions about a Focus Wagon

  Written by: mikus on Jun 5, 2006 5:12:10 PM

  Bought a used 2000 Focus Wagon two weeks ago. In general, I like the car, especially considering how much I payed for it. Still have some peeves. The aerodynamics is not perfect. I don't know about hatchback or sedan, but driving a wagon with windows open is almost impossible. If I open driver's window it is noisy and drafty. If I open passenger window, the wind buffeting is severe. Same with ... Read More

Ford Focus Recalls and TSBs

• Re: Ignition Switch [pcleveland2]

  Written by: grad on Jun 5, 2005 11:15:16 AM

  I missed the original message concerning faulty ignition key. My 2001 Focus ignition key failed at 6 Pm in April of 2005 with 89,000 miles on car. 30,000 miles prior I had had a little trouble and went to the dealer who claimed they "knew about problem" but could not change it at that time. It was a nightmare being stuck for four hours in a parking lot because the wheels ... Read More

Ford Focus: Problems & Solutions

• Re: 2005 Focus Issues [jturc]

  Written by: micweb on Apr 18, 2006 3:51:54 PM

  New car warranties are automatically transferred to the new owner. Since you have a 2005 Focus with less than 36,000 miles, you need to be taking it to a Ford dealer for free repair work. I'd start doing oil changes there (on special, about $35) to keep the warranty in effect. Virtually nothing else is required to preserve your warranty.

Ford Focus SVT

• Re: Feast your eyes Einstein! [malindi]

  Written by: creakid1 on Apr 2, 2006 9:27:30 PM

  What's so good about the super-fat (over 6-ft wide!) Focus II ST? http://www.evo.co.uk/driven/61251/ford_focus_st.html A heavy-nose 5-cyl FWD car is a faulty design. That's why the Mazdaspeed 3 rather stick w/ 4-cyl. Either way, turbo-charging sucks. That's why when I told people overseas that I drive a 2005 Focus I ST w/ normally aspirated 2.3 4-cyl, they can only envy. I plan to get rid of my excessively light pwr steering & ... Read More

• Feast your eyes Einstein!

  Written by: malindi on Feb 26, 2006 7:02:01 PM

  Well, well well, Ford Focus US, what a dead beat of a model. The rest of the World is enjoying the best of breed, check it out here, even though it's a 2 door model, but hey, sure beats any ford focus I have ever seen: http://www.supercars.net/Pics?viewPic=y&source=car&id=3322&p=2005_ford_focus_st-- - 3.jpg&y=2005&m=Ford&o=Focus%20ST

Ford Focus ZX5

• Wrecked car. Airbag not deployed. Anyone else?

  Written by: gaylecrab on Feb 4, 2006 7:53:34 PM

  My 2005 Ford Focus was just totalled in a front end collision. The main point of impact was to the front end just to the left of center. The passenger fender is basically not there anymore, engine dropped, passenger headlamp missing etc. The hood buckled and broke the windshield. Yet, neither airbag deployed. Has anyone else had this happen? I'm trying to reconcile a car that's totalled in a front end ... Read More

Ford Focus Wagon

• Re: 2005 ZXW brake issues? [ajweeks]

  Written by: frizzlefry on Jan 30, 2006 4:36:14 PM

  I'm the one with the problems...yes, it affects all 2005 Ford Focus Models. There is a service bulliten for it and if you are going to be going skiing or something along those lines I would have the service bulliten applied (although it did not get rid of the problem completely it did improve the inital braking performance). After much greif, Ford just replaced it with a 2006...which exhibits the same ... Read More