The Ford Focus is a classic compact vehicle produced and distributed since 1998 by Ford Motor Company. This all-around vehicle is your go-to option when you need a family car. In this article, we will discuss the Ford Focus and highlight the common problems owners of this vehicle have reportedly faced. After reading this, you should have an idea of what to expect if you plan on getting a Ford Focus and some general knowledge about resolving the problems you might encounter.
Alternator Malfunction
This problem is common among Focus models built in the late 1990s. Alternators are an integral component in combustion engines, and a faulty one usually results in problems such as short circuiting or overheating of the car’s electrical components.
On inspection, the problem was found to be caused by a faulty harness which loosened the electrical wiring in the alternator. Although the manufacturer had to make a recall on affected vehicles, simply replacing the harness or getting a new wire to establish a connection will resolve the issue.
ECU Overheating
Several owners reported overheating in their engine control units (ÉCU) to the point where it became too hot to touch directly. While there are many things which could cause an overheating ECU, the most probable cause is a failing cooling system or a high amount of power or voltage passing through it.
If you experience something like this, the vehicle should be immediately taken to an auto repair shop, where professionals will be able to inspect and identify the problem. They would also be able to provide a proper resolution to the problem or replace the ECU if necessary.
Faulty Vehicle Ignition
When this problem occurs, the ignition key gets stuck in the ignition switch and might refuse to turn, thereby making the vehicle impossible to start. This particular problem was commonly reported by owners of the early 2000 Focus models.
Users reported the ignition key getting harder and harder to turn before getting completely stuck. Fortunately, this problem is covered by the vehicle’s warranty. But if it happens later on, you might need to replace the ignition cylinder.
Engine Failure
Unexpected shutdown of the engine, sometimes while driving, is a common problem which has plagued Ford Focus owners. The problem is caused by coolant leaking from a hose, which will need to be replaced.
Drivers reported cases where simply restarting the vehicle after some time worked as a temporary fix, but ignoring this problem could have consequences for your engine. For a more permanent fix, consult experts at an auto repair shop who will know exactly what to do.
In conclusion, as a reputable auto repair shop, we have had to deal with countless problems on different vehicles, including the Ford Focus. Fixing these problems multiple times has given our technicians the knowledge and experience to fix them properly. If you notice any of these problems on your Ford Focus, then you don’t need to be told twice about where to get the best repair services.
