One problem related to hatchback/liftgate has been reported for the 2001 Ford Focus. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Ford Focus based on all problems reported for the 2001 Focus.
There is no way to secure the hatch when transporting long items & thus exhaust fumes are sucked back into the passenger compartment. The manufacturer does not recommend drilling a hole for the hook on a bungee chord to hold the hatch down & reduce fumes entering the passenger compartment. The manufacturer indicated the drilling of a hole for a hook may invalidate the warranty. This, I feel, is a health & safety concern since it is common for me to see hatch vehicle transporting common household items, like 2 x 4's from the local home center & other items as well. The hatch remains completewly open.