Instrument Panel problems of the 2001 Ford Focus

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Focus. The contact stated that the side view mirror on the vehicle was repaired and the transmission also slipped. After the repairs were complete, the vehicle did not drive the same. The dealer stated that the parts needed were not in stock and they kept the vehicle for one month. In addition, whenever the left turn signal was activated, the vehicle would shut off entirely. The lights were replaced; however, the vehicle continued to lose power whenever the signal lights, hazard lights, or air conditioning were activated. The headlights continued to short and, while driving at night, the high beams had to be activated. The seat belt in the rear driver's seat was inoperable and the driver's seat continued to move backwards from the steering wheel. She also stated that the key can be removed from the ignition while the vehicle is in motion and while the ignition is on. Finally, none of the warning lights on the instrument panel are functional. The failure mileage was 23,000 and current mileage was 95,000.

While driving the consumer noticed that the instrument panel gauges were in operative. She could not tell how fast she was driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection. The mechanic informed the driver that the instrument panel needed to be replaced. On some occasions when the speedometer failed the odometer also stopped working and the vehicle idled erratically. At times when the clutch was pressed while stopping the engine would die which resulted in loss of power. The fuel gauge was also unstable and as a result the consumer is never sure how much fuel is in the vehicle.

When driving at an undetermined speed, the consumer heard a popping noise coming from the rear driver's seat. The consumer noticed that, the instrument panel lights would flick on and off. The consumer took the vehicle to the dealership for inspection. Please provide any further details.

While attempting to park, the vehicle took off and accelerated without any warning. The vehicle took off going through the back wall of the garage. The air bags did deploy. On another occasion, the vehicle was serviced for check engine light which was on. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and a chip was replaced. However, while driving, the vehicle accelerated out of control again up to 100 miles per hour. Consumer was able to stop the vehicle by turning off the engine. Dealer found throttle was stuck wide open.