Eight problems related to engine have been reported for the 2003 Ford Focus. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford Focus based on all problems reported for the 2003 Focus.
No events led to this ignition will not turn - happens each time I attempt to start the car - at times it will turn with enough jiggling - has left me stranded with no ride taking it to dealership for replacement, but this is a known Ford Focus problem.
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Focus. The contact stated that she heard a noise coming from the dashboard and the steering wheel would shake while the vehicle idled. The vehicle was inspected on four occasions by four different mechanics and they stated that the motor mounts caused the failure. As of January 3, 2008, the mechanic had not repaired the vehicle. The failure mileage was 50,000 and current mileage was 54,000.
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Focus zx3. While driving 5 mph on 04/17/2007 a rainy day the driver hit a puddle and water was trapped inside the sport intake system which caused the engine to fail. The owners 60 day warranty has not expired. However, the dealer stated he would have to pay $6,000 to repair the engine. The current and failure mileage were 34760.
- the contact owns a 2001 Ford Focus. While driving a 65 mph the vehicle lost power. The contact was able to safely pull the vehicle over. The vehicle would not restart for an hour. The vehicle had lost power four times. There was a warning light, but the contact was not able to remember which one. The failure mileage was 159,000. The contact had not taken the vehicle to dealer to be diagnosed.
The car hesitates while at speeds above 40 mph. Appears to shut down and restart. The car has been back to dealer on several occasions and not repaired.
Engine cuts out while driving for no apparent reasons and with no warning.
While driving at 35 mph and with no warning vehicle caught on fire, heavy black smoke and flames came from under the hood. The dealer was notified. No warning light illuminated to indicate there was any kind of problem.
Problems with water in vehicle's engine. Consumer drove over a puddle and vehicle was splashed on by another vehicle in the opposite lane. Approx. 50 feet from a traffic light, the vehicle cut off and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealership where the vehicle was purchased. The next morning someone from the service dept. Stated the engine was flooded and needed to be replaced at $5000. This wasn't covered by the warranty. The dealer wouldn't offer a rental vehicle so the consumer felt he had no choice but to have the work done. An independent court certified auto expert stated in his opinion there was a design defect. The vehicle was incapable of being driven through puddles due to low air intake. The consumer requested reimbursement.