Brake Disc Rotor Problems of Ford Focus - part 1

Ford Focus owners have reported 81 problems related to brake disc rotor (under the service brakes category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Ford Focus based on all problems reported for the Focus.

1 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2004 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 03/22/2006

The contact owns a 2004 Ford Focus. The contact stated that the brakes began to squeak. The mechanic diagnosed the failure as needing new front rotors and made the repair. One month later, the brakes began squeaking again. A piece of the front rotor fell off while the vehicle was in motion. A local mechanic replaced the front rotors again. The powertrain, purchase date, and engine size were unknown. The current mileage is 23,400 and failure mileage was 22,000.

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2 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2002 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 11/16/2005

At around 35,000 miles my father noticed a grinding noise on the front of his Focus. Thinking that it was the screech of a warning indicator he parked the vehicle until he could have me look at it. Both front rotors were severely ground down with the left inside pad being totally down flush with the metal. This shouldn't be normal wear. Back brakes showed signs of normal if not less than normal wear. This should not be normal wear and tear on a vehicle with this few miles on it. I had to replace both rotors prematurely. We will keep the old parts for thirty days in case they are needed.

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3 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2004 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/01/2005

The consumer stated that while driving, the cruise control activated by itself and caused the vehicle to accelerate. The acceleration was rapid in nature. The contact was not attempting to use the cruise control at that time, she was approaching a stop sign. The vehicle has not been to dealer or a mechanic for a diagnosis of the problem. The consumer also stated the windshield lining was coming apart, one of the rotors were warped. Updated 11/29/05.

4 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/02/2005

I have had two front end aliments in 20,000 miles and my car has 23. 454 miles on it . Also now it needs new brakes and rotors and they refuse to replace them under warranty . This is an ongoing problem with Ford Focus that should be fixed .

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5 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 05/30/2005

I purchased this car in sept. 2003, brand new. This spring, with only 23000 miles on it, the car began making an awful grinding noise. I took it to the dealership the next day, and they had to replace the front rotors, at a price tag of near $400. Of course my warranty did not cover it. I am very disappointed in this car, and in Ford for selling a car that obviously has a faulty, poorly made braking system. Only 4 months after the initial repair, I have begun having problems with the car again. I will absolutely never purchase another Ford again. I am very unimpressed with them.

6 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2005 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/10/2005

2005 Ford Focus experiencing problems with the brake equipment and the tire tread on the front two tires. The brake rotors and pads where bad. Dealer told consumer all Focus disc brakes wear like that, with grooves on rotors and pads . Consumer's son was on I-95 and had to stop fast and tires got soft spots and flatten out and tread came apart. Manufacturer wouldn't warranty the 2 front tires and the consumer had to buy new ones.

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7 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/01/2005

2001 Ford Focus rotors (front driver and passenger side) were shredded. The brake pads were only half worn.

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8 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 02/04/2005

My 2003 Focus ztw wagon has been in for brakes 3 times in the last year. Ford standing by this as a "wear" item not covered under warranty. Could I have 2002 parts in my vehicle? I have had brake inspections done with oil changes indicating everything in the "green zone". The rotor warping is sudden and unpredictable. 3 brake jobs in one year is excessive and problematic. I do not feel safe in this vehicle even with the brakes being fixed.

9 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 11/27/2004

18,000 miles on a 2003 Ford Focus and the brake pads and rotors are ruined, the dealer told me I can expect this with a Focus or a escape because of center mounted rotors. The car was inspected by the dealer 2500 miles ago. State police can't help me due the time that has passed since inspection.

10 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2005 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 11/09/2004

While braking at any speed consumer heard a grinding noise coming from the front/rear brakes. Dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem.

11 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2002 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/27/2004

Yearly inspection resulted in a failure due to excessive rotor wear on both fron rotors. Although I was informed that the brake pads would have lasted another 5 to 6 thousand miles. No faulty or damage to the front end that would have caused this type of wear. Previous inspection last year at another Ford dealer showed no issues. Also informed of this type of wear being considered normal by the dealers due to the manufacturing process of the original rotors being changed to intice owners to replace rather than turn the rotors when needed. Found that there is a pending class action in California of the same incident. Also located two technical bullitens from Ford showing concern over the issue. Called the Ford corporate and was told that there was nothing I could do due to the factory warrent covering only 12k miles and I was at 34k miles. Called the dealer back, told them of my findings and my disappointment in discovering that it was a known issue after all. The service manager called me back to inform me that it would be covered under warranty since they had overlooked the issue.

12 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2000 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/11/2004

To whom it may concern, own a 2000 Ford Focus zx3, I have had this car in for more repairs & recalls then I can count. The most recent visit to the dealer (colley Ford, glendora, CA. ) for a recall (program) and to have the brakes serviced was on 10/02/2004, I was told after 3 days that the clutch had a burnt smell, the battery had to be replaced, as well as the spark plug wires, some hose, and that the brake rotors would have to be turned (this is the second set of rotors on this car that has 37000 miles). Please help me I am at the end of my rope with this car and don't know where to turn. I cant win with the dealer or Ford motor company. . . . . What should I do, what can I do? the fealer will not help & Ford will not help. I still have not been able to have the car fit yet, im waiting to hear from the dealer. Please help thank you for your time regards jeri williams 24/7 (626) 272-9518 .

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13 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 09/17/2004

Ford Focus 2003 rotors wear out incredibly fast. . Took my car in for a 30,000 inspection and had to have new rotors and breaks I was told that many Focus's are coming in at 30,000 that need new rotors. Why??? unless they are defective in the first place.

14 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 09/07/2004

2003 Ford Focus brakes are wearing uneven, rubbing, and squeeking. The front rotors have groves beyond allowable limits while 40% of pads remain. Looks as if the front pads are eating the rotors. When taken to Ford they say its normal wear, what a lie. . This could cause a terrible accident, im surprised Ford hasnt learned their lesson from past experience. Since for has refused to take action on their faulty brakes, there are a lot of folks that really wish you guys would step forward and make them before people get killed.

15 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2004 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 06/23/2004

I brought car brand new from Ford in March 2004. Since then the brakes, and calipers, rotors have squealed horribly. I have taken the car back to the shop three times had numerous phone conversations with them and the problem is not fixed. I finally took it to a mechanic outside Ford who told me the rotors were warped and glazed. This car is only3 months old. They are at a . 8 and should be 1 inch. The front brakes have nver been replaced. I have children that ride in this vehicle with me.

16 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 06/04/2004

Left brake pad and rotor completely worn after 24000 miles of gentle driving. Ford refused to cover the pads and rotor under the warranty. Customer service was not helpful or flexible.

17 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 05/28/2004

2001 Ford Focus front brakes and rotors severely worn after 25,000 miles. Rotor and brake pads had to be replaced on both front tires by Ford dealer.

18 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2003 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 05/03/2004

Vehicle was taken to dealer for regular check up, and results showed that the rotors needed to be replaced because they were worn out. Consumer will notify manufacturer.

19 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/30/2004

At around 36,000 miles I was told that my Ford Focus needs new rotors with the brake job. This is the first time I hear of rotors needing to be changed at this low milage. I had to pay for the new rotors.

20 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/27/2004

Consumer complained about brake rotors problem. Rear brakes rotors were replaced on three separate occasions, but problem recurred.

21 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 03/05/2004

I purchased a 2001 Ford Focus in Jan/2001. After 16000 miles my rotors cracked and had to be replaced along with other brake parts this repair was done on 10/15/02 and was covered by my warranty. After 30000 miles I began to hear a squeaking noise whenever I applied the brakes. At 30528 miles, on 03/05/04, I was informed by the oasis Ford dealership (old bridge, NJ) technician that my rotors had to be replaced along with other brake parts and because this was a wear problem, it was not covered by my very expensive warranty. I told him that the rotors were replaced only 14000 miles ago. He said that the problem was with the rotors provided by Ford motor company. He said they were too thin and could not be machined because that would reduce them below "specs". This repair would cost me $360. 00 now and, presumably, any future brake repair. The rotors appear to be of inferior quality and perhaps a safety issue. Please investigate. I am available for any follow-up questions you may have. Thank you for your assistance. Regards, ed barry.

22 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 03/01/2004

Front brakes and rotors; I had 21k+ miles on my 2001 Ford Focus, the car would vibrate when braking, and specially downhill. I was informed by the dealer that I needed new brake pads, and "most likely rotors". That's ridiculous for such low miles. Fearing for my family safety I did replace the pads and rotors, but not with the dealer.

23 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2000 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 02/26/2004

Consistent and costly brake problems on my 2000 Ford Focus - VIN 1fafp3439yw314241. Recently, on Feb 26, 2004, bob baker Ford, san diego serviced/replaced my front rotors & pads - costing $483. My rear brakes were previously serviced due to loud squeal (deglazed, dr sanded) on March 21, 2003; October 25, 2002; and August 23, 2002. Are rotors normally replaced at 18625 miles? I emailed Ford motor company (case 952919, tracking kmm2756164c0km) on 2/26/04, and they phoned me the next day. Ford motor stated my problem was due to the previous owner's excessive use of the brakes, and they would forward my complaint to their engineer department.

24 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2000 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 01/15/2004

When depressing the brake pedal consumer heard a grinding noise, causing the vehicle to have extended stopping distance. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer to be inspected, and mechanic determined that front rotors were wearing out.

25 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 01/01/2004

While braking, the consumer heard a loud squeaking noise coming from the brake rotors. The dealership informed the consumer that the front brake rotors were worn. The mechanic tried to repair the vehicle, but the problem continued.

26 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 11/20/2003

Vehicle was taken to the dealer for a routine inspection, and mechanic determined that the rotors and master cylinder needed to be replaced, and replaced them three times due to worn out parts.

27 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/28/2003

2001 Ford Focus serious brake problems. I bought a new 2001 Ford Focus se in may 2001. About 6 months after purchase I noticed a grinding noise. Ford replaced "cracked brake shoes" on the car and said it was covered under warranty. Its now October 2003, my air conditioning suddenly stopped working. Also my car was again making little squeaking noises when braking. So, I took it to a local Ford dealer who told me that at 22,000 miles my car brakes were totally shot, that it was completely unsafe to drive, I needed all new brakes and rotors immediately, and that I should not drive anywhere. There are several websites all with hundreds of other Ford Focus owners having the same problems. . Read more...

28 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/15/2003

I have had my certified preowned Ford Focus zx3 for 10 months now. I have run it under normal driving conditions. I started having a a noise coming from the engine compartment and noticed a slight vibration on the steering wheel. I continued to drive it for a week, thinking that it may be a hard spot in the brak pad. I took it to a dealership a week later to have them inspect it, while it was still under new car warranty, and they stated that I needed new pads and rotors, service charge :$10. I checked them myself and noticed that the pads were still at 50%. I replaced the pads and rotors. The noise is still persistent, but the noise, according to Ford is normal. I wish there would be an investigation brought forward and a recall for all Ford Focus trim levels to service brake issues, such as premature wear (states on ordfocusbrakeproblems. Com).

29 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/07/2003

Brake rotors needed to be turned at 18000 miles and failed at 23,300 miles. At 23,300 miles the rotors were below the minimum thickness requirement. The brake pads, however, showed only minimal wear. The dealer refused to award warranty to the brake components.

30 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2002 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 09/21/2003

The front brake rotors were warped. Dealership notified of the problem, but the problem has not been resolved.

31 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2000 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 09/04/2003

2000 Ford Focus bought new have had brake problums since day one, front brakes wear out prematurly once at 24000 miles now at 48000 miles and now even the front rotors are worn out, it has been the inboard pads that go bad. Also the rear brakes squeal very badly and have since new rear brakes have been replaced three times with no cure, my Ford dealer has told me all cars do this and nothing can be done to solve the problem, I have since asked other Focus drives about this problem and most say thet don't have a brake problem and have heard no othe car of any kind squeeling as mine does it's embaressing to drive and every one looks at us when ever we apply the brakes it's very bad, the car is now out of warrenty but Ford will not admit to haveing a problem and has done nothing to solve the problem, I feel that it should be taken care of reguardless because they do have a problem, I feel it is bad rotors-sticking calipers on the front and possibly a bad proporshing valve as for the rear, the valve could be also the problem along with the shoes also, something needs done I am afraid to drive it at times not knowing what will go wrong with the brakes next or when, but this squeel has got to stop!!!.

32 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/27/2003

Premature brake pad and rotor replacements on front of Ford Focus sedan. Brakes replaced at 21,000 miles. I have never had to replace rotors on any car this early. Ford owners of Focus have listed this problem hundreds of times. Yet I know of no recall for this problem. Some have had it in less than 10,000 miles. This really needs to be looked into.

33 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/19/2003

Front wheel rotors had to be replaced at 20,598 miles. Brakes were squealing from the time of purchase (new car), but we were told that they would "loosen up" and be okay --- they never did stop squealing. . When we inquired about any recall, we were told there were no recalls from the factory where the car was manufactured.

34 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2001 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/17/2003

Car is a 2001 Focus with 21,000 miles. Upon braking, steering wheel shudders and vibrates. Was told that car needed new rotors as these were warped. No resolution through Ford motor company. No car should require brakes and rotors after only 21,000 miles of driving. Car actually started doing this at about 19,000 miles and has staedily worsened.

35 Brake Disc Rotor problem of the 2002 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/16/2003

To my Focus in to service Jan 2003 for squeaking brakes, rotors were warped, brake squeaking said to be "normal". They machine straightened the rotors and said Ford engineering looking into squeaks. Aug. 2003 take Focus in for loud vibrating sound. Brakes and rotors completely shot. $440 to fix. 13700 miles on car.


Other Common Service Brakes related problems of Ford Focus


Safety Ratings of Focus Cars
Fuel Economy of Focus Vehicles
Focus Service Bulletins
Focus Safety Recalls
Focus Defect Investigations