I purchased a 2001 Ford Focus in August 2001. In Sept. 2001 with only 2240 miles on the car transmission seemed to be slipping and the car failed to accelerate properly. Had it towed to the dealership and they said there was a leak in transmission line. This was repaired. In Oct. 2002 at 16416 miles headlights would not come on when I turned the switch. Switch was replaced. About this same time new brake pads were required. Nov. 2002 at 17871 miles the ignition cylinder locked up. Car was towed and ignition cylinder replaced. August 2003 at 26757 miles ignition cylinder locked up again. Once again the car was towed to the dealer and ignition cylinder was replaced. Now I have a bubble in one tire and my brakes are squealing. What's next" not once have I picked my car up from the dealer and it been washed or vacuumed out. I bought a new car because I needed reliable transportation. Now I feel like taking it back to the dealer and letting them keep it. I wonder how many Ford employees would buy a Focus".

- Hurst, TX, USA

I was watching the news last night and heard a story that the NHTSA was investigating complaints that the Ford Focus engine can stall causing an accident. This is what happen to my car fortunately I was not involved in a crash. But, when I took the car in I was told that I needed a new starter. This was strange to me being the fact the car was not even a year old. After seeing this report I know understand that the problem is cause by debris accumulating in the gas tank, blocking fuel from being delivered to the engine. After the new starter was installed I'm still have problems with the car. For example at time it seem like it's going to stall or it feels like its dragging.

- Chicago, IL, USA