5th Aug 2007, 01:37

A long time ago - 1974 - I purchased a 1972 Ford F100. It looked great, but I had to pay top dollar to get it.

The gas mileage was terrible, but not unusual for the times. Then it rusted massively. Three years from the date of manufacture it wouldn't pass inspection.

Then I found out about a "secret warranty" program that covered the truck's rust problem for four years; that was in a letter of complaint from a Clarence Ditlow of THE CENTER FOR AUTO SAFETY. Looks like Ford knew those cars and trucks would fail, but produced them anyway.

I obtained a copy and showed it to a very rude "Factory Representative." I also had a new Pinto. The engine fell apart at 27,000 miles. One day I read a short article in Consumer Reports that suggested that Ford deliberatively saved money by eliminating crucial oil passages. Thank God for Toyota. I used to love old FORDS, but no more, ever again! Because I've now owned both brands as a mechanic, I consider myself an expert.

The last decent American products were the pre- 1974 slant-6 Dodge Darts. I do love watching Ford twist in misery. The UAW didn't give a hoot about their customers either. They deserve what they're gittin'. No more Fords!!!

5th Aug 2007, 16:22

I always looked down on Fords through the '70s, '80s, and '90s, but now I'm really liking what they have to offer.

I would agree that Dodge and Plymouth were the greatest cars of the '60s and '70s, and were still doing good in the '80s.

I bought a used '02 Ford because it was cheap, but it has impressed me so much that I'll be looking at '07 and '08 mid-sized Ford sedans for my next vehicle purchase.

29th Sep 2008, 14:20

I have a 2000 Ford Focus ZX3. I have replaced the rear brakes, rear wheel bearings, mass air flow sensor, and the key tumblers locked up. And other major stuff.

If this is going to be a recall on this car, who do I contact?