2000 Ford Focus ZX3 review from North America

The car has left me broke down and towed three times.

The passenger cowl needed replaced after water began to leak into the passenger well at 25,000 miles. (and by water, I mean plenty of it) I applied an adhesive and secured the cowl.

The ignition button sticks when the key is removed and the chime sounds around 20,000 miles.

The wheels have excessive dust on them from about 20,000 miles.

I barely have 30,000 miles on the car and I have gone through three sets of tires. (each tire costs about 55.00)

The battery terminals and rear passenger wheel were recalled and replaced.

At 18,000 miles the passenger rear strut insert needed replaced after it blew out.

The paint is chipping off in the front and rust is beginning to appear on the driver's door at around 28,000 miles.

The battery died once for reasons unknown and I was jumped by a friend at about 12,000 miles. The battery tested normal at Auto Zone.

Then the car began hesitating and trying to stall at around 27,000 miles. I thought perhaps there is water in the gas. I dumped dry gas in and it did not correct the problem.

Last night, the car stalled and I was left stranded along side a highway in the middle of nowhere. Fortunately, the cell phone had signal. When I called the tow truck and she asked what year/model, I told her, and she said "Wow, that's such a new car. That's weird to have problems with it."

It is currently in the garage and no one knows the problem. Any fellow focuser's have any suggestions?

I think the car looks hot and is really comfortable.

It handles extremely well and parking is easy in tight spaces.

Riders in the car always comment on how much space there is. The Zx3's exterior is deceiving to how roomy the car is.

The focus was also a college graduation gift from my dad, so even though it has cost me lots and lots of money to keep fixing, it was still free.

I take good care of my focus and keep it maintained. I don't understand all the problems I have been having.

I would like to modify the car, but, with all of its problems, its not a good idea.