I have had "brake issues since day one of owning my 2001 Ford Focus station wagon. From the very beginning there was moaning sounds when I braked. The salesman & service dept told me "it's because they are new", @ around 13,000 miles they began to make more prominant "moans" I was told that it's "normal". at 16,500 miles severe moaning & grinding, then not being able to stop easily, I brought it in to an independant mechanic, since my bumper to bumper warranty does not cover "normal wear & tear items" such as brakes & I was told I would have to pay a diagnostic fee, also not in my warranty, to determine what the issues are, & this mechanic told me that I was metal to metal, I needed new front rotors & pads, $250.also that the Focus has brake problems & was not designed well. Here it is 3 months later & @19,800 miles my back brakes start squealing & screeching loudly, I bring it in again & the shoes are completely worn down & I needed the rotors machined, it was another $135 (which was I bargain since I called the Ford dealer & they wanted @$300 for that work). He told me that his shop does all the fleet work for a neighboring enterprise rental car office & the Focus' are constantly in there for brakes. I called Ford's customer satisfaction line & reported the issue. I am mailing a letter to Ford's dispute resolution board & I am hoping that you will help us Focus owners with bad brakes get retribution from Ford for this faulty system. Thank you

- Las Vegas, NV, USA

Brakes squeal at least 4 times now. It will be going back for a fifth time next week. The dealer tells me this is normal. I am very embarrassed to drive this car being so noisy.

- Griswold, CT, USA