The consumer had problems with the vehicle since purchase. The vehicle caught on fire on September 16, 2005. The motor was off, and it burst into flames. The fire department came and they said it look like it started from the wiring harness. The vehicle stalled before it caught on fire. Was having the same problem two weeks before, and took it to dealer. They replaced some ignition items. Also, was having latches, brakes, and engine problems.

- Cleveland, OH, USA

ABS braking light appeared on the dashboard and remained. Driver noticed that while applying the brakes the pedal went to the floor, and vehicle skidded off the road. Driver was able to maintain control of the vehicle. Took the vehicle to the dealer for inspection, but mechanic could not duplicate the problem.

- Barnegat, NJ, USA

While driving vehicle suddenly accelerated without warning. Driver applied the brakes, and the pedal went to the floor. Driver was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to the dealer for inspection. The mechanic determined that the problem could not be duplicated. The dealer told the consumer that the brakes are not the problem.

- Chicago, IL, USA

I purchased a 2003 Focus from a dealer who had used it for a demonstration vehicle. The car was obtained on or about March of 2004 with about 5,600 miles. At the time the brakes seemed fine. Two weeks ago I heard a noise at 16,800 miles. When I pulled the wheels to inspect the brakes, I found the inner disc pads down to metal and the outer pads with about 1/8 - 1/4" remaining. The rotors are scored on both sides. How is this possible" I had the same problems with my Taurus. Anyone else having these kind of problems" I am starting to think that there is a definite problem with Ford's front disc brakes, or that the read drums are hopelessly under powered.

- Mount Kisco, NY, USA

While coming out of the driveway and coming to a stop consumer depressed the brakes and heard a grinding sound. Vehicle did not stop, and it side swiped a sign post near a school zone. The police did not investigate the incident nor were there any injuries. Vehicle experienced some dents, and the loss of the exterior driver's side mirror.

- Raeford, NC, USA

Brake failure;I was driving in heavy stop and go traffic in seattle, wa. I was keeping about two car lengths behind other cars. That strategy proved to be a mistake because a large one ton Dodge van scooted into the gap ahead of me. We were going about ten or twelve miles per hour when the large van suddenly stopped. I hit the brake pedal very hard and held it to the stop (floor?) and my Ford Focus continued to move forward about twelve feet without any feel of slowing or stopping. The large Dodge van ahead stopped me.

- Vancouver, WA, USA