Wheel stud on front, driverside broke off while car was in motion. Because of stud failure, wheel nuts and wheel flew off vehicle, crossing oncoming lane. If defect occurs on other vehicles on a hwy or at highspeeds. Severe injury could occur. Fortunately this occurred at low speed and on an empty street. Ford reported no way of checking its databases for similar defects.

- Alexandria, VA, USA

My 2003 Ford Focus ztw has lug nut caps that do not stay on. Every year I lose several caps as the temperature changes causing the metal to expand making the caps lose. Recently a cap flew off as my I was driving and hit the passenger side window luckily not breaking it. This is a design defect that needs to be fixed immediately before causing further damage.

- Massapequa Park, NY, USA

Rear wheel bearing failure on Ford Focus 2003. This part which is usually good for 75,000 to 100,000 miles failed due to corrosion on both rear wheels. The axle was almost cut off without warning. A known problem on previous model years 2000, 2001 & 2002. After this incident I was informed by my niece and brother-in-law that there Ford Focus models of the same year had also failed in exactly the same way. Ford claims that they have no knowledge of this. This is a very serious situation. While the service department inspected the vehicle they also found a broken front spring; from corrosion; which Ford acknowledges and is paying for the replacement of the springs; due to a previous recall. This is a very expensive repair at $323 for the axle and additional costs for alignment etc. After the parts are replaced.

- Littleton, MA, USA

: the contact stated while driving 55mph a grinding noise was heard coming from the wheels. Upon inspection the dealership determined all four wheels were turned inward because the vehicle was out of alignment. There was wearing present on the tires. The vehicle was exchanged.

- Shelby, NC, USA

Wheel was damaged about a month ago. Dealership found wheel was considered by Ford to be a production only part at this time. The wheel won't be available to the public or dealerships until October. Needless to say the spare won't wait until October. Consumer contacted Ford customer service center and was told that there was nothing they could or would do to help. This is a major safety issue as consumer was forced to drive on a spare for a prolonged period of time.

- Glendale Heights, IL, USA