2003 Ford Focus engine problems
18 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2003 Ford Focus — 2% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The key was stuck in the ignition. Could not turn off. Out of town so this was definately an unsafe situation because I either had to stay with the car until the gas was out of gas since I didn't have cash for repair. The car was driveable”
filed May 28, 2017
“Car starts but when put in gear, stalls out. Engine will run with foot on gas pedal but stalls our when placed in gear. **happens only in very hot weather temperatures. Search web for ford focus stalling out in hot weather. Hundreds and hundreds are reporting this problem but no solutions from…”
filed Aug 17, 2016
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Possible engine damage - install special service tools prior to removing crankshaft pulley bolt. *kb
06166 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Feb 27, 2007Possible engine damage - install special service tools prior to removing crankshaft pulley bolt - service tip. *tt
06116 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 1, 2006Manifold or catalytic converter heat shields loose/missing. *tt
0627 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 1, 2006Mirfire diagnostic trouble codes p0316, p0300, p0301, p0302, p0303, or p0304 - service tip. *tt
19026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 1, 2006Replace timing belt idler pulley during 2.0l zetec engine cylinder head replacement - service tip. *tt
19016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 1, 2006
Engine problems in other Focus years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Focus | 228 | 28% |
| 2017 Focus | 225 | 25% |
| 2016 Focus | 232 | 20% |
| 2015 Focus | 170 | 17% |
| 2014 Focus | 441 | 17% |
| 2013 Focus | 343 | 16% |
| 2012 Focus | 473 | 13% |
| 2011 Focus | 3 | 3% |
| 2010 Focus | 42 | 15% |
| 2009 Focus | 16 | 7% |
| 2008 Focus | 14 | 6% |
| 2007 Focus | 6 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2003 Ford Focus
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.