Subject: 2003 Focux ZX3
Date: 12/27/2004

I bought my 2003 Focus ZX3 new two years ago.  It had about 16
miles on it.  It now has almost 30000 and I have had many small
problems with it.  At around 20000, the plastic molding on the
doors came unglued.  One of the pieces fell off on the highway,
and could have caused an accident if it had fallen off during
heavier traffic.  At around 25000 one of the front wheel wells
came off and was resting on the tire, which I'm sure is not very
safe as the friction between wheel well and tire creates a lot
of heat.

The most recent Ford mishap just happened tonight.  With about
30000 miles on the car, I have fallen prey to what I now know
is the famous ignition barrel problem.  As far as I understand,
the key slot has worn down enough to not unlock the ignition
switch.  In layman's terms, the key goes in, but it will not
turn.  I'm taking it to the dealer tomorrow and am telling them
to put in one that doesn't fail at 30000, since I am not looking
at replacing this part three or four times.

I love the car, but with every little problem that occurs, my
love of Ford decreases.

Scott
Lancaster, PA