Subject:  2003 Ford Focus
Date:     5/4/2004

Dear tgrisgby:
 
Just today I went to my Ford dealer with a brake problem.  I have 
a 2003 Focus.  Though it has 28,000 miles on it, my reverse commute 
averages 45 highway miles one- way.  Within 30 seconds of looking 
at my car, he said without hesitation that my rotors and pads were 
toast, and without looking at a computer screen, promptly informed 
me it would cost $345.  Having researched in advance on the NHTSA 
website, I knew that Ford has 3 service bulletins involving excess 
brake wear on the 2003 Focus.  I therefore insisted that they 
complete a formal, documented inspection.  Sure enough, the sage 
service adviser's prediction was magically confirmed. 
 
Needless to say I am pissed.  I didn't buy a Focus because I can 
afford car repairs.  I can barely afford the car payment because of 
my bad credit.  I live in Washington state and the rain in these 
parts is a regular Spring visitor. 
 
How can the brakes on a one year old car be shot to the rotors?  The 
pads began their squeak within the last month!  It seems to me that 
the brake pads must wear to a point where the fry and that exposes
you to immediate rotor rot.  I cannot be crazy.  At 32, I have owned 
6 brand new cars, including Japanese, Korean and American brands.  
My previous car, a 2001 Subaru Forester AWD, did not need new pads 
until 65,000 miles.  I understand that AWD cars use brake pads 
faster.  I drove a dumpy Neon to 70,000 miles before needing new pads.  
Given the previous recalls on this same issue in prior model years 
and hundreds of consumer complaints, I know Ford is hiding something.  
They have been oh so proud of the 2003 model's recall-free record.
 
Please share my story.  Others need to know that they are not alone 
on our lowly perch on the Ford family tree.
 
V. O.