Ford Focus 2010 Problems

As both these model-years concern the same series of Focus, there would definitely be some interchangeability. Body panels should interchange readily (provided you don't try to fit the hatchback from a five-door to the boot of a four-door) and many interior fittings would also be able to be swapped (provided the interior colour and trim materials of the two cars matched).

Mechanically, however, you need to be a bit more careful. Obviously, there would be major differences between the driveline of the diesel version and the more common petrol model, but there will likely be differences to driveshafts and all sorts of components when you compare a manual Focus to an automatic one. Different trim levels can also cause interchangeability problems in terms of a base-model car not having the electrical wiring to support the convenience equipment of the upmarket version. Things like the power windows in the rear of a Focus Ghia, for instance, will cause problems in the base-model CL which relied on manual rear windows.

For the 2010 model, Ford switched from a replaceable fuel filter located just in front of the fuel tank under the car, to a 'lifetime' filter which was part of the fuel pump. The fuel pump itself, meanwhile, is located inside the fuel tank, so that’s where the filter lives as well. Despite being a lifetime filter, contaminated fuel and other factors can require the filter to be changed and the good news is that the filter can be replaced independent of the actual fuel pump. That bad news is that the tank needs to be removed from the car to access those components, so it’s not a cheap, simple job.

It’s likely the clutches need replacing; it is a common problem with your model. Take it to a Ford dealer and ask them to approach Ford about repairing it under warranty at no cost to you. You could also approach Ford’s customer service people directly. The problem you will have in getting them to fix it for you is that the car is now seven years old and you bought it secondhand.

The Focus RS was a sellout in small numbers so the value should still be strong. However, there is an all-new model with more appeal next year so it will seriously devalue your car.

The advice you have received is correct. While Ford is making an attempt to fix the fault it is doing what it is required to do under the consumer law. Unfortunately the law doesn't put a limit on the number of attempts to try and fix a problem, or a time limit in which it must be fixed, which I believe is a flaw in the system. In your case I think Ford has exhausted its chances and if it has still not been fixed it should come to the party with an alternative solution, one being a new car. I would attempt to talk to Ford's head office, present them with all of the information on what has been done to the car and when it was done, and attempt to negotiate a goodwill resolution.

While the consumer law says that while the manufacturer is attempting to fix a problem they are doing what the law requires them to do. That said there has to be a reasonable expectation of an outcome, and the fact that there is no satisfactory outcome after 10 attempts I would think is quite unreasonable and perhaps you do deserve to have a new car. I would consult Consumer Affairs again and get their view, then consider engaging legal representation. You could also speak to our body repair specialist, Graeme Cuthbert, on 0422 444 335, and get his opinion on what might be causing the leak.