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2004 Ford Focus steering problems

29 complaints (7% of all complaints for this car). Typical mileage when it fails: 54,111. 2 crashes reported.

owner complaints
29
of this car's complaints
7%
typical mileage
54,111
crashes
2
recalls
0

Which part fails

  • Linkages: tie rod assembly
    3
  • Steering wheel/handle bar
    2
  • Column
    2
  • Electric power assist system
    1
  • Column locking: anti-theft device
    1

At what mileage

Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.

0k-25k
25k-50k
50k-75k
75k-100k
100k-125k
125k-150k
150k-175k
175k-200k
200k+

Ford Focus steering problems in other years

19992005201020152018

Specific symptoms reported on the 2004 Ford Focus steering

Phrases found in the owners' own descriptions, so one complaint can mention several symptoms.

Steering lock-up 7

Related recalls

No recalls on record for this model year.

What 2004 Ford Focus owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Jul 16, 2018 · Steering · 75,000 miles · PA

Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford focus. The contact stated that the steering column jammed without warning. The dealer (day ford, 3696 william penn hwy, monroeville, pa) and manufacturer were contacted, but did not assist because the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Filed Jul 2, 2018 · Electrical, Lights · 30,000 miles · CA

My vehicle instrument cluster failed causing alternator to die and false readings on the dash with multiple alerts such as battery, airbag , oil and incorrect speed dial. The vehicle instrument failed at 30,000 miles and if you search it is a very common issue with the ford focus vehicle's. The vehicle staled and died while being drove in town and thank god it did not happen while on the highway.

Filed Sep 6, 2016 · Airbags, Seat belts · 170,000 miles · IL · crash · 2 injuries

Tl* the contact owned a 2004 ford focus. While driving 45 MPH, the steering wheel veered to the right and vibrated violently. The contact had to release the accelerator pedal and crashed into a ditch. The vehicle flipped over twice. The contact sustained second degree burns from the seat belt, whiplash, and burns to the right arm from the air bags. Medical attention was required. The rear driver side passenger sustained whiplash and stomach bruises from the seat belt, which also required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed and destroyed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000.

Filed Jun 11, 2015 · Steering · 80,100 miles · FL

I parked the car over night. In the morning on my way to a medical appointment I inserted the key in the ignition and the steering was locked up. The key goes inside the ignition but it would not turn. I only imagine the same situation while I am driving the vehicle. The steering wheel would not move, can it happen? Has it happen? Let you be the judge.

Filed May 14, 2014 · Steering · 100,000 miles · PA

Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford focus. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 MPH, an abnormal noise emitted from the rear of the vehicle as it abnormally began steering to the right. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing however, they could not duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the defect. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

Filed Apr 15, 2011 · Steering · 31,000 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford focus. The contact stated that he could hear a whining sound whenever the steering wheel was turned and while driving at any speed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the contact was told that the noise was nothing to be concerned about. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 31,000. The VIN was unavailable.

Filed Mar 1, 2011 · Electrical, Steering · 54,111 miles · VA

Attempted to start car and steering column and ignition was locked. I can't get either to turn.

Filed Jan 19, 2011 · Steering · MA

2004 ford focus wagon got into car to drive somewhere. The steering wheel was locked up, perfectly aligned, not askew. The key would not turn in the ignition. After remote starting and checking the fuses, the car did turn on. This seems to be a common problem based on research.

Filed Sep 10, 2010 · Electrical, Steering · 80,000 miles · FL

My key ignition has locked up on my 2004 ford focus leaving me stranded and costing me time from work not to mention the cost its going to be to fix it. I have read many many complaints on this problem and as of yet there is no recall. But I strongly suggest ford considering a recall because it is a safety issue.... Who feels safe stranded on interstate, bad area of town, at night or whatever the case may be!

Filed Feb 10, 2010 · Electrical, Steering · FL

Ford focus 2004 ignition locked. Opened car as usual, inserted key in ignition to turn and steering wheel appeared to be locked. Tried to turn key and move steering wheel but both wouldn't move. Called dealership and was told the ignition was locked and that it was a common problem. Car now needs to be towed to be fixed.

Questions about the 2004 Ford Focus steering

Does the 2004 Ford Focus have steering problems?

Owners have filed 29 complaints about the steering of the 2004 Ford Focus, 7% of all its complaints.

At what mileage do 2004 Ford Focus steering problems start?

The typical (median) mileage in owner complaints is 54,111 miles.

Was there a recall on the 2004 Ford Focus steering?

There is no recall for this problem on this model year.

What year does the Ford Focus have bad steering?

The Ford Focus model years with the most steering complaints are 2012 (927 complaints), 2013 (273 complaints) and 2014 (223 complaints).

Other 2004 Ford Focus problems

Electrical 183Brakes 40Engine 35Locks 28Airbags 24Transmission 20Acceleration 18Suspension 17Body 14Fuel system 13Visibility 11Lights 8Seats 8Tires 7Seat belts 5Wheels 4Driver assistance 1

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