Experience the Ford Focus Flexifuel, where sustainability meets performance. This unique variant, from 2010 to 2020, caters to eco-conscious drivers who do not want to compromise on the joy of driving. While less common than its petrol-only siblings in New Zealand, understanding its distinctive components is essential for a smooth ownership journey. This guide equips you with crucial insights into common issues, service needs, and key considerations for successful long-term ownership, ensuring your Flexifuel remains a reliable ally on the road.
Owners report the following common issues:
• Powershift Transmission Problems: Hesitation, shuddering, and rough shifting are frequently reported. Consider more frequent transmission fluid changes as a preventative measure.
• E85 Sensor Failure: If equipped, the E85 sensor can fail, leading to poor engine performance and potentially triggering warning lights. Diagnosis and replacement are necessary.
• These issues are most commonly observed between 80,000 and 150,000 kilometers.
When taking your Ford Focus Flexifuel for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspection, these are some potential areas of concern:
• Headlight Condition: Yellowing or clouding of the headlight lenses can result in a WoF failure. Polishing or replacement may be required.
• Rear Suspension Bushes: Worn or damaged rear suspension bushes can affect handling and stability, leading to a WoF failure. Replacement is typically necessary.
Owning a Ford Focus Flexifuel comes with its unique set of responsibilities owing to its distinct features and parts. While it does share components with standard Focus models, be mindful of the Flexifuel-specific parts that may not always be readily available. An important aspect is regular servicing, particularly the Powershift transmission, which can exhibit hesitation or shuddering. We recommend more frequent transmission fluid changes than standard intervals to keep performance at its best.
Another highlight is the E85 sensor; should it fail, it can impact engine performance and trigger warning lights. If your vehicle is experiencing running issues, diagnosis and replacement may be necessary. Additionally, as you reach the 150,000 km mark, pay special attention to the cooling system. Components like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses should all be inspected to maintain optimal performance. [This naturally links to /shop/cooling]
Regular maintenance is critical for prolonging the life of your Flexifuel. Notable parts that may require attention during your ownership include:
• Timing Kit: Essential for maintaining engine timing.
• Oxygen Sensor: Necessary for monitoring exhaust emissions and ensuring fuel efficiency.
• Brake Kit Components: Including rear brake pads and rotors, should be inspected during service intervals for safety and performance. Explore more under Braking.
• Oil Service Kits: Ensure your engine runs smoothly with regular oil changes and filter replacements. Visit Oil Service.
• Filtration Systems: Regular changing of air and cabin filters keeps your vehicle running efficiently. Check out Filtration for all your filtering needs.