We are big fans of compact sedans and how they are so value-for-money. The 2016 Ford Focus is one of them and surprises us with its able handling, good infotainment features, and awesome cabin. But this year alone, the car has reported 631 complaints and has been recalled 5 times in total. Some of the most common issues are transmission problems, engine problems, power steering issues, and so on. Starting at an MSRP of $18,085, it competes against the likes of the Hyundai Elantra, the Honda Civic, and the Toyota Corolla. Read on to find out more about the 2016 Ford Focus problems.
2016 Ford Focus User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical problems:
- There is a widespread problem with the 2016 Ford Focus coolant leak. This would result in the engine and transmission of the car running hot and failing subsequently.
- Many owners have also had a complete loss of motive power and had to stop their cars. This is covered in the recall and is another one of the 2016 Ford Focus transmission problems.
- Although very few in number, some cases have resulted in the engine completely going up in flames and threatening the life and safety of the people using the car.
- An oil pump failure is also known to cause catastrophic engine problems that result in the manufacturer recommending that the whole engine be replaced.
- The idling of the car is often erratic and will change the speed randomly.
- Many owners have also complained about the transmission of the car slipping and failing to select the right gear. The manufacturer has duly issued a 2016 Ford Focus automatic transmission recall and fixed some of the issues. It is the most common problem with the car and it is often accompanied by grinding noises.
- There have been multiple failures of the subframe detaching from the car. This is an imminent safety risk and can cause a lot of damage during crashes.
- One of the most common problems is a 2016 Ford Focus steering assist fault that results in the steering becoming heavier and harder to maneuver.
- A few complaints about the fuel rail system have also been reported.
- Many cars have also stalled and vibrated to a stop. The car does not respond to inputs from the gas pedal at this point. The problem is quite common and is supported very widely. It is one of the most common issues with the car.
- There are a few instances of Ford Focus brake problems as well. Usually, the brake pedal stops responding due to a fault with the vacuum pump. In other cases, it causes a loud screeching sound while braking.
- The lug nuts of the car are also prone to getting swollen, making it hard to remove the wheels. It is a very common issue.
Electrical system problems:
- There are a few complaints about the fuel gauge not reading the exact fuel level. According to some owners, it is due to the canister purge valve releasing the excessive vacuum and causing the plastic tank to deform.
- In a few cases, the charging cable overheats and creates a burn mark on the outlet.
- The Sync system used for infotainment is also prone to many complaints and gets disconnected or freezes often. It is one of the most common 2016 Ford Focus electrical problems.
- Several electrical systems in the car have thrown up warnings and malfunctioned. It is common to have the headlamps, instrument panel, and so on going out.
- Other owners have had the trunk open randomly. It seems to be a common issue that has affected a large number of cars.
- Several cars have had the windshield wipers stopping to work or freezing in the middle of the windshield. 2016 Ford Focus windshield wiper problems are quite common.
Interior problems:
- The driver seat of this car is prone to failure of the frame and will move side to side during turns. It can also be a safety risk.
Safety problems:
- There are quite a few complaints stating that the airbags failed to deploy in situations where they could have saved lives. And in other cases where it was deployed, it failed to do so properly.
Exterior problems:
- The door locks of this car also have the issue of not locking correctly.
- There are many complaints about the headlights of the car melting and failing. Despite being replaced multiple times, the issue can re-occur.
- The taillights can also fail due to water getting inside the system.
- Multiple complaints regarding water leaks have also been recorded and the main problem media seems to be from the trunk.
- A few contacts have also reported that the sunroof exploded or the windshield exploded.
Miscellaneous problems:
- Multiple complaints about the manufacturer not making parts for the recall available on time have been registered.
2016 Ford Focus Recalls
S. No. |
Date |
NHTSA Campaign Number |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
November 28, 2018 |
18V845000 |
Clutch slip and fluid leak |
The clutch can fracture and damage the transmission |
Dealers will update software that detects clutch slip and replace the clutch if necessary |
2 |
October 22, 2018 |
18V735000 |
Stuck canister purge valves will cause stall |
Canister purge valves may have malfunctioned and introduce excessive vacuum in fuel vapor management system |
Dealers will replace the canister purge valves and reprogram the powertrain control module |
3 |
March 12, 2018 |
18V169000 |
Clutch slip and fluid leak |
The clutch can fracture and damage the transmission |
Dealers will update software that detects clutch slip and replace the clutch if necessary |
4 |
January 24, 2017 |
17V052000 |
Improper weld joins on floor pan |
Improperly welded apron joints can reduce the structural integrity of the vehicle |
Dealers will inspect and repair the vehicle is necessary |
5 |
June 28, 2016 |
16V479000 |
Loss of motive power from pinion gear |
A fractured pinion shaft can cause loss of motive power. |
Dealers will replace the differential assembly |
Should you buy the 2016 Ford Focus?
The 2016 Ford Focus is a car that plans to take on a segment with intense competition. Although it has reported a large number of complaints, the fact is that the manufacturer has followed that up with the recall that covered the issue. Its main problem is the transmission failing as well as the engine stalling. In its category, it would still be classified as an unreliable car and hence we would not recommend it over the 2016 Honda Civic.