2002 Ford Focus Suspension Problems
- Complaints
- 109about this part
- Share
- 12%of 939 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 50,000miles
- Trend
- RisingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% higher than in the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 109 complaints about the suspension of the 2002 Ford Focus, 12% of the 939 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 50,000 miles. 11 of these say a crash was involved, according to the filers.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Vehicle has about 108,000 miles. I did replace the tie rods control arms and sway bar of the front subframe. The mechanic said that the subframe is very rusted and the engine could fall of if the vehicle is not serviced immediately. I bought the car around 90,000 miles and have already replaced fuel pump and other parts under the car.”
NHTSA complaint #11279301, filed 2019-11, 108,000 miles“While my wife was driving on I-95 the right front coil spring suddenly fractured and in the process wedged into the tire destroying it and the strut. Luckily she was able to get to the side of the highway. The vehicle is a 2002 Ford Focus. Ford knows about this problem and it has happened to many Focus'.”
NHTSA complaint #10229730, filed 2008-06, 50,000 miles“At speed of 40+MPH and uneven highway or when encountering a manhole cover the rear of the car sways and shimmies left to right in an extreme manner. Noticed much worse with new tires that grip well. Have had it inspected by a professional who says all vital parts look okay. 4 wheel alignment did not remedy. I see references to a design issue with the upper control members that make it impossible to reach a correct camber setting. I don't trust much on the internet though, and would like NHTSA guidance or further information. Thanks for any help you can provide, I appreciate it.”
NHTSA complaint #11173264, filed 2019-01, 140,000 miles“Ok so I've had my Ford Focus for about 3 months now I fell in love with this little thing recently got struts changed in front and ball joints bushings and tires so I knew it would need an alignment so got that done now at speeds from 50-60 MPH this car starts fishtailing out of control I dont have alot of money I am not workin at present so I cant afford to take my used car to dealer much less to another auto shop. I travel 50 -70 miles each day to work and I'm scared its gonna fishtail me into a wreck. Mileage 134000 applke valley calif.”
NHTSA complaint #10905560, filed 2016-09, 134,000 miles“My Ford Focus left tire fell off because of the wheel bearing breaking. With no warning or noise my tire detached during driving. My tire was found 40 yards away with the lugs nuts still attached to the outside of the drum brake. Police report was filed.”
NHTSA complaint #10352416, filed 2010-08, 118,592 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10058100Sep 9, 2014Ford: due to high corrosion areas, where vehicles are operated for extended periods, lower control arm (lca) can separate from forward attachment of subframe. Model 2001-04 escape.
Suspension: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 3 | 0% |
| 2017 | 3 | 0% |
| 2016 | 6 | 1% |
| 2015 | 4 | 0% |
| 2014 | 19 | 1% |
| 2013 | 15 | 1% |
| 2012 | 28 | 1% |
| 2011 | 5 | 4% |
| 2010 | 19 | 7% |
| 2009 | 25 | 11% |
| 2008 | 23 | 9% |
| 2007 | 23 | 6% |
| 2006 | 10 | 5% |
| 2005 | 27 | 6% |
| 2004 | 17 | 4% |
| 2003 | 49 | 5% |
| 2002 | 109 | 12% |
| 2001 | 150 | 9% |
| 2000 | 390 | 11% |
Other parts of the 2002 Ford Focus
277 complaintsEngine cooling
103 complaintsAir bags
72 complaintsBrakes
72 complaintsFuel system
67 complaintsTires
62 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
58 complaintsSteering
53 complaintsBody and structure
51 complaintsLatches, locks and linkages
45 complaintsWheels
36 complaintsOther or unknown
30 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2002 Ford Focus
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology