2003 Ford Focus electrical system problems
522 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the electrical system on the 2003 Ford Focus — 53% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“New onset burning smell while driving in suburban environment. Parked car, then it wouldn't start. Upon inspection found battery cables/sheath melting. Replaced battery, car started. Car parked and 1 hr later wouldn't start- new battery is dead. Replaced with 2nd new battery, hooked up cables and…”
filed Jan 20, 2019
“The alternator was replaced less than a week ago. Now, it is needing replaced again. There seems to be an issue with the electrical wiring in these vehicles! There are multiple complaints.”
filed Mar 20, 2018
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Dtc p0316, p0300, p0301, p0302, p0303 and/or p0304 - service tip. *tt
19009 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 1, 2006
Electrical System problems in other Focus years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Focus | 48 | 6% |
| 2017 Focus | 35 | 4% |
| 2016 Focus | 81 | 7% |
| 2015 Focus | 64 | 6% |
| 2014 Focus | 245 | 9% |
| 2013 Focus | 273 | 13% |
| 2012 Focus | 352 | 9% |
| 2011 Focus | 25 | 22% |
| 2010 Focus | 43 | 15% |
| 2009 Focus | 45 | 20% |
| 2008 Focus | 57 | 23% |
| 2007 Focus | 85 | 22% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2003 Ford Focus
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.