2002 Ford Focus tire wear problem

THEHELP

MEMBER
2002 FORD FOCUS

Tires and Wheels problem
2002 Ford Focus 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive 101000 miles

I have a 2002 wagon, ztw, that needs new tires after only 23k. The right rear is completely bald and the car has been difficult to steer. I am being told that it is mostly likley a bushing assembly or bushing being worn or out of place that is causing this and the repair will be upwards of $800/ the vehicle is not even paid for, and it seems to be early for such expensive repairs. Does this amount seem reasonable or could it just need an alignment. The alignment and chasis design has been blamed for this poor wearing in the past, and that if I bring it in to be aligned and balance every 2000-3000 miles the tires should wear well. Should I get a second opinion on this bushing issue?

1 Reply

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,394 POSTS

I checked for an tech service bulletins (TSB) on a '02 Focus wagon and found nothing. If yours was a common problem, it would be listed. I don't know what type of shop you took it to for diagnosis, but I would definately take to an alignment shop and have it looked at. If that is where you took it, I would surely get a second opinion. It could be bad bushings, but find it hard to believe. My guess is, just a basic alingment will take care of it. $800.00 sounds a little stiff for bushing replacement. Hope this helps. Let me know how it comes out.