2003 Ford Focus my ford focus 2003 shakes at around 65 - 70

2003 FORD FOCUS
Avatar
KJENSEN77406
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Shakes or Wobbles problem
2003 Ford Focus 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 100k miles

My focus 2003 shakes at a speed of around 65-70 mph. It does not seem to shake at 55-60 mph. I have rotated the tires and really don't know what the next step should be.
Jun 10, 2009 at 12:46 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
ARGUS
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Hurry up and check your front coil springs.

If you have ruled out a tire with a slipped belt, you really should check those front coil springs out. Ford coil springs for the 2001-2003 model years have been notorious for breaking.

If your front coil springs (or the backs, too) are cracked, you may end up puncturing a tire if the spring comes off the strut. This can be very serious if you are driving.

If the FRONT coil springs have broken, Ford will have to replace them free of charge if your car has under 150k on them. Hope that helps.

Oh, and I assume your tires have been re-balanced and rotated......
Jun 22, 2009 at 11:19 PM
Avatar
KJENSEN77406
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have rotated my tires. I did not rebalance but figured that 2 tires would not be out of balance in the same manner. When I was looking at my car I did notice that the passenger side front end seemed to be closer to the ground than the drivers side. Why would a broken coil spring cause a problem @ 65-70 mph and not at 55mph? Not quesitoning your knowledge just interested to find out why. I will get my coil springs checked out for sure.. thanks for the information.

Best Regards,

Kurt
Jun 23, 2009 at 3:07 PM
Avatar
ARGUS
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Well, if the passenger side front end is closer to the ground, it would definitely imply a coil spring or strut issue. If it was the strut, you would be bouncing around. So, most likely the coil spring.

As far as why it starts at 65-70mph, I don't honestly know. I just have had that issue with one of our fleet cars, so I know what you are describing.

Definitely check that coil spring, they can be dangerous.
Jun 23, 2009 at 4:39 PM