FORD: Questions and answers

Ford Ka 2008

My Ford Ka`s heater will only give hot air even on the cold setting and it is very hot. Can anyone help me?

Answers

Same thing happened to my 2006 plate, also had blue smoke coming out of air vents. Dealership fitted a new heater valve, also managed to re-wire it incorrectly. Eventually got it sorted - S L from Yorkshire

Ford Galaxy 2007

Hi. I have a Ford Galaxy 1.8 tdi Zetec 2007 and I have had a problem starting it. This problem started sometime last year and has steadily got worse. Sometimes I can turn the key up to ten or fifteen times and nothing happens, it does not turn over or make any sound at all. I can leave it for five minutes and go back to it and it will start first time. I have taken it to a Ford dealer and they say that they can`t find out what it is, it has been on the diagnostics machine which showed nothing. I took it home, parked it on the drive and the next morning it would not start. I tried about ten times and nothing happened, but the following morning it started with no problem. It goes well when it`s running. Could someone please help? Thanks. (1.8 tdi)

Answers

Just had a very similar problem with my Galaxy. The problem was the fuel pump relay. Does your glowplug light on the dashboard light up when you try to start your car? I found that whenever it did the car started when it didn’t the car wouldn’t start. If this is the same with your car then the relay is definitely the problem. The relay is marked 109, just change this and your car should start every time. This is a common fault and instructions for changing it are online, I found them by tapping into Google how to change ford galaxy relay 109. I hope this helps - Tom Wright from Leicestershire

Hi, could be the key, car thinks its immobelised etc... Dave Fields from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 2008

Hi. I have a 57 plate Ford Transit 2.2tdci T260 and there is a hiss coming from the brake pedal area in the cab. When I press the brake pedal it stops. I wonder if anyone could help? Thanks. (2.2tdci T260)

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It sounds like the brake servo is in need of new seal it could be sucking in air - Clifford Byrne from Worcestershire

Ford Transit 2008

When my Ford Transit is cold the van starts but the red battery light stays on and it won`t rev. It cuts out after 30 seconds and when restarted it behaves normally until the next morning. Diagnostics confirmed a code that said something about the heater plug feed to the ECM is cut short or something. I have already tried changing the alternator. Does anyone have any ideas please? (Transit 2.2tdci)

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Got the exact same problem... it happens for about 10 seconds for me... but I find if I press the clutch in an out a couple of times it comes back. If you hear anything on what it could be and how much it would be to fix... please let me know! Tom from Worcestershire

Ford Transit 1999

My Ford Transit van starts third time lucky every morning and once started can be turned off throughout the day and it will start first time, every time. When I then leave it overnight it will start third time lucky. The battery is charged and turns over well. What does anyone think that the problem is? Do the glow plugs need checking and possibly changing? (SWB)

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That sounds like you need a new timing chain and tensioner, nearly always that, that causes it to start on the third attempt - Micky from England

Ford Focus 2001

My Ford Focus’s engine light has come on. It was missing and was worse when I put my foot on the accelerator. I changed the plugs and leads but it`s no better and the light is still on. Can anyone help please?

Answers

Try having your egr valve checked out or your catalytic converter checked out, depending on the year of the car Ford Focuses are notorious for the egr valves going bad - they quit working properly and can cause the "service engine soon" light to come on, plus you will get poor gas mileage and the car may drive a little rough. Now if the catalytic converter is clogged depending on how bad it is, the car will sputter and cut out, sometimes die. It will also cause the car to overheat, and a bad smell to come through your vents, like burning oil or rotten eggs. These are just a few suggestions I can offer you because these are the problems I have had with my car, so good luck! Janelle from United States of America

No, it’ll be the coil pack - very common on Fords. Don’t buy cheap Chinese made, get a Bosch one or something like - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus

My Ford Focus today failed it`s MOT. The garage stated that I needed a new front windscreen motor at a cost of £210 and possibly the linkage which would cost a further £200. My windscreen wipers are working fine with no problems at all. Does this seem normal and if so is that a fair price?

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WOW I have never heard of that one before unless the windshield wiper motor has gone bad, and that is a very high price to pay considering my electric motor in both back windows went bad and it only cost me 70 to relplace both of them plus labour. I think you should make sure that is the problem and not something wrong with the wiring or a fuse... If that is the problem, try a junkyard and get a used motor, it will save you quite a bit of money... Janelle from United States of America

Ford Ka 2001

Hi. I’ve just bought a Ford Ka and whenever the engine is on the rear window wiper is constantly going. The previous owner has snapped it off because of this so there is only the bottom part of the wiper moving back and forwards. I am unable to twist the indicator to turn it off. What could be the problem?

Answers

Could be a faulty wiper motor or bad wiring. Not an expensive part. 10-15 quid, try europartsUK. Joe from Yorkshire

Ford Focus

I`m going to buy a Ford Focus ST 2006 model. The car has been in an accident and has error codes and it won`t start. Will the error codes prevent the car from starting at all? Thanks.

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Sometimes, depending on what the error code is, and what was wrong with the vehicle when it was wrecked, salvaged vehicles aren’t too bad of a deal sometimes, but before you purchase one I would ask for a car fax so you can get a history and have a good mechanic look at it, just to make sure the car will run and has no other problems and is worth your money - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Focus 2003

My Ford Focus’s engine management light is on and the fault was diagnosed as low emissions. My fuel consumption has also gone up. Can anyone advise please? (1600 Zetec)

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Try checking the egr valve, it is nothing too serious to fix, it is a part of your emission control system and will trigger your service engine soon light to come on. If it’s not that then there is probably an oxygen sensor or an issue with your exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold can be costly to fix, but the rest of the problems can be solved simply and will not cost a lot. And if that isn’t the problem run an obd test on it to see what codes come back - Janelle from United States of America

Could well be a faulty oxygen sensor bank 1 - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2007

I`ve just had a service on my Ford Transit 2007 van. When I am dropping gear (ie. when coming to stop at traffic lights) at low revs the engine cuts out. It won’t tick over or idle while standing and it cuts out. When it drives in higher gears and continuously on motorways it drives with no problem. Does anyone know what’s wrong or had this problem themselves ?

Answers

You need to get a new van - Harry Monk from Herefordshire

’fraid not, ’Arrold. Fuel Rail Valve and Fuel Pump Sensor, £140 + £30 labour from a Garage just outside, Edinburgh. BAAM!!! Sweet and sorted. Let’s go racing, again. And not forgetting the 9 Day free racevan hire, BOOM!!! Alan Hewitson from Mid-Lothian (Edinburghshire)

Ford Transit 2002

Hi. I have an 02 Ford Transit t350 90 2.4 diesel. I parked up after a few trips one morning and came back to find that it wouldn`t start. It was just turning over as if it was getting no spark or fuel. There has been no sign of any problem, no knocks, bangs, splutters or anything. Any suggestions other than the pump itself? Could it be the electronics or something? (t350 90 2.4 diesel)

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Check your timing. I know it’s not easy but ask your mechanic to check crank shaft sensor and timing chain - Flo from Ireland

Ford Transit 2007

Hi. I have recently purchased a Ford Transit 2.2tdci 57 plate with 77,000 miles. After about month it started hunting when idling. I was advised to change the fuel filter and it was better for a couple of days then went back to square one. Eventually it has now started to cut out a lot and sometimes will not start. I took it to the garage where they said it was a break in the fuel pipe from the filter. I replaced the pipe and it ran better for a day but now it’s worse than ever, cutting out all of the time. Does anybody have any ideas? (2.2tdci)

Answers

These are common for hunting on tick over, normally needs a new prv pressure relief valve, especially if it’s cutting out too. But you will also need a softwhare update called pcm. Unfortunatelly this can only be done by Ford. I found this out as I had to take it to them after I had a diesel specialist look at it, who told me the what the problem was. But he couldn’t fix as Ford only have the software. I would honestly put money on this being your problem - cost me £400 ROBBING MAIN DEALERS. Mark Bonser from England

I’ve just had same problem with same van and a 57 plate. The computer software needed updating and it resolved our problems - Paul Kirby from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2008

My Ford Mondeo turns over but just won`t start? It does it intermittently but I can eventually get it going after trying for 20-30mins? I don`t know what it is. Does anyone have any advice please? Thanks. (Titanium)

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I presume it’s petrol. Have you tried new spark plugs? Luke 06 from Wrexham

Ford Transit 2005

I have replaced the battery in my Ford Transit`s 3 button key fob and reprogrammed it. It didn`t work for a week, then worked yesterday and now today is not working again. Any suggestions? (t80)

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Probably just the key needs reprogramming, sit in the van, turn ignition on and off about 5 times and you will hear an audible beep and immobiliser light will stay on, now press the lock and unlock buttons, turn ignition off and remote should now start working - Paul Bale from Warwickshire

Ford Focus 2003

My Ford Focus` temperature gauge keeps going up and then falls back down. Any suggestions?

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There probably isn’t a way to fix this problem. My Ford Focus also does the same thing. I just keep an eye on it and my fluids just to make sure it isn’t over heating, mine will go up to the red zone, then when I idle the car or start driving it goes back down, just watch for smoke coming from the engine, or a bad smell of antifreeze or any other sign the car may be over heating. Make sure your overflow tank and radiator have fluid in them and its really nothing big to worry about, if anything it may be a fuse, or early sign that something needs replaced, check your thermostat too, cause it usually needs to be replaced depending on how many miles the car has on it. Thermostats are often replaced in Ford Focuses and it is a very cheap part to fix... Good luck! Janelle from United States of America

Ford Transit Connect 2005

Can anyone advise at what mileage should I change the cambelt in my Ford Transit Connect and how much it will cost to replace it?

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Hi Andy, I spoke to Ford in Ipswich prior to buying my Connect and was advised the cam belt/chain should be changed at approx 150k but I have spoken to various mechanics who have advised me of 80k and 110k. If you want to be certain I’d suggest giving your local commercial Ford dealer a call - Russell Elliott from Suffolk

Ford Transit 1996

What engine oil do I use for a 1996 Ford Transit van? (model 80 swb)

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Originally 5w30 - Mark from Netherlands

Ford Transit 2007

Hi. My Ford Transit van loses power all of a sudden while travelling and then the power comes back again in 1-3 mins. It is difficult to drive in traffic because it happens more and more often. Can anyone advise what can be the problem? (Turbo diesel 2lts)

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I have a Transit. I was told the other day never to let the fuel tank get too low as it is fitted with a ’crawl home’ system that allows the van to do about 30 mph to get you home before the fuel runs out. Might be that your tanks low and this system is kicking in? Karen Brown from England

Ford Fiesta 1999

Hi. I have recently bought a Ford Fiesta 1999 and there is something wrong with the dashboard. The indicators are not working and all of the fuses are intact. Please can anyone tell me what to do?

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Have you checked the relay on the indicator stalk? Ashley from England

Ford Transit 2001

Just bought a ’01 2L Transit, central locking not working, could this be a fuse or relay problem? If so where are they located on this model? Any help appreciated.

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There are two fuses under the steering column, both 15 amp, one of these could be blown - James Brown from Scotland

Ford Focus 2002

Can anyone help? While driving home, my engine light started flashing. When I stopped it went out and I drove home doing just under 50mph. It seemed to lose power as I got home. When husband started it to check an hour later it was missing. (Zetec 1.6)

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Could be the engine managememt system - Donald Utton from Kent

Ford Ka 2006

Hi, does anyone know how to check the VIN number?

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Should find plate in engine compartment with vin number stamped on it - Donald Utton from Kent

Look through windscreen you’ll see a chssis plate down by dash. Check the fan belt and make sure all the pulleys rotate freely - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2000

My speedometer goes crazy and the car loses power. Already changed vss sensor, what else could it be? (zx3)

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That one even has me curious and I have a lot of knowledge about the Ford Focus models and every year that Ford has made one. If you find out what it is can you please post cause I would also like to know as I have never heard of such a problem, except the accelerator sticking or the idle needing to be replaced or adjusted - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Fiesta 2002

There is smoke coming from my Ford Fiesta engine and a loss of power from engine and loss of power steering. Oil and battery light both came on. I don’t know what’s wrong, can anyone help?

Answers

She’s had it mate - Diesel Dan from Essex

Ford Ka 2003

I have a Ford Ka which rattles when idling. As soon as you touch the accelerator peddle the rattle goes away. There is no rattling when driving and it drives really well. Does anyone have any ideas? (1.3)

Answers

Check your oil level maybe, also check engine mount screws - LJ B from England

Ford Transit 2001

Hi. My Ford Transit van is giving off a slight crunch when going into third gear only. What is the cause of this and how much will it cost to fix it ?

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Had same issue on my mk6 2.0L tdi. The gearbox syncro/selector is worn and should be renewed.The gearbox will need to be stripped down and new parts fitted, approx cost £600 inc vat. Fit a new clutch kit at the same time to reduce future labour costs and problems - Gary from Lanarkshire

Ford Fiesta 2000

I own a Ford Fiesta Finesse 2000 reg and the speedometer keeps failing intermittently. It seems to be when I’m changing gear, often it drops down to zero but then if I’m doing a steady speed it works again. When it works I’m pretty sure it’s showing the correct speed. I was told by one garage it would mean a whole new gear box, but as that would be rather pricey, I’m wondering if anyone has any idea what else might work? Thanks. (Finesse)

Answers

Could be the VSS (vehicle speed sensor) - Lee Warman from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2007

Hi. I’ve just noticed that the high level brake light on my Ford Galaxy works when the ignition is first switched on and when the brake pedal is pressed it flickers and then goes out. It won’t work again untill the ignition is turned off again and then the same thing happens again. Does anyone know why? Thanks.

Answers

Change brake bulbs, faulty bulbs - Richard Bradley from Northumberland

Ford Fiesta 2008

Can anyone help please? I have just been for a 40 mile run in my Ford Fiesta with the heater working fine. I stopped off for an hour but when I jumped back into the car there was no heating, only cold air, a strange rattling noise and a smell of burning. Any help appreciated please? (Style)

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This sounds like the car has lost water in the cooling system. Check to make sure the car’s cooling system has water in it - check the expansion reservoir. I suspect that a leak has developed somewhere and you have lost water or that the heater matrix has burst. Be very careful not to run the car without coolant because very serious damage could occur if you do. Good luck! Lawrence Graney from Ayrshire

Ford Fiesta 2004

My Ford Fiesta`s Cd player randomly makes a ’clicking’ kind of noise when I am playing a Cd. When I turned the ignition off it continued clicking after I took the key out. I turned the ignition back on to try and take the Cd out but it wouldn`t come out although you could hear it clicking and making the ejecting noise. Eventually after about 10 attempts of pressing the eject button on the 4500 it came out and the clicking stopped. This has happened whilst driving before, but when I have put the same Cd in recently I have had no problems until the other evening when it started again? It had a scratch on the compartment where the Cd goes in when I bought it so I don’t know whether it has had this problem before? Any help please?

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This problem now stopped my car from starting and had to call the breakdown company to get it working, the only way to start the car after its stopped turning over is to turn the CD player off! Now replaced this cd player with one from halfords and it seems to work properly! So if you have this issue just replace it with one from Halfords as Ford won’t touch it! - Paige from Nottinghamshire

Ford Puma 2001

Hi. I bought my Ford Puma about two weeks ago and it was fine. Now when I am driving it it over accelerates, sometimes during gear changes. Does anyone know what the problem could be?

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Ours has done the same - we’ve had it checked and it’s the hydraulic clutch that’s going - they quoted us around £350 including labour (@4 hrs) to get it fixed... Ell Jones from England

Ford Transit 1995

I have a purchased a 1995 Ford Transit van without the log book and require the full model details to get insurance. I do know that it is a 2446cc but that is all. Does anyone have a list of possible models please? Thank you. (2446cc)

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Have you tried to get a quote on a part via your reg number? This will bring up your van details - Malc Malee from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2010

Can anyone please advise why the display light stays on when my Ford Focus is locked?

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Hi, I had the same problem, had my car for two weeks now. Apparently it stays in for around 30 minutes once you have locked the car. I hope this helps - Lee Jackson from England

Ford Fusion 2008

At what mileage does the EGR valve of a Ford Fusion need to be replaced please? (Zetec 1.4 diesel)

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My wife’s 1.4 tdci 2006 needed a new one at 6000 miles due to the warning light coming on on the dash replaced under warranty so it can happen any time if you drive the diesel on short journeys more chance of blocking up. Try giving the car regular motorway or drive hard to keep the valve clear - Chris Harlow from Cornwall

EGR valves can go bad at anytime. I would suggest changing them at every 75,000 miles, they may even last longer then that, however in my 02 Ford Focus I have had to replace mine twice, and it only has 133,000 on it now. You will know if it needs to be replaced because your service engine soon light will come on and you will also get very poor gas mileage. And an OBD system will be able to pick up the code and let you know if it is bad. But the only thing wrong with the OBD is that it may read one or more codes such as an oxygen sensor or an air intake sensor, so it just depends but the best way to know for sure is to take out the egr valve and blow into it. If you can blow in it and feel air moving thru it then it is still working. If you can’t feel any air then it is probably bad because it is clogged and needs to be replaced. Plus, if you look inside you will also see a bunch of nasty black buildup, check to make sure it is not oil though, make sure it is thick black and nasty gooey shit. Also your vehicle will still run if the egr valve is bad, it is a part they put on vehicles for emission control but is not a part that will cause your vehicle to break down - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Fiesta 1989

I am trying to remove my Ford Fiesta`s water pump but one of the bolts is ceased and I have broken two socket heads trying to undo it. Has anyone got any suggestions on how to tackle this problem?

Answers

The best tool to use to remove seized nuts and bolt is a closed wrench rather than sockets. Even good quality sockets split sometimes, but if you use a cheap socket of poor quality it is likely that anything tough at all will break it. Spray the nut or bolt with some WD40 or something similar leave for a few minutes then try the spanner/wrench. If that fails apply some heat to the nut or bolt then try again. There are wrenches that are made especially for removing chewed heads or seized nuts and bolts, but these are very expensive tools, however, they are also a great investment if you are going to be doing a lot of maintenance work. Good luck! Lawrence Graney from Ayrshire

Ford Ka 2002

The exclamation light on my Ford Ka keeps coming on. Could anyone tell me why?

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Check your brake fluid is full to maximum. I recently had the same thing and it was a loose clip that holds the pipe in place from the brake fluid reservoir. Do get it checked by a professional as it could also be an indication that your brakes need looking at (brake fluid does not just disappear!) - Ruth from Middlesex

Ford Galaxy 2007

Could you tell me where I would find the Ford Galaxy water bottle for the rear window? Thank you.

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www.fgoc.co.uk should be your number one stop for any Ford Galaxy questions! But there is only one water bottle on the galaxy that feeds both front and rear screens... Steve from Suffolk

Ford Mondeo 2001

When I reverse my Ford Mondeo and turn my wheel to manoeuvre there is a crunching sound from my front right wheel area which is very worrying. Would anyone know what this might be? Any help would be amazing, thankyou.

Answers

Could be a broken coil spring - Ross from Lanarkshire

Ford Mondeo 2003

Hi. I have a Ford Mondeo 2003 2.0tdci. When I go to start it I get a screeching noise, for want of a better word. Could it be my starter motor? Thanks (2.0 ltr tdci)

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Probably a worn fanbelt - Mark Jerling from New Zealand

Ford Focus 2005

When you park my Ford Focus at night and turn off the engine is it right for the stereo lights to stay on?

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For a very short time, yes. But they turn off very quickly. I had the same problem after I had changed the battery. I didn’t enter the radio code. That done, it turns off soon after the car is locked - Eldin from Bosnia and Herzegovina

Ford Focus 2005

My Ford Focus has no water coming out of either of the front windscreen washer jets. The rear washer jet is OK and I can hear the pump working. Any suggestions? Many thanks.

Answers

Take a pin or opened out paperclip and clear out the jet hole. Look at where the water is coming out in the working rear jet to see where to clear out the front ones. In winter they sometimes freeze closed and can be opened the same way - Alice Quartin from England

I have this problem except the front washers are working and the rear one isn’t even though I can hear the pump, I’ve had the pipe of the back of the washer but there’s no water coming out, anyone got any ideas? - Allen Thornborough from Durham

Ford Focus 2004

I have changed the battery in my Ford Focus and none of my dials are now working on the dashboard?

Answers

It sounds like it could be an electric problem - short in the wires or fuses and an electrician is the best person to take it too. However my car did the same thing, I had the battery and alternator tested and replaced the battery with brand new cables and a new battery but the problem still occurred. I later on found out that the alternator was going bad and it was gonna need to be replaced, it still had enough juice to run the car but since it was going bad, my lights got dim, my gauges were going wacky and my lights were flashing at me but I solved the problem and now it is in good shape - Janelle from United States of America

Ford C-MAX 2011

I cannot gain entry to my Ford C-MAX. The fobs will not open the doors. What could the problem be?

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I assume the key operates all doors when the key is turned in the drivers door? Then - if you’re sure that the batteries in the fobs are OK. It is likely to be the remote receiver at fault - this is a common error on the Focus. If you can find the receiver unit, then disconnect it for five minutes or so before reconnecting. If not, then do the same with the fuse that feeds it (Sorry, I can’t tell you where it is or what fuse protects it). After this, you might need to re-teach it your fobs. This is easy, and is documented in the owners handbook - Steve from England

Ford dealers have a ’software’ fix they can apply to the car’s computer to fix this. This is a very common fault apparently. Just make a call to your local Ford dealer and they’ll do it under warranty - Paul Twomey from England

Ford Galaxy 2002

Hi, I have just bought a Ford Galaxy Auto Ghia 2.3 this week. Five times out of ten nothing happens when I turn the key in the ignition. It doesn’t matter if the car is in park or neutral it just does nothing, the lights come on but that’s it. I noticed when it doesn`t start that the immobiliser light on the driver`s door is flashing. The car has just passed an MOT and has a new battery. The old owner is still claiming this never happened to them. The car runs great when it does start and has low mileage. It’s booked for a service on Monday but I was just wondering if anyone has an idea what this could or might be? Thanks!

Answers

It may be worth cleaning the connection at the starter motor for the switched live - Mark Smith from Bedfordshire

A friend had this problem, it turned out to be the immobiliser relay - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2008

How do I get a pin code for a radio battery? It has been removed and now is asking for a pin code and I don’t have one. Ford Focus Titanium SV58 JYW 2008 Diesel.

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I had the same problem. I simply went to the Authorized Ford Dealer, they check my VIN from the my registration card (proof that I owned the car) and gave me the code - Eldin from Bosnia and Herzegovina

Ford Fiesta 2008

How do I zero the trip on my Ford Fiesta’s odometer? I have looked in the handbook and cannot find a reset button... (1.6 TDCi Climate)

Answers

Just keep the menu button pressed in - Dale from England

Ford Focus 2012

What kind of problems am I going to run in to if I drive my 2012 Ford Focus on the autobahn at a average of 110mph (from 60mph to 149mph) for about 120 miles, say 2 or 3 times a week? Yes, I already know that’s not how to treat a car but I need to rush some times and the autobahn where I live has a lane for it. If some one could help me, so I can tell my self its not worth it, because of how its destroying my car that would be awesome.

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It’s never good on a vehicle to drive it everyday at that speed, it wears and tears on your tires, your suspension, your shocks struts and brakes. There are a lot of other things that will also wear and tear the more you drive it at that rate of speed, plus you are putting a lot of mileage on it and bringing sown the value of the car so when you are ready to resale the vehicle you will loose out quite a bit of money on it - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Mondeo Estate 2003

A warning light comes on my Ford Mondeo Estate’s dashboard if I accelerate moderately quickly in 1st or brake quickly, and when I take a corner that creates any lean to the car. Is it a problem with suspension/wheel alignment or something else? Can the problem be diagnosed with diagnostic testing equipment? Do you know if I’m looking at a big bill? (tdci)

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Your brake fluid level must be low mate - Richard from England

You can have an OBD test ran on the car to see if there is a problem with your emission control system. But any kind of alignment or suspension problem is gonna have to be looked at by a mechanic to determine if there is something wrong that would cause that. I haven’t heard of anything like this before, but if you are turning a corner and a light is coming on your dash it could be several problems or it could be something simple. If you have an anti lock break system then you may just need to service your anti lock breaks... What kinda light is on is a service engine soon, an oil light, a break light a batt light, I wish you the best in finding out and I also would be interested in knowing what the problem is... wish I could help but that is all I can think of at the moment - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Fiesta 1997

My Ford Fiesta keeps losing power totally and if I stop it just cuts out. I have a k&n - filter could this be the problem? (1.4 Ghia)

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Hi, it won’t be your k.n. filter, more than likely that you have a stepper motor problem. Check all connections to this and if that’s not the problem then it could be down to a leaking inlet or outlet valve on 1 or more cylinders - have a compression test done to confirm. Good luck - Dennis Powell from England

Ford Fiesta 2011

An amber oil warning light has just appeared on the dash. Checked oil levels which seems fine. I have done 8,600 miles and it is due for the first 12 month service very soon. What else apart from low oil level would cause this to display please? (Zetec 1.4 tdci)

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Hey Martin, your warning light is telling you that your oil pressure is low, not the oil capacity. I’d suggest you have someone check-out your oil pump just in case one of the pressure seals is failing. Have a good day mate - Dave Pearce from Australia

Ford Fiesta 1997

My Ford Fiesta starts okay, runs okay except when extra power is required, i.e. going up hill. I have just changed the spark plugs but this has made no difference. I noted no1 plug had some oil on it - any help much appreciated.

Answers

Try cleaning the air filter - Dimitri from Israel

Sounds like a faulty coil pack - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, it very much sounds like lack of compression the cause. Could be piston rings valves or head gasket. Have compression test done to determine in which area the problem is. Hope this is of use to you. Good luck - Dennis Powell from England

Ford Galaxy 2004

Hi, my Ford Galaxy remote key fell and came apart, I put it back together but it doesn’t work, the remote is not working and the engine won’t start, it seems to have set off an immobilizer. It starts for a second and then cuts out, is there a way of re-setting the immobilizer so the key will start the car and lock it manually until I can get a new one? Any suggestions would be much appreciated, thanks.

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When the key fell apart, you lost a small plastic chip which is in fact a small transmitter which links to the engine management system when the key is inserted in the lock. Without it, the engine will turn over, start and then cut out immediately. Sorry, you need a new key - Dave Stephenson from Nottinghamshire

There is a very small grey chip that is inside the key if this is missing the car will not start. Check and see if it is there but possibly put in the wrong way. It is approx 1/4" long with a white typed code on it - Conor from Ireland

Ford Galaxy 2006

Hi. The information dash light [I] flashes when car is locked, but not when driving or at a stand still. I have read 2 different answers from Ford mechanics 1) OK, is showing alarm is active. 2) There maybe a fault, I will need to take to a garage to run diagnostics. Odd though if it’s a fault, as only shows when alarm is on and car locked! There are no messages when I check the information page on the on-board computer? (2-litre TDCi)

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It is normal for the light to flash once a second when the car is locked, this is a visual deterrent. Under normal operating when driving the light should be off, if it comes on when driving, this is to alert you to a system fault - Tristan from Yorkshire

Ford Fusion 2008

Every morning in the cold weather when my wife gets into her Fusion there is heavy condensation on the inside of the windscreen. No sign of wet carpets, does anyone have a clue where it might be coming from? Thanks.

Answers

I would be checking for a wet and contaminated pollen filter and that the scuttle drains are clear - Graham Autocare Mobile from England

Ford Fiesta 2010

Every time I start the engine, the remote boot release opens the boot. I have had the car 18 months and this has just started to happen. Any ideas? (1.6TDCi)

Answers

You need a new boot switch, the problem is water ingress into the micro switch. It is a known concern within Ford - Stu from England

Ford Galaxy 1998

Can anyone help? My diesel engine sounds like a motorcycle. I have had the cat done and only noticed the noise since then. Thanks.

Answers

There is limited time from taking the battery out and putting new one in. Dealers will charge you too much. If you look around, you will find others who have the devices to do this. Also if you still have the master key, you may be able to do it yourself by following a sequence whilst the key is in the ignition. I did this with mine and it worked. Google away, there’s loads of help out there, avoiding dealers could save you some £££ - Andy McCan from England

Ford Mondeo 2003

Coolant loss. No leakage could be seen. Changed the water pump and the coolant reservoir a month ago. Still have to fill it up often. Car runs smoothly other than this problem. No over heating. Could it be a blown gasket? Thanks.

Answers

Is it petrol or diesel? - Stu from England

I’ve got the same problem with my mk2 st200. Coolant loss but no leak. Are the carpets in the cabin wet like mine? I think somehow coolant may be leaking straight into the interior! Don’t ask me how though. One other thing to check is the thermostat housing - Andy from Lancashire

Coolant leaking into the interior will be from the heater matrix - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2008

My Ford Focus has started losing coolant and seems to be down in power. I can’t see any leaks, still have heat in car and temperature gauge still showing normal.

Answers

Possible head gasket leaking into one of the cylinders whereby you are burning coolant causing a misfire, check for excess steam coming from exhaust tailpipe - Martin Jones from Essex

Look just under the bonnet at the top of the radiator there is on some models a pipe with one inlet and two outlets my money would be on that pipe leaking. Could also be the core plugs on the top of the head in the plug gallery - Stu from England

Ford Transit Chassis Cab 2003

I am having problems with severe vibration on my Transit van, when the speed rises to 40mph severe vibration starts up to 55mph then seems to smooth out a little. The dual mass flywheel was replaced last year with a single plate version. I have tried depressing the clutch when going downhill but the vibration is still there. Could it be prop-shaft bearing? (350 lwb)

Answers

It could be propshaft but if you have had a clutch conversion to a conventional one then Fords recommend replacing crankshaft pulley with a vibration damper type built into it - Martin Jones from Essex

Sounds like the rear axle is shot - Chris Turner from Bedfordshire

Did you find out what the problem was? I have exactly the same and it’s driving me nuts. Any help woukd be much appreciated, thanks - Chris Sinclair from England

Ford Fiesta 2003

I’m having difficulty removing casing on high level rear brake light. 8 mechanics have tried and short of taking it back to Ford at a cost of £80 an hour labour to change a bulb I don’t know what to do. Can anyone help please?

Answers

There are 2 spring clips inside the light cover, you access them by removing the 2 rubber grometts. If this fails you can actually prise them off (gently) from the outside! This can be a bit more awkward if you have a boot spoiler. Remember though, there are no screws holding it, just spring clips. It takes a large capless bulb - Bernie Hanley from Renfrewshire

Ford Fiesta 2002

Hey, my car seems to have developed a delay when I try to accelerate and it gets a little jittery as well, bit worried it may be misfiring as this has happened in the past. Any advice to avoid a garage as I don’t trust them!!

Answers

Probably the coil pack is faulty causing a misfire, new ones cost around £30 plus fitting - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2004

Does my 54 plate 1,300 Ford Ka have a timing belt or a chain? If it has a belt when does this need to be changed?

Answers

A 54 plate 1.3L Ka has a timing chain and there is no manufacturers interval for replacement - Isaac from Yorkshire

It has a chain - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2006

My 56 plate Ford Focus 1.8 petrol engine, the revs seem to drop low and nearly stalls when I come to a stop. This does not happen all the time. When it does happen it does not last and the revs go back to normal. Any ideas. Mostly happens when first setting off but not all the time. Best regards.

Answers

I keep getting this too, I have been told it can be a loose connection between your battery but I’m not 100% - Jamie Williams from England

I had that in an 08 reg 1.8 petrol. I took it back to the dealer, they updated the software in the ECU and it fixed the problem - Robert from London

Ford Mondeo Estate 2004

The electric windows were working OK until my battery went flat. Now the driver’s window will lower with one press of the button but I have to hold it down continuously to raise it. What might have gone wrong? (TDCi Ghia)

Answers

Do you have the owners manual for the car? I’m sure you have to reprogram the one shot window opening function using your key fob when your battery goes flat or is disconnected. If you haven’t got the manual let me know and I’ll see if I can dig ours out - Alicia R from Worcestershire

It will tell you in the handbook how to reset power windows after power loss - Martin Jones from Essex

Whenever the battery is disconnected (or goes flat), the windows need recalibrating. See here for details on how to do this: http://www.fordwiki.co.uk/index.php?title=One_Touch_Window_Reset - Peter from England

Ford Kuga 2009

Is there a filter on the Ford Kuga’s windscreen washer reservoir bottle?

Answers

Yes, there is a filter it’s part of the rubber grommet that the pump fits into - Isaac from Yorkshire

Yes, normally situated within the rubber seal that holds the pump in the bottle, remove pump then take out rubber seal clean under running water, fit seal to bottle then push in pump - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2008

Recently bought a 3 door Ford Focus Style and for the last few days the airbag symbol keeps coming on but not always staying on. Been told its a common problem with the 3 door as the wiring for the airbag is under the seats. Can anyone shed any light on this or does anyone have the same issue?

Answers

The wiring under the seats is for the seat belt pre-tensioners which would also put airbag light on, try disconnecting the multiplugs blow out any residue within and reconnect - Martin Jones from Essex

Try pulling the airbag fuse. I have airbags in my car, but because Ford Focuses are small vehicles I don’t feel airbags are safe to have. If an airbag ignites, a seat belt will save your life before an airbag, as an airbag can explode and the gases and fumes that come from it can burn you severely or can cause you to get trapped in the vehicle. If you don’t want to do that then I would suggest taking it in to the Ford dealer because there may be some kinda malfunction or wiring wired wrong. Sometimes in Focuses the wiring is wacky, don’t know for sure why, but that would be my suggestion if you want to keep the airbags ignited - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Fiesta 2003

Hi! Does anyone know how to check the transmission fluid on a Ford Fiesta 03 plate, automatic gear box?

Answers

Has it not got a dipstick? Check your handbook or ring Fords - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2008

When driving my Zetec Sport, after approximately half an hour the gear stick goes stiff making it harder to change gears? Why is that?

Answers

The problem is the lever and spindle at the cable end, (inside the plastic casing at the front end). Lever costs £36.41 and spindle pin £7.34. It’s a fairly easy job. Remove casing, Front part clips off, rear bit 5 small bolts (8 mm socket) remove cables, turn them clockwise till plastic pegs disengage, pop off cables, remove circlip from lever and withdraw ! Unbolt pin (spindle ) with a 21 Ring key? Can’t quite remember the ringkey size. Replace same way. Easy peasy! I’m a driving instructor and have owned Fiestas for almost 20 years. Still love to muck about with them. Hope this helps. Part Numbers F1367506 (lever) F1090530 (pin,spindle) - Bernie Hanley from Renfrewshire

Ford Fiesta 2004

Hi. When I switch on the heater or AC it only works on number 4 . It doesn’t work on 1,2 or 3. Someone told me it is the switch so I replaced it with a new one but still the same thing is happening. Please can someone say if it might be the heater blower resistor? If it is faulty then where is it located? Thanks. (1.4 LX)

Answers

It definitely is the resistor, they are made with built in safety so that you won’t be left without fans, so blows on 4 only, the resistor can be found at the right hand side of your glove box, got to remove glove box though, just hold in the sides and pull down, you don’t have to unscrew anything - Bernie Hanley from Renfrewshire

Yes, it will be the blower resistor located next to blower motor - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2007

Hi there. We have just had to replace the entire clutch system including something called the dual mass fly wheel, very expensive affair at 2k. We received the car back seemed to be running well until we used reverse, there is a thudding sound and it seems resistant to moving there also there may be a smell to it, similar to when it went initially. Can you help to advise what it may be as a conversation over the phone to a mechanic wasn’t helpful as he seems insure too. Help please. (Titanium X diesel)

Answers

First, £2K to swap out a Mondeo clutch is daylight robbery, it’s not that big a job. I know, I have four of them. You don’t say if your Mondeo is a MK3 or MK4, but the same rules apply. The dual mass flywheel (DMF) is meant to smooth out gear changes by introducing a spring cushion between the gearbox and the engine. A totally unnecessary, fragile and expensive device that should have been strangled at birth. MK3 owners can have this replaced with a solid flywheel if they would like cheaper trouble-free motoring. This is a very odd problem you have. You see it doesn’t matter which gear you are in, the clutch is always rotating in the same direction, the gearbox takes care of the switch when you need to go backwards. If the car drives smoothly in all the forward gears and only acts up in reverse, I would not be looking at the clutch, I would be very suspicious of the gearbox itself. Gearboxes are very complex these days, especially automatics, and when they go wrong garages tend to run in the opposite direction or fob off unsuspecting customers with tales of faulty clutches (easier to fix and bigger profits) etc. The fact that you sense the car is labouring and producing a smell when reversing could indicate the reverse gear mechanism is in some way seizing, forcing the clutch to heat up as it works to overcome the resistance. This would indeed damage a DMF as it is a delicate flower and will not take excessive stresses. The thud when engaging reverse could also be attributed to the reverse gear not meshing into place smoothly, as would happen if it was not rotating freely. If this were my car I would seek out the advice of a transmission specialist ASAP, I would not wait until the gearbox seizes and potentially explodes underneath me - Dave from England

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi. I’ve lost my locking wheel nut remover of mine. I’d like to buy for emergency. Could you let me know where can I buy and how much is it? I am living in Birmingham.

Answers

The AA carry a special tool to remove locking wheel nuts, if you’re not a member then you’ll have to pay - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford S-MAX 2006

When driving my Ford S-MAX it is missing - what could the problem be?

Answers

Sounds like coil pack, common problem on all cars - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2002

My Ford fiesta has been left for six months without being started. I have tried jump starting it with jump leads but it doesn’t even turn over or start. The petrol lights and handbrake lights flash but the engine management light doesn’t turn on at all. Any ideas?

Answers

If it’s been stood for such a long time, the battery will be dead, possibly irrecoverably, and the engine will likely be partially ceased due to all the internal lubricant draining away from the cylinder walls. The starter motor may also be a bit stiff. Jump starting will not always work when an engine is in this state and is usually pointless if the car’s own battery is not capable of holding a charge. I would recommend you try charging the battery overnight or replacing it with a new one. Before trying to start the car put it in a high gear, 5th or 6th, then, with the ignition OFF, rock the the car forwards and backwards until it can be pushed in either direction with relative ease. This will free the engine from its frozen state. You can then try to start it. Don’t be surprised if it doesn’t fire up immediately, fuel drains away when a car is stood for long periods. Crank the engine in short bursts, don’t keep it spinning for more than 30 seconds. This will help charge the oil and fuel pumps without stressing the engine too much. It may take a few minutes before the engine fires, when it does, do not rev it, let the oil circulate around it for a minute or so to avoid damaging expensive parts. Finally, if it does not start you may have to check the following: 1. Fuel - is there any in the tank? Is it reaching the engine (pump problems)? 2. The ignition circuit and spark plugs - moisture ingress can cause lots of problems here. 3. The starter motor - has the solenoid ceased preventing the starter from engaging the flywheel. Good luck - Dave from England

Wow! Thank you very much! - Collette Bannon from Bedfordshire

Ford Fiesta 2008

I recently bought a Ford Fiesta 1.4 Style from a dealership. The car is pretty good, I was happy with it. It had a full service history and had only done 51,000 miles. My question is, how long should the rear wheel bearings on this type of car last? I don’t drive it like crazy, I use it mainly for shopping and driving to work and I don’t really push it over 70 mph. In fact I tend to keep at a constant 60-65. The reason I ask is that the rear passenger side wheel bearing went after I had only driven the car over 1,300 miles, which is nothing really. I asked my brother-in-law who is a mechanic and he reckons they should go for at least 100,000-150,000 before changing.

Answers

Your brother-in-law is correct, but is also misleading you. Any mechanical part can have a long or short life depending on a multitude of factors and there is nothing remotely surprising about a wheel bearing failing after 52,300 miles of use. The dealer would not have been aware of any problem. After all, you drove the car for 1,300 miles before it became apparent to you, so unless he had done the same the fault would not have manifested itself on his forecourt. Most wheel bearings are not serviceable items, they are replaced not repaired, therefore a service agent would not touch them unless a fault was known to exist. The car will have had at least one MOT, (wheel bearings are a check item), so it is unlikely the bearing has been faulty for an extended period. You have just been a victim of bad luck, at least its only one that’s gone. If you purchased a warranty with the car, you should be covered. If not, you will have to bite the bullet and cough up for the repair, unless your dealer has a kind heart. Ford are not likely to be of much help, their warranties are not exactly generous and your car is probably outside of their time and mileage restrictions, but I would try them anyway, they do sometimes offer goodwill contributions towards the repair of early component failures - Dave from England

Ford Galaxy 2007

The key fob on my Galaxy has stopped working , I changed the battery but it still won’t lock the doors. I’m having to lock the doors manually which is a pain... Does it need re-programming and how? Any ideas please... Regards.

Answers

It will want reprogramming at the dealers. It’s usually a one hour charge to do this - Stu from England

Ford Focus 2010

I changed my Ford Focus car battery and it is now asking for a pin code... What should I do?

Answers

I had the same problem. I simply went to the Authorized Ford Dealer, they check my VIN from the my registration card (proof that I owned the car) and gave me the code - Eldin from Bosnia and Herzegovina

Ford Kuga 2010

There seems to be a heating problem, blowing out cold air all the time, even when dials are set to higher temps. The demister does not blow when activated. This problem occurs after the engine has warmed up, takes about 4-5 miles from cold. (2-litre diesel)

Answers

Take it to Fords, it’s under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford S-MAX 2007

Concerned about the brakes on my S-Max. It’s been into a Ford garage who’ve found no fault, but it sometimes has very a very firm brake pedal, with no breaking at all. I’ve had to use the handbrake to stop this. It mainly happens in the morning, also lately been going through lots of diesel, trip computer said I could do 280 miles before filling up, actually managed about 100, any ideas? Thanks.

Answers

Re: your brake problem, it could be the vacuum pump which supplies the brake servo with pressure - Martin Jones from Essex

My S-Max was doing exactly the same. I checked and there have been several recalls for S-max brakes. You can find the details on the AA’s recall site (http://www.theaa.com/allaboutcars/recalls/recalls.jsp?modelID=AC&modelName=S-MAX&makeName=Ford&makeId=B4). The recalls suggest a non-return valve on the vacuum pump needs to be replaced. Arnold Clark made me pay for the repair despite slightly older and slightly newer cars being recalled - 2007 cars had an advisory note issued but no recall. However, the repair has solved the problem - Marcie Ballance from Aberdeenshire

Ford Focus C-MAX 2004

When starting my Ford Focus C-MAX the lights flicker. So I changed the battery and it stopped for a bit but it’s now back as this happened before and what can I do next?

Answers

Get the alternator tested - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2006

Where is the fuse located for windscreen washers on 2006 Ford Mondeo tdci Zetec?

Answers

Try here: http://www.fordwiki.co.uk/index.php?title=Fuse_%26_Relay_Information - Dave from England

Ford Galaxy 2007

Serpentine belt snapped and tensioner destroyed. All other pulleys are running freely. Is there any a/c or power steering related faults to this problem? Thanks. (TDCi 6G)

Answers

Had this trouble of belt shredding. I put a new belt on, but tensioner was very erratic. It is normally the alternator, they have a clutch. When the clutch seizes, the tensioner will become erratic and eventually shred the belt. I found out the hard way, a garage charged me £850 for putting a new aircon pump & greasing the tensioner, all which was unnecessary - Dave Vincent from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi, my directional switch for the heaters is not responding and so is the temperature switch. The blower is running in every speed OK. Could you tell me the problem? Thanks.

Answers

From memory, these two switches are controlled by a vacuum system driven by a pipe that runs from the back of the inlet manifold on the engine to the switch panel. Usually it is this pipe that has a hole in it that has become disconnected or crimped that causes this fault. The pipe runs up the left side of the driver’s footwell and has a non-return valve on it to prevent destabilisation of the engine if it becomes disconnected. If you have not experienced issues with idling or acceleration then it is likely the pipe is not damaged before the valve. Trace it all the way from one end to the other to be sure - Dave from England

Ford Mondeo 2002

Why is there water coming out of my exhaust?

Answers

Water comes out of every exhaust pipe on the planet. How much water depends on the type and grade of fuel in use, the ambient temperature of the atmosphere, whether a catalytic converter is in use, how long the car has been sitting before starting etc, etc. If you are worried about a water leak in your engine, this will manifest itself as steam, not water, at the far end of the exhaust, because it will not have had time to condense before it exits the pipe. Poor engine running and increasing pressure plus a reducing water level in the coolant expansion tank are indicators of water ingress into the engine cylinders - Dave from England

Ford S-MAX 2010

I opened my car using my car key, went in and insert my key. Turn it on, all the control panel LED’s are on, when I tried to start it, the control panel went dead, as in fully dead. Can’t turn engine on, is this the immobilizer working? After 8 hours approximately, I went to check the car, had the remote car keys working again when use to remote lock the car. I went in and tried to turn it on, all the control panel lights are on again. I noticed that my radio panel had ’key code 00’ on it. I tried to start it but, again,the control panel went dead. Please help, would appreciate it if you can help me. Thanks. (Diesel)

Answers

Get in touch with Fords, it’s under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2005

Has anyone else had a problem with a Ford Mondeo st220 - the engine makes an intermittent noise which sounds just like a cow mooing? It can happen when it’s parked or when I start the engine or even whilst I’m driving. It is very loud. No lights have come on the dashboard. I’ve taken it to the garage 3 times but they don’t know what it is. Has this happened to anyone else? Any ideas welcomed, thank you.

Answers

I think you need this kit you have the same symptoms as mine did. http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=130653044358 - Shane Shuttlewood from Leicestershire

Hi there.I had a v6 1999 plate, same engine format as yours. I had a noise when starting the car and nudging the steering, causing load on the engine. It would make a mooing noise and would dissapear at high revs sometimes. It was due to air inlet pipe from air intake to back of engine/dashboard side. Air at speed over pipe with bends causes a note. The trick is to take off and place a copper plumber cap, looks the same as a lipice cap. Drill a 2mm hole in it and insert in pipe and reconect. Job done - Gavin Martin from Hertfordshire

Ford Ka 1997

Where is the slave cylinder located on the 1997 Ford Ka?

Answers

Top of the clutch pedal - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford S-MAX 2008

I have just taken my Ford S-MAX to a garage for an estimate on some repairs. The guy got into the car to take a photo - I think of the mileage. When I got back in the car the radio and CD player will not work. All other functions seem to be fine. I don’t know if he knocked something or if it was a coincidence...? Any ideas?

Answers

Does the radio display show CODE or SAFE? He might have disconnected your battery which would have caused the radio to lose its code, a protection scheme against radio theft. If that is the case, you will need to enter the code which should be in your owner’s manual, Ford can give you the code using the serial numbers off the radio but usually charge for this - Sam from Kent

Ford Fiesta 1999

Hi, my son has just bought his first car, a ’99 V reg 1.25 Zetec Fiesta. All was fine for a few weeks but recently, when parked and locked, the alarm has been going off at random for no apparent reason.Thanks in advance for any help you may be able to give. This is my second post, the first time I stated there was no audible alarm, just the flashing lights. I’ve just found the alarm horn had been disconnected so it has obviously been a problem not mentioned by and passed on from the previous owner. Please help!! Thanks everyone. (1.25 Zetec)

Answers

Remove the alarm, it’s usually located at the back of the engine - Chris Dolsn from England

Ford Mondeo 1998

When in 4th or 5th, doing about 40-50 mph, then put foot down car wobbles and shakes. If I back off throttle it stops until I put it back on again. Any help please? (st24)

Answers

Hi Jay. 98 Ford Mondeo 20l Zetec, jerking under talk. Not doing it when you light on accelerator. Only when you put your foot down at low revs. Almost like it’s starving fuel! Replaced all filters plugs and leads. Replaced the airflow meter today (+-30% better after replacing airmeter). Please if you come right let me know what you did. I’m giving up on this now, please email me on mbruwer106@gmail.com - Michael Bruwer from South Africa

Ford Transit 2003

The turbo went on my Ford Transit 2.0 T280 last year and revved itself, so got in and stalled it. I had it fixed but ever since then I have lots of smoke on start up from cold and a vibration in the cab but when it’s warm it runs and sounds perfect. I’ve had new injectors and still no joy. Can anyone please help? Thanks.

Answers

To stop your turbo from going, let the engine run for a minute or two after you have pulled up at your destination. It allows the engine to run for a preset time at idle to allow the turbo fan time to slow down and cool off while the bearing in the turbo charger is still receiving oil from the engine system. Otherwise, the engine would shut off with the turbo still hot and spinning, without the oil the bearing would overheat causing the little bit of residual oil to bake onto the bearing surfaces reducing turbo life - Rush Owens from England

Ford Mondeo 2004

ABS light coming on intermittently, any ideas?

Answers

Sounds like a wheel sensor but you’ll have to get it code read - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2002

Hey, I have a KA and the radio doesn’t seem to work. It comes on but I just can’t hear anything. I’ve checked the fuse, took the door panel off to check the speakers - they are fine. I just don’t know what to do about it, can anyone suggest something? Many thanks.

Answers

New stereo? - Martin Jones from Essex

My daughter has the same problem, stereo comes on search for stations all fine just no sound. I checked if the speakers were plugged all okay. I plugged in my stereo from my car that I know works but still the same stereo is on all lit up but still no sound. So just changing your stereo might not get rid of the problem? I am now going to check wiring for breaks? Is there a fuse for the speakers? - Dave Standing from Kent

Ford C-MAX 2009

I have a Ford C-Max, when starting up, the reheated back window automatically comes on. Is this normal?

Answers

If the outside temperature is below a certain level then yes - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2003

Where are the greasing points on a 2003 Ford Mondeo?

Answers

There aren’t any - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2009

What, if any, is the danger to the driver and passengers of driving a Ford Transit minibus with the fumes of a burning clutch coming into the cab? And what should the driver do?

Answers

Tell driver to stop slipping the clutch or if it’s too far gone get a new clutch fitted - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 1997

When I shut the door or the boot of my 1997 Mondeo the car tries to start even though the key is not in the ignition. It also tries to start just after I have switched the engine off. Can anyone tell me what could be causing this? (LX TD)

Answers

If it were just the starting after stopping issue, I would say you possibly have blowback of oil into your cylinders. This is usually caused by worn oil control rings on the pistons allowing diesel to flow into the sump, diluting the oil and increasing its volume to a point where the vacuum in the sump is able to draw it back up into the cylinders when the engine is switched off. The latent compression ignites the diesel/oil mixture and restarts the engine, which keeps running by feeding on the sump oil. However, you also say the engine tries to start when the doors and tailgate are used. Sounds like an electronics issue, either faulty wiring or more likely a rogue engine management system. Both a job for a specialist - Dave from England

Ford Fiesta 2005

An orange abs light has come on and after several checks it will not go off. Please, does anyone know why, or have any ideas, on what the problem is. The brake pads are good, as they are fairly new.

Answers

You will have to get it code read, that’s the only way to find the fault, it’s probably a wheel sensor but you have one at each wheel - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Minibus 2005

Hi, there seems to be a heating problem, blowing out cold air all the time, even when dials are turned to hot. Can anyone help please. Thank you. (9 seater Tourneo)

Answers

Sounds like an air blockage in the system, you need to drain it, and then refill it, gently tap different areas of the cooling system to dislodge the air bubble - Ken from London

Hi, does your engine reach normal temperature? Try changing the thermostat, and then when topping the coolant up, make sure there are no airlocks in the system - Matthew Johnson from England

Also make sure the pollen filter isn’t blocked preventing airflow - Martin Jones from Essex

Thanks guys, will try all of what you mentioned - Wendy Hedges from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2007

There is a smell of diesel fumes inside my Ford Fiesta when stationary and at low speeds. Fuel consumption has gone up and mpg has gone down from 66 to 60, Is there a problem or not? (Zetec TDCI)

Answers

Could be a leaking injector or the fuel leak off pipes located across the fuel rail. Most good garages should be able to tell you this just by taking a quick look - Stu from Englan

I have just had the same problem which turned out to be two leaking injector Seals, a common Fiesta problem, which allowed diesel to drip onto the Exhaust Manifold (hence the smell and lower mpg). My local garage estimated two to three hours to replace them, which was achieved. However, nearly two weeks later, I still have not got the car back as they are unable to get it to run properly. Ford diagnostic equipment does not indicate any faults. Are there any Ford Technical guys out there who can point me and garage in right direction. My car is a 2006 3 door Style - John Whiteley from Wrexham

Ford Focus 2003

Where would I find the coolant sensor on a 1.6-litre 16v 2003 Ford Focus?

Answers

I think between 2 & 3 spark plug leads - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2007

Hi, I really like the 2-litre Focus C-MAX automatic petrol but it will mean upgrading from a 1.8-litre diesel. Will it sting me in petrol cost?

Answers

More than likely especially being auto - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2002

Engine warning light has come on and staying on when driving. My Fiesta seems to be driving fine - any ideas?

Answers

You will have to get it code read, there’s obviously a problem somewhere - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2008

Hi. Would someone kindly tell me how to turn sump oil drain plug? Clockwise or anti clockwise? Thank you.

Answers

LEFTY LOOSEY, RIGHTY TIGHTY - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2005

I need a new bumper for my Ford Fiesta and I want to know... Will a mk7 bumper fit a Ford Fiesta 2005?

Answers

There are several different bumpers available. Give your local Ford dealer a call with your reg number they should be able to tell you which bumpers are applicable to your vehicle - Stu from England

Ford Fiesta 1995

The injection pump belt has broken on my Ford Fiesta. Will this have damaged the engine or the pump, or both? (diesel)

Answers

If it’s just injection pump belt then no damage, but renew everything, belts tensioners & guide pulleys - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2006

I got in my Ford Focus this morning and when I put the key in the whole dash started flashing and there is a lot off clicking coming from my fuse box. Also there is no ignition whatsoever but there is power inside the car and I’ve fully charged it. Can anyone help?

Answers

I’m having the same issue with my ’05. Now car is stalling and the starter won’t even make noise when I turn the key. Let me know if somebody can answer this - Miguel Jimenez from United States of America

Ford Mondeo 1998

The brake warning light on my Ford Mondeo has come on. Can anyone let me know how many kilometres I have left on the discs before I need to change them? Thanks.

Answers

Depends on your driving style. Personally I would change them just to get rid of the light - Dave from England

Ford Mondeo 2002

I got this Ford Mondeo of eBay. I have no reverse gear and it pops out of fifth, and it’s hard to put into the rest of gears. Makes a grinding sound when not in gear but when you put the clutch in the sound stops! Any ideas?

Answers

Also gear change cables/selector linkage may need looking at - Martin Jones from Essex

New clutch? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2007

Hi. Can anyone help me? How do I go about draining the fuel tank on my 2007 Ford Focus? (2-litre diesel)

Answers

Remove tank - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fusion 2006

My Ford Fusion’s reverse lights are not working. I have changed the bulbs and the fuse - can anyone tell me how to locate the reverse switch?

Answers

It’s on the side of the gearbox, you’ll need to get it up in the air - Stu from England

Ford Ka 1999

I have a Ford Ka 2 but it’s started to stall when I’m at traffic lights or slowing down... Does anyone now what might be wrong with it? It’s driving me mad!

Answers

Remove and clean the electronic idle control valve with carburettor cleaner. Also make sure you haven’t got an air leak - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2005

Either of my keys won’t open my Ford Focus C-MAX’s bonnet to give me access to the engine. The first turn to the left doesn’t release the first part to slightly open. I’ve tried WD40 without any difference. What can I do?

Answers

Sounds like the Bowden cable between the barrell and latch has come loose try giving the key a firm push into the lock to see if it will push back in. If it won’t then it’s a new lock barrell and a new grill as the only way in is to smash the grill open - Stu from England

Ford Focus 1998

The seatbelt/airbag warning light remains on. What would be a reason for this? Many thanks.

Answers

Either seatbelt pre-tensioner faulty or sensor on steering wheel, known as "clock spring" faulty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2002

Hi all. I am trying to find the location of the reverse sensor switch on the gear box, as I’ve checked the bulbs fuses and have even changed the bulb holder, so any help would be very grateful. A diagram or a picture would probably be the best so then I can locate the little blighter. Many thanks.

Answers

If this is an ASM on a VH - the reverse switch is halfway up toward the the top, in the middle section of the gearbox on the passengers side. Stuart Johnson from Australia.

Ford Ka 2002

Does anyone know how I can higher the steering wheel in my Ford Ka please? As when I’m driving I can’t see my speed properly... I’ve tried the lever underneath it but that is for my bonnet... If someone can help me I would really appreciate it... Thank you.

Answers

I have a KA also, unfortunately you can’t. I suggest sitting on something to make you sit higher - Harriet from Wiltshire

Ford S-MAX 2006

Hi, the centre display which displays the mileage, temperature, mpg etc. has gone off? It started to flash intermittently and then today has gone off completely!! The orange colour is still there but there is no information on it?? (Zetec 2.0 d). Any ideas anyone?

Answers

I had a similar issue a couple years back when it was very cold, I lost the display and had a solid orange stripe down the display instead. I took a photo as it corrected itself but when the dealer saw it they took the car in did a software update and it was okay after that. But even over the last few days in the low temps, I’ve had faint lines in the background but I can still see the display and readings though. I think they are prone to failure in low temps - Grahame Elford from Surrey

Ford Transit 2003

I changed the battery in remote as the remote locking system just stopped working and no joy. It’s still not working. I tried to find fuses and no joy there either. Can anyone help please?

Answers

The fuses for the cental locking and the remote locking are attached to a bracket on the steering column just above the brake pedal, should be two 15amp fuses - Dave Jones from Hampshire

Sounds like the fob needs reprogramming. I think it’s in the manual on how to do it on this type of vehicle - Stu from England

Ford Focus 2002

Why is my Ford Focus Zetec 1.6 rev counter dropping too low but speedo working fine but its fine if your revving the car high and fast?

Answers

Idling too low? - Martin Jones from Essex

There is just no power there cause it’s droping to 1000 revs when cruising so you have to drop gear to get the power back - Chris Hogg from Northumberland

Ford Fusion 2004

I have just bought a second hand Ford Fusion 1.4 TDCI and noticed a distinct clatter from the engine. I say clatter but it’s more like a lone tappett that you can hear above the usual drum of a diesel engine. Anything to be worried about? (1.4.TDCI)

Answers

Same as mine. I think it might be the injector seals leaking. Do you smell diesel exhaust fumes when the heater is on and the vehicle is at a stand-still? - Peter from Ireland

Yes I do. Are they related and is it expensive to fix? - Chris from Swansea

Common problem on that French engine, I fixed a neighbours a couple of years ago, Fords wanted £300 to £400! Parts relatively inexpensive - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2007

I own a 57 plate Ford Focus and need to replace the main beam bulb, on the driver’s side. Does anyone know the build that I require? (Style)

Answers

If it’s just the bulb, take it to Halfords. They key in your registration number and find the part number that matches, simple as that. They charge about £6 to fit the new bulb for you while you wait. Hope this helps - Neil from Yorkshire

I’m sure the bulb is H7 - Martin Jones from Essex

Find an Auto zone if you have one where you are located. If it’s just the bulb then they will find the right size for you and install it, as a matter of fact, almost all autopart stores would be willing to help you. Now if you need the whole beam (headlight) then you should check junkyards they will have the best prices for you - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Ka 1999

Hello, when I put my Ford Ka into gear it’s fine but then in every gear at approx 3000-4000 revs there is no power, the engine just revs over. Is this a clutch issue? Thanks.

Answers

Hi yes, it sounds as if your clutch is slipping! - Andy Marl from Durham

Ford Fiesta 2008

Hi, I’ve just bought and Ford Fiesta and have noticed that the dashboard heater plug light to let me know when the car is ready to be started does not come on at all, is this normal?

Answers

Bulb blown? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus Estate 2001

Hi, the heater in my Ford Focus seems to be playing up i.e., taking a long time to get to a bearable temperature. This results in the interior windscreen not clearing, sometimes this can take 20 minutes. I had a chip repaired last winter, could this be anything to do with the problem?

Answers

Sounds like pollen filter is blocked restricting airflow - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2005

Hi, the fan belt just went on my Ford Transit 2000 cc. Can anyone tell me how to adjust the alternator please!?!?

Answers

You can’t its a stretch belt. You get a tool with the belt from Ford your turn crank pully with tool in and it goes out lovely - Liam Gray from England

Ford Fiesta 2003

I have a Ford Fiesta Zetec 1.4 tdci with 70,000 miles on the clock. I have thick white smoke and a nasty smell from the exhaust. What could it be?

Answers

Sounds like you are burning coolant, head gasket? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 1998

My rev counter and petrol gauge are not working, how do I fix them?

Answers

These both run off simple fuses, check fuse box - Billy Melrose from Fife and Kinross Shires

Ford Fiesta 1992

Does anyone know, or can guess, why is the brake light showing on the dash board of my Ford Fiesta when I turn my lights on? (1.4 Zetec)

Answers

Is the bulb indicator on the dashboard yellow? If it is then it’s a blown bulb - Lee Stevens from Northamptonshire

Ford Galaxy 1995

When I unlock my Ford Galaxy only the driver’s door opens. The other doors’ won’t open at all. I was told it could be a fuse, but don’t know which. Can anyone help please?

Answers

I have had a similar problem, on mine I had to change the main wiring loom which is located in the drivers door, £250 inc labaour. I was told by my mechanic, this is a common fault on the Galaxy. The wiring loom in the door hinge frays which stops the central locking and electric windows from working. Hope this helps - Mike from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2001

Hi, I have a Ford Focus LX in the last month. The car has cut out 3 times and the breakdown guys said it was the petrol pump. I took it to the garage and it was an electrical fault not sending petrol to the engine. They fixed that as well, so I thought. How come the car just decides to stop sending petrol then starts again costing a lot in garage? Please help.

Answers

Take battery out for an hour. I had same problem and spent money having bits replaced and then was told to remove battery for an hour and then reconnect, thus resetting the engine management system. It worked a treat for me after I took car for a half hour run to allow system to reset to my style of driving - Billy Melrose from Fife and Kinross Shires

Ford Focus C-MAX 2005

Could someone please tell me where the rear wiper motor relay is located on a 2005 Ford Focus C-MAX? The rear wiper is not returning to the park position, was told this could be the problem, thanks.

Answers

The control of the rear wiper is done through the GEM (generic control module) which contols many functions on these vehicles, if the wiper is failing to park it could possibly be the wiper switch itself as the contol unit takes it input from this. However before going out and buying new parts, take the car to a decent mechanic with something like a snap-on scanner and check for a trouble code in the GEM, as it will normally flag the problem. Hope this helps - Steve Chamberlain from Nottinghamshire

Ford Ka 2000

My Ford Ka’s oil filler cap will not come off! What trick am I missing as I don’t have the hand book?

Answers

Try pushing the oil cap directly down to ease the pressure before the twisting motion. Rather than just try and unscrew the cap. This should ease the pressure on the cap - Max Boyce from Bridgend

Ford Focus 2008

On my Ford Focus there is occasionally no throttle response when pulling away. Occasionally the engine stalls and has difficulty in starting and a smell of bad-eggs can be detected. What might this signify? (1.8 Zetec)

Answers

Sounds like your clutch is slipping - David Dennis from England

Your catalytic converter is knackered - Steve from Scotland

Catalytic converter is clogged and either needs to be replaced or hollowed out. Or you could have your timing belt checked because the smell of rotten eggs could be that the timing belt is going bad. I’m not a mechanic but I have owned a Ford Focus for a long time, and although it has been a decent car I am having the same problem. Is your "service engine soon" light on? Because you could have an OBD done on it to tell you for sure. It could also be one of your oxygen sensors located by the catalytic converter is bad too, just a suggestion to try hope you figure it out. Good luck! Janelle from United States of America

Ford Puma 2000

Hey peeps, just wondering if anyone shares the same problem as me... When I go to indicate it does that fine, it’s just on the cancellation we start having problems. If I turn right for instance it’s fine but if I turn left and indicate I have to cancel myself otherwise it will just stay on. Any suggestions please on how to fix?

Answers

Broken switch/stork - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2005

My Ford Ka overheats while idling after I had replaced the head gasket but now the water bottle is leaking. If I replace the water bottle and the cylinder head will it still overheat? Or is there anything else I need to look at that might be the reason for overheating? (1.3)

Answers

If you have a leak, the coolant won’t stay pressurised and will cause it to boil. Fix the leak first and see how it the temp is - Steve from Scotland

Replace expansion bottle cap - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2001

The locks on my Ford Fiesta do not seem to unlock, only lock. The only way I can get into my car is by opening the boot and unlocking the doors from inside. Any advice on how to solve it? Thanks.

Answers

Try a new key as they wear. If not, you will have to buy new lock kits and have them built to your key - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 1997

I drive a Ford Fiesta Zetec and it was running fine yesterday but today I was having problems changing gears, both changing up and changing down. It is getting stiff and I am having to force it into gear. Any ideas? The fluid levels are fine.

Answers

Hi, my gears were like that last year, it ended up being I needed a new clutch. Good luck - Annette from Lancashire

I had this problem with mine too. It turned out to be a lack of brake fluid bellieve it or not! Might be worth checking - Kathryn from Northumberland

Ford Fiesta 2005

I have a Ford Fiesta Zetec Climate with 35,600 miles on the clock. Could you please tell me when I should get the cambelt changed. Thank you.

Answers

60,000 miles onwards to be safe with a new tensioner - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2010

My Ford Fiesta’s boot keeps popping open - any suggestions?

Answers

You need a new boot switch in the tailgate. The problem is water ingress. Your local Ford dealer will be able to cure this for you - Stu from England

Ford Fiesta 2006

My wife’s Ford Fiesta has begun making a humming noise. It appears to originate from under the car but only seems to appear when you get above 30mph. It sounds like you are riding a motorbike. I have checked the exhaust but the sound is not a blow but a hum. Can anyone offer any help or advice? (1.25 Zetec Climate)

Answers

Possible wheel bearing of tyre noise - Dave Gamble from England

Ford Mondeo 2004

I have recently changed the injectors in my Ford Mondeo tdci 2 litre and the car started and run. I took it for test drive and the car cut out and will not start. Do the injectors need to be coded for the car to run?

Answers

Heap of sh*t - S S from Bedfordshire

How insightful, do continue - Terry John from England

Yes, they have to be coded - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2001

Hi, could anyone please help me? My Ford Galaxy’s fog lights keeps popping on my dash whenever I turn my lights on. I have checked the bulbs and they look fine. Also, whenever I press the brake the fog light signs appears on the dash but the fog lights are not on. I have checked fuse 26 but it looks OK. Please help. Thank you.

Answers

The fog light issue is common with the Galaxy. Check the wiring inside the rubber connector between the boot lid and body. There will almost certainly be wires damaged in there. The door wires go the same way so they are also worth a check - Mark Rowlatt from Warwickshire

You have put the bulbs in the wrong way round - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus Estate 2002

My lock has gone on the bonnet of my Ford Focus Estate so I can’t get in. The garage states they will have to go in from underneath and remove radiator to get lock out. Has anyone any suggestions please?

Answers

Yes I had that same problem, so my partner drilled the lock out through the front where you unlock it with the key, works a treat now as I use a flat headed screw driver to undo it as I keep one in my door. Try it, saves you money by not going to a garage to have your rad taken out - Angela Beanland from Vale of Glamorgan

Ford Fiesta 2003

Hi, recently my Fiesta has been ’chugging’ slightly as I go up a steep hill. Today I parked up, took it out of gear and the car was almost jumping up and down. As I drove home my engine light kept flashing and it wouldn’t allow me to go faster than around 35mph. I can only describe the feeling as like driving in 5th gear but at 10 mph. Like there’s no power. Can anyone tell me what might be wrong? Oil level is fine. Thanks. Hi recently my fiesta has been ’chugging’ slightly as I go up a steep hill. Today I parked up, took it out of gear and the at was almost jumping up and down. As I drove home my engine light kept flashing and it wouldn’t allow me to go faster than around 35mph. I can only describe the feeling as like driving in 5th gear but at 10 mph. Like there’s no power. Can anyone tell me what might be wrong? Oil level is fine. Thanks. Variant: Petrol 1.4. Year Of Make: 2003

Answers

I had the same problem with my 02 plate 1.6 Ghia. It was a faulty coil pack apparently quite common at 50,000 miles. Replacement was straight forward, cost £25 for coil pack. Good luck - Murray Downie from Scotland

Ford Transit Connect 2004

I’ve used Mobil 1 engine oil 0w30 for the past 4 engine oil changes and recently I read 1mm on my dip stick due to oil filter seal failure. I want to add an additive to protect seals and gaskets, everything apart from the metal in the engine really. What do you suggest? Also, prior to the oil loss I’ve always suffered from black puff exhaust in low gears. I always use Shell v power diesel for the past 3 years and it does not cure it. What can I put in with the fuel as an additive? My vehicle is on the 04 plate and currently has 109,000 miles. Thank you. (1.8tdci)

Answers

Could be that you are using the wrong oil. Ford specify 5W30 oil for that engine - Stu from England

Ford Puma 2002

Hi, just about Ford Puma and wind screen wiper spray not working on front and back. The pump works but drips come out, nothing really. Any ideas? Thanks.

Answers

Remove pump from bottle, then remove rubber seal and clean as it has a filter built into it fit seal to bottle first then pump - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2002

I need to replace the Ford logo on the front and back of my car, what is the best way to remove it? Thanks.

Answers

Use dental floss, then clean with meths and polish off the residue - Mark Rowlatt from Warwickshire

Ford Mondeo 2009

How do I reset the oil service indicator following a service? (Titanium)

Answers

Hi, I work for Ford Demonstration Services. The easiest way to reset the oil service message after a service without and diagnostics equipment is as follows. 1. Turn ignition off and place your feet fully onto both accelerator and brake pedals. 2. Turn ignition to the second pressure but do not start the engine. 3. Hold pedals down until message on dash confirms that the message has been rest. Done - Steve D from Cambridgeshire

Ford S-MAX 2011

How do you remove the rear outer lamp on a Ford S-MAX without damaging it.

Answers

You need to open up the panels on the inside of the boot, there’s one on each side. You then need to reach in towards the rear light cluster, and on the top and bottom of each is a spindle with a circular, wing nut type, plastic fitting. It’s fiddly to find them, there are a couple of wire looms that get in the way. Once found, unscrew both of these, being very careful not to drop them into the void. Once you’ve undone both, the light cluster can be slid out from the body of the car. I know this because by wife tried to lever them off using a large screwdriver, without undoing the wing nuts! - Andy from Lothians

Ford Galaxy 2005

My Ford Galaxy’s rear window washer does not work. Has it got a separate pump from the front washer?

Answers

Check under the front nearside footwell and remove the inner trim alongside the nearside doors, the pipe has a join under there and it sometimes comes apart, usually soaks the carpet! - Mark Rowlatt from Warwickshire

Same problem with my Alhambra. Carpets got soaked before I realised. The connection on the washer pipe was high up in the passenger footwell behind the carpet. Bit feedly to reconnect upside down. Came off again so I connected pipes and used small zip ties on the pipe joints - Rob Shaw from Cheshire

Ford C-MAX 2006

Today whilst driving the C-Max the power steering failed - the steering wheel was extremely heavy and the ABS battery and engine lights all come on. Could anyone please give some advice to what the problem might be.

Answers

Rachael, I must stress I’m not a mechanic but the same thing happened to me a couple of weeks ago. The alternator needed replacing because it wasn’t charging the battery. Therefore the battery couldn’t power all the electrics in the car hence no power steering etc - James from Nottinghamshire

Ford Focus 2000

Hi, I have a Ford Focus 1.8 Tddi Ghia, X reg (2000). Recently I noticed my reverse light has stopped working. I replaced the bulb, but it didn’t work, so was advised to replace the bulb housing. This too did not work. Please could you advise if it is likely to be the fuse next (and where this is!) and if that still doesn’t work, what else I look at next? Everything else is working correctly. Thanks for your help. (1.8 Tddi Ghia)

Answers

More than likely be the reverse light switch located on the gearbox - Adam Finch from England

Ford Galaxy 2004

Hi. Will a 2002 Ford Galaxy electric wing mirror for drivers door fit a 2004 Galaxy Ghia 2.8?

Answers

Yes, they are the same until mk3 - Tom Harbo from England

Ford Kuga 2011

Hi. Does anyone know if the boot on a Ford Kuga Titanium X is big enough for a labrador to sit in safely and with plenty of room? Thanks.

Answers

Surely that depends on how big the labrador is? - MMMMM Smith from England

Yes, there is plenty of room for a labrador - Mart Cam from England

Ford Transit Tipper 2006

When I start my Ford Transit Tipper moving it sometimes makes a high pitch noise. Not all the time, only when it is in gear and on the go, for just a few seconds. I hear the noise only when the road is level straight, not downhill or uphill. Does anyone know what the problem might be? I greased all the nipples of the guardian shaft but it is still doing the same noise. Thank you.

Answers

Try undoing the dry drive shaft and tapping slightly to left and reassemble - Charlie Martelli from England

Ford Puma 1999

Hi there. I bought a Ford Puma three months ago and it condensates inside really bad. What would cause this?

Answers

Sounds like you have water leaking into the car, check around heater as the matrix could have gone - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2006

I need the pin code on my Ford Ka’s radio as it is locked, how do I get this free of charge?

Answers

Mine was on the back of the radio. Take it out carefully using special keys then pull it out and there is a 4 digit code somewhere on the back - Alice from England

Ford Mondeo 2011

I can’t start my Ford Mondeo Titanium X on cold mornings. I depress the clutch and press the power button and nothing happens. It took 4 or 5 times before I could get it started and it almost seems as though there’s no connection. Any ideas please?

Answers

Take it to the main dealer, it’s under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Sounds daft but make sure the clutch is pressed all the way to the floor. If it’s not, it won’t start - Stu from England

Ford Transit Minibus 1997

I have mini bus that no longer has seats in the back as it has been turned back into a van. How do I go about getting the log book changed from mini bus to van?

Answers

Through DVLA - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2004

Can some one help? When I start my Ford Transit up, it clicks then starts sometimes. I can turn the key 5 times and it won’t start and then it does. It is a Ford Transit 04.

Answers

If it fails to start on key, move the main power wire by hand where it screws onto back of starter. If it starts, then take of wires and clean them, also check battery is tight, some times flywheel can be worn in as well. Good luck - James Gilmore from County Tyrone

Almost certainly the starter solanoid which is part of the starter mortor, you will need to replace the starter motor - Dave Gladwin from Nottinghamshire

Ford Mondeo 2003

The brake light on my Ford Mondeo stays on when the headlight is switched on. Can anyone help please, much appreciated.

Answers

Don’t pull the switch. Just twist it - Arnie Ford from United Arab Emirates

Ford Focus 2004

Why is the ABS warning light staying on after having a rear bearing replaced? And there is also a slight tapping noise on my Ford Focus?

Answers

If it is the same as my 2001 mk1 then there is a sensor ring that must also be replaced when the rear wheel bearings are changed - Will from Buckinghamshire

Ford Ka 2011

I have just bought a Ford Ka and on the left hand-side on the dashboard, next to the speedo, a single yellow snowflake light has appeared, does anyone know what this is? (Zetec)

Answers

Yellow snowflake means possible icy roads, red snowflake means there will be ice on the roads. Works on the outside temperature - Tom from Surrey

Ford Focus 2011

I just fitted a new old stock 2-litre Zetec blacktop engine and I’m getting white smoke and oil in the exhaust manifold from pots 2 and 3. A noticeable amount of oil after 10 mins or so. This is a new unused engine and I don’t know where to start. Any suggestions?

Answers

No matter how new... white smoke always means water. Where the heads rebuilt as well? It sounds like they sent you a core instead of a new motor - Miguel Jimenez from United States of America

Ford S-MAX 2006

Following an oil change, what colour should the oil be on the Dip Stick? Thank you.

Answers

Fresh oil should be a golden brown clear colour. Tired oil is jet black, but your dipstick may have a little staining/residue on it. If you’re still unsure, get a bottle of oil and drop a bit onto a piece of paper of a used white drinks bottle top - Dave Liggins from England

Ford Focus 2003

My wife had to pull over our Ford Focus on seeing steam coming out from the bonnet. On lifting it she found the water expansion to be empty with water down the side of the bottle. What might this signify?

Answers

Could be a faulty pressure cap - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2003

Can I fit just a new thermostat or do I need to buy the whole housing? (Petrol 2-litre Ghia X)

Answers

Believe it’s the whole housing - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2008

Hi. Can anybody help me? My car stereo lost it code and I don’t have it. It is a Sony 6000 stereo serial number v041816. Can anybody find me the code? Thank you!

Answers

You will need the unit part number in the format xxxx-xxxxx-xx on the side of unit as well as the serial number most Ford dealers will give you the code but may well charge you for it - Stu from England

Ford Focus 1998

Why was the Ford Focus recalled and what was causing power failure. And how to resolve the problem?

Answers

My father has the 2001 model and his suffered from the power failure. Complete power failure affecting steering, speedometer etc. The vehicle speed sensor was replaced as well as, and this bit is rarely mentioned, all the earthing points in the engine are thoroughly cleaned. Once both the above were done, the problem was solved. Hope this might help - Neil from Yorkshire

Gear box speed sensor is favourite if it’s not that then its a new instrument cluster. This was a known concern within ford. A new cluster could be anywhere between £60 and £400 depending on what type is fitted. Your Ford dealer will need to take your cluster out to match part numbers and determine which is your cluster type - Stu from England

Ford Transit Tipper 2005

I have a 2005 Ford Transit. It suddenly lost power and threw loads of black smoke out and only did 10mph. When starting from cold it was OK for 5 miles but then the same happened again. I changed filters and cleaned the egr but now it won’t start at all. Can anyone help?

Answers

They can be a nightmare to bleed up! What I generally do is pressurise the fuel tank, hold the filter an inch below the filter head until its full. Pop it back on, crack no1 injector off, turn the engine over, should only take a few seconds for fuel to come through, tightened no1 back up and it should be fine! Don’t just crack the injectors off and turn the engine, 1) you will flatten your batt, 2) burn out your starter motor, 3) damage pump inj etc! Hope this helps - Dave Thomas from Yorkshire

Ford Fusion 2006

The ABS light on my Ford Fusion came on after I changed my wheel bearing. I thought it might be my sensor so put a new one on. But it is still the same. Is there a special way the wheel bearing goes in?

Answers

Yes, the bearing goes one way only, the reluctor ring faces the sensor - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2000

Does anyone know when the cooling fan starts to kick in on a 200 Ford Focus 1.8 Zetec petrol 2000? Thanks.

Answers

The radiator fan should turn on as soon as you are sitting and idling for too long. This helps keep the car engine from over-heating when you are driving or just sitting in the vehicle while it is running. However the fan usually doesn’t run while the motor is in drive. If the fan isn’t kicking on then try turning the air conditioner on and see if that fan turns on to cool the engine. I have had the same problem and find that my fan has a mind of its own. I had to replace the relay switch and check all the fuses. However, it may be the fan needs to be replaced cause it is not working properly, it may also be the wiring just a few suggestions, good luck - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Fiesta 2004

When I unlock or lock my 04 Ford Fiesta Silver the indicators do not flash. The only way I know it’s unlocked is if the light inside comes on. Is this not a feature on this car or do I need to fix something? Please help!

Answers

Hi, does it unlock all the doors or just the drivers door? I had a problem with unlocking the doors but can’t remember if the lights flashed or not and it was just that the fob had been set diferrent and to get it back to factory settings, you have to hold lock and unlock for a few seconds. Hope this helps if not, was worth a try - Cheryl Shepherd from Yorkshire

Ford Fusion 2008

The electric mirrors have failed in the park position. I have tried unlocking / relocking with remote and key. I have checked and replaced the fuse. Next thing I suppose is the motor / servo, but it’s odd that this would fail on both sides at the same time. Can anyone help? (1.4 manual)

Answers

That same thing happened to my 2008 Ford Fusion in Jan 2012 this year as well. If you found anything out about it, please let me know. My email is robert.l.mitchell2@hotmail.com - Robert Mitchell from United States of America

Ford Focus 2008

With the engine running when I depress the clutch slightly I hear a vibrating noise as if something is catching. This noise occurs when the vehicle is stationery or moving. This noise vanishes when the clutch is fully depressed. It doesn’t effect the gear changing in any way though. I’ve also noticed a juddering on occasions when driving, it did it twice today at speeds of 60-70mph. I took it to a local mechanic who put it up on the ramp but couldn’t see anything loose. It only has 35,000 on the clock so I would have thought this was too soon for a major clutch problem. Has anyone else experienced this sort of problem? (1.8 Diesel Style)

Answers

Sounds like dual mass flywheel problem, expensive - Chris Parry from Yorkshire

Ford Fiesta 2006

I am suffering gear resistance when the engine is warm or the heater is on. I took my Ford Fiesta Style to ATS and couldn’t find any problem. Please help, my arm is starting to hurt! :(

Answers

Hi. I had this problem with my 1.4 tdci. It was the large gear selector on the front of the gear box - the 2 plastic bushes had swelled. You can buy the full selector as the bushes are not sold as a spare part. It cost £40 and is quite an easy job to anyone who is capable, approximately half an hour to do so - Alan Wilson from England

Ford Galaxy 2007

Does anyone know where the pollen filter is located on a 2007 Ford Galaxy?

Answers

Hi, you will find the pollen filter in the passenger footwell. Remove the trim to the heater side and you will have to drop the fuse box down from memory. You will see a rectangle box sitting on its side with three or four screws in it, and the filter is in there - Brian from County Down

Ford Ka 2003

Hi. My Ford Ka shudders when I pull away in first on a hill, OK on the flat, just on a slope. Any ideas? Clutch seems fine otherwise no problem changing gear etc. Thanks.

Answers

My KA did the same, found out it was the oxygen sensor - Jasmine from England

Ford Fiesta 2004

The off-side front washer on my Ford Fiesta has stopped working. The nearside appears to be fine. Can someone give me an idea why? (1.4 tdci Zetec)

Answers

Jets are blocked clean out with a pin - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2007

Hi, I just bought an 07 plate swb Ford Transit van. It is a 2.2 tdci. I’ve only owned the van for a week now and when I was driving it today it just automatically lost power? Any ideas on why?

Answers

I had the same problem with my 07 Transit. You need a new maps plan sensor. Costs £60 and £20 to fit. Takes about 15 mins providing garage has the part - Electrician Manchester from England

Ford Fiesta 2004

What oil should I use in my 2004 Ford Fiesta? I have just purchased Castrol 10w 40w. Is this suitable for topping up when required? Thank you. (Flame)

Answers

5/30 semi synthetic is recommended - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 1999

The hand brake light on the dashboard of my Ford Focus stays on when the engine is going and will not go out. There is enough brake fluid in the reservoir. What could be the problem? (Ghia)

Answers

Faulty h/brake light switch? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2011

I have a 2011 Ford Focus and cannot find the bonnet lock. Please help! The manual is very ambiguous. Many, many thanks in advance!

Answers

On your bonnet, the Ford badge, spin it over and hey presto, bonnet lock is there hiding - Laura from Nottinghamshire  

Ford Galaxy 2007

The small cable in the hand brake lever connecting the release button to the ratchet has broken. I have been trying to find a replacement but only seem to be able to buy from Ford - the whole hand brake assembly for £158+ fitting costs. Does anyone know where I can get a replacement cable from or how to make an effective repair? (2-litre tdci Zetec)

Answers

Google ’24/7 spares’ - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Puma 2001

I bought a Ford Puma and they didn’t mention but the blowers only blow cold air. I’ve taken it to the garage and they said that they think it is maybe a leak? They said that someone has disconnected and rerouted with tubing so that the air cannot be heated as it is bypassing the engine? Why would someone do this? Is this going to mean that something is very wrong? It’s sounding like I’ve been stitched up? Can any one help?

Answers

Hello. Just read your query. It could be a number of reasons, the heating system is broken and leaking so they by passed it. This is due to the fact maybe there wasn’t enough cooling fluid in the system and the heater froze and burst. So it’s not a big problem by a second hand heater £20 and fix it in yourself - David Williams from Netherlands

Sounds like the heater control valve ford part number 1714716 retail cost is £37.60 plus vat - Stu from England

Ford Focus Estate 2000

Any opinions on myself buying a Ford Focus Estate, X reg auto 1600cc - it looks OK for year and is priced at £1,295. What does everyone think?

Answers

Be wary of the auto box, common to fail - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2005

A coiled wire yellow warning light (above the temperature gauge) came on and my engine went into limp mode. I stopped and turned off the engine then re-started it and the light went out and the engine returned to normal. Any ideas? Should I drive it again or get it to the garage pronto? (ST diesel)

Answers

There’s a problem somewhere, get it code read - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2007

Can someone please tell me where the wiper relay for a Ford Focus 2007 1.6 might be found, as my front wipers are not working. I have checked the fuse, wiper motor and stalk and are all working. I can’t think of any other thing it can be. Help please!!!

Answers

Hi Graeme, I had the same problem, if it’s just the intermittent wipe, it’s the relay R15 OR R19. If all the wiper controls are not working, it’s the Body Control Unit or as I would call it - the fusebox. It’s about £300 to buy and Ford has to code it to get it to work, you can get a secondhand one but be sure it’s from the same spec of car and make sure the wiper motor isn’t faulty as this will back feed down to the new box and blow it as well. My advice: get Ford to plug it in to the computer to tell you what’s wrong with the box. Money well spent - Mervyn McNeill from County Antrim

Ford Kuga 2009

My Ford Kuga’s computer display has a fault. The Sat Nav doesn’t work anymore and the actual map doesn’t have any detail on it although it does still move as it would do if you were driving along. Is there a way of rebooting the computer myself or would I have to take it in?

Answers

Take it to Fords, it’s under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2008

With all the recent rain I have had water dripping onto my accelerator foot as I drive and the carpets have become very wet/saturated and are beginning to smell. Has anybody any ideas as to how the water might be getting in. Perhaps a blocked drainage hole!? Thank you. (Zetec)

Answers

Could well be the windscreen seal is leaking if it is the only cure is cutting it out as they are bonded, can’t guarantee screen won’t crack in doing so - Martin Jones from Essex

I am sure I just read on honestjohn.co.uk that there is a recall on this because the leak is through the wiper holes or something and worse still, it’s buggering up the car’s electrics, let alone the carpet. Hope this helps - Kaz C from England

Ford Focus 2001

Does anyone know if my 2001 y reg Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec has a dual mass flywheel? Thanks.

Answers

Yes it does - Laura from Nottinghamshire

No, it does not - Rog Coll from Devon

Ford Transit Connect 2003

My Ford Transit’s engine lost power last night leaving the motorway. At first seemed like total power loss, but engine was still running, but no response from accelerator. Just filled with diesel about 20 miles ago. Could this be a fuel / fuel pump problem. (1.8TDDI)

Answers

If your accelerator is drive by wire then it is most likely the electronic connection on the foot pedal. Mine went today. Driving along, lost all power, could not rev engine yet the engine stayed running - Pascal Finn from Lancashire

Ford Ka 2004

Hi, can anybody help? My Ford Ka showed a yellow warning light and was shuddering. I was advised by a Ford garage that I needed a new clutch and a bearing in the gear box. This was repaired only 8 days ago but the warning light is now showing and my Ka has now cut out totally and has been towed to the garage today. The garage has suggested a new sensor fitting but they think it may be the main ECU which is too expensive to repair. Do you think it is just the sensor or another problem? They did their diagnosis test and cannot be sure? Please help. Thanks.

Answers

Nothing mechanical will put engine management light on, sounds very much like the Ford garage. Don’t know what they’re on about, get it code read at a decent independent garage then ask for your money back for clutch etc. - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Tipper 2005

The front near side brake is jammed on my Ford Transit. It has been standing over the Christmas holidays. It feels like the ABS is stuck on. I have tried taking ABS fuses out and re-connecting but to no avail. Any advice?

Answers

Crack bleed nipple on the caliper & carefully squeeze piston back, make sure pads aren’t seized in carrier once re-assembled pump foot brake till hard pedal see if that cures - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 1999

I am getting a sound like a pump running coming from the left side headlamp assembly on my 1999 Focus Zetec 1.8 model when the dipped lights are on. No sound with main beam. Removed feed cable to left side headlamp and sound not there so must be something inside the headlamp assembly. Has anyone got an idea what this might be please? Are there any relays in the headlamp assembly? Thanks very much.

Answers

It’s the electric motor that controls up & down movement for varying loads, you have a switch on dash with numbers, set to 0 make sure both h/lamps are level and disconnect the motor inside h/lamp - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford S-MAX 2008

My Ford S-MAX is showing an engine malfunction warning followed by esp skid illumination. Is it common? The engine is very fierce on throttle opening clutch sometimes, stalls engine on take off. What is the likely cause? 28,000 miles recorded only.

Answers

Had this myself, needs software update at a dealer! - Tony Ollier from Cheshire

Ford Transit 2004

The central locking doesn’t work. No key fob just from key but it keeps resetting. What could cause this?

Answers

Possibly one of the doors is not fully shut from my experience of a 2004 135t 350 van, the spring loaded contacts at the rear of the sliding side door & the fixed points that thy contact on the vans door frame has given endless problems clean with very fine sandpaper & spray with WD40 for a short term fix. P.S. Could be with the bullet proof mark 5 up to 00 streets ahead of these mark 6 dustbins on wheels - Nat Smyth from Ireland

Ford Fiesta 2006

My Ford Fiesta’s windscreen washer pump is working but there no water coming through. Seperated the two pipes connecting the jets and still no water. Any suggestions? (1.4 tdci)

Answers

Take the pump out of the bottle and then remove the rubber seal and clean it under running water as it has a filter in it which gets blocked - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Puma 2001

Over past few months my Ford Puma has failed to start periodically. 1st time it was a fuse blown from the box in the engine 10 amp 2nd one up on left side. RAC told me it was fuel pump needing replacing On another occassion the RAC suggested it might be related to the fuel hose. Fuse does not always blow when car won’t start. Sometimes it won’t start from cold and sometimes from warm. I don’t want to spend loads of money getting the fuel pump changed if it might be something else. Any ideas?

Answers

Fuel pump 100% it’s a common enough occurrence. It’s a dose to replace but I’m sure that’s it - Darren from Ireland

Ford Focus 2007

In 3rd 4th and 5th gear my car revs high when the turbo should kick in but in 1st and 2nd it kicks in fine. Any ideas what this could be? (1.8 tdci)

Answers

Clutch slipping? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 1998

The rear window demister on my Ford Ka has stopped working - has anyone else experienced this and knows of a fix?

Answers

Fuse blown - A` B from London

Ford Focus 2002

Hi, I’ve recently fitted a new speedo clock on to my Ford Focus and the ABS and handbrake light won’t turn off. Can anyone please help or advise?

Answers

If you’ve had new clocks fitted they will need programming to switch the light off, it’s a one hour job but you will need to take it to a Ford dealer as you need IDS to do the job - Stu from England

Ford Ka 1999

How do you open a Ford Ka’s bonnet when it is stuck on the first lock? The latch inside the car is working.

Answers

Pull the cable inside car with a pair of pliers - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2004

My Ford Transit’s engine started tapping then very loud tapping and banging. The van then wouldn’t move and revs won’t go over 2,000. There is a lot of white smoke coming from the exhaust. No engine maintenance/warning lights are on. Any ideas what might be causing this? (hi roof 350td 90bph 2.4cc)

Answers

Yeah, same problem as what happened to me a week before Christmas with my 54 plate 2.4 jumbo. Timing chain was totally worn out causing timing to jump, the rocker shafts had also come loose which closed the valves stopping them from getting bent when piston come up at the wrong time. Lucky for me, the cam carrier was not damaged so I inspected it fitting new genuine Ford rocker shaft bolts, lock tightened them in and fitted a new timing chain kit and timing chain cover. I did all of this myself, parts cost around £350.00. Vans running good now - Paul Best (mobile mechanic) from Wakefield, Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2000

Why does my Ford Mondeo’s engine warning light sometimes come on and other times it doesn’t? Plus, why does it loose speed in shudders?

Answers

You will have to get it code read - Martin Jones from Essex

Did you find the anwser to the problem? Mine is doing the same and would really like to find out what’s wrong with it. Many thanks - Ian Ianson from Kent

Ford Mondeo 2001

After the battery that came with the car was replaced the radio refuses to function. It keeps asking for the code. How can I get it sorted?

Answers

All Ford stereos have a 4 digit security code. If you haven’t got it with the paperwork that came with the car, you will have to go to a garage, in car entertainment shop or remove the stereo and note the M serial no. and pay online to various people that do it. There are people on ebay - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2005

The clock in my Ford Focus keeps resetting when I switch the ignition off. E.g. The time is 14.00 but the clock in the car is showing 10.00. I start the car, set the clock to 14.00 and drive for 45 minutes. The clock now shows 14.45 When I switch off the ignition the clock returns to 10.45.

Answers

Hi Noel, has anyone solved this foryou yet? What type of radio is it? I have 2010 model Vistron 6000 CD that does this as well and would like to know how to stop this happening on mine as it drives me mad - Dennis Pinchin from Worcestershire

Ford Mondeo 2002

My Ford Mondeo’s brake pedal is not feeling quite right. It sometime goes hard, as if there is no vacuum pipe attached, then it returns to normal and back again? Has anyone else experienced this? (st220 3.0-litre petrol)

Answers

Sounds like a faulty brake servo - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2004

The temperature gauge on my Ford Mondeo does not move even when been on a long drive and it only blows warm air. Why?

Answers

Sounds like the thermostat is stuck open - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2000

My Ford Focus has just started misfiring and the rear windscreen wiper has also stopped at same time, same as the rear windscreen heater. Everything was working well until only 1 hour ago. What might the problem be? (1.4CL)

Answers

New coil plugs and leads will cure misfire. Check the wiring by the tail gate inside the rubber converluted pipe for your electrical fault - L&R from England

Or you could check your fuses inside the motor and under the steering wheel for your defrost and wipers. And misfiring is usual caused by spark plugs or spark plug wires (coil wires). You could also check the coil pack, or it could be something within your fuel injection system. These are just a few problems I have ran across. Also catalytic converters are well known to clog in Ford Focuses - if you have any funny smells coming through the vents or your vehicle is getting hot or losing power - that is also a suggestion you can consider. That is the most suggestions I can think of and the problems I have had with my 02 Focus - Janelle from United States of America

Ford Focus 2006

I have changed the fuel and air filters on my Ford Focus and it is now showing an engine system fault. It feels like it is being held back at higher speeds and won’t go over 50mph even when the throttle is to the floor. Does anybody know what my problem might be?

Answers

You will have to get it code read, that’s the only way to find the problem - Martin Jones from England

Ford Fiesta 2007

Hi, I’ve got a problem with the gearbox on my 2006 Ford Fiesta Zetec S 1.6 with go faster stripes :P ) Here’s how it all began: I was driving down the motorway, doing about 70-ish :) in 5th when all off a sudden the car started jumping like when you stall. Except I was doing 70. I dipped the clutch and revved the engine to see if the engine was OK and it sounded and all was OK. Then while coasting/free wheeling I re-engaged the gearbox and the same thing happened again. I pulled over to the slow lane and tried again - the same thing in most gears and then maybe a minute later after driving in 4th, the juddering stopped and it seemed OK. Then a few more miles down the road, when it was safe to do so, I stopped and pulled in at a garage a few miles from my destination as I was quite close when all this happened anyway. I had a look under the bonnet, and the reverse sensor had what looked to off been blown off. The part that screws to the thread was still intact and I could see the wire from the loom dangling there but the main part was gone! It had lost a lot off oil as a result. I nursed it a mile or two back to camp and parked knowing there was nothing I could do on a Sunday night. Next day, I went to a garage told them the massive story above lol :) I had them replace the sensor therefore plugging the hole stopping the gearbox bleeding out all over the place, and refill with the correct gearbox fluid. A few hours later, snuck off from work to pick the car up they told me the reverse lights are not working but there;s no reason why electrically. I got in and started driving back to camp thinking, "well at least the box is OK" (all happy and that pleased with myself). All the gears where fine until 4th to 5th :( It crunches in and then whines a bit when driving and then when you take your foot of the accelerator whilst 5th is still engaged it makes an even worse whining sound. Then, if your reapply the accelerator it goes back to a quieter whining sound. (Brilliant, I thought to myself, Christmas and this happens... standard). So if you’ve read this massive boring story this far just want to say thanks for taking the time to read it :D and I hope to get some feedback on what the problem could be. (Zetec S)

Answers

I would say it needs a gearbox, my 2003 Mondeo has had two already, and only 58,000 - Diane from County Antrim

Ford Focus 1998

Can anyone help? I’m trying to locate the water temperature sensor on my car but for the life of me can’t find it. I’ve bought a new one but don’t no where it goes. Please help!

Answers

Thermostat housing? Right hand side of engine - Martin Jones from England

Also may be between 2&3 plug leads - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2006

My Ford Focus has just started showing the frost warning light, saying it is -15 degrees, however today is easily 28 degrees. How can I fix this?

Answers

Sounds like outside air temp. Sensor faulty located behind grille/front bumper - Martin Jones from England

Ford Focus 2006

There is a symbol coming on and off every few miles on the dashboard of my Ford Focus. It is orange/yellow and is odd-shaped, like a sort of snowflake, and is situated under the rev counter with the battery, oil etc. symbols. It does not stay on all the time. I do not have a manual, could someone please tell me what this means? (1600 lx)

Answers

It’s telling you the outside temperature is below a certain level which would illuminate amber and if temperature drops lower, it will be red - Martin Jones from England

It means that there is a chance of ice outside so be careful - L O from Oxfordshire

It’s to tell you if it’s cold outside - Stan Stan from England

Orange symbol means frost warning and red symbol is lower temperature so risk of ice! - Steve Keay from England

It’s a warning that the temperature is low, when it gets to zero, it will go to RED! So be careful as there may be ice on the road - DJ Morgan from Hampshire

Ford Transit 2005

My Ford Transit has started to rev between 1,000-3,000 rev when I engage the clutch pedal. If I turn the engine off, and then on again, all is OK. Does anyone know what this is or perhaps experienced anything similar?

Answers

Had same prob on a 330 2004 - spray throttle pedal with wd 40 - Robert Craig from Ayrshire

Ford Fiesta 2003

What does EAC on the dashboard mean? My car wouldn’t start and was displaying that message. (Finesse)

Answers

Electronic accelerator control try removing the multiplug from the airflow meter and cleaning it with a blast of WD40 - David Hepburn from Fife and Kinross Shires

Ford Galaxy 1998

I have lost the use of 5th and reverse gears on my Ford Galaxy. When I try 5th gear it goes into 3rd gear and when I try reverse it seems to go into 4th. Going from 1st to 4th gear not a problem, it’s when you push the stick right over to right to select 5th and reverse gears that it does not select. I think it is probably a selector cable that has come loose but I do not know where to locate it. Any ideas?

Answers

Hi Mark, I had this problem while on holiday. I could only get 3rd and 4th. If you reach over the back of the battery and feel around under the battery plate, you’ll find two selector cables. Get someone to play around with the gear stick, to help you feel for them. They fit on a box on top of the gearbox. With me, one of the selector cables had popped off, just push back on to the nipple. You may find that it keeps popping out. If you find it’s the same with yourself, you will need to remove the battery and plate. You will want to place a jack under engine to take weight because when I took four bolts out, the engine dropped slightly. No damage, just jacked it up to catch bolts. It’s a big job to replace these cables. I’ve still not got round to it after six months. After pushing the cable on, I tied it with a cable tie. Still working fine. Good luck - Hugh McFadden from Scotland

Ford Fiesta 2007

I have just had my fuel injectors changed and my mileage has just dropped from 64 mpg down to 50 mpg. I have no leaking of fuel and my daily journey has not changed so don’t know why?

Answers

I’ve got the same problem. Has anyone got the answer please? Mark from Torfaen

Ford Fiesta 2005

My Ford Fiesta will not start in the cold mornings. It’s as if the battery is flat because it goes with a jump start. I’ve replaced the battery but still the same problem. Can anyone please help as this is getting very annoying!

Answers

Starter motor fault, it’s common on Fiestas - Alan Evans from England

Ford Mondeo 2009

The wipers stay continually on my Ford Mondeo, even after the key is removed. It doesn’t happen every time, but when it does I have to remove a fuse to stop it. I have brought it to two garages, but no luck. Has anyone seen this before? Would really appreciate some guidance. Thanks.

Answers

It happened to me and it turned out to be the wiper switch itself - Ian from England

Ford Mondeo 2006

Hi, just got this car a couple of weeks ago and this morning, when I was putting the driver’s side electric window down I heard a popping noise... I managed to get the window back into place using my hands and securing it by wedging in a little piece of paper. I’m guessing the window has just came off the mechanism? I know it’s a simple case of taking off the inside door panel and having a look but I’m just wanting to ask - is there anything I should be looking out for that may have been damaged? Plastic clips etc? Any advise would be great... (2.2 TDCI Titanium X 155BHP 6 speed)

Answers

Sounds like the regulator has broken, the cable goes on them - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2008

When does the timing belt need to be changed on my 58 plate Ford Fiesta?

Answers

I would say around 70,000 miles and not what Fords say, and make sure the tensioner is changed as well - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2002

My Ford Mondeo is making a banging noise under the steering. It sounds almost like a spring being released. The car is also pulling to the right since this noise has started, any ideas anyone? (2.0-litre TDDi Zetec)

Answers

Check the wishbone bushes, common fault, and check you haven’t got a broken coil spring - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2000

My Ford Focus diesel matrix has stopped working. It was flushed through and still not working. Is it hard to replace an how much would a new one cost?

Answers

If you mean heater matrix, make sure the hot and cold control is working correctly. If it is the matrix then yes, quite expensive to replace - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2005

Hi, I have a 2005 Ford Focus and when I come up at a light and stop, the revs move slightly up and the car judders and then the engine warning light comes on. I took it to my garage and, as I have not used it for some time, they told me to drive it fast. So I did and the juddering stopped but the light is still on. When I asked why the light is on they said that the temperature gauge is faulty. What should I do? Thank you.

Answers

They need to reset your fault underneath your steering wheel, the light will go off, its a two minute job - Mark Earnshaw from England

Ford Transit 2008

Where EXACTLY is the fuse for the interior lights on Transit 58 reg? No one can give an exact answer. Fuse number and board location EXACTLY. Thank you.

Answers

Ask Fords they will tell you exactly - Rob from Albania

The fuse for the interior lights should be fuse 72, it’s a red 10amp fuse located in the second fuse box. For instruction on how to access that check out http://fordtransit.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=40&t=49206, the thread has pictures - Robin from London

Ford Focus 2001

I just replaced a blown fuse for the central locking on my 2001 Ford Focus. The rear passenger door is the only one that won’t lock since replacement of fuse - does anyone know the cause?

Answers

Must be that solenoid that blew the fuse - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2003

Hope someone can help. I have a whistling noise coming from my Ford Fiesta’s engine when its running. Any idea what it might be? Thanks.

Answers

It could be the fan belt - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2001

How can I test the starter motor off my Ford Transit 300 while it is out of vehicle? Thanks.

Answers

Jumper leads connected to a battery - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fusion 2003

Just noticed intermittent front wipers and front wash/wiper failure (wash still works). All other wiper functions are OK. A Google search suggests one relay covers both operations. Can anyone confirm this, and if so, which relay at fault. Many thanks.

Answers

Front screen is at fault as sensor in front of rear view mirror is no good - Steve Shorey from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2010

I have a 2010 Ford Fiesta Edge 1.25-litre. I want to know if the snowflake alights on the dash when the temperature drops?

Answers

Yes, below a certain temp. It’s amber and below that it is red - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fusion 2011

I was pulled into a parking space that was inclined forward. When I went to back up my car rolled forward, enough to startle me and even make my husband look surprised. I’ve noticed it rolls a bit on hills as well. My SE is an automatic and no other automatic car I’ve owned has rolled this much. Should I be alarmed? Anyone else have this issue!?! Now I’m scared to stop on hills and we are going to Pittsburgh next weekend and I’m already nervous!

Answers

Take it back to the dealer, it’s still under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Connect 2005

The lock has jammed on the rear doors of my Ford Transit Connect. Any ideas on how to open?

Answers

Climb in the back remove door trims if it’s got them and trip the lock with a screwdriver or something - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2008

There is a screeching noise (like belts) coming from my Ford Mondeo’s engine in the morning; it lasts for about 3 to 4 minutes. But this only happens in cold weather. Has anyone any ideas what it might be please? (1.6-litre petrol Zetec)

Answers

Replace the multi groove belt that drives alternator etc - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford S-MAX 2008

Is the throttle response always very fast on turbo diesel Ford S-MAX’s?

Answers

Yes especially if it’s a diesel - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2002

My question is that I have a Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDci. I did major service 6 week before but after that the heating light constantly remains ON with fan as well. My car is not heated and even I start it in the morning but still remains ON. I even replace its thermostat and whole coolant recently but still does not work. Can you help me please? And yesterday, when they changed its thermostat they disconnect its battery so now after that my car CD / Audio system is asking me for a code but I could not find it on my book. So please suggest me what should I do in regards heating light constantly ON with fan under the bonnet? And also code for audio CD player? Thanks in advance.

Answers

Recently I found my thermostat was failed as struck open and I changed it. After that, I found some thick white smoke coming out with a strong smell of gas. I am not a mechanic and have no idea what could the possible reason. I have not fixed it yet. But my strong guess that the white smoke is from the charcoal canister that trap the vaporized gas from the fuel tank and the emission system after the engine shut down. This canister has two solenoid control valves, one without side and open until the engine reached the normal operating temperature. The other valve, what I believe the main culprit also solenoid control usually closed before the startup and open when the engine reach the normal operating temperature. Now when my thermostat failed at open condition (open loop) condition, it took infinite time to reach at 1/5 of the temperature gauge and it never reached the ideal normal operating temperature at mid gauge (82 degree). The coolant temperature sensor send this low temperature signal to ECU (Engine Control Unit) that it was the car’s normal operating temperature and it was registered in the ECU as the car’s normal operating temperature. So, when I just start my car after changing the thermostat, the Charcoal Canister purge solenoid valve opened and emit the white enriched gas to the air intake manifold by vacuum at very low temperature. Most of the readers commented in every place as white gas means blown head gasket. But for this case only reset the ECU by disconnecting the negative connection of the battery for 15-20 minutes will solve the problem. By the way, my idea is that at any engine or emission related parts replacement to be effective, ECU reset is required to activate the changed parts performance. Try without spending anything. Don’t be ripped off by the mechanics (fitter) - John from Canada

Hi there, sounds like you have an air block in your system, see if you can find a bleed bipple on one of your pipes or on the radiator, get the car up to temperature so the thermostat is open and release the valve to let the air out. If the heaters are not working also put them to full heat and turn the blowers on, if the system is bled properly then it must be electrica. Check your fusebox for the radio. If you do not have the code, there is a fella on eBay that sells Ford radio keys, think it’s about £2. Hope this helps - Mark Wilson from England

Ford Fiesta 2003

Ford Fiesta 2003 Hi. I have a 1.4-litre Ford Fiesta Zetec. I have had it since new and it’s done 100k miles. It has recently started over-heating, with the coolant bubbling up. Also, before it starts over-heating there will be a very strange and loud clicking noise (behind the glove box it seems). Does anyone now why the car might be over-heating and what the clicking sound is? Answers: First check your waterpump as they are prone to fail at high mileage. If it has gone, it will pressure the system and overheat - Reg Rst from Wales Hi, I have had the water pump changed and the thermostat. But I am still getting the clicking sound by the glove box and the heater works now and again. and it still overheats.. what else could this be? Someone said possibly the heater control valve... I am running out of ideas!!

Answers

Hi there, have you checked between the windscreen wipers? Lift your bonnet and the plastic pannel where your wipers come out of, there is a plastic 4 way heater module and these are prone to cracking/snapping, they are not that noticable with them being covered over, this would make the car overheat. ABD would stop your heaters working properly, hope this helps - Mark Wilson from England

Ford Fiesta 2007

The offside front window on my Ford Fiesta unwinds to about 1 inch from top and it will not go any lower but it will go back up. Is it a faulty winder or window switch? (1.25 Zetec)

Answers

Probably the regulator has broken - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2007

My Ford Transit’s heater is stuck on a warm temperature. Does anyone know how I might fix it?

Answers

Pull the dial really hard and it should come off, then turn the wee metal bar with a pair of pointy nose pliers then get a new dial from a scrappy! The one you have could be snapped or worn - Mark from Renfrewshire

Ford Focus 2007

At what mileage should I replace the timing belt on my 2007 Ford Focus Zetec?

Answers

Around 70,000 belt and tensioner, Fords say higher mileage but I wouldn’t - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ranger 2011

Hi. I have just bought a 2011 Ford Ranger 4x2 px diesel auto. When it is turned on and just at idle it keeps ticking and the idle needle keeps dropping like the car is going to stall. While this is happening, it has a rattling sound in the engine bay. Any ideas why this is happening?

Answers

Take it to a Ford dealer, it’s under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2007

My Ford Mondeo started to make a rattling sound when the clutched is pressed. Is this a flywheel or a thrust burn? The noise goes away when you take your foot of the clutch... (2-litre tdci Zetec)

Answers

Could well be the dual mass flywheel breaking up - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Minibus 2004

On my Ford Transit Minibus, when the handbrake is pulled on, there is no light on dashboard. Has anyone any idea why this might be?

Answers

Check under the cover of the lever and see if the switch is connected and works okay - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 1999

Hi there, can anyone help? When I turn on the heating I get a horrible screeching noise and the car tries to die. It has already snapped the aux belt, which I have now replaced. Does anyone know what it could be? Also, where can I find the fuse for the front cigarette lighter? Thanks. (2.3 Ghia X)

Answers

Sounds like one of the pulleys has seized, remove belt and see if you can manually turn aircon compressor, tensioner pulley etc - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2001

I was driving my Ford Transit as normal when my battery light went on and my steering went hard and so did my brakes. Can anyone please help or advise?

Answers

Your auxillary/fan belt runs the p/s pump and alternator, it may be loose, a pulley has seized or the belt has come off. Check the belt - Vanman from Wales

It could be a belt but it really could be anything, basically when the engine cuts out you lose the brake servo (pedal goes hard) and the power steering, the dash lights coming on suggests the engine cut out hence the problems. If it’s ok now then I would not worry about it too much as like I said it could have been anything - Dave Gladwin from Nottinghamshire

Ford Galaxy 2000

Hi, could anybody tell why my Ford Galaxy’s temperature gauge does not go as high as it used to, even though the interior still gets as warm? Thank you.

Answers

1. Faulty Gauge 2. Faulty Coolant Temperature Sensor 2. Faulty Thermostat (Sticking Open) 4. Any Combination of the above - Suddenend from England

Ford Transit Box Van 2003

The engine on my Transit Box Van keeps cutting out and puffing out loads of smoke. Anybody know what the problem might be?

Answers

Think you need a new van mate - Sylvester Stallone from England

All you need is an idiot like that Sly St. Listen to the people that have a proper suggestion - Mike Aus from Cheshire

Ford Focus 2006

Hi. I’m having a nightmare with my Ford Focus. It’s a 1.6 ti year 2006. I only got my car serviced about a week ago, spark plugs, oil and filters. I was driving fine up till two days ago. I came from my house and it wouldn’t start, it would crack but not start. I then left it and I’d say it would have been 6 hours later and I tried to start it again. It started first time but then, when I drove it, it cut out and just would not start. Now this would keep happening. It would just start when it chooses to. THIS IS WHAT I’VE CHECKED SO FAR: Spark plugs, battery fuse board coils and coil pack. Sorry about the long story, I just wanted to make sure I have got everything. If someone could please help me out I would be very thankful.

Answers

Possibly a CPS (cam position sensor). I had the same problem with a Mondeo. It cost around £15 - Robert from England

Ford Focus 2009

Does anyone know why my Ford Focus engine has a slight misfire in 3rd gear at 30 mph? Has anyone else experienced this? (1.6tdci)

Answers

Sounds like EGR valve to me, I had the same problem with a customer’s car - L&R from England

Ford Focus 2002

The brake lights on my Ford Focus are stuck on and won’t come off. No one knows what the problem is and the Ford dealer here in Saint John New Brunswick says they have never heard of it happening before. Can anyone help?

Answers

Must be a faulty brake light switch, located up the top of the pedal - Martin Jones from England

Ford Transit Connect 2003

Does anyone know why does my Ford Transit Connect’s heater only blow cold air when I put the switch on hot?

Answers

Cause it doesn’t work - Jennifer Dunne from England

Ford Focus 1999

I have just bought a Ford Focus LX 1.6 16v Zetec S and the wheels are not the right wheels for the model - they should be alloy wheels on this model but someone has put 14 inch wheels on it. The front tyre’s are 175 60 14R and the rear are 185 60 14R and are not alloys. I have an Escort 1.6 16v Finesse that I am scrapping and would like to know if anyone could tell me if I could put the 15 inch 195 alloy wheels off that on to the Focus?

Answers

The 15" wheels will be alright but the tyres it needs will be 195/60/R15 tyres where as the Escort last I knew ran on 195/50/R15 - Andy Blakeman from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2004

Sometimes my dash won’t power up, all the warning lights stay on, no speedo or rev counter or temp gauge. The only thing that works is the fuel gauge but when you shut the glove box hard the dash goes back to normal. I can’t find any loose connections, and I just wondered if there is a relay for the dash as maybe that could be sticking. Has anyone had anything similar maybe? Any help would be much appreciated. (2.0 TDCI)

Answers

I’m having the same problem, have you sorted yours yet? Some garages say maybe earth fault or dashboard instrument fault, not sure but really annoying fault, does your mpg display work or does it show ’------’ and same for mileage display? - Christopher Turner from England

Hi Chris, still not having any luck with mine but problem does sound the exact same including the display fault. Don’t change the instrument cluster as I did and it didn’t make any difference. If and when I work it out, I’ll post it on here and hopefully help a few others as well, cheers! - Brian Scott from Bedfordshire

Ford Galaxy 2000

Do you have to take out the headlight to replace the side light bulb on a 2000 Ford Galaxy?

Answers

No, in the wheel arch moulding is a slide down flap, pull that down and that’s where you get to the sidelight and indicator bulbs----- just! - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2004

I have accidentally put brake fluid in the coolant tank of my Ford Ka. Should I drain it out?

Answers

It is water soluble, but depends on how much. You may as well drain & refill with fresh water/antifreeze - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2005

This is my second Focus which I love but I have had the same problem with this car as I had with the first and that is water in the footwell on the passenger side. Any ideas where it is coming from please? Thanks.

Answers

More than likely the pollen filter has been changed and the plastic trim is not water tight to windscreen, you can buy the special sealer from Fords - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 1999

Recently, on my Ford Galaxy, the fuse went for the reverse lights and now it has been replaced. The reverse lights still won’t come on. Does anybody know where I would find the trip switch?

Answers

It’ll be the reversing light switch located in the gearbox, look underneath and you should see it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2005

Could anybody help as Ford were a waste of time and money? My Ford Transit is throwing out black smoke and is gutless. I have had new injectors and clutch, the turbo and egv value have been checked and are working fine. The cat was filthy and has been cleaned and the exhaust blown through with a air hose and also two bottles of cat cleaner. But I still have the same problem. I can rev it hard and it leaves massive black carbon stain on the road. It has no power when pulling away and I am losing the will to live.. (85 T20)

Answers

You may need to take one of the breather pipes off at back of engine, `thin black pipe` mine did the same, a lad did this for me and was okay forever after - Lee Perry from England

Ford Mondeo 2008

I have a CD stuck in my Ford Mondeo Titanium stereo. Can anyone please advise me as to how I can get it out.

Answers

Remove the player from the dash and carefully open it up, remove the disc - Martin Jones from Essex

I had this issue with my Fusion; disconnect the battery, wait a few minutes, reconnect, BUT be sure you’ve got the radio code before doing anything, as you’ll have to enter it to power up the audio unit. Once it is switched on, press the eject button. It should spit the disc out - Tatty from Yorkshire

Ford Fiesta 1998

My Ford Fiesta is drinking oil and will also only reach 50/60 km/h in 3rd/4th gear and won’t accelerate any further. The revs just seem to idle at that point and I’m forced to drop gears to get power back?Any ideas? (1.3 lx)

Answers

Put a white cloth over the exhaust, if it goes black quickly, you are burning oil if not you have a leak. Take a spoonful of oil and drop it where you park your car and imagine if it were say a pint, you would see it. Broken piston rings would allow oil into the bore and you would burn pints of the stuff. You have checked your dipstick is in place? - Bob Watson from Dumbartonshire

Ford Fiesta 1995

I have removed all the connections to my cars alternator, but cannot remove from the engine bay, tried from below and above, any suggestions? I have an idea that years ago when the AA man changed it he removed a radiator pipe? (1.3 Frascatti)

Answers

Remove it from underneath, if it’s got power steering you may have to remove the pump. Don’t forget to disconnect battery earth lead as the alternator is permanently live - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2005

I’ve a Ford Mondeo tdci and it seems to have lost its power when in 1st 2nd and 3rd etc... I can still get it up to a steady 80 and it runs lovely but when I hit a bank it starts to lose power. Can anyone help or advise?

Answers

There is probably a split in the pipe that comes from your inlet manifold - Selwyn Witts from Cardiff

Ford Ka 2008

My Ford Ka sport has just sprung an engine warning light. I understand a diagnostic check is required to find the fault code. This will probably be a sensor fault - can anyone estimate a cost?

Answers

Diagnostic checks are approx. £40 upwards depending on where you take it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Tipper 2001

I have got a really bad vibration going through my whole Ford Transit Tipper van when I get to about 60 (50 when it has a heavy load). I have checked the propshaft bolts and they are tight. There is a bit of play on the bearings that mounts the prop to the body is that what is causing it or something else?

Answers

Remove the propshaft, taking care you don’t lose your gearbox oil. Check the U/J joints move freely through all angles - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2005

WEIRD MALFUNCTIONS???!!! I went out to the car tonight because the alarm was going off only to find the wipers stuttering backwards and forwards and the headlights and indicators flashing.... no keys in ignition...?? I had to disconnect the battery as even disconnecting the wiring didn’t stop it? I have a bad problem with mice? Have they possibly chewed through a wire? Any ideas? (1.6tdci)

Answers

No answer I’m afraid but my 2005 Ford Focus Zetec did exactly the same at 5am this morning. I had to disconnect the battery. Did you get it sorted? - Gil Ward from Devon

I have a 2005 C-Max and have suffered the same problem. Is there any possibility that the problem could have occured shortly after heavy rain or after ploughing through a reasonably deep puddle? My thought is that there must be a relay or fusebox that isn’t particularly well sealed. The water across electrical contacts is a definite recipe for disaster. My only ’solution’ for me was to disconnect the battery every time I stopped. Keep an eye on the wipers and when they stop moving by themselves, proves that the relay box has dried out due to engine temperature. Hope ths helps - Alan Butcher from Kent

Ford Ka 2004

I have a leak on driver-side of my Ford Ka. Does anyone have any idea where it could be coming from?

Answers

Try the engine filter cap, might be loose - Stuart Thomason from England

Ford Fiesta 2000

How many miles do I have left once my petrol light comes on my Ford Fiesta Finesse 1.3l? Thanks.

Answers

Approximately 50 miles - Mark Willson from England

Ford Transit Tipper 1997

My brakes on my Ford Transit Tipper have gone soft. They keep going right to the floor. I have to take my foot off for them to go hard again. Has my master cylinder gone?

Answers

If there are no visible leaks then it could well be the master cylinder - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2004

Can anyone tell me how to adjust the time on my Focus C-MAX?

Answers

This may help. I have just picked up my (newish) 2005-max today and this was the first thing I did when I left the garage. Press the menu bar and scroll through until you get to the change time mode. Then you will see the first part of the time flashing. Just rotate the volume dial and either increase the numbers or rotate the other way to decrease the time. Then it’s set - Bev Saxton from Suffolk

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hello, I have just bought a diesel car after having a petrol one and did the obvious when I went to fill it up... but realised it soon after filling. I put 15 litres into the tank and then stopped after realising and then filled it up with 45 litres of diesel. It is running fine, but I would like to drain it if it will cause damage. What is the consensus? Thanks.

Answers

If it’s running fine, leave it. I have heard of people doing the same thing and they have said it ran better after having put a small amount of petrol through it - Martin Jones from Essex

I would put in a good cup full of clean engine oil to help lubrication as petrol has hardly any lubricating properties and washes away the diesel at the pump - Johnny Darby from Devon

Ford Transit Connect 2004

I think I have a serious problem with my Connect. Yesterday the battery light came on on the way home then the dash froze while driving then re-engaged itself and the lights went off. I got it home, tried it this morning, it started then the engine made a big rattling noise and lots of smoke came out of the back. Does anyone have any ideas before I go to the garage? I am asking before I go as I am in France and would like an idea of what it could be before I go. Many thanks. Tom.

Answers

Sounds like the turbo has blown. Is it an 1800cc? A mate of mine had the same problem and it was the turbo, very expensive, £1,000+ - Steve Holborn from England

Ford Transit Connect 2003

Hi. The heater control only activates the blower on no. 4, all the others are ’dead’. Is this the motor at fault? There are no blown fuses, and I have changed the switch. The different speeds seem to have died one at a time... (LX)

Answers

It’ll be the resistor burnt out, where the multiplug locates on blower motor. Usually a screw holds it in place, remove it and replace - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2006

Loss of power when driving with engine system fault and orange engine light on. Any ideas?

Answers

Had this on my Mondeo 2002 plate. Mill light and loss of power. Diagnostics said it was the EGR valve. I replace this and power was restored. No more having to over rev when pulling off to stop if from stalling and diags kit cleared the fault codes - James from Berkshire

Could be a number of things, you will have to get it code read - Martin Jones from Essex

I had/have the same problem! I changed ecg, egr, maf sensor, just had to get new turbo as prev was knackered, but still doing it! Apparently, it could be a tear in the turbo hose - A Gadsden from Perthshire

Ford Mondeo Estate 1998

My car has just developed an intermittent fault with the indicators \ hazard lights. It occurs both indicating left and right. The indicators flash once the stop. After a short while they may work again. Any suggestions? (ST24 V6 Petrol)

Answers

Try replacing flasher unit otherwise the stalk itself, also make sure the hazard lights haven’t got a faulty switch - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo Estate 2008

The gear-stick on my Ford Mondeo Estate is making a squeaking noise as though it’s rubbing against dry rubber, what could the problem be?

Answers

Lubricate the gear linkage at the gearbox end - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 1998

A reverse light on my Ford Ka is not working. The bulb is OK and I cannot see a fuse. Any ideas? Maybe a reverse switch?

Answers

Temp. join the two wires from rev. light switch, if it lights up replace switch - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2004

I have a Ford Galaxy turbo diesel which has a smell of burning and then car would not start. No gauges on the dashboard either. When opening the bonnet I found that the black box situated next to and connected to the battery had melted. What is this and the cost of repair? Can anyone give me advice please?

Answers

Fuse box most likely and very expensive unless you can get one from the scrappy. Should be looking to see what caused this though as they do not just "melt" for no reason - James from Berkshire

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-Ford-Galaxy-MK2-Fuse-Box-2000-2006-/270805750743?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item3f0d47d3d7 Mine has melted too. I have a 2.3 petrol X reg, had a new one fitted at garage along with new battery, new alternator and the fusebox has had a meltdown again! Dunno why it keeps happening - Kev Worrall from Lancashire

I had a ’02 Galaxy, the fuse box melted, I got one from the dealers for £25.00 and watched the mechanic fit it. It happened again about 6 months later, bought a new one and fitted it myself, only took 15mins - Que Shah from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi, does anyone know why does my Ford Mondeo judders while I am driving?

Answers

You should have your wheel bearings looked at. I fit Torrington bearings in place of the Ford ones. It costs very little, fixed the problem, also check the wheels are balanced - John Sumpter from Durham

It could be tyre wobbling or suspensions need replacing. Good luck - Jose Htun from England

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi guys, I have a 2-litre 2002 Ford Mondeo. Recently, when I turn on the wind-shield’s heater, only half of the window starts to heat up and the other half (in front of driver) stays the same. Any ideas!? Is the system broken or should I change any fuse?

Answers

Common faults with windscreen. Large chips usually damage these. May be worth checking to see if the fuses are blown if not then new windscreen I’m afraid - James from Berkshire

Ford Focus 2000

The front electric windows, heaters, main beam, high beam and brake lights on my Ford Focus all stopped working at the same time. Any ideas what could of caused this??? There was a blown fuse which I have changed but this has made no difference. I have been told it might be the alternator - does that sound correct?

Answers

Won’t be the alternator as it charges the battery, could be fusebox problem, get auto electrician to look at it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 1999

How do you remove the centre console on a Ford Focus and adjust the handbrake as mine has far to much travel and the car is rolling on hills?

Answers

Carefully pull up the shroud around lever starting at top & you’ll see the adjuster nut - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2005

When do I need to change the cam belt on a 2005 Ford Focus?

Answers

Petrol & diesel around 60,000/70,000 miles with a new tensioner, don’t go by what Fords say - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo Estate 2005

When I turn the ignition on my Ford Mondeo Estate all the gauges on the dashboard needles sweep from left to right and the tripometer resets. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

Answers

Mine did exactly the same thing, the engine turned over but would not start. Towed it to bump start it and started straight away, was fine for three weeks and done the same thing this morning? - Rodney Freer from Leicestershire

Get the battery checked - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi I was having the same problem, ended up having a new ignition barrel made up to existing key and new starter motor. Hope this helps - Jonny Hodson from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi, can anyone help please? I have a 2002 Mondeo 2-litre petrol and the car runs for about half and hour from cold and the electric fan is coming on a lot and has used a bit of water. I have checked pipes, no leaks that I could see, the air-con has no gas when sat in traffic. It comes on especially now when winter is on its way. Please can someone help? This has only been happening for the last month. Many thanks, Jason.

Answers

Take it to a garage. If no leaks and water is disappearing, it may have a cracked head - James from Berkshire

Ford Ranger 2008

When putting a push bar on the front of the vehicle it is suggested that you remove the black cover from under the radiator. Can anyone tell me what the plastic cover is for? Thanks.

Answers

It’s a splash shield, probably just cosmetic - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus Estate 2003

Our 1.8-litre Ford Focus tdci keeps cutting out at junctions. The yellow warning light comes on and then a complete loss of power. I have to restart the car. The garage fitted new injectors and throttle but the problem still hasn’t gone. It’s so dangerous and so random - has anybody else experienced this and can offer any advice?

Answers

Take it back to the garage and get it code read as only electrical/sensor problems put the management light on, and tell them they have wasted your money on injectors etc. as the same problem exists - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2001

Hi. This is probably a stupid question... The petrol gauge in my Ford Ka is playing up and I am always worried about my petrol. I was just wondering what the average mileage would be for a full tank of petrol? The engine size is 1.3. Thanks for your help.

Answers

My first car was a 1.3 Fiesta (Finesse) 2000 plate. Could get 400 miles a tank easily - James from Berkshire

Ford Focus Saloon 2005

I have just taken my car to have its timing belt changed and have been told by the mechanic at Ford Lookers that in fact it has a belt AND chain timing system that is normally only fitted to Galaxy’s. Is this correct? As obviously it’s going cost a lot more? (1.8 LX Diesel)

Answers

Yes, the chain drives injector pump from crankshaft which is internal. You only need to change belt and tensioner £130-£180 max. cost - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2001

Hi, does anybody know where I put the gearbox oil in a 2001 Ford Ka?

Answers

Halfway up the front of the gearbox is a screw plug that is the filler/level - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2003

Hi, I have a 1.4-litre Ford Fiesta Zetec. I have had it since new and it’s done 100k miles. It has recently started over-heating, with the coolant bubbling up. Also, before it starts over-heating there will be a very strange and loud clicking noise (behind the glove box it seems). Does anyone now why the car might be over-heating and what the clicking sound is?

Answers

First check your waterpump as they are prone to fail at high mileage. If it has gone, it will pressure the system and overheat - Reg Rst from Wales

Hi, I have had the water pump changed now so it doesn’t overheat. But I am still getting the clicking sound by the glove box and the heater works now and again - Billy Lee from England

Ford Transit 2006

The brake warning light has come up on the dashboard of my Ford Transit. I have had the brakes replaced but they did not reset the dashboard, how can I reset the light?

Answers

Have you checked the fluid level? - Martin Jones from Essex

You can try holding down the clutch and brake also the trip reset button all at the same time then turn ignition on - Reg Rst from Wales

Ford Focus 2002

I’ve bump started my Ford Focus tdci with a flat battery. I’ve charged the battery and the ignition lights come on but the starter won’t engage. Is there a problem with the immobilizer and can I overcome it without taking it to a garage?

Answers

If you have fully charged battery and the starter still won’t turn over the engine then it sounds like a faulty starter motor - Martin Jones from Essex

Should not bump start a diesel - James from Berkshire

Ford Ka 2004

Hi. I have a 2004 Ford Ka and recently I replaced the battery (9 months ago). Since then it has been flat twice when I have gone to start it in the morning. When this happens the battery light does not go on. Do I have a faulty battery or could it be something else?

Answers

Sounds like an alternator problem - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2007

Hi, I have a 07 Ford Transit rwd and have a few questions... 1. There is a judder/clunk sometimes when I dip the clutch? 2. Lots of vibration at low revs, thinking engine mounts? If so how many are there and how big a job? Thank you.

Answers

Does the vibrating stop when you dip the clutch? If so, it sounds like it’s the dual mass flywheel to me and needs replacing with a solid flywheel conversion kit - Adam Dillnutt from England

Ford Focus Estate 2001

When I switch on the rear screen only the top 4 and bottom 4 elements come on. I’ve checked for breaks , but can’t see any. I would appreciate some helpful advice.

Answers

It is a faulty heated screen - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2008

How do you turn off the service indicator on a Ford Mondeo? (2-litre petrol)

Answers

Are you sure it’s a service indicator and not the engine management light? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2004

When I rev the engine it sounds like someone turned the heater on full - you can hear air blowing from dash board but can’t feel air coming out - just sounds like it. Has anyone else experienced this?

Answers

Is your car a turbo diesel? Sometimes the intercooler hoses develop a split and the boost escapes making a whooshing noise - Andrew Pemberton from Carmarthenshire

Vacuum pipe split (sounds like a turbo spooling up when under load) - Robert from England

Ford Fusion 2003

I filled up with fuel and now my Ford Fusion is juddering when I change gear or accelerating. Then, this evening, the engine management light came on. Any ideas? Before I set fire to the bloody thing!?!?

Answers

You’ll have to get it code read - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2004

Hi, my 2004 1.8 C-Max Zetec has been stood for 4 days. I came to start it today and had problems. I had to put the accelarator pedal right to the floor before it would start. This has happened a few times before - any suggestions please? Cheers.

Answers

Battery - James from Berkshire

Ford Ka 2000

Hello, does anyone know how I might change the anti-freeze in my Ford Ka?

Answers

Bottom of radiator n/side is a drain plug, unscrew it and drain the water then refill - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Tourneo Connect 2007

I am driving a 2007 Ford Transit Connect and am wondering what capacity the diesel tank holds and how many miles are left in the tank once the diesel light comes on?

Answers

Hi Michael, first just to make clear to you, I own the new Ford Tourneo Connect Trend 8-seat version plated-2010. For the diesel tank, it holds 60lt when full as stated in my handbook. For distance to empty warning light, I think it’s 50 miles. I have only ever done this once but I do not to make a habit of it just incase. Hope this is of help - Steven Maloney from England

Ford C-MAX 2008

The computer display in the middle of the dashboard of my Ford C-MAX stays on even when the car is switched off. Is this right? I have just had the battery replaced on this car, which I have had just over 3 months. The car has only done 12k miles.

Answers

Hello Darren, I’ve had mine for two weeks. I have read that it stays on for around 30 minutes after the vehicle has been locked. I hope this helps - Lee Jackson from England

Ford Fusion 2011

I’m trying to change the time on my Ford Fusion. I pushed the clock button and nothing happened - is there something else I can try? It’s a new, 2011 Ford Fusion. Thanks in advance.

Answers

Make sure your ignition is on and then it should work - Suli from South Africa

Ford Fiesta 2001

When I turn the steering wheel on my Ford Fiesta it sounds dry - what could it be?

Answers

Have you checked power steering fluid level? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2011

This may sound unusual and I would not believe it if it had not happened to me. My Focus has a push button start and keyless entry. However, on a recent trip to Penrith we stopped off at a resteraunt and on returning back the car would open but would not start. A mechanic towed us back to a hotel saying that it was probably wi-fi at the resteraunt interfearing with the signal. I rang the local Ford dealer who told me the same, anyone else had this problem? (Titanium)

Answers

This should not happen as wifi is everywhere now and would constantly interfere with starting your car - Michael Mane from England

Ford Mondeo 2007

I start my Ford Mondeo in the morning and it blows out white smoke and smells bad. I cleaned the inlet manifold and EGR valve but there has been no change. I have also noticed that I am only doing 300 miles on a full tank of diesel (urban average 32.6MPG) which is very heavy on fuel. Can anyone tell me what is wrong and what I might do do improve things? (130BHP GHIA X)

Answers

Clean your mass air flow sensor with carb cleaner, give the two wires a good spray then let it dry. Follow the video on YouTube before you start - Stephen Sellers from Lancashire

Ford Transit Tipper 2002

Can anyone tell me why my Ford Transit Tipper loses power when the glow plug light flashes on the dashboard?

Answers

There is a problem somewhere, it needs to go on diagnostic equipment to find the fault, could well be the EGR valve, very common fault on the Transit - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2003

The cooling fan on my Ford Fiesta is not working and the engine over-heats. Fan works when connected to separate feed though. I have replaced the thermostat and temperture sensor, still no luck. I want to renew the cooling fan relay and have looked at the relay/fuse panel behind the glovebox but can’t identify which relay is the right one or the fuse. Can you help? (1.4LX)

Answers

I’m pretty sure the fan is controlled through the main ECU. Get an electrician to check it out, Fords don’t fit a separate fan switch in the cooling system after a certain year - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta Van 1996

The heater in my Ford Fiesta Van is blowing cold air. I have checked the pipes that run through the bulkhead and they are warm, any ideas?

Answers

Probably the electric valve has packed up, common fault, which is located just behind bulkhead under bonnet may have a rubber cover over it, hoses go to this first - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2002

Hi all, my 2002 Ford Focus sometimes makes a beeping noise when I start the car... sometimes one long beep, sometimes 3 little beeps. Is this a safety problem... I thought it was an outside temperature thing but it’s happening a lot more now. Any ideas anyone?

Answers

Did you find out about the beeping? Mine has now started doing the same  - Jason Kennedy from Cambridgeshire

I’ve also have a 2002 Focus with the same problem, I’ve searched the handbook but cannot find any reason or a set of circumstances that would trigger such a response - John Hunnisett from Dorset

Ford Transit 2002

My Ford Transit 350/125 2002 keeps stopping as if it’s out of fuel - but I turn the ignition and it starts straight away. It can happen every 1 mile or after travelling for 20 miles. I changed the fuel filter and cleaned the fuel tank but it’s still the same. Any ideas? (350/125psi)

Answers

Make sure the tank’s breather is not blocked. I had this problem and drilled a small hole in the filler cap and it fixed it - Keith from England

Ford Mondeo 2004

Hi, can anybody help. My clutch pedal went to the floor when I was stopped at roundabout. I lifted it back up but nothin there, no pressure absolute zilch. RAC towed me to a garage and said possible whole clutch required. I know they’re expensive but is it a new clutch or shall I wait for the garage report?

Answers

Two possibilities here: 1. You have suffered a catastrophic loss of brake fluid (burst pipe, master or slave cylinder leak). Easy to check, there will be no fluid in the system. 2. Your clutch pressure plate has collapsed. Can only find out if this is the case by taking out the clutch (big, expensive job). You will probably need a new clutch including dual mass flywheel, you have my sympathy if this is your problem - Dave from Yorkshire

If you do need a new clutch, it might be a good time to switch to a single mass flywheel! - Steve O’Connell from Essex

Ford Fiesta Van 2001

Hi there! My heaters and indicator have stopped working together on my Fiesta van. Any ideas please peeps? Thanks.

Answers

Do you mean heater plugs and warning light? If so check the fuse first and then heater plug relay/timer - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2005

Does anyone know where I can get an n/s Ford Fiesta engine mount bush from and roughly how much they would cost? As I’ve been to Ford and they haven’t got a bloody clue what I’m on about...

Answers

Any Ford garage, £60-ish - James from Berkshire

Ford Focus 2006

Strange one this, when I accelerate the blowers for my windscreen switch on. It seems to be around 2000 revs, but not when I am in gear. Anybody seen this before? (1.8 tdi)

Answers

Turns out it was a split Turbo pipe - James from England

Ford Fiesta 2011

I have had my brand new Ford Fiesta Zetec for 1 week and was about to reverse. When I put the car into reverse it started to move and it felt like I had hit something - there was a small bang but nothing was around - what was this?

Answers

Take it back to Fords, it’s under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 1999

Hi, I’m replacing the motor for the heater in the bulk head area - do I need to flush the coolant out of the system first? (1.25 Zetec)

Answers

No, because you don’t have to drain the water to change blower motor - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2006

I have a constant build up of water around the spark plugs on my Ford Focus. There is no visable point of entry for the water - can anyone offer any advice?

Answers

Make sure the screen washer pipes and jets aren’t leaking when operated into engine bay - Martin Jones from Essex

Check and reseal your washer jets on the bonnet or replace seals. Rain water is probably getting in. I had same problem myself. Common fault - Bob Jones from Merthyr Tydfil

Ford Focus C-MAX 2005

Hi, My C-Max’s automatic choke has started to get stuck on but it doesn’t happen all the time, any ideas?

Answers

Chokes are only part of car engines that run on carburettors, since the days of fuel injection they are no longer required - Matthew Wilson from Worcestershire

Ford Fusion 2003

Occasionally I get a noise like I just ran over an object, a scrape noise which does not stay and in fact the first time I thought it was from radio but now it is definitely there somewhere behind me. Checked under car and nothing hanging down, the engine was up to temp when it happened today and was traveling 40-50mph and was not braking but I may have had my foot off accelerator, letting car slow itself. Last week had engine and gearbox mounts replaced after severe judder on pulling away. It’s not always there and it’s over quickly, you would swear you had just run over something scraping bottom of car. Update: Been to garage and of course could not replicate sound, got it checked over and nothing could be found, but exhaust had a lot of play so I got them to replace rubber mounts. Driving home 20-30 mph that scraping noise again twice, I had the windows open and still can’t decide where it was coming from, 1st time I thought front passenger side and 2nd time I thought rear drivers side. This has only started this week, a few days after having new engine and gearbox mounts replaced and power steering belt resitting as it had either slipped or was not put on correct originally. Could the noise be connected to either? To confirm when incidents happened car was not braking and not under accleration either. This is really concerning me and getting reluctent to drive certainly at any high speed.

Answers

Sorted, OSR wheel bearing totally disintegrated - Martin Everett from Nottinghamshire

Ford Fiesta 2011

What does the yellow oil light mean in a Ford Fiesta diesel Zetec?

Answers

Low oil pressure - Martin Jones from Essex

It’s a service light - Dave from Ireland

Ford Fiesta 2000

Hi, I have oil in my water expanion tank but have lost no power - what could this mean? Thanks!

Answers

Possible head gasket - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Puma 2001

I had my cam belt changed at Ford on Monday. When I picked the car up it was fine. Today, I have a loud knocking noise. I have taken it back to Ford and they have told me they need to keep my car. Have they fitted the cam belt wrong? What damage could this have caused?

Answers

If there is any damage, it will be down to Fords - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2000

When I turn the steering in a stationary position i get a jerky movement, a screeching sound as well. The fluid is OK - has anyone any idea what might be causing this?

Answers

Check the power steering pump drive belt and the tension of it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Tipper 2004

I can’t get no more than 60 mph from my Ford Transit Tipper and it seems under-powered. Can you please advise on what this might be?

Answers

Get the turbo checked - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2000

Hi all! My T reg Ford Galaxy is being a pain. I got out off the car, locked the doors manually and the key and fob fell to bits. So I put it all back together and all seemed fine. I unlocked the car with the key fob and all the doors unlocked as normal. I then went to start the car, as you do, and the dash lights came on as normal but when I then went to turn the key at the final third to kick engine into life... nothing happened apart from the little light by my doorlock on the drivers door started flashing. Any ideas as my car is now stuck 3 miles away, outside a shop.

Answers

The immobiliser is not recognising the key - Martin Jones from Essex

In the key fob, there is a little black chip, now where your car key fell apart that’s where it is. Go back and scan the area where your key fell, problem solved - Tom Harbo from England

Ford C-MAX 2008

Why does the air con button always come on when I start up my Ford C-MAX?

Answers

It is defaulted in the "on" position because most people were not switching it on often enough to get the oil lubricant, which is mixed with the coolant gas, to circulate around the bearings and vanes so the pumps would frequently seize up if not used for a long time, causing fan belt to break. It’s best to use it even in winter as it freezes out pollution from the incoming air before being heated up again. These pollutants, smoke etc are discharged in the water under the car when it defrosts after you have parked. So you get nice air conditioned air inside the car to breathe, even in winter - Noel Hargood from Berkshire

Ford Transit 2005

My Ford Transit cut out on me last week. I took it to the garage and they scanned it - nothing came up. I changed the filters twice, then it went for approximately 20 miles and cut out again. I went back next day, ahd it jumped on tow and then it happened again. So when it breaks down the next day it will start... Does anyone know why?

Answers

I’ve had the same problem and found the fuel tank was contaminated. I had to renew the fuel tank problem solved - Dave Procter from England

Ford Transit 2002

On my Ford Transit, with the light switch turned on, only the side lights will work - the full lights don’t but full beam will. I have checked the bulbs, fuses and relay and they are all OK - can anyone help?

Answers

If you have checked fuses/power supply, it can only be the stalk - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, my work Transit on an 08 plate and most Transits do the same but only when the engine is not running - Colin from England

Ford Galaxy 2006

On my 1.9-litre Ford Galaxy Zetec, the hazard lights come on if I try to open electric windows on the driver’s door, or sometimes when I open the door, or if I turn on the headlights, not every time but randomly. My alternator workshop warning sign appeared on the dashboard 2 weeks before any of these problems occurred and has never shown up again, totally random. I never had a problem before and I have owned the car from new, serviced it annually. Please help, I have cleaned the battery points and checked all fuses!

Answers

Same problem. Snapped electric wire in rear passenger door - Joanne Roche from Newport

Ford Ka 2006

On a Ford Ka, is it possible to switch headlight dipping for french driving? Thanks, Tom.

Answers

No and those stickers you can buy ’t work either - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2001

Hi, I recently bought a Ford Galaxy and the next day my instrument cluster went - all of it, no rev counter, fuel, speedo, temp or lights. So I tried to change them but this seems like hard work but I think that I may have a relay gone. I don’t know what to do - could someone help? Thanks!

Answers

Hi there, I have a Ford Focus (2002) and it happened to me - apparently a common Ford fault and it’s the whole unit that needs replaced. Ford electrical faults seem to be very common these days - they are worse than the Fiats/Lancias/Alphas of the 1980s and I’ve had a Fiat! I would still check all fuses/relays but I expect it’s terminal. The dealer tried to fix it but the fault returned and got worse before not working. The dealer replaced the whole unit and then like a true dealer idiot did not write down the miles when they changed it, so had to get them to make an amendment so that it did not look dodgy as the miles no longer correspond with the registration document. Hope this helps - Mal from Angus (Forfarshire)

Go on the net and call up a firm called BBA Reman, they specialise in exchange dashboards - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus C-MAX 2006

Hi, can anyone confirm at what mileage, or year, the cambelt on my Focus C-MAX Zetec will need changing? Thanks!

Answers

If it’s a petrol engine, Ford’s guide is 10 years or 100,000 miles! I recommend 70,000 miles max. You must replace the tensioner as well - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2004

Hi. My wife has a 2004 1.3-litre KA and recently I drove it and it felt like it had dirty petrol. When I drove it again the following week the engine management light is staying on and the car is chugging a lot more. Any idea what this is and the cost of repair? Cheers, Cian.

Answers

Sounds like a misfire, coil packs are common for that. Diagnostic equipment will tell you what is wrong - Martin Jones from Essex

I had the same problem on my Ka ’04, diagnostic check proved 1 and 3 injectors down. Once changed, it went like a dream - Allan Stewart from Scotland

Ford Transit 2002

Hi there, I was wondering... Would anyone know what causes the knocking to the rear of the engine the noise is on my 2.4-litre Ford Transit? It is there when ticking over but goes away when the clutch is engaged.

Answers

It could well be the dual mass flywheel as they can break up and get noisy - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Connect 2004

The heater fan selector goes from 0 to 4 ok but the fan/motor is not cutting in. Over the last year the motor has only been working when set on 4 but has now given up the ghost. Checked the 30 amp fuse and found it blown... replaced it and it blew again immediately. I assume its the motor requiring replacement? (Ford Transit Connect T230 TDCI (90) LWB)

Answers

Check the resistor, Fords have a habit of burning out, located on the motor where the multi plug is, you may find that burnt as well - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2006

I have 2 questions that I hope you can help with: 1) When does the cam belt need replacing on a Ford Galaxy Ghia TDi? The car has done 64,000 miles? 2) How do you change the front side light bulb? Thanks in advance.

Answers

Now on that mileage. Fords recommend every 40,000miles. Re: your sidelight, look under wheel arch and there is a plastic cover that slides down to access sidelight and indicator bulbs, just! - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 1999

Hi. I was just wondering if my 1999 Ford Ka2 plate has a petrol light?

Answers

No it doesn’t - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Tipper 2007

Hi, can anyone help? My Ford Transit Tipper keeps losing power and not building revs up in 4th gear - does anyone know why this might be?

Answers

Hi, mine was doing the same thing, it turned out to be a split in the turbo pipe. Hope this helps - Mark Fenton from England

Ford Galaxy 2003

My reverse lights stay on, even when I am not in reverse. Does anyone know how why this happens and how it can be fixed?

Answers

Sounds like a faulty reversing light switch - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2003

I was driving today and went to reverse park my car. When I put the car in reverse it made a large bang and knocked me out of gear. It does this in 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th gear but will drive in 1st - what may it be? Please help!

Answers

Sounds very much like something has broken inside gearbox - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2006

The over temperature light comes on my Ford Ka 1.3-litre 2006). The coolant level is ok. I let the car cool down, opened the water bottle, started the engine and revved it up a little and waited for the thermostat valve to open, when it eventually did open it pushed the water out, this seems normal as it is a pressurised system but the water was really hot and streaming, seemed like it was boiling by the time the thermostat opened. This leads me to believe that it might be caused by the water pump not doing its job? Can anybody offer any advice?

Answers

Is the electric fan cutting in? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2001

When dipping the clutch and holding it down, a rattling sound comes from the engine. Does anyone know what this could be?

Answers

It will be the heat shields on the exhaust catalytic converter rattling at certain revs, I had the same problem. This is what it turned out to be - Dave from Berkshire

Ford Focus C-MAX 2006

I have a small but annoying problem why my 1.6-litre Ford Focus C-MAX TDI GHIA diesel. When driving between 1200 -1600 rpm I seem to get an instant loss of power for less than 1/2 a second. All the lights remain on abd no warning lights are showing - so it seems not an electrical problem. Can you help?

Answers

Me too! MAF sensor apparently or EGR valve?! I had both changed but still doing it! Maybe turbo? - A Gadsden from Perthshire

Ford Fiesta 2004

Please help! Both my Ford Fiesta seats cannot be moved forward for people to get in the back and the pull things have broke. I have them but dont know how to fit them?

Answers

You will have to remove the seats, and then release the backrest trim from the bottom then you may have enough room to replace the linkage by working your hands up behind the trim,if not, remove all the back trim - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2001

I recently purchased a 2-litre Ghia Focus. After telling my wife repeatedly not to run low on fuel she did, now the car is hesitating and the engine management light is on. Any ideas, the car ran fantastic until she nearly ran out of fuel. On a tight budget and I can’t afford garage fees. I was told it could be debris from the tank causing a blocked injector. Anybody experienced a similar problem?

Answers

I doubt the problem is down to low fuel. Petrol is pretty clean these days, you will have to get diagnostic equipment plugged into the car, I would think the low fuel is just a coincidence - Martin Jones from Essex

Every time my Focus runs out of fuel, it does exact same thing put more fuel in and reset ecu (unplug earth lead) for about half hour. It fixes it everytime - William Marshall from Cambridgeshire

Ford Mondeo 2003

Hi all, I have just bought a 2-litre Ford Mondeo TDCi second-hand, and, when checking the fluid levels (I know I should have done that before I bought it really) I noticed the brake fluid was full to the brim, way over the maximum level, and with the clutch and brake fluid running off the same reservoir, I was wondering if this could lead to any damage to the clutch or brake workings/parts etc, thanks in advance for any help.

Answers

No damage at all, just be careful when driving no fluid leaks out as it is corrosive to paintwork - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta Van 1996

How many brake pipes go to the master cylinder on a Ford Fiesta Van?

Answers

4 - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2010

How do I stop the "speed alarm" from sounding on my KA please? It now sounds at 20mph.

Answers

Press menu button [right side of speedo] scroll through for speed alarm and either reset the speed or turn it off - John from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo Estate 2005

After a small shunt I have found that on each headlight, the lower plastic bracket into which the headlight retaining pin slides has been broken (about 10mm square of plastic box section). The repairer says that both xenon headlights will have to be replaced at a cost of around £1000! Otherwise the headlights are undamaged. Q!: Is this necessary? Q2 can I fit the less expensive halogen lights, without having wiring/computer management systems implication?

Answers

I would leave it if they are secure enough or if you’ve got the broken bits, superglue them back on the headlamps or try cable ties. Failing that see if you can get second hand, 24/7 spares is a good website - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2007

The engine on my Ford Mondeo vibrates when standing still. Could this be an engine mount?

Answers

I had my engine mounts replaced on my Transit Connect. As on tick over, I could feel the vibrations, (mileage covered: 100k). These made a massive difference, also a joy as when sitting at lights, I didn’t need to rev the engine to smooth the vibes. Suggest you shop about for price varies, I got mine from ebay. Also can cause pipes to split i.e. intercooler pipes as when pulling away, the engine could move under torque - Geoff Hinton from Norfolk

Ford Mondeo 2007

Hi. I have a 2-litre 2007 Ford Mondeo Titanium X petrol and at times, when I push the starter switch, nothing happens but all the ignition lights come on but won’t go off until I switch it again. I have had it in to Ford’s and they put new starter relays in but now, after a month of doing the same again, it sounds to me like maybe a loose wire that occasionally moves, Any ideas please as what to try next?

Answers

Take it back to Fords, you’ve paid for something that didn’t cure the problem - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo Estate 2002

Does anyone know if my 2002 Ford Mondeo Estate Ghia X has a timing belt or a chain?

Answers

Petrol or diesel and what size engine? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2008

The ABS pump on my Ford C-MAX needs replacing after just 16,700 miles - is this normal or acceptable?

Answers

No and no, get on to Ford Motor Co. customer services - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 1999

Hi, what does it mean when my Ford Transit loses power and blows out a lot of smoke? Thank you.

Answers

Possibly a split main turbohose (normally splits at the back) or sticking EGR vacuum valve on the top of the turbo - Colin Allport from London

I had this problem and it was the bar that connects the air sensor, it has two plastic clips on which wear away - Karl from England

Ford Mondeo 1999

Hi folks, anybody got any suggestions as to why my rear electric windows will not go down on my Ford Mondeo ST24? I had the trim off yesterday, and there is power getting to the switches.

Answers

Have you accidentally turned them off at the isolator? Otherwise you say there is power to the switches but both sides of the switch? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2004

Hi, I have had my Ford Fiesta 1.4 Petrol for 3 years. In that time the engine management (amber) warning light appears and the engine misfires. I have taken it back to the same garage 3 times now, and they have found that the spark plugs are sitting in about 1/2" of water! They, like me, have no idea how it is getting in? Please, any help would be greatfully appreciated as it costs around £130 each time to fix it!!

Answers

I had this problem on an old Fiesta (2000 on a W Reg) and the water was coming out around the bolts that hold the top of the engine together (sorry not very technical I know), off the top of my head I think its two bolts in between the spark plugs i.e SP1 Bolt SP2 SP3 Bolt SP4. Got the seals around these replaced and all was fine again - David Langford from England

Screen washer pipe isn’t leaking is it? - Martin Jones from Essex

Check the windscreen washer hoses on the bonnet where they go through from the underside to the topside. I had this after a RTC and they don’t repair it right. It cost me a lot of money but it’s a known fault. Google ’Fiesta washer leak’. Regards - Dave Cummings from England

Thank you to all that answered my query. When I put the windscreen washer on (with the bonnet up) I noticed that the water was running down the windscreen and leaking through the bolt of the n/s wiper arm! I have sealed around the bolt with an external waterproof sealant. For a couple of days, the amber engine warning light stayed on and it ran rough but with no more water entering the engine compartment, the warning light went off, and it now runs sweet, as any water under the plugs has evaporated. Thanks again - David Bluck from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2007

The coil light on my Ford Mondeo is flashing on the dash but when I plug the computer in it isn’t bringing up any faults. Can anyone tell me what the fault could be?

Answers

If you mean heater plug light, you have a fault. Try other diagnostic equipment - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2000

How do I get the push fit oil filler cap off on a Ford Fiesta?

Answers

If it pushes on then it just pulls off - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 1989

My Ford Mondeo keeps overheating. I have replaced the thermostat and headgasket as well as an electrical switch. It finally turns on but still overheats, does anyone have an answer please?

Answers

Try replacing the expansion bottle cap, I have had this problem - Martin Jones from Essex

Have you checked your water pump is delivering pressure? Low or no pressure will mean no circulation. Water needs to move through the radiator to cool down - Dave from Yorkshire

Ford Galaxy 2007

Where can I find a replacement front drivers door for a Ford Galaxy, as ours was badly damaged by a hit and run?

Answers

I have a problem with my egr valve. Can I drive my car? There’s some smoke - Abdul Hersi from England

Go online to 24/7 spares - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2009

How do I get to the side-light on a Ford Ka, to change it?

Answers

Look in the handbook that should tell you - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2000

The heater on my Ford Fiesta has stopped working. I have bought a new thermostat but I do not know where in the engine to find the old one to replace. Please help, I am frozen!

Answers

It is probably the electronic heater valve located at bulkhead, just follow heater hoses and you’ll see it. It may have a rubber cover over it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2007

The drivers side window on my Ford KA keeps jamming on the way up - can anyone advise or help?

Answers

The window regulator has probably broken, remove door trim to get to it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Tourneo Connect 2009

I am trying to locate fuse 72 (for a Ford Tourneo Connect) as I was told it was the fuse for internal lighting. It was said to be in a small fuse box under the passenger fuse box, bottom row, 3rd from left. I don’t seem to be able to find the small fuse box - can anyone help me please?

Answers

Hi Becky. Just to assure you, myself owns the new version Ford Tourneo Connect Trend 8 seat-2010 plate. Therefore, from here I have looked on the passenger side for you, there is a fuse box located behind the glove compartment box just remove the front glove box, and you will see the fuses on the left side. If you have, your vehicle handbook look at page 101. The glove box is simple to remove as it just clips into place at the bottom. Note though: I need not alarm you but be careful when removing the fuses, you are sure to remove the correct fuse, as you would not want to disturb the engine management, which I believe, is quite costly to have reset. My suggestion to you, if your vehicle is still under warranty, let Fords do it and if anything were to go wrong, it not be on your head but Ford’s and of course, you not risk losing the remainder of your warranty ok. Further suggestion: If a fuse has blown, it has to have blown for reason so really you need to find out why first to prevent damage or further damage. Oh, there is a white label showing the fuse symbols on the back of the glove box. Hope this is of help to you - Steven Maloney from England

Ford Focus 2007

On my Ford Focus, there is a scrapping sound coming from the left front wheel when braking at low speeds and intermittently when driving normally. Shocks do need replacement, anything else that could be causing this noise?

Answers

Front disc pads - Martin Jones from England

Ford Fiesta 2006

My daughter has a Fiesta ST that’s not starting first time. The car has just had a major service which hasn’t sorted the problem. The independent garage thinks there has been a software update which he thinks is free of charge. The Ford main dealer wants to charge for any info, which I think is wrong. Can anybody help please?

Answers

I recommend that you go to www.jam-sport.co.uk and contact them they are experts when it comes to performance Ford models or if you’re on Facebook, look up ’JAM-Sport’. Hope this helps - Ciaran Cassidy from Ireland

Ford Focus Saloon 2002

The water bottle is bubbling like crazy, boiling very loudly on my petrol Ford Focus. The temperature gauge never goes past half way, we hooked fan up to ignition as it wasn’t kicking in, but the water bottle is still boiling! Any ideas?

Answers

Possible faulty thermostat, test it in a kettle to see if it opens, otherwise I have seen the impellor break off the water pump shaft. To check that you will have to remove pump, also worth checking is the expansion bottle cap - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2008

Hi, I’ve got a tapping noise sounding from near the cambelt when car warms up. It goes after about 10 minutes but comes back after the car engine is switched off after a few hours. It’s a new cambelt and has only done 40,000 miles. Any ideas anyone?

Answers

Was the tensioner changed aswell? Also check belt tension it may be slapping on belt cover - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2007

The power steering pipes on my Ford KA are corroding? My KA is only 4 years old, is this normal?

Answers

Pretty much, take it to Fords and see what they say - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2001

I bought this Ford Fiesta 1.6 Zetec in April and have just discovered that the heater is just blowing cold air. I checked under bonnet... and to my horror the 2 hoses have been cut and connected by a small piece of hose using jubilee clips so that that water is just going round and round instead of going into small radiator! Why would someone do this? Also is the secondhand dealer liable to fix this?

Answers

The electric heat control has packed up, look towards the bulkhead where the hoses are. Pull up the rubber cover and you’ll see a little motor, replace it for about £35. Don’t buy a cheap chinese one though, they don’t last long. As regards to the dealer, all you can do is ask - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fusion 2003

Hi, I need to change my alternator and power steering pump belts on my Ford Fusion. It looks a bit difficult to get to - hows is it best to tackle this job? Thanks, Bill.

Answers

They may well be what they call "stretchy belts". If they are, cut old ones off and buy the new belt kit, it will come with instructions and the special tool to fit them and do the job from underneath o/s/f wheel arch - Martin Jones from England

Ford Fiesta 2004

Hi. Does anyone know how can I turn the engine management light off on a 54 reg Ford Fiesta 1.4 Flame?

Answers

Only by connecting diagnostic equipment - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2003

My Ford Galaxy is losing power when I drive up hills, and also sometimes the car stalls. I have taken the car to five different garages to find out what’s wrong yet the same thing is happening. Does anyone have any ideas?

Answers

The chances are there is a problem with the Idle Speed Sensor/valve, or the throttle body is clogged with carbon. Have you checked the air filter, and all connecting pipes? Anything that restricts air intake could have a similar effect - Joe Collins from England

Ford Mondeo 2002

I have just noticed that my Ford Mondeo, when I turn right, the handbrake light comes on and then off when I come out the corner? Any ideas?

Answers

Check your brake fluid level - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi, I put my Ford Mondeo Zetec on a diagnostic machine yesterday, because my engine management light came on, and I have been told by someone at Kwik Fit that the problem is the EGR valve. Can anybody tell me where can I find it myself, to give it a clean or replace? Thank you.

Answers

You’re not giving much info, is it a tdci, tddi, petrol? Here is a link with an annotated engine bay for the tdci - http://www.talkford.com/topic/101619-tdci-annotated-engine-bay/ If it is not on the bottom left of the engine then it will be towards the rear at the right hand side of the engine (as you look at it from front). You should only need to either clean it or blank it off to sort this - Graeme from Argyllshire

Ford Fiesta 2006

Query: The front wheel bearing on a Ford Fiesta. Does the wheel bearing fit in one side or any side because I put a wheel bearing in the front left side and now, as I drive at 20km and above the break light comes on, the speedo stops working and the management light comes on and ABS light stays on. Please help.

Answers

Did you fit the correct bearing, it should have a sensor ring on it. When fitted it’s at the rear of the hub facing inwards - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 1997

My 1997 Ford Galaxy will not start.... My battery is fine, my starter motor is fine but when I turn key nothing happens, it just clicks, dials (speedometer and rev counter) do a sweep left to right and the digital milometer reads 8888888, goes blank for a few seconds then after a few seconds all readouts go back to normal until I try the ignition. I think it could be an ignition relay problem but don’t know where to find it? Can anyone help?

Answers

Is it the starter solenoid clicking? If so, that normally points to a flat battery or starter motor, which will upset the dash dials & the wipers will possibly attempt to operate. If the battery & s/motor are okay, check that all leads (especially the earth leads) are tight - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2004

Hi, when does the timing belt / camshaft belt need changing on a Ford Transit tdci 2007?

Answers

It has a chain - Martin Jones from Essex

It may well be a chain but these do need looking after no matter what Ford say. Do some research, change the tensioner at about 90/100k, and all of it at double that. Chan/tentioner/blade/and guides - James Camden from Buckinghamshire

Ford Focus 2000

I have just put £10 worth of unleaded petrol in my car, which is a Ford Focus 2000 petrol model - have I done much damage?

Answers

You say you’ve put petrol in a petrol car? How can you do damage? - Martin Jones from Essex

Only £10 damage to your wallet! - Gavin Webb from Berkshire

Ford Fiesta 2002

My Ford Fiesta has a knocking noise and on acceleration the steering wobbles - does anyone know what this might be?

Answers

Sounds like a driveshaft problem - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 1998

Hi. I am unable to open the boot lid using the key in the boot lock. The key fob hasn’t been working for a while so I have been using the key. As there is no access to the boot from inside the car does anyone have any suggestions how I can access it?

Answers

Have you tried lifting the lever in the drivers side same lever opposite the petrol cap up for boot down for petrol? - Keith Balderson from England

Ford Ka 2001

I have a Y reg Ford KA with a petrol engine and I need to top up the oil but am unsure which oil to use. Can you help me please? Thanks.

Answers

5/30 semi synthetic will be fine - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2004

Hi. Does anybody know where the inertia fuel cut off switch is located on a Ford C-Max? I can’t find it in drivers footwell or n/s. There is no power at pump. Thanks in advance for any help.

Answers

Passenger footwell, doorside behind a plastic plate - Jay from Yorkshire

Ford Galaxy 2007

After how many miles do you need to change a timing belt, water pump, oil, air, pollen, fuel filter on a Ford Galaxy 1.8 diesel please?

Answers

The water pump should only need changing in the event of damage/leaking. Air, oil, fuel and pollen filters should be changed in an annual service, probably with an engine flush and oil change. Timing belts are usually good for 70,000 miles or so, cautious would change between 50 and 60. For a cheaper and VERY effective, safe method of engine cleaning search for BG44K online, there is a diesel equivilent. Really does what it says on the tin - Joe Collins from England

Ford Mondeo 2000

I have water getting in to the boot of my Ford Mondeo. There are no obvious signs of leakage. Does anyone have any ideas where it might be coming from? Thank you.

Answers

Usually the rear light clusters aren’t sealed. Check them, if they are leaking then remove. Bathroom sealant is an okay sealant to use and pop them back in. I had the same trouble on mk2s - Dave from England

Ford Fiesta 2006

Hi, can someone please help? I bought my car, a Fiesta Ambiente 2006 Automatic, about 3 weeks ago from a credited second hand dealer. Because the car hasn’t done 100,000km yet they serviced it before I got it. The morning after receiving it I started it but it cut out. It has been doing that every morning now, I have to pump the accelerator for about a minute before I can set off to drive somewhere. The dealers mechanic has said the car has an automatic choke and I will need to pump the accelerator for at least 30 seconds. Surely this shouldn’t be happening? The car shouldn’t be cutting out. I had a Honda Jazz 2005 automatic that never cut out even in the winter! Please help! Thank you.

Answers

No you should not have to pump the throttle as it’s got fuel injection. I assume there’s a problem somewhere, get diagnostic equipment and put on the car to find the fault - Martin Jones from England

Ford Transit 2001

Hi, can anybody help? My Transit has a wiring problem, the ignition lights do not turn off when the key is turned. It will not turn off if the lights are on. When you turn the lights off the engine turns off. I had to put a battery isolater in so it does not drain the battery. Please help.

Answers

I had a similar problem on a 57 Transit, it turned out to be wiring loom at the top of the back of the van if that makes sense - Andy John from Yorkshire

Ford Focus C-MAX 2004

I have white smoke coming from the exhaust of my Focus C-Max. Can anyone tell what could be causing this?

Answers

Sounds like the head gasket, you are burning coolant - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2004

How do you fit a new front drivers side seat belt year on a 2004 Ford C-Max? There are side airbags where belt strap is located behind the plastic panel trim. Any help would be great, thank you.

Answers

Once you remove plastic trim, if there is an airbag obstructing seatbelt and you’ve got to remove it, you must disconnect battery earth lead for at least 10 minutes, then change seatbelt - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2001

Hi. My Ford Mondeo 1.8 Zetec 2001 has just started jerking when I was drive it. The engine light came on... this all happened when I was running on low fuel. Can anyone please help?

Answers

Most probably the fuel filter has been contaminated by debris from the fuel tank. This can happen if you let the fuel level get too low and allow the bottom of the tank to get stirred up. The filter is situated near the driver’s side rear wheel arch just behind the sill. It looks like a small tin with a pipe sticking out of both ends. Take care when removing this, the vacuum clips on the pipes can be difficult to squeeze open and can be damaged. Also expect to get petrol everywhere, because the filter will be full of it. One last point, make a note of which way round the filter points, there should be an arrow on it showing the direction of fuel flow, make certain the new filter goes in the same way - Dave from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2002

Hi. I have a 2002 Ford Focus 1.8 tdci diesel. My heating has gone and now only cold air is coming out... What is the likely cause of this and what can I do to remedy it?

Answers

Hi John, I believe it can be two things - 1. Heater matrix is broken (normally your passenger footwell will be wet) 2. You have an airlock. If it is the latter then I suggest getting out the Haynes manual and seeing if there is a valve (normally at the highest point of the engine by windscreen wiper motor etc). If not, to get rid of an air lock, you need to flush the system by putting a hose pipe in your water bottle, undo the return to the water bottle from the raidiator, turn tap on full and turn car on with heater on full and just let it run through for 10 mins - Mike B from England

Ford Mondeo 2005

I have a 2-litre Ford Mondeo Ghia TDCi (130). I would like to know what causes it to judder at 40mph in 4th gear but not in 5th gear and also what causes steering wheel wobble at all speeds?

Answers

Is the car running lumpy or not pulling when you accelerate? I had the same problem on my Mondeo 2.0 Diesel, judder at 40mph but not 50mph and it was a torn hose. The problem was fixed when the hose was replaced - Aidan from Essex

Ford Transit 2006

Hi, my Ford Transit is losing power at 3000 rpm. It’s had the EGR replaced and the filters replaced. Any ideas anyone?

Answers

If it’s a turbo charged engine, it sounds like the wastegate is sticking. Clamp a pair of vice grips on to the middle of the wastegate rod and work it back and forth until it’s free and springs back on itself. The rod is located below the turbo and attatches to the bottom flange of the exhaust manifold - Phil Cooper from Aberdeenshire

Ford Transit Connect 2006

I filled the water bottle on my Transit Connect and 2 days later it was back on minimum again. I can’t see any signs of a leak but I just wondered why this is as it doesn’t go below minimum. Can anybody help?

Answers

You are overfilling the cooling system. When the engine gets to working temperature, the coolant (water) expands and is pushed out through the overflow, leaving the water level at minimum when it cools down again - Ray Wilcox from Staffordshire

Ford Mondeo Estate 2005

What happens if I disconnect the battery on my Ford Mondeo Estate?

Answers

You will lose your radio settings and when reconnected you will need to re-insert the factory code if you are on a Ford radio. The car will have no power once the battery is removed until it is reconnected. Remember to take the Negative (Earth) off first - Rob Barnes from Essex

Ford Ka 2000

Hi. My starter motor was turning slowly, I thought my battery was faulty so I had it checked but it was OK. I went to the scrap yard and got a starter motor as the one I had suddenly went and wouldnt work. I put in the second-hand one and car started straight away but the starter I’m sure was still spinning - there was a rattling noise and when I turn off the ignition the car carried on running for a few seconds. The car starts well but there’s a horrible noise. I know it must be the starter motor, is it possible this starter is no good either? Please help, I need some advice. (Ka2)

Answers

It could well be that the starter is faulty being from a breaker otherwise might be a faulty ignition switch - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Tipper 2002

I have a 3 way tipper and the engine light keeps coming on once engine has been started for 10 minutes it then flickers on and off. I have had a new oil filter and new oil put into it plus had a new timing chain changed on it and also a new oil switch. Does anyone know why this is still happening?

Answers

You will have to get diagnostic equipment connected to code read it. That is the only way to find out what is wrong with it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2005

My driver side rear lights aren’t working, indicator and brake lights work. I have swapped the bulbs to check, they’re not broken and all okay. Is there a separate fuse? Do you know the fuse number? I do not have a manual.

Answers

Fuses control o/s and n/side, is the drivers front sidelight working? If it is then you know for sure, the problem lies at rear lamp, check for power to multi-plug to rear lamp. If there is, try a bulb holder or swap with other side to see if it works - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2003

The handbrake warning light is on all the time. I have checked the switch and replaced the brake master cyl top and made sure it is full of fluid but the light is still on. Does it warn you of anything else? ie. wheel sensors.

Answers

No, wheel sensors would be the ABS light, try disconnecting the wire to switch and see if this puts out light, also remove master cylinder cap and push up float to see if this puts out light - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2001

How can I bleed the clutch?

Answers

Loosen bleed nipple on g/box, keep fluid topped up and gravity should take over if not pump clutch pedal to get it flowing, fit a bleed bottle and tube to nipple - Martin Jones from Essex

My full beams are not working on my Ford Transit. I’ve changed bulbs and fuse. But they still are not working - Paul Gregg from England

Ford Fiesta 2000

I’ve been having trouble with my Fiesta for a while. I completed a service recently. Roughly a month afterwards I started experiencing problems. Firstly, the battery light on the dashboard would flicker and stay on constantly during any journey. After another month the car started running really rough like it was running on three cylinders. As I had already changed the spark plugs I knew they could not be the problem so i replaced the leads as well. The car was running perfectly for a while, until the battery light started to flicker again and then started running rough but not as bad as before. I can’t think of any other connection between performance and electrics other than the alternator but am unsure whether the alternator actually affects performance. The car starts everytime perfectly, but the problems occur primarily when the engine is cool. Please offer any suggestions as I just want the car to start running smoothly again. (Zetec 1.25)

Answers

First is to check your ignition coil. If there is an issue, this can happen. If you feel you are running rough, the cause can be leakage of coolant to your engine head, it can be very minimal, but it’s there, so whenever this happens on a cylinder this can misfire. check your engine oil, or check the plug in the morning after a drive, you will see coolant in one of the plugs, if leakage is there. You can check the alternator if its giving proper current with a meter check. Issues with fuel pump is also rarely seen, please check the pump and fuel filter - George Abraham from India

Ford Focus 2002

I have replaced battery and alternator. I can not get alternator to charge please help me, what am I missing? Does the cigarette lighter have any thing to do with sending signal to alt for the field?

Answers

Nothing to do with cigarette lighter, you will have to check wiring for no breaks from alternator to starter motor and then to battery - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fusion 2007

I need to change headlights from Left hand dip to Right hand dip for import to UK. Does this require new headlights? Thank you.

Answers

UK headlamps dip to left anyway, but if you mean otherway round then yes they are not convertable - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 1996

It starts immediately every time, it runs normally for a while then it will stop firing. More so when I boot it again. I am getting to the stage where I’m afraid to drive it. Can anyone shed any light on problem?

Answers

Check your ignition coil and plug leads. Replace if necessary. Also check if there is leakage of coolant in engine oil. This can make it not to start correctly - George Abraham from India

Get the fuel pump checked aswell - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2002

I have a 2002 Ford Mondeo 1.8 petrol duratec engine, it has recently had the engine reconditioned, a new cat and a lambda sensor, but at low speeds, the engine hesitates and judders and runs very rough. The engine management light is on but only says the cat, but its new. Any advice would be helpful please, thank you.

Answers

Hey I also have a 2002 1800cc Mondeo Zetec duratec engine and have replaced the lambda sensors. Mine runs great for a few hours then shudders and will stall. I have had the valves cleaned new plugs/leads. Only thing I have not done yet is put new fuel filters on it. I would get this done Tom, my engine management light was on but went off once the work was done it stayed off for a week and has come back on today. I am afraid to drive too far from home, any clues? Thanks - Anne Hanton from Angus (Forfarshire)

Ford Fiesta 2000

When I turn the heater control to cold, it stays hot. Why?

Answers

The heat control motor has packed up, lift bonnet chase heater hoses to bulkhead there you will see a small electric motor, common fault, beware of really cheap ones as they don’t last - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus Estate 2001

With a new battery fitted, and the assurance of the garage that the alternator is working find, why, after 5-10 miles with the lights etc on, does the ignition light come on and the lights dim, radio and gauges cease to work? The garage insist the battery was faulty, what is the problem? (Diesel 90 ps)

Answers

A faulty battery won’t put ignition light on, only the alternator or faulty wiring will - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2006

My alarm is sounding and the hazards warning lights are flashing, my window wipers are on but not at a constant pace, this all stops when you press the brake pedal. Any answers? (2.0tdci)

Answers

F O R D means ’Fix Or Repair Daily’ - Shawn Pp from Trinidad and Tobago

Don’t know the answer mate, but the same thing has just happened to my 05 plate 1.6 zetec diesel. The car has been parked up for the last 5 hours and suddenly the alarm goes off, hazards are going & the wipers are trying to judder across the screen. If I put the wiper stalk onto fastest speed (pushed furthest upwards), it stops. Likewise, if I turn the engine over it stops, but as soon as I switch off again, it starts over. Had a lot of rain today so wondering if waters got in somewhere from driving through the puddles etc? - Tom Newcombe from Norfolk

This happened to mine, it is water getting into the fuse box, dry it out and you won’t have a problem - John Cairns from England

The same has happened to mine - Mark Graves from Wales

Ford Mondeo 2003

My car has started pulling back in 4th & 5th when it reaches 2,000 revs. When this happens, it blows out smoke, any ideas? (2.0 tdci)

Answers

Check your engine head gasket. There is a chance it is blown - George Abraham from India

It could be an EGR valve issue which might be clogged, happened on my 2.0 Diesel Turbo 130. However, it could also be something as small as a torn hose that’s letting air in under acceleration. You might find that at low speeds, it runs fine but at 40/50mph, you’re getting a judder of sorts and the car is not pulling like it should - Aidan from Essex

Ford Tourneo 1999

Anybody know how much and where I can get the conversion done on my 2.5 diesel to make it legal for the low emission zone?

Answers

I’ve been told around £2,500-£3,000! Look on TFL website - martinJjones from Essex

Put LPG diesel gas kit in, maybe it work. Check with DVLA before you do all that. It should work - S Aali from England

Ford Transit 2004

Hi all I have a 2004 Transit L.W.B Hightop 90/T330. My reversing sensors (ford factory) have sudddenly stopped working. When I select reverse gear my reverse sensor light, lights up, in the off position. Is there a switch on the gearbox that controls this that could be faulty or maybe a fuse somewhere? Thanks.

Answers

Replace reverse light switch, near the engine. You need to take it to a authorized service centre. If the fuse is getting blown, there is a electrical issue - George Abraham from India

I have been through all the fuses but cannot locate a fuse for the rear sensors and can’t find any switch near the gearbox that may control the parking aid sensors either - Chris Carter from Essex

The switch is mounted to the gearbox under the gear selector rods in the engine compartment, RHS. it has an electrical cable going to it. Two chromed metal clips hold it in place. Prise the clips, be careful, they come away completely. Pull the switch out - Richard Harris from Switzerland

Ford Galaxy 2003

Where exactly is the battery located in the Ford Galaxy? I’ve looked under the bonnet but it’s not there. Help?

Answers

Should be under the bonnet, nearside under plastic cover - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Tourneo 2004

How do you remove the head gasket off the Tourneo?

Answers

By asking that question I would not attempt it, very involved job plus you must set cam timing etc - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2007

What is the plastic panel on the underside of the front bumper called? It covers the bottom of the radiator.

Answers

Splash panel? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2000

I’m looking for large Ka decals for the side of my car. Can you tell me where to purchase from please?

Answers

Try ebay - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fusion 2002

Are the front ball joints available to fit or do you have to buy the wishbone? (1.4tdi)

Answers

I would change the wishbone, patent ones probably quite cheap - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2010

I have just had my car serviced and I have driven about 200 miles since, mainly on motorway and this morning the ’Service Oil’ message came up. Is the most obvious reason that it has not been reset? (2.0 TDCI Titanium)

Answers

I would think just reset would do it, take it back to the garage see what they say - Martin Jones from Essex

Two possibilities: 1) Your car has had a software update, including a service interval change. The garage has then forgotten to reset the service indicator and the car thinks it’s due for an oil change. Ford garages do this a lot. 2) You have had your car serviced before the service indicator fired up and, as above, the garage has not reset the system - Dave from Yorkshire

Ford Fiesta 1998

I have just replaced my starter as it was clicking and not starting unless you pushed it. It started first time with a new one and then it just clicked again. The battery is taking a charge so could this be a fuss or relay switch that contols the starter? It’s a 1.8d.

Answers

Get the battery tested first then check the main earth leads. If no joy, take the starter back and get them to test it - Martin Jones from England

Ford Ranger 2002

Cooling system frequently needs to be topped up with coolant. No leaks in system. Any ideas? (2.5 turbo diesel)

Answers

Any steam coming out the exhaust or sludge in oil? If so, it could be head gasket - Martin Jones from England

Ford Fiesta 2004

The alarm system is not working in my Ford Fiesta 1.4 2004. What can I do? (1.4 diesel LX)

Answers

Give it back to its rightful owner - Bill Bailey from England

Ford Fiesta 2000

I have an intermitent scraping noise from the wheel when braking, most noticable at lower speeds. Could this be a bearing problem?

Answers

Is it from the front? If so, check the disc pads also while it is jacked up. Check for play in bearings, if from rear. Sounds like a leaky wheel cylinder has contaminated brake shoes, remove drums and check - Martin Jones from England

Ford Ka 1999

I have a Ford original cd player, I have put the code in and pressed six to submit it. However the six button is not working for some reason a bit confused. When I press 5 I have to wait for the 60 seconds to re-enter the code again. Can someone help me?

Answers

Press 5 to enter code, not 6 - Toby Lerone from Cambridgeshire

Ford Fiesta 1998

How do you remove a track rod arm which is bent from steering rack if possible?

Answers

You do need a special tool to remove track rod from rack which you will see if you remove the gaiter - Martin Jones from England

Ford Mondeo Estate 2008

How can I reprogramme my key?

Answers

Program it to open the doors? Or program to the PATS system? - Toby Lerone from Cambridgeshire

Ford Focus 2003

The ’check engine light’ came on. Scanned and got these codes p0316, p0303 and p0171. I did research and found some problems that could cause the engine light to come on so I changed the fuel filter, coil pack, spark plugs and spark plugs wire. The car worked good for a couple of days and then today, the ’check engine light’ came back on. What should I do now?

Answers

Only electrical faults will put check light on, get it code read again - Martin Jones from England

I have a Ford Focus 1.4 petrol Zetec ’02 plate. When the engine is running, there is like a rattling noise coming from the engine. Looking back when I just recently purchased the car for my wife, I believe there may have not been enough engine oil in the vehicle causing this problem. This is consistent and I thought it was the tappits as it is coming directly from there. On asking a mechanic, he told me the Focus 1.4 zetec petrol do not have tappits fitted in them. Just need some advice if this was right and it may be a case of picking up another engine to replace. Regards - Umar Malik from England

All engines have tappets, some are hydraulic,some are shimmed for clearance and others are adjustable but tappets would not put check light on - Martin Jones from England

Ford Focus 2008

Bought this a couple of months ago and it has been good but now when accelerating, it revs high but there is not instant power if you reduce acceleration, you eventually reach speed. Can any one help?

Answers

Sounds very much like the clutch is slipping - Martin Jones from Essex

This is a clutch issue - john luther from Yorkshire

Ford Mondeo 2001

How do I change the ignition switch barrel?

Answers

Normally on Fords, remove column shroud, turn key to position 1, look for a small hole in housing, insert a drill bit or something like that will fit in hole and push then pull out barrel - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 1998

The car keeps rev at 1 and half to 2. I have changed the speed sensor and the air flow meter but that still hasn’t worked. It failed its MOT on the emissions. What can it all be about every 1 is stuck with? What it can be? (gir x r reg)

Answers

Could be a split breather hose which comes out of the engine block to the inlet manifold, this would make the idle too high and upset the emissions - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2002

An orange light has come on, left hand side of display. Any ideas what it is? Lady driver!

Answers

Is there an emblem in the light? If so, look in the handbook that will tell you what it means - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2009

I’m getting a tapping sound between 1800/2000rpm. I’ve been told it’s my injectors. Is it dangerous to still drive the car long distances as I’m a taxi driver? The car has done 163,000 miles.

Answers

I doubt it’s the injectors as they are operating the whole time the engine is running, sounds more like a noisy tappet - Martin Jones from Essex

Dangerous? The modern engine is unlikely to explode! Where’s the danger? It may just stop! Get a proper diagnosis of probably nothing wrong. Things tend to wear a bit after 163k miles. In my experience, noisy engines can run for an exceedingly long mileage. If that is your worry, you should probably not be running your taxi service in a car with 163k miles. I assume it passed the PSV Test - Bram van Kampen from County Down

Ford Transit 2005

The van jerks slightly when accelerating, any ideas?

Answers

Could be the MAF sensor - Toby Lerone from Cambridgeshire

Ford Fiesta 2002

The accelerator races on between gear changes. Why? (zetec)

Answers

Fords call it Throttle Hang Up, there is a modification for this problem but you can try cleaning multi-plug connection to the throttle position switch, chase those wires along the bulkhead to next multi-plug and clean that as well ensuring a good connection - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo Estate 2004

Hi I have no problem with the performance of the engine/car but at my garage, they took off the oil cap whilst the engine was running and they said there was too much pressure coming out, suggesting the engine could seize anytime! I felt the pressure with my hand which I could feel and also see slight smoke pumping out. I thought this was normal? They suggested pistons are no good and should have an engine rebuild! Arghhhhhh! My car runs fine, it has done 113miles (diesel engine) Thanks.

Answers

You will get some pressure and a little smoke with oil cap off. If your piston rings were away, you would get lots of black smoke coming out of the exhaust. P.S engine would only seize if no or very little oil in engine - Ian C from Renfrewshire

I would get a second opinion - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2003

I recently changed the thermostat on my car and has been workin fine, I got in the car this morning and when I turn the steering wheel it makes a loud bang from the driver’s side. It does this every time I move the steering wheel, what could it be?

Answers

Sounds very much like you have a broken coil spring or strut mounting has failed. Most likely a spring as they are very known for breaking - Ian C from Renfrewshire

Check the coil spring hasn’t broken - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo

Where is the handbreak adjuster?

Answers

No handbrake adjuster, it is automatic on Mondeo - Ian Crawford from Renfrewshire

Depends on the year, early mk3 was self-adjusting which was subject to a recall, later ones have an adjuster under the exhaust heat shield which you have to remove to get to it - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2002

Hi I have just bought a Fiesta 1.4 and have just noticed when I am driving, the speedo will drop to 0mph. Is this a common fault and is there anything I can do to stop this?

Answers

Sounds like a speed sensor. Have it checked at a Ford garage, they can use datalogger to check the signal and readings from the sensor - Toby Lerone from Cambridgeshire

Ford Mondeo 2006

My Zetec is very noisy when idling. Is this normal?

Answers

If it’s like mine, I have been told it is the clutch bearings - Anne Hanton from Angus (Forfarshire)

Ford Transit Minibus 1998

Has anyone found a solution to passing their 2.5 diesel through the London emissions zone test?

Answers

Yes, switch the engine off and push the b*stard. I don’t know any other way. Good luck - Graham Ford from Berkshire

Ford Focus 2007

My heated rear window will not work. I have checked the fuse and the door mirror heaters work okay. Any ideas to help me fix it?

Answers

Possible broken wire in the flexy tube located top of tailgate when open near the hinges - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2007

Just a couple of problems with the 1.6 petrol manual. I have had the car from new but now the exhaust sounds like it is blowing from the front of the car when I accelerate. Also the car has now started to feel sluggish and struggles to get up small hills without having to change down a gear. It also seems to be using a lot of fuel, any ideas on how to fix this are much appreciated. (5 door hatch)

Answers

Is the car running on all four cylinders? If not, a common problem is a faulty coil pack - Martin Jones from Essex

The car is firing on all cylinders, I will try a new coil pack and reply with the results - Carl Stephens from Lincolnshire

Ford Transit Connect 2007

I would like to know if my van has a timing belt or a chain.

Answers

It has a belt and I would suggest changing belt and tensioner around 70,000 miles - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2005

How do I fold the back seats down on the Ford Mondeo? (TD)

Answers

On my Mondeo, there is a plastic piece you push down on the top of each seat. When you push it down into the slot, it’s in. Push the seat forwards, the seat goes down. Don’t know if it’s the same on yours as mine is older - Tricia Kelly from Gloucestershire

Ford Transit 2003

The reverse lights have stopped working, we changed the bulbs, checked the fuses and they’re still not working and now the back drivers side indicater has done the same. Any suggestions? (t280)

Answers

Have you checked for power to reverse light bulb holders? If you have no power, it could well be the reversing light switch in gearbox, again check for power to indicator. Otherwise, it could be bulb cluster - Martin Jones from Essex

Bridge the connection on the reverse light switch plug with a paper clip. If the reverse lights then work, you need a reverse light switch - Toby Lerone from Cambridgeshire

Sounds like your bulb holders are corroded. I had the same problem with losing lights one by one. All bulbs were fine, checked every damn fuse all okay. Took cluster out and cleaned contacts, hey presto, all lights (except lhs brake light). Anybody have a near side rear bulb holder for an 05 Mk 6 T280? Good luck - Richard Harris from Newport

Ford Transit Connect 2005

Would my Ford Transit Connect lwb 1.8 t290 tow my 1.5 ton caravan?

Answers

Check on the Caravan Club’s website - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 1998

My indicators/hazards have been working intermittently for a while. I’ve been advised to replace my hazard switch. Is this the same as my flasher unit switch at the bottom of the indicator stalk? If not, where is it and how do I access it? Thanks.

Answers

Sounds very much like the indicator switch itself not flasher unit, column shroud off and replace stalk possibly all in one unit with wiper stalk, breakers? - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi. If you have not solved the problem yet, I might have the answer. My daughter’s Ka same year had the same problem and I discovered that the relay switch located on top of steering column behind stalk was not sitting right. It was okay when held down so I wedged it with a small piece of wood and it has worked fine since - Andy Doyle from Lancashire

Ford Transit 2006

When setting the central locking, the horn beeps. I’ve been told that the sensors could be faulty, is this likely? The ’open door’ light on the dash does go out when I close the doors. (300 tdci)

Answers

Your back doors need to be slammed shut, it’s a nuisance prob which all our workvans have. Or clean the sensors as they could be misreading due to dirt - Carl from Oxfordshire

It is more likely the fault is the standard rubbish that Ford fit the loom between the back door is broken shorting also causing flat battery after time. When the wind blows, the back door opens past the stop due to crap fittings. The loom pulls out and that’s it buggered. That is your problem, slamming doors is not the solution - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2006

I have a Focus ST and the engine light is staying on and makes a whirling noise. Why?

Answers

Only way to tell is get it code read - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit Tipper 2008

My horn doesn’t work on the steering wheel but works as an alarm. Why is this?

Answers

I think the alarm is a separate hooter, get someone to operate horn and check for power to horn which I think is underneath nearside front. If you have power, it’s the horn itself. If no power, check fuse. If that’s okay, it’s probably the "clock spring" which also is the sensor for the airbag. If you are going to attempt to change this, BE CAREFUL and seek professional advise first - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2002

Hi, I have an ’02 Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCI and my speedometer has a temperamental problem and the LCD reading displays ’- - - - - -’ instead of e.g 52,000. I’m not aware if this affects the drive of the vehicle but now this keeps staying on and all this displays now is ’- - - -’. Do you know if this is expensive to fix? Many thanks.

Answers

I had the exact same problem, it’s the speedometer sensor, I paid R500 to fix the problem, so it will be about £40 for you. Hope this info helps! - Gawain Havenga from South Africa

Ford Mondeo 2006

My reverse lights are not working and I want to look for the fuse but they are not numbered so I do not know which fuse to check. Can you please advise me on what to do? Many thanks, Keith. (1.8 LX)

Answers

Probably switch in gearbox located on the top, disconnect wires from switch and temporarily join with a piece of wire or split pin etc. Select reverse gear, switch ignition on. If they light up you know it’s the switch, do not let joining wire or pin touch earth - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta Van 1998

The battery light keeps stayin on and the steering is very heavy. Why is this?

Answers

Sounds like the fan belt is slipping - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2002

Can you tell me why the dashboard light that looks like a coil comes on and why my van seems to be losing power? (T350)

Answers

There is an engine management problem, you will have to get diagnostic equipment connected to vehicle to tell you what is wrong, most garages have this facility - Martin Jones from Essex

You need a new egr valve - Peter from Essex

The orange coil light comes on when glowplugs are preheating. It goes out after a few seconds to let you know engine can now be started. When engine has run and is warmed up, this delay is almost nonexistent as the glowplugs will be already over 50c and very little preheating will be required - Gary from Lanarkshire

Ford Focus Estate 2002

Do I lose my code when battery goes flat?

Answers

If you mean the radio code, then yes - Martin Jones from Essex

Don’t worry about the code, there are lots of sites that will give you your code via the year and reg of your car. Most codes are free but the site maybe ask for a donation, type car radio codes, into your browser and you will find lots of sites that will give your the code. It worked for me several times. Good luck - Kenny McCardle from Lanarkshire

Ford Transit Connect 2005

When does the drive belt need changing? Is it 150k or 10 years, or 100,k or ten years?

Answers

Ford’s guide is 100,000 miles or ten years but because the tensioner is plastic, I have seen them break prematurely. I advise my customers 70,000 miles max - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2008

What mileage should I get from an average front set of tyres? (Zetec)

Answers

How long is a piece of string? Tyre wear is subject to many factors, this is by no means an exhaustive list: Manufacturer materials used to make tyre, weather conditions, road surfaces, average journey speeds, wheel balance and alignment maintenance (inflation pressures, objects lodged in the tread), vehicle weight (full fuel tank, heavy loads etc.) Lastly and most importantly - driving style. Combined, these elements can contribute to a set of tyres wearing out in 5,000 miles or 50,000. A lead-footed oaf with a load of bricks in his boot, driving like Sterling Moss over the Gobi desert is going to need to change his tyres every other week, whereas someone with a more sedate driving style is going to fare much better. Personally, I managed to own and run a 1995 Mondeo for 10 years and 121,000 miles on just three sets of Pirellis. The new models are much heavier and the research I’ve done recently on same subject suggests they eat front tyres at a rate of a set every 10,000 miles, a bit more if you use Continentals. They are quieter too if the owners I’ve spoken to are to be believed - Dave from Yorkshire

Ford Fiesta 2009

Has any person complained of a rattling noise coming from the internal light especially when the weather turns cold? I get it every winter. I got it this morning and it’s not even frosty!

Answers

I have this and I am about to book it into Ford under warranty. It is the Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC) motor located behind the dashboard - Nigel Pegg from Essex

Ford Mondeo 1998

Where is the CD changer kept in my mondeo 1998 LX?

Answers

The changer is built into the actual head unit on the dash. Turn cd on then you should see on the display cd 1/2/3/4/5/6/ - Kev Doyle from England

Ford Transit Tipper 2001

The glow coil light is staying on. Why?

Answers

There is an engine management fault, get it code read. A common problem is the EGR valve, if it is this and engine runs okay leave it until you do have problems - Martin Jones from Essex

If it is the code for egr valve get it fixed. I was told to leave it as my truck was running okay and further faults happened - Ceri Hall from Wales

Ford Transit 1998

My Ford Transit, diesel, is puffing huge clouds of white smoke. The water level has not gone down. Power is lost on hills. Any advice welcome.

Answers

Your EGR valve is blocked and needs blowing out - Adrian McLaughlin from County Londonderry

Sounds a head gasket - Nat from Ireland

Ford Kuga 2008

I have a 2008 Ford Kuga and the ESP light stays on, what has caused this and does it need to be seen by a Ford technician?

Answers

Have you accidently turned it off? If so, the light will be on. If not, any garage with decent diagnostic equipment could look at it, take it to a Ford dealer if still under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2004

How much will it cost to replace the alternator? (sport se)

Answers

A lot, I think the front bumper has to come off, plus the alternators are around £100 or more for a decent one - Martin Jones from Essex

Just replaced mine, alternator was around £160 plus fitting - J Thompson from Hampshire

Ford Transit Tipper 2007

Hi I have a transit double cab tipper, 57 plate, but my tipper has stopped working it turns on, makes the normal beeeeeeeeeeep noise, but nothing displays on the screen. Is there a fuse to change or reset button or something? I dont want to take it to Ford as they robbing g*ts. Please excuse my zero knowledge of cars/vans as I’m a brickie. Any ideas please will be appreciated. Thanks.

Answers

Being as nobody help’d me on here i found out myself.. so if anybody has the same problem.. "DONT ASK ME" - Ceri Hall from Swansea

Ford Focus 2002

My 2002 overhead 16 valve Ford Focus with 239,000 miles is loud upon starting but quietens down once the motor is warm. What could the problem be? It seems to be coming from around the catalytic converter.

Answers

Jack the car up and bang the cat with your hand. If it rattles, the ceramic has broken up and will need replacing - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Kuga 2009

I have got a Ford Kuga that’s just two years old and has started juddering when I’m driving it! It went for a service a couple of weeks ago and the guy said something about a flat spot in the engine but they couldn’t find it, so I’m unable to do anything about it! It’s just getting worse and I want to know if anyone else has the same problem and shine some light on what to do bout this! Thank you. Variant: . Year Of Make: 2009

Answers

Take it to a Ford dealer, it’s still under warranty - Martin Jones from Essex

Check the intercooler pipes, mate. Sounds like one may have a split in, it’s common on tdci models - Paul Best (Mobile Mechanic) from Wakefield

Ford Fiesta 2007

The abs light is on, what is the problem?

Answers

Probably a wheel sensor fault but get it code read, that will tell you exactly what is wrong - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2009

Hello. I’ve looked in my glove box for either a USB port or an aux port but can’t find either. Am I missing something, or are neither provided in my 59 registered Mondeo Zetec? Thanks for any advice! (2.0tdci zetec)

Answers

I have an ’09 Focus Zetec that’s got aux. Open glove box and check along the top where the lid shuts that’s where mine is. I would have thought a Mondeo Zetec would have it fitted as well, check the handbook - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford C-MAX 2008

I can’t remove the key from the ignition when parked in auto transmission. Why?

Answers

Is it in park with foot on brake? - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2006

Hi, my car has gone into limp mode, no error code came up with the machine plugged in. The garage said it could be glow plugs at fault. Any clues? (1.6 tdi)

Answers

I very much doubt it’s glow plugs, if it’s in limp mode there must be a fault code, try someone with better diagnostic equipment. You could also check if all turbo hoses are connected and not split, as well as the hoses to the intercooler - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2004

The vehicle starts okay when cold but does not start normally when warm. It appears to be misfiring. No fault found on diagnostics check. Once it has started, it runs perfectly normally. Can you help? (2.0 Tdci Diesel)

Answers

Lots of possibilities I’m sorry to say. It could be that: 1) a faulty engine temperature sensor is faulty giving a false reading to ECU. 2) MAF is not reading air temperature correctly. 3) Compression down in one or more cylinders, more prominent on idle and will make starting hot harder. 4) Injector failure (Pray it’s not that, ££££ to fix). 5) Starter motor weak. Hot engines don’t need the glow plugs active, so a reliable strong rotation is needed to create adequate pressure for fuel ignition. 6) ECU fault causing air/fuel ratio imbalance. 7) Vacuum leak in fuel system or air system. I could go on, but you probably get the picture by now. Usually the best diagnostic tool for this kind of problem is the total failure of a component, but that may never happen - Dave from Yorkshire

It’s most probably the EGR stuck open, it’s a very common problem. You need to remove and clean the EGRv and the inlet manifold and inlet ports. It’s a mucky job, get some some parrafin and carb cleaner and strong rubber gloves. After removing the gaskets, it’s quicker to clean the manifold with a jet wash. Search on YouTube, there are a number of videos. It’ll take 1.5hrs tops. Also think about blocking the EGRv. If it’s a EURO 3 then you can just blank the inlet with a 1.5mm aluminium plate, easy to make, if EURO 4 then same plate but drill a 10mm hole in the middle to fool the ECU. Well worth the time and effort, it can give you up to 5 MPG more as well - Allan Edgar from Hertfordshire

Ford C-MAX 2004

I have a Ford C-MAX 2004. I have a problem with a rear tyre, it is wearing on the inside of the tyre. What is the problem with the car?

Answers

Hi, it sounds like your tracking/balance is out, any local tyre garege will be able to fix it - John Mardon from Cardiff

Ford Mondeo 2002

I got hold of a 2002 1.8 duratec Mondeo that had overheated and blew its head gasket. I removed the head and had it skimmed and fitted a new gasket. It is now not starting properly. It will turn over for ages and almost try to fire up but not quite get there. I’ve had it running and it all sounds okay but it will eventually die and then refuses to run again. I’ve tried new plugs, leads and a coil pack but it is still not right. I have checked for any stored faults in the ECU but there are none. I was wondering if one of the injection sensors have failed due to the overheating. Any help would be much appreciated as I don’t know which way to turn. Thanks. (1.8 duratec)

Answers

Check the valve/camshaft timing. If all is okay, carry out a compression test. Hope this helps - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi I have the same car. It can be one of two problems  - the cat or your piston rings. When the car overheats, the rings can lose their tension and give low compression or the cat can break up and block the exhaust. Hope this helps - Kieran Cranks from Ireland

Ford Ka 2005

What is the code for the radio? (sport)

Answers

Each radio has its own unique code being four digits entered using preset station buttons, you can get the code from a Ford dealer or a decent ICE shop but they will charge for it - Martin Jones from Essex

Email me your serial number and I will give you your code for free. Normally it’s inside the radio. Thanks, p.7catapang@yahoo.co.uk - Laurence G from England

Ford Mondeo 2011

How do I adjust the halogen headlights for driving in France please? (Titanium X)

Answers

You can’t, short of buying LHD headlamps which will be far too expensive. I just drove to Spain and bought those stickers you put on the lens, they don’t work either - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Transit 2003

Why does my 2003 Transit van over-rev?

Answers

I wish I had the answer as mine revs really aggressively now all of a sudden. I hope we get an answer soon, good luck - Gary Holmes from Lincolnshire

Spray wd40 on to throttle pedal, should do the trick - Robert Craig from Ayrshire

Ford S-MAX 2011

Panoramic sun blind will not work. Why? (S-Max 2L tdci)

Answers

Surely it’s still under warranty? Take it to a Ford dealer - Martin Jones from Essex

If it works the same way as the C-Max. You have to pull and push up to release it I think - Geoff from England

Ford Galaxy 1995

We’ve had a similar brake problem to a previous caller in that the brake pedal goes to the floor with a near total loss of stopping power. Two garages have checked the car saying it’s behaving perfectly and didn’t fail on them, and as the fault is intermittent, they are mystified as to the cause. It’s happened four times now. Can’t chance another but don’t want to give in to the scrapman. Any ideas? Thanks. (Galaxy 2.8v6 auto)

Answers

Possible faulty brake master cylinder - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 1998

Hi there, I have just bought a Galaxy and the radiator cooling fan is on all the time. Even when I first switch on the ignition on start up, the cooling fan runs, any ideas? Many thanks.

Answers

If the air con is switched on, the fans will run as well - Martin Jones from Essex

Sounds like the relay if it comes on with the ignition - Toby Lerone from Cambridgeshire

Replace the temperature sensor switch and check the connector also. If it’s disconnected, the fan will switch on immediately - George Abraham from India

Ford Fiesta Van 2006

Why does my van breathe a lot through the oil filler cap?

Answers

It can either be a blocked breather hose or piston ring problems - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2001

How do I adjust the headlights on my Ford Mondeo? The car has failed an MOT due to the headlights being too high at the zero. I would like to know how to adjust them at the headlights. Thanks. (LX)

Answers

Lift the bonnet and look around the back of headlamp. You will see two plastic allen screw heads, one is for up and down, the other is for left and right. Shine the headlamps up against a flat surface so you can see dip beam pattern slowly turn one of the allen screws till you find which one will bring beam down - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2004

Could anyone give me any advice on towing a caravan with a DTIC hatchback? Will the car perform? (tdci)

Answers

Go to the Caravan Club website, enter vehicle details and they will recommend a maximum towing weight for your vehicle - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2001

I have a 2001 Focus tdi endura (90) bhp model with 106,000miles. It died on me yesterday just cutting out on tickover. I tried to start it and revved it up to 2000rpm which was fine but it died again on tickover. Then the yellow glow coil light flashed so I rung the RAC and he diagnosed it was a fuel error, which could be either the cambelt slipped a tooth or the fuel injection pump. It sounds as if f.i.p which are prone to going at 100,000. I can get a virgin part for £850 fitted but I’ve read it could be the EDC unit on top of the pump at a fraction of the cost. Anybody got any ideas? Thanks, Andy.

Answers

Get the vehicle code read before you buy any parts - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2005

I have a 2005 Ford Fiesta tdci and I need to top up the oil but not to sure what oil to put in. Does anyone have any ideas? Be much appreciated.

Answers

5/30 semi synthetic will be fine - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2001

I was told by a mechanic friend that the Mondeo 51 plate had a recall regarding handbreak cable, the self adjusting handbrake. Do they still recall cars after 10 years and who do I contact about it? Cheers x

Answers

Ring your local Ford dealer - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Fiesta 2000

My handbrake has locked on. What has happened and what will have to be fixed? Is it very expensive?

Answers

Release handbrake and try to drive car until it unlocks. If this doesn’t work, remove the wheels and hit brake drums with a hammer until they unstick. This usually works - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2000

What is the button down by the handbrake? Someone has told me that it’s a power button but if it is mine is not working. Please help.

Answers

I think this is the traction control button (only seen it in a 2001 Focus Ghia), it should have a symbol of a wheel on it if so. If you press it, you should see a symbol appear on your console near the speedo. Apparently useful in snowy weather - Neil from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2002

When it has been extremely hot weather and the car has been shut up... when I open door and put key in ignition and turn on the water / revs / speedo and fuel gauge indicators go absolutely mad with the dial indicators (like the hands on clock) going backwards in a frenzy. The speedo dial is now stuck at 140mph. Any idea why?

Answers

That is usually a sign your car is not getting enough power either your battery needs replacing for a stronger one or your battery is worn and still needs replacing. Either way, need a new battery - Deagle from Essex

Ford Galaxy 1996

My Galaxy will not start unless I leave the ignition on for a little while. I changed the fuel pump relay but still won’t start. After 20 minutes, it starts. I would like to know if anybody knows what the problem is. Thanks.

Answers

Another common problem with the Galaxy is the immobilser relay whereby the vehicle turns over but will not start, I know two people who have this problem - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 1999

Why is there dark a grey smoke pouring out of exhaust and manifold under the bonnet. Is this a massive and expensive problem to sort out? (1.6 lx)

Answers

Is it definitely smoke and not steam? Because that would be the colour if the engine was burning coolant i.e head gasket - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2006

Occasionally when driving, my glow plug light comes on and knocks my power down. I stop, switch off ignition, wait a few minutes then restart, it is then okay. Occasionally, it comes on under pressure. I have had a new turbo 18 months ago. I would appreciate anyone’s ideas. Thanks. (TDCi)

Answers

Get the vehicle connected to diagnostic equipment that is the only way to find the problem - Martin Jones from Essex

I had this same problem on my ’06 2L tdci. Sorry to let you know it was three of my injectors but had to replace all four. It is very hard to get these injectors as Ford changed them on this year so I had to get mine reconditioned. I ended up with no car for 4 weeks, My advice is burn the bl**dy car because an engine is cheaper than injectors - Karl from County Tyrone

Ford Galaxy 2006

I have a Ford Galaxy 2.0L Ghia petrol, does it have a timing belt or chain? If it has a belt, at what mileage should it be renewed? Thank you.

Answers

It has a chain - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2006

Sometimes when driving along under pressure, my glow plug light comes on and knocks my speed down. I turn off ignition, leave a while restart and then everything is ok. I have used injector cleaner and had a new turbo 18 months ago. (TDCi 2Ltr)

Answers

Get the vehicle connected to diagnostic equipment something is obviously putting the management light on - Martin Jones from Essex

Just called out the RAC regarding this problem. The fault was diagnosed as the EGR valve. RAC man cleaned this out, problem solved - Terry Joyce from Northamptonshire

Ford Fusion 2007

Can someone tell me where to find the filler plug for the gear box oil? (1.6TD)

Answers

Open your bonnet right hand side near the bottom front, you will see a plastic cover inside, you will see gear selection cables bottom left is a nut, that’s it. Probably jack up the car easier - A McGeorge from Aberdeenshire

Ford Transit Connect 2003

After driving at normal motorway speeds, I lose the clutch pedal completely unless I pump it back up. I have had the fluid replaced and bled but still no joy. (tdci1800)

Answers

Check up the top of the clutch pedal where the master cylinder is and see if you can find fluid loss. If so, you will need a new cylinder. If not, check underneath where the engine meets the gearbox. If there is any trace of clutch fluid, you will need to take the gearbox out and fit a new hydraulic thrust bearing - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Mondeo 2002

Where can I locate the engine oil drain plug for my Ford Mondeo LX as I have put too much oil and the engine management light has come up. Can this cause any damage to the car if driven?

Answers

Depends how much is too much, the sump plug is located underneath in sump easy to find - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2003

The speedo keeps cutting out with some loss of power. Why?

Answers

This is caused by a failing gearbox speed sensor and if it isn’t replaced, it will result in the car stalling and failing to start. An easy fix but best to leave to a mechanic as they can snap and finish up inside gearbox resulting in a hefty bill to strip and rebuild box. Top tip: soak the sensor with WD40 a couple of times before having it removed and it should be fine. Good luck - Martin Skilleck from England

One other possible fault could be the cylinder head temperature sensor wiring on top of the rocker box cover. The signals from the sensor get interupted by the electrical pulse from the HT leads going to the spark plugs. I have seen a few cars with this problem - Anthony from Lancashire

Look on ebay.co.uk for £20 speed sensors, not the dealers £40 rip-off - Richard Hammond from England

Ford Transit Connect 2005

The interior lights only work when switched to the ON position. They don’t work when any door is opened or when the van is unlocked via the remote. Thank you.

Answers

It’s a fuse mate, it happened to me - Scott from London

Ford Galaxy 1998

My Galaxy was stood waiting to have a gearbox for a few months but finally that’s all done. I went to put it back on the road and the back brakes are sticking, was told they may just need cleaning up as it has been stood. I thought ’fair enough’ but on the way home, they seemed to loose my foot pedal aswell. Just don’t know why it has gone like this. Someone said it could be due to the back brakes and maybe the master cylinder gone but it was fine when it came off the road. Where do I start? Oh and its pushing the fluid back out of the bottle. Help. Many thanks.

Answers

I had this problem a week ago, pressed the pedal and kept going. The problem was the master brake cylinder. I had this replaced and it’s working fine again. Hope this helps - David Thomas from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2005

I have a Ford Focus 1.6 Ghia petrol with 60,000 miles on the clock. When should I change the cambelt? It has full service history.

Answers

I would think about changing it shortly, although Fords say around 100,000 miles or ten years, the tensioner and belt guides are plastic. The tensioner can break first causing the belt to jump, leading to a very expensive repair. When it is changed with tensioner, no more worries for a long while - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus RS 2011

What is the best way to fix minor scratches to the plastic trim? A recent little scuff on a badly kerbed car park have left small but annoying scratches showing white through the dark metallic grey paint - not significant but in need of attention on underside of front skirt. Any advice as to remedial work? (st2)

Answers

Try covering scratches with clear laquer using a very small brush, this worked on my black Focus - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2000

I have a 2000 Ford Ka, which has given me excellent service over the years and now I have heard that some owners are switching or upgrading their power plants to the 1.6 litre range such as in the Sportka. Is this indeed possible and can I get in touch with a firm that can ship me the engine and transmission plus all the necessaries for the changeover to Tasmania? In advance many thanks, Robert Doe, 10 High Street, Ross, Tasmania. Email: cedarberry[at]optusnet[dot]com[dot]au

Answers

I would have thought what you are asking for seriously outweighs the value of your vehicle - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Galaxy 2003

I get occassional loss of power, think it’s going into safe mode. Pulling in and switching off instantly clears the fault. No alarms shown. Any ideas? (1.9 d Zetec)

Answers

This occasional loss of power could mean there is something wrong with your car’s turbo sensor or you should check the turbo’s line pipe which is a rubber one. It could have been ripped somehow and can cause turbo failure which is pretty expensive. I would check it as soon as possible. My father’s car had the same problem and sometimes it appeared on the dash and then comes off basically on and off. You may have a different problem but I think this is the issue. By the way, my father’s car was a Mercedes diesel - Pim Arnie from England

How many miles has it done? Me and my brother both have Galaxys and they both started doing that then mine had a slight noise coming from the engine when under pressure eg. changing gear tried. The turbo pipes but in the end, the turbo went. No signs just smoke everywhere. Hope it’s not but sounds a similar story. You have to make sure they don’t pick up on their own oil. If it goes, turn it off. Mine went at 136k, my brother’s at 140k. It’s a problem with them as with the duel mass flywheels clutch. Apart from that, I love them. So many people I have spoke to have the probs with them but when they’re done, they are lovely. Hope you get it sorted - A Dudley from England

Ford Fiesta 1994

Why is my steering rigid and heavy when I turn corners?

Answers

If it has power steering, check pump fluid level and drive belt condition. If it hasn’t got power steering, then check u/j couplings along the column to the steering rack that they are not seized at any angle. Failing that with p/stg, if fluid level and belt seem okay, it must be pump or more likely, a rack problem - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Focus 2001

Does anyone know how to fix the issue with radio reception (6000)? The CD player works fine, radio has no reception, then auto scans and picks up classic FM, but has Kiss 100’s Freq. I have changed the exterior ariel, still no joy. Has anyone got the same problem? Thanks (2.0L Ghia)

Answers

Sounds very much like the unit is faulty, look on ebay, loads for sale cheap - Martin Jones from Essex

Sounds more like the aerial phono connector has come loose from the head unit. Get some HU keys to pull it out and fit it back. Failing that, it’s the HU tuner can. Replacing the HU is the cheapest way of fixing it - Andy from Lancashire

Ford Transit 2006

I have a ticking noise at high speed, what could this be? Kind regards - Mick Wren

Answers

Does the vehicle make this noise when stationary, revving engine aswell? - Martin Jones from Essex

Have you got your watch on? - David from Yorkshire

Ford Ka 2006

Hi, my battery warning light comes on when I start the car then stays on all the time, the car has always started so is the problem my alternator or could it be only a connection that is the fault? Thank you.

Answers

Check connections on battery and on the back of the alternator and to starter soleniod because main power lead runs from alternator to starter and to battery + if all good, it can only be the alternator - get the charging rate checked - Martin Jones from Essex

Ford Ka 2006

The ABS light is flashing. Any idea why?

Answers

There are only two reasons for this: the sensor wire in the ABS large connector is corroded and just needs cleaning with electrical spray. The other is usually a broken wheel sensor front off-side connector under the wheel arch. I would not go for an expensive repair solution because it is not necessary, easy fix, don’t worry. Diagnostic equipment will tell you what is wrong and what wheel - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit Tipper 2007

The engine starts but doesn’t rev up and I’ve got no power going to back lights. Why?

Answers

Could be the electronic throttle pedal at fault, check for a broken wire leading to rear lamps for loss of power. Disconnect the batteries, wait 30 minutes then check connections on the pedal and on slave on fuel distributor. Back lights, you will have checked bulbs or supply and all fuses as well as the fuse for the circuit. Sounds like the connector plug is disconnected, tippers are chasis cab so loomage tied alond beems then look for all earth wires and connectors. Easy fix  - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2006

My heating has gone. The knob turns but only churns out cold air. Any idea why? (1.6)

Answers

It’s simple you have a small radiator behind your blower fan called a matrix. If your engine is up to temperature, check that two slim hoses going into the car behind the engine are hot or one is hot. There are two solutions: take off one of the hoses then on full into the tube sticking out of the panel that you took the hose from the hose is about the size of a ten pence in diameter then do the same with the other hose. You will see if the water flows keep trying BUT watch for drips on your carpet. If anything, your heater matrix is buggered - Pauly Milburn from England

Ford Focus C-MAX 2008

Hi. The ESP icon is illuminated on the dashboard. How can we get rid of this without incurring a hefty bill?

Answers

You should check on the menu screen on the dash that you haven’t inadvertantly turned it off, which is possible. Press menu button and scroll through to ESP and turn back on, although on is the default setting once the car has been restarted. If the light still stays on, diagnostic equipment will have to be put on your car to tell you the problem - Martin Jones from Essex

I agree the button switch could have been knocked but also check that the switch is not faulty. Just push it on and off slowly several times, you will feel a slight click sharper than usual. The worst case is that the five pole switching relay is stuck. Get somebody to switch it on and off, you listen to the fuse box then near the right of the steering wheel listen for clicking it will not be loud but you will hear it good luck always an easy fix - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Ka 2003

Hi, my daughter just bought a 2003 Ford Ka which she thinks is great but has complained that the gearstick sometimes "lifts up". I had a look and what happens is that the stick can be lifted up and out of the gearbox with little effort. It is pushed back in easily but what is missing or broken to allow this to happen? (1.3)

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You are not actually pulling the gear lever out of the gearbox as it is a transverse setup. Sounds like just a lever problem, get a garage to look at it to tell you what’s wrong and if too expensive buy a second hand unit. There are plenty of Kas in breakers - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, your gearstick is only a stick in a cup. If you look inside where the bottom of the stick is, you will see a rod from left to right. One end of the rod has lost the holding circlip just pop the stick back in where you would have it go. It is very simple. If the bar or the clip or the holder is broken, go to your local scrapyard and get another, cheap as chips and dad looks good - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit Connect 2005

The engine revs during normal driving on flat roads whether engine is hot or cold. I have tried the clutch slip test with no fault found. It has done 35,000 miles. Any ideas? (1.8 Diesel)

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How did you test the clutch? - Martin Jones from Essex

Don’t worry, get some electrical contact cleaner spray. Look above your accelerator pedal and find a black unit about the size of a baby’s foot. Spray that making sure there is no movement then go under the bonnet spray and everything with GT85 or WD40 spray lube. That will cure it and without a Ford garage bill too - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 1999

After charge timing chain, the engine light is always on when engine running. Any ideas why? Thank you.

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Yes mate, the timing belt adjustment is not correct or the pin sensor lead is off/broken, but it all leads to the tension on the chain or the sensor. No worries, it’s an easy fix - Pauly Milburn from England

Ford Mondeo 2002

Hi, I’ve just got a Mondeo 1.8lx 2002 plate. Everything was fine for weeks then one morning it went to start and wont fire up. I kept trying and it finally did. Once it is warm, it starts first time, leave it for a couple of hours and the same thing happens and it’s hard to start. Please help. (1.8 lx)

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If it is petrol, check that the spark plugs are clean and not worn out. That’s it. Obviously if they are no good, replace them. Go to Halfords for new ones (don’t get Champion) then put some injector cleaner into the fuel.
If it’s a diesel, put some injector cleaner into the fuel tank, job done. Just make sure you get injector cleaner for the correct fuel i.e petrol or diesel. - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2002

I have a factory fitted 6000CD, changer compatible, and want to plug in my iPod. Do I have an aux-in and where would I find it? Or will I have to go with the much more expensive transmitter? Thank you! (Zetec 1.8)

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The 6000cd does not have aux in - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi you will need to buy a transmitter (ie. an iTrip) but they are not expensive at all. Don’t worry, at least you have less wiring. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Depending on what year you may have, there will be an aux plug in your glovebox. Sometimes they have a white circle around them, its worth a look - Emma Jones from Gloucestershire

Ford Transit 2005

A week ago, I started my Transit and the engine sounded like it was rattling and the van was driving very sluggish and felt powerless. I drove it for five miles and then all of a sudden, it switched back to being a normal, quiet and responsive engine. I thought maybe it was just a bit of dirt in the fuel, but then a week later, it was the same again starting from cold. The engine sounded loud and rattling when it was revved up and again very sluggish to drive. This time it has not righted itself and is still playing up? Any advice would be appreciated. Cheers. (Transit 85 t280)

Answers

Have you tried having the fuel filter checked? - Evo Rut Saw from England

Hi there, have you got your Transit sorted yet? Is it 2.0L tdci or 2.4? Just out of experience, they do have a problem with the injectors going out of code and then delivering the wrong amount of fuel out of the injectors. It might be worth having them checked out as long as none of them are faulty. It is about an hour’s job to recode them but it must be done in the firing order - Ian Merrill from Lincolnshire

Hi, have you checked the oil? I would imagine that you have, it’s not a fuel problem, it is a coating fault. Your transit is a 2.2 di if I am correct, change the oil, flush the engine twice then replace the oil will a semi-synthetic oil not full synthetic then you will be ok. The only other thing that you can do is disconnect the battery or batteries, wait 10 minutes, reconnect and start her up. Keep away from dealers, you have us, no cost - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit Connect 2004

I need to know where the gearbox oil filler plug is, can anyone help?

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It’s on the right hand side of the gearbox, right at the end where it meets the prop shaft, halfway up. It’s a 8mill hex key. Hope that helps - Habib One from Lancashire

Ford Mondeo 2006

The car drives well then it loses power. I turn the engine off then it runs okay for a long time then the problem reoccurs. Any idea why? (2-0 tdci)

Answers

Does the glow plug light come on when the problem occurs? If so, you need to get diagnostic equipment connected to find the fault - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, you just need to change your diesel filter, it’s that simple. The only other thing that causes this is the fuel pickup in the fuel tank is bunged up with jellyfied waste goo. Put some injector cleaner in the fuel tank then fill the tank to the top. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Galaxy 2000

I have no brake lights on my Galaxy. I have replaced a blown fuse, the brake light switch and the bulbs seem okay yet still nothing. Any ideas?

Answers

I had the same problem, open boot and look at the rubber casing on top right hand side. Pull it back and you will probably find that the wires have snapped, just reconnect them. I did this and then they worked perfect. Good luck - Heath Erlam from England

I just remembered that it could also be the switch under brake pedal too. Look under the pedal and where it makes contact when pressed should be a black plastic switch which can be pressed in and out. Tinker with it and pull it to max then press back in - you should hear it click a couple of times. Get someone to check lights as you press with the brake pedal. If its not the wiring, I am 99% sure that it’s a faulty brake switch - Heath Erlam from England

You need a brake light switch. It sounds like you know what you are doing. If you have cruise control, there are double connections, a simple job most of the time. The threaded bit just needs adjusting. Always do it yourself, not a dealer’s job. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 2005

What mileage do you change timing belt for a Ford Transit 280 SWB?

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It has a chain, not a belt - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, you only need to check the tension of the timing chain. It is always sensible to do this every 80,000 miles. It’s a simple job, even tightening the chain. Don’t be tempted to oil it or do anything else, it buggers develops an annoying rattle. Good luck - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 2006

Why won’t my van start? I’ve had diagnostics done on it which came back fine, I’ve had the fuel filter changed, the ignition barrel changed, the starter motor taken out, cleaned and checked. I’ve also had the flywheel teeth cleaned and checked and the problem still persists. Could this be a problem with the fuel pump chip and if so can it be rechipped?

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When you say it won’t start, is it turning over when you turn the key? - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, that’s a lot of expense when you are trying to save money, keep away from dealers. Your problem is presumably that the engine turns over. Silly question, has the timing chain moved? Just check that it is in position or not slack. The fuel pump chip will be okay, the dino will have been obd 11 no faults found. Look at the engine fuse box for the engine management fuse. If it is okay, check the main fusebox for fuse 77 then look for the ECU fuse - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 2005

I’ve recently been insured on a Ford Focus, after learning in a Vauxhall Corsa, I love driving the Focus but am absolutely useless at the handbrake. It’s really stiff and I struggle even with two hands to release it whereas I had no trouble at all with the Corsa. But our drive is on a slope so not sure if it can be adjusted too much? Would it make it more likely to roll down the drive, even if left in gear?

Answers

Depends how steep your drive is, if it is a steep gradient then leaving it in gear would not be advisable. If the handbrake lever only pulls up a couple of clicks, lift center console cover and let the cable adjuster off slightly - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi if you remove the cover from the handbrake, you will see a 10mm nut. Just wind it out approx a small finger length - 6 turns - then try the handbrake. You will get it how you like it in no time. As you probably know, if you leave a vehicle in gear then you should check the wheels but you should always leave a vehicle in gear. At least you care enough to ask, kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Focus 1999

My Focus has been the most reliable car i’ve ever owned. However, I made a long journey yesterday (80 miles) and after 40 miles, the car died! I left it for 10 minutes after which it started and I continued my journey. The car kept dying and restarting again for the remaining 40 miles. I called the AA who arrived about an hour later. The AA could not find the problem as the car was running fine at the time of their visit. Does anyone have any experience of this? Any help is greatly appreciated. (2.0 Ghia)

Answers

I assume a petrol engine. If so, the fuel pump is a common problem to stop working intermittently - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, there are only three reasons for this fault on your particular vehicle. One: is the fuel rail or fuel itself contaminated? It’s always a good idea to put injector cleaner in the fuel tank fill with petrol. Two: are your battery terminals loose? Three: your fuel pump is giving up, turn the ignition key and listen for a buzzing sound. The best thing to do is wait for it to break down again and listen for your pump. It’s easy to repair any of these things, no dealer, no cost. If you have a diesel, the fault is the fuel filter or contaminated fuel plus a blocked pipe end in the tank again. Put injector cleaner in to the fuel tank. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 2005

Hi, the alarm on my Transit van goes off at night when the temperature drops. Any ideas why?

Answers

Yeah, thieves that work in the cold - Aka Blax from England

Hi. If it’s a factory fitted alarm, your sensors are worn out. They need to be replaced, these look like little grill covered tubes called ultrasonic sensors. One sends a radio wave, the other receives the wave. Your problem sounds to me like a battery drop, something draining the battery or another common fault is if you have a double under the driver’s seat. Find the voltage drop just look for the obvious. If your alarm is a non-Ford then it would be more likely again to be a voltage drop again. Find the drop, put a voltmeter on the battery then watch the voltage if it drops very slightly, there is a voltage drop check central door locking or interior lights. Now then if your alarm is battery, back up the battery in the unit, if worn that’s your fault. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 2005

Why does my van over-rev at a junction sporadically from 900 rev up to 1500 and up to 2500 revs sometimes? Thanks, Dave. (t280)

Answers

It’s a common fault on the T280 with the accelerator peddle. You can get a new one on Ebay for £39.99 - Evo Rut Saw from England

Before you go and buy anything, clean your throttle body out - James from Berkshire

Ford Mondeo 2003

My 2.0L TDI Mondeo heater plug light keeps coming on when driving then the car stalls. What’s up with it?

Answers

The car needs to be connected to diagnostic equipment to tell you whats wrong. There is obviously a fault to put the light on - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, your fault is that the lead connecting the glow plugs is touching the engine, going to ground and shorting out. Also check the glow plug relay, listen to it when your key is turned to ignition lights on stage 2 then check in the fuse box under the bonnet for the ignition live wire. The problem is simple, you have an ignition live short somewhere finding it is simple check all of the things that rely on the ignition then you will find the problem. Whilst you are at it, check that the engine earth lead is intact and the battery terminals are okay. The last thing to check on top of the fuel pump is a solanoid. Check that the thin wire is not loose or cut. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Fiesta 2005

What make of oil should I put in the engine? (1.4.)

Answers

Any quality brand but it must be 10/30 semi or fully synthetic - Martin Jones from Essex

The handbook states that 5w-30 synthetic Castrol Magnetac is good. It’s not too pricey, about £30. Stick with that oil and you will not go far wrong - Trevor Bamford from Lancashire

Correction: the oil should be 5/30, I would buy from main dealer, you can’t go wrong then - Martin Jones from Essex

Castrol 5w-30 for a engine of the car is ideal. Magnetec & filter I hope - Trevor Bamford from Lancashire

Hi, your best bet to look after your engine is semi-synthetic. Your engine will not like full synthetic or cheap oil, always change the oil filter and always buy engine flush. Please do not listen to duff advice by the way, I would strongly advise that you check your gearbox oil. Don’t get jack the lad to check this, I would recommend Halfords or Betta Motoring. Never go to the dealers. The oil you need is 5/30w. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit 2004

I’m having problems trying to turn corners. The steering has gone stiff, what could it be?

Answers

Check the power steering fluid level. If that’s okay, check pump drive belt and tensioner, which is located g/box side of engine driven off the end of camshaft, the tensioner is the sprung loaded type which loses it’s tension over time and miles causing belt to slip when turning - Martin Jones from Essex

Hi, I would check the tyre pressures before anything else. The recomended tyre pressure is printed on the tyre if you have power steering then check the pump is turning and the belt is okay. Follow the pipes from the steering rack to the pump. If the fluid level is okay and the pump is working okay then the problem is your tyres. Check the tyres first, sounds like that is your fault. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

Ford Transit Box Van 1999

The engine is very noisy in a first cool start. Any ideas why?

Answers

You just need to change your oil. Flush the engine a couple of times, tell the person that you are buying the oil from that you doing this due to noise. Go to Halfords, get the oil that you need - not what Ford recommend, do not go to Ford dealer. After 10 weeks, change the oil again, always change the oil filter, always check the waste oil with a magnet. Please buy a magnetic sump plug or stick a magnet on the bottom of the sump. Don’t listen to idiots, spend your money on your van, not idiots. Kind regards - Pauly Milburn from Yorkshire

This sounds like your EGR valve is on its way out, if not that your fuel sensor... - David Williams from England

Ford Focus C-MAX 2006

I have a 2006 C-Max 1.8 tdi. After three years, the battery went it had only done 20k then the air con pulley fell off and now the alternator has packed up with no warning. It burnt the battery out and came to full stop. Good job we were only in a car park and not on the motorway. Has anybody had alternator problems?

Answers

Hi Tony, I am not a happy bunny. My Ford Focus C-Max Ghia 2006 with 29,000 on the clock wouldn’t start yesterday. I towed it to my local garage, battery burnt out and alternator is kaputt. Also because the engine wouldn’t start on four differtent batteries, the hand brake wouldn’t release. I tried the cable in centre glove box black handle broke off, car on side of road with handbrake stuck on! This car is now up for sale - Susan from Staffordshire

Ford Tourneo Connect 2004

Please can you help? The rear seats come in a block of three, I can fold down and fit it back to the driver seat but can you tell me does the seat of 2 (seats) fold completely back. I can fold it down in half but can’t find a lever to pull it right back.

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