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-   -   Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault" (https://www.diybanter.com/uk-diy/619082-ford-focus-engine-fault-transmission-fault.html)

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 01:45 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Regards

AB


alan_m September 16th 18 02:02 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 16/09/2018 13:45, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.


The engine warning light may be on normally until the engine is started.

there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.


The key has lost contact with the immobiliser receiver. Have you got a
spare key to try?

--
mailto : news {at} admac {dot} myzen {dot} co {dot} uk

Dave Plowman (News) September 16th 18 02:06 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In article ,
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.


It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.


Have you checked the battery volts under a decent load - like say
headlights on?

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.


Anyone had this?


I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Did this warning message only appear after the car was parked up?


Regards


AB


--
*No radio - Already stolen.

Dave Plowman London SW
To e-mail, change noise into sound.

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 02:23 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 14:02:58 +0100, alan_m
wrote:

On 16/09/2018 13:45, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.


The engine warning light may be on normally until the engine is started.

there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.


The key has lost contact with the immobiliser receiver. Have you got a
spare key to try?


The key opens the door remotely, so I assume that contact is made.

Some warning lights go off, none of the engine ones though.

AB

Tim+[_5_] September 16th 18 02:28 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 14:02:58 +0100, alan_m
wrote:

On 16/09/2018 13:45, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.


The engine warning light may be on normally until the engine is started.

there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.


The key has lost contact with the immobiliser receiver. Have you got a
spare key to try?


The key opens the door remotely, so I assume that contact is made.


Thats a different system to the immobiliser though. That usually involves
a RFID chip build into the key (along with the unlocking stuff).


Some warning lights go off, none of the engine ones though.


Doesnt sound good. Might not be anything major, just a major pain to find
the cause.

Tim


--
Please don't feed the trolls

Harry Bloomfield[_3_] September 16th 18 02:28 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq brought next idea :
The key opens the door remotely, so I assume that contact is made.


That is part of a completely separate system, nothing to do with the
immobiliser or ignition.

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 02:30 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 14:06:42 +0100, "Dave Plowman (News)"
wrote:

In article ,
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.


It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.


Have you checked the battery volts under a decent load - like say
headlights on?


No, I'm not sure where the DMM is, but i have every confidence the
battery is fine, headlights are bright and dont show any marked
reduction when wipers are started. The started appears to be inhibited
as there is no trace of a clunk when the key is rotated.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.


Anyone had this?


I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Did this warning message only appear after the car was parked up?


Yes. Although I had the engine management light come on six months
back. The engine ran rough when first started. This happened twice. I
thought it might be plugs as my first Focus had a similar problem and
the plugs were disintegrating. No Engine or Transmission messages
though.

As usual when the fault cleared, I forgot about it.

Thanks for the reply


AB


Dave Plowman (News) September 16th 18 02:45 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In article ,
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
Have you checked the battery volts under a decent load - like say
headlights on?


No, I'm not sure where the DMM is, but i have every confidence the
battery is fine, headlights are bright and dont show any marked
reduction when wipers are started.


That sounds a good enough check.

The started appears to be inhibited
as there is no trace of a clunk when the key is rotated.


Right.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.


Anyone had this?


I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Did this warning message only appear after the car was parked up?


Yes. Although I had the engine management light come on six months
back. The engine ran rough when first started. This happened twice. I
thought it might be plugs as my first Focus had a similar problem and
the plugs were disintegrating. No Engine or Transmission messages
though.


As usual when the fault cleared, I forgot about it.


Not sure about your car - but many of these check engine etc lights don't
stop an attempted start.

As has been said, many cars have a chip in the key which communicates with
one in the lock - to disable the immobiliser. Totally separate from the
remote locking - and doesn't even need the fob battery. Have you got a
second key you could try?

--
*I started out with nothing... and I still have most of it.

Dave Plowman London SW
To e-mail, change noise into sound.

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 02:53 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 14:45:57 +0100, "Dave Plowman (News)"
wrote:

In article ,
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
Have you checked the battery volts under a decent load - like say
headlights on?


No, I'm not sure where the DMM is, but i have every confidence the
battery is fine, headlights are bright and dont show any marked
reduction when wipers are started.


That sounds a good enough check.

The started appears to be inhibited
as there is no trace of a clunk when the key is rotated.


Right.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?

Did this warning message only appear after the car was parked up?


Yes. Although I had the engine management light come on six months
back. The engine ran rough when first started. This happened twice. I
thought it might be plugs as my first Focus had a similar problem and
the plugs were disintegrating. No Engine or Transmission messages
though.


As usual when the fault cleared, I forgot about it.


Not sure about your car - but many of these check engine etc lights don't
stop an attempted start.

As has been said, many cars have a chip in the key which communicates with
one in the lock - to disable the immobiliser. Totally separate from the
remote locking - and doesn't even need the fob battery. Have you got a
second key you could try?


Unfortunately not.

I would have thought that the message would not be specific to both
engine and transmission though, if it were a fob problem.

Regards

AB

[email protected] September 16th 18 03:09 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sunday, 16 September 2018 13:45:18 UTC+1, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Regards

AB


sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


NT

Dave Plowman (News) September 16th 18 03:17 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In article ,
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
Have you got a
second key you could try?


Unfortunately not.


I would have thought that the message would not be specific to both
engine and transmission though, if it were a fob problem.


Could well be two or more separate faults.

'Trans Fail' used to light on my BMW with low battery volts. Nothing wrong
with the transmission.

--
*I believe five out of four people have trouble with fractions. *

Dave Plowman London SW
To e-mail, change noise into sound.

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 03:21 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:09:41 -0700 (PDT), wrote:

On Sunday, 16 September 2018 13:45:18 UTC+1, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Regards

AB


sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


NT


I assume this is a computer link with some kind of diagnostics?

There is a test function on the lh stalk and it brings up what seem to
be A/D status information.

I found some website that provides suggested local dealers, I'll see
what that produces.

I dont like vehicle wiring, but feel helpless really. My first
experience with an auto electrician wasn't good. He replaced
everything in the ignition circuit on an Orion, and when this didn't
cure the problem started on the plug leads again. Everything he tried,
I got a bill for. In the end I diagnosed that it was nothing to do
with the ignition myself. It was an intermittent fuel blockage.

AN

Richard[_10_] September 16th 18 03:28 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 16/09/18 15:21, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:09:41 -0700 (PDT), wrote:

On Sunday, 16 September 2018 13:45:18 UTC+1, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Regards

AB


sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


NT


I assume this is a computer link with some kind of diagnostics?

There is a test function on the lh stalk and it brings up what seem to
be A/D status information.

I found some website that provides suggested local dealers, I'll see
what that produces.

I dont like vehicle wiring, but feel helpless really. My first
experience with an auto electrician wasn't good. He replaced
everything in the ignition circuit on an Orion, and when this didn't
cure the problem started on the plug leads again. Everything he tried,
I got a bill for. In the end I diagnosed that it was nothing to do
with the ignition myself. It was an intermittent fuel blockage.

AN

This maybe?
https://thecarkeyman.co.uk/ford-car-key-problem/

Bill[_18_] September 16th 18 03:40 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In message ,
writes

sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


On the vehicles I've had, the basic OBD2 scanners didn't help much, but
there was software that could read the more specialised codes. I don't
know whether this applies to Fords or not.

It took a bit of scouring forums to find exactly what was needed, but
what I found for the Jeep and Rangie was better than the independents
had and cost very, very little. (I've probably posted before how the
local Jeep main dealer didn't have diagnostics).

My local independent has Snap-on and something else more recent, both
pretty expensive. My understanding from talking to him was that they
were good for most vehicles, just not for mine. I'd hope a Ford would
come under "most vehicles".
--
Bill

---
This email has been checked for viruses by AVG.
https://www.avg.com


Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 03:43 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:17:09 +0100, "Dave Plowman (News)"
wrote:

In article ,
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:
Have you got a
second key you could try?


Unfortunately not.


I would have thought that the message would not be specific to both
engine and transmission though, if it were a fob problem.


Could well be two or more separate faults.

'Trans Fail' used to light on my BMW with low battery volts. Nothing wrong
with the transmission.


i did notice when I engaged the test function the battery was reported
as being at 11.8 V. I connected a set of jump cables and read 13.8V,
the car was identical in reports and also inoperation when I tried to
turn the engine over though.

Thanks for the suggestion though, for a brief moment I didn't feel
totally useless in the face of technology :-)


Regards

AB

T i m September 16th 18 03:44 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:21:30 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:09:41 -0700 (PDT), wrote:

snip

sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner



I assume this is a computer link with some kind of diagnostics?


Often just a cheap BT 'dongle' you plug into the ODB port on your car
and can 'talk to' via Bluetooth app on your Smartphone.

Personally I like the 'Torque' app as a good all rounder.

snip

I dont like vehicle wiring, but feel helpless really.


That's where OBD tools come in.

My first
experience with an auto electrician wasn't good. He replaced
everything in the ignition circuit on an Orion, and when this didn't
cure the problem started on the plug leads again. Everything he tried,
I got a bill for.


Sounds like the 'lucky dip' approach?

In the end I diagnosed that it was nothing to do
with the ignition myself. It was an intermittent fuel blockage.


And why many of us are in this d-i-y group. ;-)

Cheers, T i m

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 03:57 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:28:54 +0100, Richard
wrote:

On 16/09/18 15:21, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:09:41 -0700 (PDT), wrote:

On Sunday, 16 September 2018 13:45:18 UTC+1, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Regards

AB

sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


NT


I assume this is a computer link with some kind of diagnostics?

There is a test function on the lh stalk and it brings up what seem to
be A/D status information.

I found some website that provides suggested local dealers, I'll see
what that produces.

I dont like vehicle wiring, but feel helpless really. My first
experience with an auto electrician wasn't good. He replaced
everything in the ignition circuit on an Orion, and when this didn't
cure the problem started on the plug leads again. Everything he tried,
I got a bill for. In the end I diagnosed that it was nothing to do
with the ignition myself. It was an intermittent fuel blockage.

AN

This maybe?
https://thecarkeyman.co.uk/ford-car-key-problem/


Thank you, very informative. It seems that the key is fine, I have the
"skilled technician" problem:-(


Regards

AB


Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 04:10 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:40:09 +0100, Bill wrote:

In message ,
writes

sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


On the vehicles I've had, the basic OBD2 scanners didn't help much, but
there was software that could read the more specialised codes. I don't
know whether this applies to Fords or not.

It took a bit of scouring forums to find exactly what was needed, but
what I found for the Jeep and Rangie was better than the independents
had and cost very, very little. (I've probably posted before how the
local Jeep main dealer didn't have diagnostics).

My local independent has Snap-on and something else more recent, both
pretty expensive. My understanding from talking to him was that they
were good for most vehicles, just not for mine. I'd hope a Ford would
come under "most vehicles".


Many thanks Bill.

I had a squint on Ebay and have found one that should be arriving mid
week.

I probably shouldn't have bought the Ford, but it was my old company
vehicle. It never stood a day until now though. It was a brilliant
plodder, used a bit of oil, but we had a lot of Focus cars that did
also from new.

I will hold off the garage appointment until the unit arrives.

Regards

AB

T i m September 16th 18 04:24 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:10:06 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

I probably shouldn't have bought the Ford, but it was my old company
vehicle.


Nothing wrong with that. I bought (for £25) my old Sierra (2L GL
Estate) after it had been my company car for 10 years and kept it
another 13 years. It was still actually running well the day I chose
to break it myself, just showing some rust and other general wear and
tear (the red paint had gone pink and the dash was cracking up in the
sun etc).

Of all the cars I've had I miss that the most for it's basic
reliability, simplicity and practicality.

Cheers, T i m



Lee September 16th 18 06:58 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
If it is the case that it is a problem with the RFID chip in the key or
the pick up coil then it will flash the immobiliser LED when trying to
start it.



Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 07:29 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:24:20 +0100, T i m wrote:

On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:10:06 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

I probably shouldn't have bought the Ford, but it was my old company
vehicle.


Nothing wrong with that. I bought (for £25) my old Sierra (2L GL
Estate) after it had been my company car for 10 years and kept it
another 13 years. It was still actually running well the day I chose
to break it myself, just showing some rust and other general wear and
tear (the red paint had gone pink and the dash was cracking up in the
sun etc).

Of all the cars I've had I miss that the most for it's basic
reliability, simplicity and practicality.

Cheers, T i m


Simplicity and reliability. Exactly!

I have a Mazda 3 now, the biggest pile of junk I have ever driven
apart from my previous Mazda 3.

The only saving grace is that the fuel consumption is amazing,
otherwise I could find nothing whatsoever that is positive about the
heap.


The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.



Alas the Focus was brilliant when used daily, running up very high
mileage, giving the old dear a rest does not seem to be beneficial.


Regards


AB

Jim K[_3_] September 16th 18 08:01 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq snotty_archi_
Wrote in message:
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:28:54 +0100, Richard
wrote:

On 16/09/18 15:21, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:09:41 -0700 (PDT),
wrote:

On Sunday, 16 September 2018 13:45:18 UTC+1, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

I had trouble with electrics on my Fiat, I got the impression that the
only solution was a main dealer. Is this the case with the Ford, or
can independents sort problems efficiently now?


Regards

AB

sounds like you need an OBD2 scanner


NT

I assume this is a computer link with some kind of diagnostics?

There is a test function on the lh stalk and it brings up what seem to
be A/D status information.

I found some website that provides suggested local dealers, I'll see
what that produces.

I dont like vehicle wiring, but feel helpless really. My first
experience with an auto electrician wasn't good. He replaced
everything in the ignition circuit on an Orion, and when this didn't
cure the problem started on the plug leads again. Everything he tried,
I got a bill for. In the end I diagnosed that it was nothing to do
with the ignition myself. It was an intermittent fuel blockage.

AN

This maybe?
https://thecarkeyman.co.uk/ford-car-key-problem/


Thank you, very informative. It seems that the key is fine, I have the
"skilled technician" problem:-(


Regards

AB



Not usually apparent from your generally inciteful & largely BS
posts...

I wonder if, having tapped the collective's knowledge, you might
change your general approach?...hehe

I'd recommend you do as if not, the next time should hopefully be
a stone "feck off" wall...
--
--
Jim K


----Android NewsGroup Reader----
http://usenet.sinaapp.com/

Tim Lamb[_2_] September 16th 18 09:17 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In message , Archibald
Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
writes
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:24:20 +0100, T i m wrote:

On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:10:06 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

I probably shouldn't have bought the Ford, but it was my old company
vehicle.


Nothing wrong with that. I bought (for £25) my old Sierra (2L GL
Estate) after it had been my company car for 10 years and kept it
another 13 years. It was still actually running well the day I chose
to break it myself, just showing some rust and other general wear and
tear (the red paint had gone pink and the dash was cracking up in the
sun etc).

Of all the cars I've had I miss that the most for it's basic
reliability, simplicity and practicality.

Cheers, T i m


Simplicity and reliability. Exactly!

I have a Mazda 3 now, the biggest pile of junk I have ever driven
apart from my previous Mazda 3.

The only saving grace is that the fuel consumption is amazing,
otherwise I could find nothing whatsoever that is positive about the
heap.


The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.



Alas the Focus was brilliant when used daily, running up very high
mileage, giving the old dear a rest does not seem to be beneficial.


Have you looked for a *Focus* forum? There is usually lots of knowledge
on obscure faults with specific models.

--
Tim Lamb

T i m September 16th 18 10:27 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 19:29:57 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

Simplicity and reliability. Exactly!

I have a Mazda 3 now, the biggest pile of junk I have ever driven
apart from my previous Mazda 3.


LOL!

The only saving grace is that the fuel consumption is amazing,
otherwise I could find nothing whatsoever that is positive about the
heap.


It's funny. It was a mate 'giving' me his old Rover 218SD (for 100
quid) that meant I had to get rid of the Sierra and went from 25 to
~50 mpg. At the time that made a big difference to the cost of our
motoring. I'd never had or wanted a Rover ... or a hatchback but the
Rover slowly won itself over as it was still pretty capacious (with
the back seats folded down) and cost next to nothing to keep running
in the 7 years we had it (eventually getting £160 back scrap). ;-)

I think what made it 'good' was that it was basically a Honda Concerto
with a Peugeot engine. ;-)


The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.


The girl opposite has a newish big Pug and one of her biggest
complaints is the electric handbrake. I wonder if they will stop
fitting them? The answer to a question no one asked?

Alas the Focus was brilliant when used daily, running up very high
mileage, giving the old dear a rest does not seem to be beneficial.


You might have just exposed a weak battery or some other simple /
cheap fault and she will live on to drive another day.

Daughter has two Transit Connect Vans (that share many of the Focus
parts) and she just loves driving them. ;-)

Cheers, T i m





alan_m September 16th 18 10:47 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 16/09/2018 14:23, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:


The key has lost contact with the immobiliser receiver. Have you got a
spare key to try?


The key opens the door remotely, so I assume that contact is made.


No. The remote opening for the doors and the immobiliser are two
separate operations in a key fob.

The immobiliser doesn't require a battery in the fob.



Some warning lights go off, none of the engine ones though.



On my ford the engine warning light stayed on until the engine started


--
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Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 11:03 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 21:17:58 +0100, Tim Lamb
wrote:

In message , Archibald
Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
writes
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:24:20 +0100, T i m wrote:

On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 16:10:06 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

I probably shouldn't have bought the Ford, but it was my old company
vehicle.

Nothing wrong with that. I bought (for £25) my old Sierra (2L GL
Estate) after it had been my company car for 10 years and kept it
another 13 years. It was still actually running well the day I chose
to break it myself, just showing some rust and other general wear and
tear (the red paint had gone pink and the dash was cracking up in the
sun etc).

Of all the cars I've had I miss that the most for it's basic
reliability, simplicity and practicality.

Cheers, T i m


Simplicity and reliability. Exactly!

I have a Mazda 3 now, the biggest pile of junk I have ever driven
apart from my previous Mazda 3.

The only saving grace is that the fuel consumption is amazing,
otherwise I could find nothing whatsoever that is positive about the
heap.


The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.



Alas the Focus was brilliant when used daily, running up very high
mileage, giving the old dear a rest does not seem to be beneficial.


Have you looked for a *Focus* forum? There is usually lots of knowledge
on obscure faults with specific models.


Yes, the obvious ones were designed no doubt to extract cash.

I found few answers and on a lot a popup would flash up to reveal a
nice helpful Ford expert willing to provide advice. Probably the same
expert that becomes an instant doctor or vet then comes up to provide
medical or vetinary advice on other sites. If I had the patience a
track of the sites would no doubt be revealing.

I have nothing against paying for services or even advice, but a DIY
group beats anything commercial hands down for the simple reason the
contributors have a genuine interest in the topic and the primary
concern isn't moneymaking.


Something that escapes the idiots in power who assume that there is no
other incentive apart from cash.

AB



Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 11:11 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 22:27:07 +0100, T i m wrote:

On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 19:29:57 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

Simplicity and reliability. Exactly!

I have a Mazda 3 now, the biggest pile of junk I have ever driven
apart from my previous Mazda 3.


LOL!

The only saving grace is that the fuel consumption is amazing,
otherwise I could find nothing whatsoever that is positive about the
heap.


It's funny. It was a mate 'giving' me his old Rover 218SD (for 100
quid) that meant I had to get rid of the Sierra and went from 25 to
~50 mpg. At the time that made a big difference to the cost of our
motoring. I'd never had or wanted a Rover ... or a hatchback but the
Rover slowly won itself over as it was still pretty capacious (with
the back seats folded down) and cost next to nothing to keep running
in the 7 years we had it (eventually getting £160 back scrap). ;-)

I think what made it 'good' was that it was basically a Honda Concerto
with a Peugeot engine. ;-)


The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.


The girl opposite has a newish big Pug and one of her biggest
complaints is the electric handbrake. I wonder if they will stop
fitting them? The answer to a question no one asked?

I rent quite a few cars in Ireland and one that I will never ask for
again was a Dacia [I think that was the name].

The handbrake was bloody useless, I couldn't get it to work properly,
but fortunately the roads were quiet.

I met a Site manager in the UK with one and got talking. It seems that
an "upgrade" is available for a fee. The upgrade is a lever and cables
:-)

Oddly enough out of all the cars I rent, the ones I always seem to
have some niggling problem with are Renaults. I dont think I had one
that didn't have some minor irritation. I avoid the things now. I was
never offered a Mazda either I wonder why ;-)

AB





alan_m September 16th 18 11:15 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 16/09/2018 15:21, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:

I assume this is a computer link with some kind of diagnostics?


You can obtain a OBDII blutooth or USB interface on Ebay for around £10.

For a Ford some free diagnostic software for the PC or smartphone is
available called ForScan.

https://forscan.org/home.html

Connect by a USB OBDII interface (Search on Ebay for "OBDII Forscan" for
compatible devices - possibly pay an extra few quid for UK sellers who
claim to have tested the interface before dispatch)

For bluetooth connection to a smart phone try the free app called Torque
Lite or pay £3 for the Pro version

https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...orque&hl=en_GB

There will be youtube videos showing the operation but with a
non-started engine you may only be able to get a limited amount of
information such as the stored fault codes


There is a test function on the lh stalk and it brings up what seem to
be A/D status information.


On my old Focus there was an easy accessed diagnostic function that only
tested the dash related functionality plus battery voltage. The real
information came from plugging in to the OBDII port[1]. On my 2017 Focus
the steering wheel accessed diagnostics is only a limited function report.

[1] The OBD port will be somewhere in the drivers compartment. In my old
Focus under a removable plastic cover above the brake pedal. In my new
focus its behind a a small drop down storage compartment next to the
steering wheel (squeeze the sides of the compartment to release in to
gain access to the port.)

--
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alan_m September 16th 18 11:22 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 16/09/2018 19:29, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:

The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.



Has got "Hill Start" assist where the car thoughtfully holds the brakes
on as you move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal?

If so - turn it off!


--
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Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 16th 18 11:43 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 23:22:27 +0100, alan_m
wrote:

On 16/09/2018 19:29, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:

The worst thing about it is the electronic handbrake. It does not
always disengage and there is one point on the way home, a roundabout
on a hill where I have had the odd near miss through it.



Has got "Hill Start" assist where the car thoughtfully holds the brakes
on as you move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal?

If so - turn it off!


That didn't come up on the menu.

To be honest, the software on the car is bloody uselss. Trying to turn
off the satnav after destinating is a major feat, so much so that I
dont use it and stick my Garmin on the windscreen.

The "I stop" is another useless function, it comes in in seconds and
causes delays in moving. If I turn it off, it's back on an hour or so
later.

My first Mazda 3 taught me just how totally useless the software was
when it locked itself up with the keys in the ignition.

The number of times I was stuck in traffic unable to pull off was
unbelievable also. It was taken into the garage around nine times
before they replaced the "fuel rack". That finally got it working
again.

It caught fire once and held up traffic on the M40 another time with
smoke pouring oput of the engine compartment. It had stopped smoking
when the fire brigade turned up, but be warned, they are thugs. They
smashed the engine cover and other bits to see if they could find the
cause, even though there wasn't a wisp when they arrived.

I did regret stopping when the smoke got bad, I should really have
carried on until the thing burst into flames.

Mazdas were a temporary blip in the compaies car purchases, they were
all trouble and nearly every one was scrapped at 120K

I really am glad that it isn't my money that was wasted on the pile of
junk. I would by far prefer the Focus, but a nearly 200k Focus that's
a bit thirsty on fuel and oil would probably be questioned if I
claimed a car allowance :-)

AB

Mark September 17th 18 12:14 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:

Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.



One of our customer's had this happen to a focus outside our pub
alarm warning light and engine would not turn over but everything else seemed to work ok
the AA turned up and fixed it within a few minutes well ask what they did when I next see them

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq September 17th 18 04:40 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 23:14:59 -0000 (UTC), Mark wrote:

Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:

Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.



One of our customer's had this happen to a focus outside our pub
alarm warning light and engine would not turn over but everything else seemed to work ok
the AA turned up and fixed it within a few minutes well ask what they did when I next see them


Many thanks, I would appreciate it.

I have one of these OBD things on order, so perhaps it will allow an
alarm reset.


Regards

AB


Tim Lamb[_2_] September 17th 18 08:57 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In message , Archibald
Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
writes
On Sun, 16 Sep 2018 21:17:58 +0100, Tim Lamb
wrote:


Alas the Focus was brilliant when used daily, running up very high
mileage, giving the old dear a rest does not seem to be beneficial.


Have you looked for a *Focus* forum? There is usually lots of knowledge
on obscure faults with specific models.


Yes, the obvious ones were designed no doubt to extract cash.

I found few answers and on a lot a popup would flash up to reveal a
nice helpful Ford expert willing to provide advice. Probably the same
expert that becomes an instant doctor or vet then comes up to provide
medical or vetinary advice on other sites. If I had the patience a
track of the sites would no doubt be revealing.

I have nothing against paying for services or even advice, but a DIY
group beats anything commercial hands down for the simple reason the
contributors have a genuine interest in the topic and the primary
concern isn't moneymaking.


Something that escapes the idiots in power who assume that there is no
other incentive apart from cash.


Ah! Are you suggesting we are altruists at heart?

--
Tim Lamb

Brian Gaff September 17th 18 09:06 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
The other issue with those is that somehow water gets in behind the dash and
corrodes connections and all sorts of bizarre issues ensue until the owner
gets shot of it.
Brian

--
----- --
This newsgroup posting comes to you directly from...
The Sofa of Brian Gaff...

Blind user, so no pictures please
Note this Signature is meaningless.!
"alan_m" wrote in message
...
On 16/09/2018 13:45, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.


The engine warning light may be on normally until the engine is started.

there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.


The key has lost contact with the immobiliser receiver. Have you got a
spare key to try?

--
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Chris B[_2_] September 17th 18 10:30 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 16/09/2018 15:17, Dave Plowman (News) wrote:

Could well be two or more separate faults.

'Trans Fail' used to light on my BMW with low battery volts. Nothing wrong
with the transmission.


+1 with my Ford Focus Zetec (08). Had several "Transmission Failure"
notices last winter before start or just after starting the motor (never
when in motion). As its a manual gearbox I was at a loss to understand
what this message may mean. Anyway turn off motor and restart always
cleared the warning. Battery eventually failed in the cold of last
winter (it was the original) and the "Transmission failure" alert has
not been seen since.


--
Chris B (News)

T i m September 17th 18 11:03 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Mon, 17 Sep 2018 04:40:54 +0100, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq
wrote:

snip

I have one of these OBD things on order, so perhaps it will allow an
alarm reset.


Whilst they can often allow you to reset some (mostly engine?) fault
codes, the more useful feature is being able to display them in the
first place.

The routine is to first see what they are, then reset them, then see
what comes back (as some could have been in there for *years*).

Then you have to try to see if the codes that are coming up are
anything to do with the fault that's actually causing you issues.

If you have a laptop and are interested in playing with such things
I'd second the thought of getting a copy of Forscan and a USB
interfaced Ford optimised OBD dongle. Whilst I believe some of the
pins are standard on the OBD port, others may not be and the more
focused (excuse the pun) interfaces know this.

https://forscan.org/forum/index.php

FWIW, my generic OBD interface worked fairly well on a couple of makes
/ models I tried it on but gave the least information on my mates
Focus. I didn't have Forscan at the time.

Op-Com (clone of VauxCom) works very well on our Meriva and helped me
diagnose a communications fault between the ECU and the BCM. It's
weird to be sitting stationary in the car and making the speedo read
70 mph. ;-)

Cheers, T i m

alan_m September 17th 18 11:04 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 17/09/2018 04:40, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:

I have one of these OBD things on order, so perhaps it will allow an
alarm reset.



An OBD interface connected with appropriate software should allow the
fault codes to be reset and clear a fault light. However having faults
reported doesn't inhibit the car starting - it is the fault itself that
is preventing the car from starting and if the fault is still present
the fault code will re-appear.

The OBD is the tool to help diagnose the faults and not necessarily to
fix them.

Often the fault code will not point to the specific item that is causing
the problem and you probably may/will have to perform an internet search
to find the common faults associated with the code. Smartphone Apps like
Torque often provide the appropriate internet links associated with the
fault code.


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David September 17th 18 11:26 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On Sunday, 16 September 2018 13:45:18 UTC+1, Archibald Tarquin Blenkinsopp Esq wrote:
Just attempted to fire up the Focus hatchback, manual with a zetec
engine. It wont start presumably because the transmission and engine
warning message is displayed.

It was fine when parked up around three weeks ago. The battery is
fine, the lights and other electrics work but there is no attempt to
turn the engine over.

I dissed the battery and the fault is still there.

Anyone had this?

Regards

AB


Did you push the clutch pedal while trying to start it?

The Natural Philosopher[_2_] September 17th 18 11:56 AM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
On 17/09/18 08:57, Tim Lamb wrote:
I have nothing against paying for services or even advice, but a DIY
group beats anything commercial hands down for the simple reason the
contributors have a genuine interest in the topic and the primary
concern isn't moneymaking.


Something that escapes the idiots in power who assume that there is no
other incentive apart from cash.


Ah! Are you suggesting we are altruists at heart?


Self interested people. If you derive pleasure from making it, and it
costs less than something like a film that aslo gives pleaasure, and you
end up with an item of value thereafter....

Hardly altruism. Pure pragmatism that accepts that there are such things
as emotional targets and they have cash value.


--
"And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch".

Gospel of St. Mathew 15:14


Dave Plowman (News) September 17th 18 01:19 PM

Ford Focus "Engine fault" and "Transmission fault"
 
In article ,
Lee wrote:
If it is the case that it is a problem with the RFID chip in the key or
the pick up coil then it will flash the immobiliser LED when trying to
start it.



Good tip - thanks.

--
*It is wrong to ever split an infinitive *

Dave Plowman London SW
To e-mail, change noise into sound.


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