Ford reports that the engines on some 2000-11 Focus models may vibrate excessively when the transmission is in gear. According to the car maker, the vibration is most prevalent when the gearshift lever is in reverse, and is due to stones, pebbles, ice or snow lodging in the rear engine roll restrictor. Clearing the restrictor of debris and installing a special service shield, part No. 2M5Z-16102-AB, over it should prevent further problems.
Start the repair by putting the car on a lift. Using a flat-bladed screwdriver, scrape the area between the crossmember and roll restrictor until all the debris is removed. Now remove the roll restrictor-to-crossmember retaining bolt. Position the service shield over the roll restrictor, as shown in the illustration above, then reinstall the retaining bolt. To complete the fix, torque the bolt to 35 ft.-lbs. on 2000-07 vehicles; 52 ft.-lbs. on 2008-11 models.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].