Owners of 2005-06 Focus models with MTX-75 manual gearboxes may complain that it's difficult or impossible to put the car into gear. Ford says the problem only affects vehicles built between April 6, 2005 and Aug. 16, 2005, and is due to the gearshift cable detaching from the transaxle. Installing a revised cable with an updated retention system, part No. 3S4Z-7E395-GB, should eliminate the shifting troubles.
"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].