Wake Up Ford!!!!

[PETE_XR6]

With the constant letters in Melbourne's Herald sun and other newspapers around Australia about brake problems , ball joints , paint quality issues and the recall of BF FG LPG sedan , wagon and ute . Isn't it about time Ford came out and gave an interview to reassure the public and do a bit of PR work?? This is a good opportunity for the new CEO to fly the flag and stop hiding behind his desk . I know some friends and relatives that will no longer buy Ford cars because of the quality issues and brake problems they had with the Territory . There are serious problem with build quality at Ford and these need to be addressed and it starts with the CEO . If this isn't addressed I will no longer buy Ford cars .

[cob115]

mmm ur right ,as for me i wont buy a new ford again,unless some thing comes along thats a lot better than there doing now,may be a a GT 40 woohoo.but then again i wouldnt buy any new car be it holden ford etc,love my old school stuff to much ,only thinking this morning driving in to work in the XA theres no alarms going of cos i ant got my seat belt on or i left my lights on etc

[Wally]

You're not seriously suggesting a car from the seventies is better than an FG? Good God man, this is the 21st century. Try it, you might like it. :

[cob115]

Originally Posted by Wally

You're not seriously suggesting a car from the seventies is better than an FG? Good God man, this is the 21st century. Try it, you might like it. :

not at all its just my personal choice,but i reckon the way things are going ford n holden are both on borrowed time making cars in australia,n with quality problems not being adressed buy ford it makes me less likely to even concider buying a new ford again,my last new ford was in 1996 new fairlaine,great car $45k back then jeees sold it last year for 5k,but i gotto say i get more fun out of driving my xa than the latest GT

[Wally]

Originally Posted by cob115

not at all its just my personal choice,but i reckon the way things are going ford n holden are both on borrowed time making cars in australia,n with quality problems not being adressed buy ford it makes me less likely to even concider buying a new ford again,my last new ford was in 1996 new fairlaine,great car $45k back then jeees sold it last year for 5k,but i gotto say i get more fun out of driving my xa than the latest GT

Refreshing to see you have a sense of humour. I must admit I'm very naive when it comes to quality issues with both Ford and Holden, because I tend to think of them as minor agenda items.

In regard to responses blaming the media, I think the OP was referring to general public gripes, not journalists? If a member has a personal product grievance, shouldn't he be allowed to voice that in a Forum dedicated to that product, without being fobbed off?

[4Vman]

Originally Posted by Wally

Refreshing to see you have a sense of humour. I must admit I'm very naive when it comes to quality issues with both Ford and Holden, because I tend to think of them as minor agenda items.

In regard to responses blaming the media, I think the OP was referring to general public gripes, not journalists? If a member has a personal product grievance, shouldn't he be allowed to voice that in a Forum dedicated to that product, without being fobbed off?

Agree totally wally, that's why the forum has model specific areas for members to vent about their specific issues that their model has... most will find the problem is common, and has been discussed, solved or addressed.
These "issues" are neither better or worse than anything Ford has encountered either now or in the past, or any other car manufacturer either for that matter.

For a CEO to come out to make a "public statement" about standard recall or warranty processes or issues would appear "alarmist" and somewhat dangerous IMO, most consumers of their products would not be aware or most issues the car manufacturers face on a daily basis.... To "stick your head" up would probably scare customers off...

[4Vman]

This is a pointless topic...

[PETE_XR6]

Originally Posted by 4Vman

This is a pointless topic...

How is it pointless ? when I have 2 relatives that bought new Territories with quality issues and brake problems both will never buy Fords again

[4Vman]

Originally Posted by PETE_XR6

How is it pointless ? when I have 2 relatives that bought new Territories with quality issues and brake problems both will never buy Fords again

There are more appropriate threads regarding this in the Terri section to address your specific points, or threads in other "model specific" sections if you have personal issues with other Ford models... but a mindless broad brush rant here wont solve or achieve anything other than whip up another "Witch hunt" against Ford....

[PETE_XR6]

Originally Posted by 4Vman

There are more appropriate threads regarding this in the Terri section to address your specific points, or threads in other "model specific" sections if you have personal issues with other Ford models... but a mindless broad brush rant here wont solve or achieve anything other than whip up another "Witch hunt" against Ford....

sounds like you work for the ford marketing department

[HSE2]

Originally Posted by PETE_XR6

sounds like you work for the ford marketing department

I thought the terri was recalled???

[4Vman]

Originally Posted by PETE_XR6

sounds like you work for the ford marketing department

Not at all... i just think mindless rants achieve nothing without addressing specifics.
Each model has specific issues, its not a uniquely "Ford" paradigm either.. every car manufacturer has its set of "issues" for each of their models.
To add weight to a position you need to address that issue specifically, the best place to do that is in the appropriate model area, where more likely than not its been discussed previously, and at length, possibly with a solution too... Pretty sure Ford have fixed the terri issues with a recall?
Sweeping emotional statement achieve little....

[JPFS1]

Originally Posted by 4Vman

There are more appropriate threads regarding this in the Terri section to address your specific points, or threads in other "model specific" sections if you have personal issues with other Ford models... but a mindless broad brush rant here wont solve or achieve anything other than whip up another "Witch hunt" against Ford....

I don't think it's that bad.

I think the OP has raised some valid points here and raised them respectfully. I can't see the issue of raising this as a broader topic.

The lack of response here from Ford, whether it be Marin/Russell Christophers etc, is damaging. Reputations are gained and lost on the back of media spin no matter what we would like to think.

I think these issues warranted some form of response from Ford, it is disappointing that it hasn't come.

[ltd]

Originally Posted by 4Vman

This is a pointless topic...

Agreed.

[DJR-351]

Originally Posted by 4Vman

This is a pointless topic...

Back on topic...
I think the OP has raised some valid points, i to know plenty of old die hard Ford buyers that are turning to other makes due not so much the faults with the cars on offer, but Fords seemingly lack of intrest in reasuring their regular customers/supporters that the issues are being delt with.....

It goes hand in hand with the lack of promotion of their product, they just dont seem to give a dam about what the media say, that is why other makes get a free reign, loyalty alone will not support a product if the producer of said product does not back it up...

[merlin]

The problem is that Holden has just as many problems if not more, but the media isn't interested in badmouthing their darling. The VE is absolutley plagued with electrical gremlins, yet you don't here a thing about it.

Take Carsguide the most biased of them all. All it has talked about for the last 3 months is Ford quality problems - fine, if justified but where is the balanced reporting about other makes?

For e.g. there was a letter a bloke wrote in about the illegible guages in the Commodore. Carsguide addressed his letter by twisting it to talk about how badly designed the guages and switch gear are in BA-FG. Didn't even mention Holden at all. Now I have driven a gazillion cars and I love the layout of the Falcon cockpit. This is biased reporting at the extreme.

Its really hard to win a battle against the media unfortunatly - what Ford should be doing is putting pressure on the editors of these publications threatening to pull advertising $$$ unless more balanced reporting is printed - that and continue positive PR work behind the scenes (which they already do).

[tapeworm]

Originally Posted by merlin

The problem is that Holden has just as many problems if not more, but the media isn't interested in badmouthing their darling. The VE is absolutley plagued with electrical gremlins, yet you don't here a thing about it.

Take Carsguide the most biased of them all. All it has talked about for the last 3 months is Ford quality problems - fine, if justified but where is the balanced reporting about other makes?

For e.g. there was a letter a bloke wrote in about the illegible guages in the Commodore. Carsguide addressed his letter by twisting it to talk about how badly designed the guages and switch gear are in BA-FG. Didn't even mention Holden at all. Now I have driven a gazillion cars and I love the layout of the Falcon cockpit. This is biased reporting at the extreme.

Its really hard to win a battle against the media unfortunatly - what Ford should be doing is putting pressure on the editors of these publications threatening to pull advertising $$$ unless more balanced reporting is printed - that and continue positive PR work behind the scenes (which they already do).

Antother classic with the Friday Carsguide months back-loaded every week for months about how Ford is stuffed as the 4 litre engine was due to cease and that they wer'nt exporting cars like Holden. Pretty sure I only saw a small article last week about Holden being totally safe from anything going on in the USA and they can continue their 'Red Lion' success without a blip. It is a real biased setup and it's very obvious.

My old man is a standard joe public with an interest in cars but not an extreme enthusiast. He reads the Carsguide and thinks Ford are stuffed.

[HSE2]

ok...

[HSE2]

In that case I will rush down and get a copy. I feel left out not knowing. Back in 5 ;)

[LeadFoot81]

I agree, Burela needs to get out and do an interview or hold a press conference or something. At least assure the public these problems have stopped with the FG and updated Territory (and better still replace all the faulty brake lines; it may cost Ford money now but the in the future it could mean keeping a lot of people on board to buy more new cars with Ford)

Originally Posted by PETE_XR6

With the constant letters in Melbourne's Herald sun and other newspapers around Australia about brake problems , ball joints , paint quality issues and the recall of BF FG LPG sedan , wagon and ute . Isn't it about time Ford came out and gave an interview to reassure the public and do a bit of PR work?? This is a good opportunity for the new CEO to fly the flag and stop hiding behind his desk . I know some friends and relatives that will no longer buy Ford cars because of the quality issues and brake problems they had with the Territory . There are serious problem with build quality at Ford and these need to be addressed and it starts with the CEO . If this isn't addressed I will no longer buy Ford cars .

[winkle]

I agree that Carsguide has been giving Ford a hard time lately. But cast you mind back two or three years ago (maybe more?) and they equally gave Holden a hard time when they were having issue with piston slap and oil consumption in the V8's.

Carsguide definitely has a Holden bias, though.

[Jason[98.EL]]

looks like ford are recalling the lpg cars ect

but typical that carsguide start it like that

Ford's battered reputation has taken another hit with the company recalling 20,864 LPG cars.

The recall involves all BF Series II and III and the new FG Falcon sedan, wagon and utility fitted with the factory-fitted LPG system, called E-Gas, which are popular with fleets and tradies.

The cars affected were built from January 16, 2007 to August 22, 2008.

The defect involves the brake booster check valve, which may develop a vacuum leak.

Related Coverage
Ford recalls Focus and MondeoFord won’t recall faulty FalconsFord Territory recall: Q&AFord Territory recallFord spokesman, Justin Lacy, said the valve can develop a leak, leading to reduced power assistance for the brakes.

Details of the latest recall surfaced on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's website last Friday, ahead of the holiday weekend but have, until now, slipped under the radar.

Worried owners should contact their local Ford dealer or Ford's customer relations line on 1800 503 672.

In recent months Ford has been hit with a range of glitches that are damaging its hard-fought reputation.

In March it was forced to recall 83,000 SX and SY Territorys to replace front brake hoses after widespread consumer reports of brake failures.

The Herald Sun's Carsguide has uncovered a raft of quality problems at Broadmeadows after months of consumer complaints covering everything from brakes to rust and paint.

The most recent concerns relate to front balljoint failures on high-mileage Territorys.

In addition, Ford last month recalled its Focus and Mondeos to check problem with brake vacuum pumps.

The recall for the LV Focus and MA Mondeo, built since last year, only affects those with a diesel engine.

Ford says under certain conditions the supply of vacuum to the brake booster may be reduced causing a hard brake pedal and increase stopping distances.

Ford is contacting known owners by mail.

In March, Ford recalled more than 83,000 Territorys to fix a brake hose defect which was uncovered by Carsguide after complaints from readers.

[turbo4me]

Well i have had my BA Turbo since 2005 and have had only one issue with it(destroyed gearbox) which was my fault.

If i had the bread i would be into a new one.Absolutely love them.

[Fordman1]

The letter about the paint peel on the 'Shockwave Blue' XR6 is interesting.

Bought second hand from a dealer (re: used car warranty).

Shockwave finished in BA / BF didn't it ?

Has the car been repainted after a crash ?

No question about that from Cars Guide, they just talk up the need to take it back to 'Ford', is that where it came from as a used car ? Or was it somewhere else....no mention or questions about that either.

More ammo however for them to bag out Ford...

[Auslandau]

Originally Posted by turbo4me

Well i have had my BA Turbo since 2005 and have had only one issue with it(destroyed gearbox) which was my fault.

If i had the bread i would be into a new one.Absolutely love them.

2004 Xr6 and still going with no issues and never been off the road. Hand brake has been adjusted 3 times ...... no complaints what so ever.

All manufacturers have dramas with their cars ... its just some get more attention than others. Ford can do nothing but keep making damn good cars which is what they are doing. A statement would be a disaster.



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[Iggypoppin']

Originally Posted by auslandau

2004 Xr6 and still going with no issues and never been off the road. Hand brake has been adjusted 3 times ...... no complaints what so ever.

All manufacturers have dramas with their cars ... its just some get more attention than others. Ford can do nothing but keep making damn good cars which is what they are doing. A statement would be a disaster.

Differential, handbrake, brake hoses, general shoddy interior and no doors locking whatsoever in my 2004 xr6. And while I realize some cars are doomed to be lemons, I don't think it's fair to lump all cars of one model into a category. You obviously have a decent XR, and I obviously don't. Just like car X from car brand X might be rubbish, but car Y from brand X might be fantastic. Just goes to show not everyone is person

[Kingsley]

CarsGuide's cheif editor is Paul Gover. For those who don't know much of Paul's journolistic 'talent', or forgot who he was, a quick refresher.
Paul Gover was the journolist who wrote the famous 1987 Canberra Times article on Peter Brocks 'Polariser'. Gover claimed he physically felt the enormous difference when Brock was road testing a Commodore which was fitted with the device, as opposed to when it was removed. Most other journo's, including those loyal to Brock, put it down to the different driving style of Brock. Classic snake oil salesmanship. Aggresive and struggling without the polariser, suddenly smooth and controlled with it installed. Gover fell for it hook, line and sinker. Phil Scott was one of those who was cut from the Brock inner circle when he stated that while he couldn't prove or disprove the theory that the Polariser worked, it was clear Brock driving the car differently to exagerate the point.
The reward for Gover was a career writing glowing articles about Brock and Holden. He then transferred his enormous 'talent' over to HRT where he wrote 'unbiased' motorsport reports the safety and confines of the HRT pit garage.....
Ford has issues that need addressing. But so does everyone else. But if your sweating on a balanced and unbiased opinion from Gover and friends, read elsewhere. For me personally, the man has zero credibility as a journolist.

[phillyc]

Originally Posted by kingy351

CarsGuide's cheif editor is Paul Gover. For those who don't know much of Paul's journolistic 'talent', or forgot who he was, a quick refresher.
Paul Gover was the journolist who wrote the famous 1987 Canberra Times article on Peter Brocks 'Polariser'. Gover claimed he physically felt the enormous difference when Brock was road testing a Commodore which was fitted with the device, as opposed to when it was removed. Most other journo's, including those loyal to Brock, put it down to the different driving style of Brock. Classic snake oil salesmanship. Aggresive and struggling without the polariser, suddenly smooth and controlled with it installed. Gover fell for it hook, line and sinker. Phil Scott was one of those who was cut from the Brock inner circle when he stated that while he couldn't prove or disprove the theory that the Polariser worked, it was clear Brock driving the car differently to exagerate the point.
The reward for Gover was a career writing glowing articles about Brock and Holden. He then transferred his enormous 'talent' over to HRT where he wrote 'unbiased' motorsport reports the safety and confines of the HRT pit garage.....
Ford has issues that need addressing. But so does everyone else. But if your sweating on a balanced and unbiased opinion from Gover and friends, read elsewhere. For me personally, the man has zero credibility as a journolist.

Just to add to that, Smithy of "Ask Smithy" is an ex-Holden engineer which why he has previously said "l'll refer that to the good people at Holden" when a reader complained about an 'awful insect guts colour' fitted to Falcons. But Smithy actually realised it was a Holden colour (due to the description of the car.) Never mind the headline to that letter was 'Ugly Ford Colour'...

Can't let integrity get in the way of a good Ford bagging it seems. Shame as the daily tele has a massive circulation. But maybe that explains Ford's terrible market share in Sydney. GMHolden is very strong by comparison.

[benoxr]

Ford 25, Holden 26, Toyota 27 since 2005 so I don't think the CEO has a real need to jump with the media hype.
Ford Recalls
2009
Ford Motor Company of Australia Limited—Certain Ford LV Focus and MA Mondeo Models fitted with DW10 Diesel Engine—Brake Vacuum Pump
Ford—Ford BF Series II/III and FG Falcon E-Gas—Brake Booster Check Valve
Ford—SX and SY Territory—Front Brake Hoses
2008
Ford—2.4L Diesel RWD Transit models
Ford—Capri SE models
Ford—Certain F Series Vehicles equipped with Speed Control—Speed Control System modification (Refer to Recall numbers 2007/9665 - 22/11/2007 and 2006/8836 - 19/10/2006)
Ford—F Series and Econoline
Ford—SE Capri speed control system modification
Ford—Transit RWD—Axle Shaft End Play
Ford—VM Transit—Power Assisted Steering (PAS) Pump Connection
Ford—WX Fiesta and VM Transit—Front End Accessory Drive Belt
2007
Ford—BF11 E-Gas Falcon—LPG Service Valve Hand Tap
Ford—Certain VM Transit Models—Front Strut to Knuckle Clamping Bolt
Ford—E-Gas Ford Falcon BFII various models—LPG tanks
Ford—Falcon—LPG Service Valve Hand Tap
Ford—Fiesta—Steering column
Ford—JH Econovan—Front lower control arms ball joint securing bolts torque
Ford—UQ & US Explorer, 1999/2000 F Series, 1997 Lincoln Town Car vehicles equipped with speed control—Speed Control System modification (Refer to Recall number 2006/8836 - 19/10/2006)
Ford—VM Transit —Front Shock Absorber Lower Securing Bolt
Ford—WQ Fiesta & VM Transit—Front End Accessory Drive Belt
Ford—WX Fiesta—Steering Column
2006
Ford—UP Explorer—Speed Control System modification
2005
Ford—Econovan JH—rear brake link plate and rear brake idle lever replacement
Ford—Explorer Vehicles 2002 model year UT & certain 2003 model year UX
Ford—JH Econovan—Models built from March 2004 to Feb 2005

Holden Recalls
2008
Holden—CG Captiva Model Year 2008 LX and 60th Anniversary Models—Side Indicator Lamp Malfunction
Holden—JF Viva Wagon
Holden—VE and WM models
Holden—VE Current and Ex Police/Emergency Service Vehicle—Surveillance Mode
Holden—VZ vehicles equipped with Side Airbags
2007
Holden—Captiva—Brake Pedal Retaining Clip
Holden—Cruze—Front passenger SRS airbag
Holden—RA Rodeo—Brake Master Cylinder
Holden—VE & VZ Series Vehicles—LPG Service Valve Hand Tap
2006
Holden—Commodore VE & WM Series—Fuel Hose
Holden—Commodore VE & WM Series—Rear Seat Belt Buckle
Holden—UBS Jackaroo and Monterey
Holden—VY SS Crewman
Holden—VY, VY2, V2, VZ, WK and WL variant vehicles
Holden—VZ/WL vehicles
Holden—XC Barina, Combo & Tigra—ABS Brakes
Holden—YG Cruze Driveshaft Circlip Replacement
2005
Holden—509 XC Combo model Tyres
Holden—RA Rodeo
Holden—TS Astra Convertible
Holden—VY Adventra
Holden—VZ Commodore & WL Statesman/Caprice
Holden—VZ Crewman (Storm Pack)
Holden—VZ Diagnostic Link Connector
Holden—VZ/WL—Front Brake Hose Retaining Clip
Holden—XC Barina

[Auslandau]

........ sorry to hear about your problems and you are right. Some cars just seem to be 'wrong' for one reason or another.

On top of that, mine was an ex Telstra car (can tell by the auto lights) and bought in early '06 so I have had it for a while and I dont treat it too well.



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