2005 Ford Focus ZX3 dies when gas is not applied

Asked by KristiWalker Dec 14, 2016 at 03:11 PM about the 2005 Ford Focus ZX3 SE

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I feel like I've been through it all with this car.  First let me point out that the
check engine light is on due to one of the IMRC control valves being stuck in
the open position. (P2004) It's the only code given.  Aside from that, my car
has begun stalling whenever I take my foot off the gas.  It's as if there is no
idle at all.  It continues constantly for days or weeks, then starts running
smoothly again.  At times I experience what feels like a huge drop in the idle,
some sputtering like it wants to die, then it idles back up when the A/C
compressor kicks in.  Weird?  I think so.  Second issue: I recently replaced
my headlights and one of them doesn't connect well in the wiring socket or
something because it runs the gamut in brightness, from fully on to dim, to
completely unlit.  Interesting tidbit: When my car is running and not dying at
stop lights the light increases in brightness (if dim or not on at all) as I'm
slowing down to make a stop.  I can watch the bright light indicator (which is
lit because the headlight isn't) slowly dim on my dash. Last issue:  My battery
light keeps coming on randomly, without any rhyme or reason.  I've had the
auto shop check the alternator (which was replaced 4 months ago) and the
battery.  Turns out the battery had a dead cell, so replaced it, but the
alternator tested perfect.  Battery light still comes on.  I don't sense any loss
of power or anything wrong when it comes on but it stays lit for 30 seconds to
5 minutes.  If anyone has any insight at all I'd be greatly appreciative!

2 Answers

20

try replacing the tps {throttle position sensor that's a common problem

2 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

2005 Ford Focus

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Savoy_1800
    Reputation
    3,260
  • #2
    dandyoun
    Reputation
    2,570
  • #3
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    2,380
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Fusion
721 Great Deals out of 9,105 listings starting at $1,600
Used Ford Fiesta
158 Great Deals out of 1,968 listings starting at $1,250
Used Honda Civic
1,371 Great Deals out of 29,067 listings starting at $600
Used Ford Mustang
877 Great Deals out of 23,035 listings starting at $1,150
Used Toyota Corolla
1,663 Great Deals out of 24,787 listings starting at $975
Used Toyota Camry
2,091 Great Deals out of 37,807 listings starting at $575
Used Ford Escape
2,305 Great Deals out of 45,571 listings starting at $475
Used Honda Accord
1,513 Great Deals out of 29,433 listings starting at $600
Used Ford F-150
6,060 Great Deals out of 130,219 listings starting at $1,500
Used Hyundai Elantra
956 Great Deals out of 26,939 listings starting at $650
Used Chevrolet Malibu
969 Great Deals out of 20,140 listings starting at $700
Used Volkswagen Golf GTI
137 Great Deals out of 3,940 listings starting at $2,995

Used Cars for Sale

2018 Ford Focus For Sale
67 Great Deals out of 833 listings starting at $4,750
2017 Ford Focus For Sale
65 Great Deals out of 722 listings starting at $5,199
2016 Ford Focus For Sale
56 Great Deals out of 659 listings starting at $4,170
2015 Ford Focus For Sale
42 Great Deals out of 566 listings starting at $1,250
2014 Ford Focus For Sale
88 Great Deals out of 878 listings starting at $750

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.