Skip to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.
Ford Owners Club - Ford Forums

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.



Join the Independent Ford Owners' Club

Our community has been built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, and proudly run by Ford owners' for over 18 years. As an independent, non-official club, everything you’ll find here, advice, support, and opinions, comes directly from members with genuine Ford ownership experience.

Join our friendly community... it's Free!

 

1St Use Of Brakes

Colin T
Colin T
in Ford Focus Club

Featured Replies

On my 2000, mk1 Focus 1.8 Zetec I've noticed that the first application of the brakes (foot brake) the brake pedal is very hard and the braking force is negligible.

For the rest of the day the brakes work perfect.

Any ideas on what this could be?

Thanks

  • Quote


    Sounds like a problem with the brake servo. Can't think what though.

    You can test the servo as follows:- before starting the engine pump the brake pedal until it feels hard (to destroy the vacuum). Keep pressure on the pedal and start the engine. If the servo is working the pedal should move down slightly.

  • Quote
    • Author

    Sounds like a problem with the brake servo. Can't think what though.

    You can test the servo as follows:- before starting the engine pump the brake pedal until it feels hard (to destroy the vacuum). Keep pressure on the pedal and start the engine. If the servo is working the pedal should move down slightly.

    Thanks, I will try this tomorrow morning

  • Quote

    Thanks, I will try this tomorrow morning

    Ford Focus 1999 - 2003

    Problem: For the first two minutes of driving, there is a particularly hard brake pedal.

    Solution: A common problem is reduced brake booster assistance caused by low manifold vacuum. The solution is to fit a new revised brake booster vacuum hose and air cleaner outlet tube and have the PCM (Powertrain Control Module, ECM) cleared of codes and reprogrammed.

  • Quote

    • Latest Deals

    Ford UK Shop for genuine Ford parts & accessories

    Disclaimer: As the club is an eBay Partner, The club may be compensated if you make a purchase via the club

    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

    Guest
    Reply to this topic...
    Go to topic listing

    The "Digestive"

    • The Digestive Forum Roundup (24th May - 31st May 2026)

      Steve ·
      The Digestive Forum Roundup (24th May - 31st May 2026) We hope this email finds you well and enjoying your week. As always, our forum has been buzzing with activity, so we’ve compiled the highlights for you. Plenty of interesting discussions are taking place, especially around the Ford Focus and Fiesta models. Starting off with the Focus, many members have been discussing issues with the Emergency Call System, particularly in the Mk4 model. PLB raised concerns about persistent malfunctions, a se
      Steve
      Steve
      • 194 views





    Background Picker
    Customize Layout

    Account

    Navigation

    Search

    Search

    Configure browser push notifications
    Chrome (Android)
    1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
    2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
    3. Adjust your preference.
    Chrome (Desktop)
    1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
    2. Select Site settings.
    3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.