LZ Focus (Thai Models) - Page 11

Steve7181 · 07-05-2016, 04:39 PM

Due to a few delays with my lease company i picked up my sport today which was a feb build with 32k's on the clock. The magnetic colour in the showroom looked a little dark for my liking but as soon as it went out into the sunlight wow it shows off all the lines of the car and looks amazing so very happy and looks way better in the flesh compared to the brochure. I might look at maybe using plastidip to make the wheels black to really set it off. I park under big eucalyptus trees so whether it hides the dirt well is just a matter of time.
I really enjoyed the 80 odd klms i drove today and found unless i looked at the tacho i didn't even notice the auto start stop. I am pretty rubbish with anything tech related but had no issues with sync 2 setting destinations, reading my texts, tuning the radio and controlling the a/c all while driving. I havnt put the full boot into it yet and im realistic that it isn't a sportscar but it feels it would easily destroy my golf and mini cooper. Ive bought and sold alot of cars in my time but this one is leaving me with a smile as i write this as i think its the trifecta in being good looking, practical and fun. There will possibly be a new cold air intake and maybe even a flash tune in the future but i am so glad i went with the ford.

CatonaPC© · 07-05-2016, 10:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

feb build with 32k's on the clock.

Umm, you do mean 32km on the clock and not 32,000km?

Anyway, congratulations.

Steve7181 · 07-05-2016, 11:18 PM

Yeah 32km on the clock lol.
One thing i found pretty good for peace of mind was that the engine comes pre run in (so to speak) from the factory. Motorbike engines have been doing this for awhile although not too sure about cars but it means you don't have to baby a new engine like you did in the past. It doesn't mean take a new car to a drag strip but means you can drive as you normally would without the risk of damage. I still think it is a bad idea to sit on a constant rev for long periods. It answered my question to ford about how a new engine can go 15000 before its first oil change

Steve7181 · 07-05-2016, 11:58 PM

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FalconForce · 08-05-2016, 09:27 AM

I picked up my Magnetic Focus Trend in December last year, put 7K on it and had a few issues with it already, it's been back to ford 4 times now, with navigation and stereo issues (playing Adele's "Hello" at full volume"), one case in which it wouldn't go into reverse, the surround on my gear selector was already worn out of the showroom, the front air vent rattling and such, not to mention the loud as hell exhaust rattle/noise that sounds like there is a large group of dying cats stuck in there..

I mean I'm in love with this car, but is it just me or is there a bit of a quality issue with these?

frankie86 · 08-05-2016, 09:53 AM

We have a October 15 build titanium, we have put 10,500 on it so far, and not one issue as of yet, seems to be bolted well together well but time will tell

FalconForce · 08-05-2016, 10:06 AM

I must be one of the unlucky ones or maybe I'm too picky.

For the most part, it's a solid car with no major issues as of yet. But, just niggling little things that annoy the christ out of me. I'm not expecting a Bentley build quality here but I'd like to drive without all the weird noises. haha

CatonaPC© · 09-05-2016, 10:12 AM

I have had Navigation, Bluetooth and USB connection problems. Solution is to master reset things but it has happened three times and I'm not sure why it's happening.

CatonaPC© · 09-05-2016, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

One thing i found pretty good for peace of mind was that the engine comes pre run in (so to speak) from the factory. Motorbike engines have been doing this for awhile. . .

The engines are not pre-run. Modern engines are built to much finer tolerances than in the past using computer aided design and manufacturing processes. They are virtually blueprinted.

And this has been happening for while. The last time I had to run-in a new car I bought was in 1983. By the time new cars started rolling out of factories in the 90s, the 'run-in' era had virtually disappeared.

csfulton · 09-05-2016, 02:56 PM

The car computer said it had 6 hours on the clock but only 32km travailed when picked up. It might be run in.

Mad_Pom · 09-05-2016, 04:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CatonaPC©

I have had Navigation, Bluetooth and USB connection problems. Solution is to master reset things but it has happened three times and I'm not sure why it's happening.

I hear it is a software issue on all Sync 2. I have had the issue on my Focus and Everest. I used to pull the fuse for Sync, but now know a short cut (the equivalent of CTRL-ALT-DEL) Hold down audio power and press the search forward '>>|'. The screen goes blank for about 30 seconds and then completes a full reboot of Sync. Much easier than the menus or pulling fuses.

What do you expect when you have Windows as an operating system.

CatonaPC© · 09-05-2016, 10:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mad_Pom

I used to pull the fuse for Sync, but now know a short cut (the equivalent of CTRL-ALT-DEL) Hold down audio power and press the search forward '>>|'. The screen goes blank for about 30 seconds and then completes a full reboot of Sync. Much easier than the menus or pulling fuses.

What do you expect when you have Windows as an operating system.

Many thanks. I will give that a go next time. Glad I am not the only one experiencing the problem.

CatonaPC© · 09-05-2016, 11:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by csfulton

The car computer said it had 6 hours on the clock but only 32km travailed when picked up. It might be run in.

The '6 hours' is probably unrelated. They do start these things up on the production line, of course, and I'm sure they run a full suite diagnostics to check the car, but actually run the car for six hours? I think the two numbers are unrelated.

Steve7181 · 09-05-2016, 11:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CatonaPC©

The last time I had to run-in a new car I bought was in 1983. By the time new cars started rolling out of factories in the 90s, the 'run-in' era had virtually disappeared.

I was aware the engines were made to a more precise standard but no one had mentioned a zero required run in period until i purchased a new triumph in 2014. I get a new vehicle fairly regularly and now am just looking back at wasted chances to be in the fast lane 😧.

I put a nice little scratch on the front lip of the spoiler parking at work today, its not too bad but will have to be more careful in the future.

Focii · 11-05-2016, 12:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

I put a nice little scratch on the front lip of the spoiler parking at work today, its not too bad but will have to be more careful in the future.

I did this on a driveway the day I picked it up :( mine isn't too bad either (you only see it if you crawl to look underneath). I'm super aware of the front lip now and reverse into most parking spots.

I'm seeing more and more on the road now. Saw one from Queensland in Sydney the other day... I want to do a really long distance trip in mine as I reckon it'd be a joy/challenge to see how low I can get the fuel consumption.

rustyinsthoz · 17-05-2016, 08:26 PM

After 3 months wait, finally pick up my Sport tomorrow. Be nice to have a cars again. Be the first time I have driven a manual in that time as well.

NormM67 · 17-05-2016, 11:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rustyinsthoz

After 3 months wait, finally pick up my Sport tomorrow. Be nice to have a cars again. Be the first time I have driven a manual in that time as well.

Enjoy mate!! I hadn't driven a manual for a couple of years when I got mine. Took a little while to get used to using a clutch again but only took a day or two. Spun the wheels a few time taking off from the lights in those first few days but all good now

Steve7181 · 24-05-2016, 06:38 PM

I went to two performance fabricators today as i couldn't find a pre designed aftermarket cai and was told that getting a custom setup would hardly be worthwhile as the standard setup looks very efficient and the changes would only be minor. I have ordered a new k&n pod filter to replace the stock one so looking forward to its arrival.
I only have 1000km on the clock but loving the car and the only things i can fault is that my stop start engages when cold before the car has any temp at all but hit the button and its turned off and also the flaw on the drivers side creaks when i get in or out (i only weigh 75kgs). Minor issues with what is a great car to drive.

NormM67 · 24-05-2016, 06:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

I have ordered a new k&n pod filter to replace the stock one so looking forward to its arrival.

I'll be very interested in how the new filter goes. I've been looking at them but they seem a bit pricey (then again, I've probably spent more on waxes/polishes and other car care products lately

)

I have the same problem with stop/start of a morning. I want the car to warm up so always disable it for the first ten minutes.

Steve7181 · 24-05-2016, 07:02 PM

http://focusonperformance.com.au/k-n...emovable-bung/

I think this came to just under $170 with postage and hopefully will fit straight in but time will tell. There is a custom airbox lid but to get it as a package pushes the price to around $400 and one of the reviews says it fits in the std box so fingers crossed. There are heaps of cheaper ones out there but i figure no point getting something that will be rubbish. Ill post if it fits and my thoughts on it when it arrives.

csfulton · 24-05-2016, 09:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

I only have 1000km

Only a thousand. JESUS. I hit that on the first weekend. I'm coming up to 6,800km. I am almost halfway to my next service.

This car is amazing around tracks. Although, I seriously wish I could disable the stability control. Maybe with a firmware patch? HINT HINT FORD.

Let us know how that pod goes.

NormM67 · 24-05-2016, 09:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

http://focusonperformance.com.au/k-n...emovable-bung/

I think this came to just under $170 with postage and hopefully will fit straight in but time will tell. There is a custom airbox lid but to get it as a package pushes the price to around $400 and one of the reviews says it fits in the std box so fingers crossed. There are heaps of cheaper ones out there but i figure no point getting something that will be rubbish. Ill post if it fits and my thoughts on it when it arrives.

Thanks mate, your opinion/results would be great.

Yeah I was looking at the K&N that included the cover. Pretty pricey for a piece of plastic. I'm also interested in what a tune would do as well, may wait until the warranty has expired for that mod though so a couple of years away for that

Don't want to void my warranty. At least the old filter can be swapped back in for services so they wouldn't have anything to complain about.

CatonaPC© · 25-05-2016, 09:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by csfulton

Although, I seriously wish I could disable the stability control.

In the US and possibly other markets, ESC can be switched off via driver's onscreen display. In nanny states it can only be switched off by selecting reverse.

CatonaPC© · 25-05-2016, 09:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

I went to two performance fabricators today as i couldn't find a pre designed aftermarket cai and was told that getting a custom setup would hardly be worthwhile as the standard setup looks very efficient and the changes would only be minor. I have ordered a new k&n pod filter to replace the stock one so looking forward to its arrival.

What advantage would this new filter provide? Given that you were told by performance specialists that the current setup is "very efficient", why do you feel you still want to make a change?

Steve7181 · 25-05-2016, 12:06 PM

Quote:

What advantage would this new filter provide? Given that you were told by performance specialists that the current setup is "very efficient", why do you feel you still want to make a change?

I was told that a deflector plate in the front grill could increase airflow but gains would be very minor and the main area i was interested in was replacing the piping but was told the original tube is fairly compact and direct so they were happy to replace it with something ceramic coated to keep the cold air more insulated from the heat of the engine but said the design would not give many results.
Replacing a stock filter with a well designed aftermarket i feel is a must do for all cars as if the car breathes better it will perform better. The restrictive stock filter limits performance keeping pretty much a cap on fuel economy and induction noise levels to a minimum. Replacing the filter will give slightly more induction noise and with spirited driving will use more fuel but for general driving will be better on economy as the car won't have to suck as hard to produce power. Ford has an optional 'mountune brand' performance package that it offers from the factory for the st range with an upgraded filter so the chances of a warranty void are pretty much non existent. With a good filter your economy increases and because its washable you save money on services as it doesn't need replacing so it will pay for itself. Im a fan of the k&n design because of the removable 'bung' which when in place works as a silencer. Ive installed a pod before on a custom setup and it sounded so loud it became a annoying over time.

Steve7181 · 25-05-2016, 12:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by csfulton

Only a thousand. JESUS. I hit that on the first weekend.

Haha yeah unfortunately ive been working 11 days a fortnight so i have only been doing small commutes to the station and back but will get behind the wheel more soon.
The whole flash tune is so tempting but i think ill be waiting for my warranty to end aswell. I know you can reset back to factory prior to taking the car in for a service but it is a grey area in regards to how easy it is for ford to detect. I have heard that if there is a major engine issue and they do a full diagnosis that they can see that the coding has been changed so being a new engine with only short term research put into the tunes it is a bigger risk than im willing to take but in the plus side in a few years the quality of the tunes available will be better.

CatonaPC© · 25-05-2016, 12:42 PM

Steve7181, thanks for your response. I can see you've done your homework and you give fairly sound reasoning for your decision to change the filter. I'm not knocking your enthusiasm but I would probably err on the side of caution. I see you're somewhat reluctant to flash your ECU because the car is still under warranty. I don't think changing the filter will do much for you performance wise, but given the sensitivities of modern day electronically controlled engines, can a diagnostic performed by Ford spot the extra airflow provided by the filter?

Steve7181 · 25-05-2016, 01:55 PM

Quote:

can a diagnostic performed by Ford spot the extra airflow provided by the filter?

It is a yes and no answer really as the stock mapping is built with tolerances to airflow which allows a car to function between different temperatures from below freezing (oxygen rich) to 50° plus (oxygen poor). When a paper filter is first installed to when it has build up from doing 15000 kms so basically with a better quality filter you are keeping the engine in a more optimal zone that can't be replicated with a stock filter. In saying that if you were to run a cheap (ebay) filter that dosent have any research put into it and is virtually free flowing then it could throw a fault light and would be a definite way to void your warranty. I can't remember if it was simota or k&n but one of them states they have never voided a warranty and a dealer would be making excuse to try and blame a replacement filter in a stock box.
From a performance aspect it should be a noticeable effect in both fuel economy and performance. In my n/a cars it has always made a difference so being a turbo charged engine which sucks more air it should be even better particularly at higher revs. I don't have unrealistic expectations though as most good performance shops offer a tune (not a re-map) to adjust parameters of the stock mapping when you get a cai and exhaust done to unleash most of the gains. Pretty much it is the safest and cheapest mod you can do which should actually improve the life of your engine.

CatonaPC© · 25-05-2016, 02:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve7181

Pretty much it is the safest and cheapest mod you can do which should actually improve the life of your engine.

Keep us posted on how it goes.

Steve7181 · 30-05-2016, 01:41 PM

I just installed the replacement filter and am happy to say it is a perfect fit without any need for paying the over the top price for the k&n airbox lid or having to fabricate any form of spacer for the airbox to close properly.
One thing that i wasn't aware of is that the airbox is not a sealed unit in a sense that the end plate of the filter actually closes the box. This really limits the effectiveness of a 'general purpose' aftermarket pod to draw air from the intake as oposed to the engine bay. Im really glad the k&n has the 'bung' as it seals the opening perfectly and can be put in or removed without taking apart the bolts for the airbox. My belief is that better fuel economy and power gains would occur with the 'bung' in. In saying that i just went for a spirited drive with it out and although im probably not the best person to judge due to my lack of klms in this car but i did notice it sounded slightly more throaty on acceleration but definitely tame and not intrusive. From a performance aspect it would really be a guess to judge the difference but i had a smile on my face trying to find out.😆
Ive attached pics to explain better about the open end of the airbox. There is also a sticker from k&n saying it will not affect dealer warranty 😉