Welcome SVT Focus owners!

[deactivated]

I want to welcome new and future SVT Focus owners to the new SVTOA user forums. Please feel free to post your questions about the SVT Focus and talk shop with other SVTF owners. I look forward to having a good time around here. Let the good times roll!

[svt4real]

me too

[deactivated]

hey just a suggestion about signatures, avatars, etc....if you would like, you can post your build number along with the mods on your car....although posting future mods probably should be left off....we all have our wish lists! :)

as far as your avatar goes, you can take a pic of your car and resize it to 150x150 (or smaller) and it can appear near your name every time you post. That way people will always know what your car looks like :)

the rest I'll leave up to you guys. Post what you want and have fun!


oh, and what the heck is this emoticon? it seems a little "odd" :kiss:

[David A. Wilks]

I just want more power and a big fat turbo!!! Of course, all wheel drive would be nice too.

Anyone have the connections to get some of the Cossie stuff for our cars?

[J-Rod]

Ahh thanks for the warm welcome inteller... ;)

[steves]

Hey Inteller,

When did you get your build numbers?

elmo

[deactivated]

i got tired of waiting and called 1800fordsvt and gave them my VIN.

[Osiris]

Hello all!

I'm new here, and new to SVT ownership.

I love the new Focus, but have not received anything from SVT regarding membership info. Any idea on how long this may take?

Thank you all and I hope to become a common face around here.

:bna

[FastnFuriousgirl713]

In a little less than a week, I will be the proud owner of a Ford Focus SVT, sonic blue, all the packages you can get...hehehe :) I'm sure I'll be on here everyday with new questions..I currently own a 99 Dodge Neon with a ton of mods...but I'm from a Ford family, and I wanna keep it that way from now on!

[Ridgerunner]

Hello everyone! I am the proud owner of a CD Silver SVT Focus as of this past Tuesday. Drove it to Indy and back over Thanksgiving and enjoyed every minute of it! Some of the comments I have heard about dependablity are a bit scary, but I will hope for the best since this is my first "domestic" purchase. I started with an A/H Sprite, MG Midget, Triumph Spitfire, and Honda Civic. I currently own a 91 Suzuki Swift GT, a 92 Subaru SVX, and a 95 Subaru Impreza. I am sure I will be checking in here often, to learn more about this great little car....:spinem:
Don

[Blurry]

I think it would be nice to have a list of where some SVTF owners live...a listing so you can click on State and see how many SVTF owners live in the same State as yourself...

[Buzzsaw]

New SVT Focus owner as of today (Friday the 13th!!!!). I've only taken her for a few quick spins so far and thusfar am VERY impressed. Hopefully she'll be more reliable than the '95 SHO I traded for her. The SHO had some sack but was BRUTAL on my checkbook. I picked up the 5 year/100,000 mile warranty so those large repair bills will be a thing of the past. $750 well spent, I think. :tmb:

[SonicSVT]

This is my first time posting on SVTOA, I own a Sonic Blue SVTF w/audiophile package. My husband and I bought it in April and it has been the greatest car. We also own an 1985 Mustang SVO and a 2001 Cobra. We are definitely a Ford family.

[PitchBlackSVT]

Hey everyone. I've had my focus for about 3 days now and i'm already in love. Surprising since i never thought i'd drive a Ford. Only bad thing is waiting for the break in period to be over.

[Jcolitti]

love the svt focus!! I've had mine since september, sonic blue with all the options. I am new to svtoa and I love it!!!
:wzup:

['02_pocket_rocket]

Just got mine this past Friday. Infra-Red with all the options. Took it on a trip to Charlotte and back yesterday. Love it. Like the forums also. :bna

[Jonny Bolt]

Finally singed up. Hi everybody.

[r1100sbm]

On my second svtf foirst one totaled after three weeks. Awesome car some minor glitches like the horn thing. But hopefully they will work that out.
Issa

[svtneil]

I also bought mine on Friday the 13th, which will hopefully will not come back to bite me later on. I originally tested one for the Edmunds.com comparison and fell in love with it. The incentives Ford made available were too good to pass up. :bna

[eduardo camilli]

does anyone really know what works well with the svt focus. has to be reliable. i know about the cold air and alt. pulley by aem, the alum. flywheel by findanza and the exhaust systems by borla and magnaflow. is there anything else out there?

[Blurry]

The only things I trust..only because I tried everything on my 98 Contour SVT and a lot of the so called "performance" parts don't work or are not worth wasting money on (my opinion)...

I like lightweight wheels, Borla exhausts, K&N air filters, synthetic oil and perhaps some better springs and shocks....nothing else. Just my two cents worth considering more than 99% of the people driving the SVTF won't even use two-thirds of its potential.

[eduardo camilli]

Originally posted by eduardo camilli
does anyone really know what works well with the svt focus. has to be reliable. i know about the cold air and alt. pulley by aem, the alum. flywheel by findanza and the exhaust systems by borla and magnaflow. is there anything else out there? the focus is fast but not quick enough for me. you could say i'm a speed freak. i've raced all types of cars. i was recently working north of reno nv. in the high desert. i first got the car up to 135 mph in 5th, then up to 155 mph in 6th @ 6500 rpm. i think the car could hit 160 mph. it took me about 1 1/2 to 2 miles to hit this speed. the car was relatively stable, even when descending in speed. have fun but be carefull.

[deactivated]

you should probably get a Cobra then. All cars are built for different reasons and the SVT Focus was built with an emphasis on balance. THis means decent handling and speed, sometimes this means tradeoffs, but it is a good overall package.

[JimsSVTF]

Thanks for the welcome inteller:tmb: .I registered yesterday after receiving the SVTOA packet in the mail.

Jim

[MarcSVTF]

Bought my sopnic blue SVT Focus build #4447 in November. I had a very good deal with the $2500 rebate. Last summer they were asking $2000 over MSRP. I love it. Apart from a noise from the back of the driver seat (I think it is the lumbar support) and idling to 2000-3000 RPM when it is cold it is great. Like the handling and the performance. Just got my SVTOA papers yesterday. Still have not received build paper. I test drove the Mini Cooper S but it left me cold, not to mention the price and up to a year waiting list to get it the way you want. My kids love the car too, they can't wait to be old enough to drive it.

[BornBig2]

Im picking my up after work today...

Pitch Black with all the options... Im so pumped!!! I bought it Sat. but they didnt have anything but Red to test drive and i would rather have black... so they are going to get it this afternoon!!

WOOHOO!!

[NHSVTF]

BigBorn 2, have fun with it! There are few thing better then driving a new SVTF off the lot and having it be yours. I'll warn you now though...it's gunna get dirty quick.

Welcome to the forum.

NHSVTF
_________
02 sonic blue

[jprill]

Hi y'all! :cool:

I've had my Infra-Red Focus SVT (#1803 of 4788 made in 2002) since October and have nearly 4K on her. I feel a little bad driving in this disgusting, salty mess we call winter in Wisconsin, but she gets washed twice a week. :spinem:
Can't wait for spring, I joined SCCA and will be taking her to
Solo II events. Oh, and most importantly, the car gets my chicks, which is a great side benefit of owning a fun little car.
:bna

I'm a huge WRC nut, hence the Markko Martin avatar.

-j

[jstevens1]

Hello, all, from (for right now) Killeen, TX. Thanks for the welcome, Inteller. It's much appreciated.

As for those who have been waiting a while to get their membership info, join the club. It took nearly 4 month for me to get my build# certificate. I had to make some phone calls, too, and I was NOT happy at the time. Don't worry, your stuff IS on the way. It just takes a lot longer than it should sometimes...

Anyhow, I'm here now, so WELCOME EVERYONE ELSE WHO'S NEW!!!!!

[Blondi31mre]

Hello All,
I am a SVT Focus owner and have had it since november. I love the car more than I thought. Mine is Infra-Red with pretty much every option. Also I have put neon lights under it on the front and back to light up the grills, looks pretty nice. Have many plans but some are a bit expensive right now LOL. But overall I am pretty impressed with the car, but I have noticed some guys are offended by me. Mainly the ones I beat in races that they pick :) Well good to see more owners :)
Michelle:)

[Blondi31mre]

I have a question, I have noticed alot in here, you guys talk about a certificate of authenticity (however you spell that dang word) and a build number. How did you guys get those. The only things I have gotten is a Ford Racing membership and the SVTOA memebership. Please someone tell me :)
Michelle:wtf:

[Jonny Bolt]

youll get your own certificate in the mail.

I got my car last august, and i didnt get my certificate until like January. it'll probably take some time, but you'll get it.

you could always call SVT up and inquire about it.

[Blurry]

You will get one...you may have sold your car before you get it but, you will get one. I bought my SVTF in November and have not received anything yet. I have called at least 5 times and each time the all knowing folks at SVT ;) will ask for my VIN and tell me it is in the next set of certificates and that they are being printed as we speak...and I should get it in 2 weeks. Nothing yet...Anyone on this site from SVT take heed...I would like to receive it one of these days.

For being a "specialized" vehicle, I sure don't feel I've purchased anything very special....the same happened with my Contour SVT. I had it for 2 years and never received a thing...I'm beginning to think this whole SVT thing is just a "marketing" ploye. Sorry for the venting....

I have owned 4 VW GTI and 2 Scirocco 16V and still own an 83 VW GTI. Thankfully, the SVTF is a decent car although sometimes I wonder if I shouldn't have bought another VW GTI...

[Jonny Bolt]

the certificate isnt really that big of a deal. its one of those you want really bad in your hand ASAP, then when you get it, its like no biggy anymore. dont sweat it. its just a piece of paper really. it kind of reminds me of those certificates youd get in junior high if you won the spelling bee, or had perfect attendance.

i threw mine in a frame, and still havent even hung it up yet.

Blurry, did you get your SVTOA packet or your Ford Racing package yet???

by the way, that word "packet" gets on my nerves for some reason. gives me the eeby geebies. packet. ew.

[Blurry]

Originally posted by Jonny Bolt
the certificate isnt really that big of a deal. its one of those you want really bad in your hand ASAP, then when you get it, its like no biggy anymore. dont sweat it. its just a piece of paper really. it kind of reminds me of those certificates youd get in junior high if you won the spelling bee, or had perfect attendance.

i threw mine in a frame, and still havent even hung it up yet.

Blurry, did you get your SVTOA packet or your Ford Racing package yet???

by the way, that word "packet" gets on my nerves for some reason. gives me the eeby geebies. packet. ew.

I did receive the SVTO "******"...didn't want to use that word. That came pretty fast.. My whole thought is not the certificate. I could care less about the certificate. I'm just not overall impressed with SVT and Ford dealerships that are SVT authorized. If I had anything to do with SVT, I would fire or remove half of the Ford dealerships with SVT authorization. Someone from SVT on this site who can do something about that. My impressions of the Ford dealers that I have used, don't know the difference. One of the Ford SVT writers/managers, had the nerve to tell me, quote, "Oh, well if you want 5W30 and the FL-400s filter tell us","You know your car better than we do." That doesn't make me feel all that impressed with SVT.

[deactivated]

yeah that's really sad. If I were you I would forward that letter on to someone at SVT. SVT is great at the national level. it is when the dealers fall on their face that make SVT look bad. Dealers SHOULD know every SVT vehicle inside out because they are SUPPOSED to have an SVT trained tech on staff. I agree with you that a LOT of dealerships need their SVT franchise stripped from them. I think everyone should be graded year to year on the deal via customer service evaluations. I think they should also be forced to carry all SVT vehicles. I know some dealers that won't carry SVT Focus product because it takes away from their beloved Lightning and Cobra space.

[dalola]

Hello everyone!

Another newbie here. I just got registered today, after FINALLY getting my SVT welcome packet. No certificate yet. Oh, the speed of big business... Anyway, this appears to be an entertaining, informative site. I look forward to "meeting" all of you.

I purchased an Infra-Red SVTF back in December, trading in my '02 Liquid Grey(awesome color...too bad SVT didn't use it) ZX3. The 0%@60 persuaded me! For the cost, these little cars are hard to beat. I've found mine to be very practical, fun to drive, and uniquely styled. As others have touched upon, the overall dynamic balance is terrific. Sure, it could use more HP, but we gear heads say that about every car! My first order of business was winter tires. As I'm sure a lot of you who deal with snowy winters have found out, the Conti's are pretty scary! A set of Blizzaks took care of this, and now it's very capable in the snow. The Conti's are back on now, remounted on some flashy ASA wheels.(where are the chrome SVT Focus wheels they have been promising??) I have also converted mine to what I call a "cargo sport wagon". Complete removal of the rear seats! It's amazing the volume this little car has! I needed "stuff" space more than seats, as my wife has the 4 door SE(Focus). I will post pics and info for anyone who may be interested in something similar. The result was quite nice, thank you.

I little info about me. (forgive me for being so winded). I work as an automotive engineer for a competitor(I hope they don't spy on me here...), but I'm a Ford guy through and through. I've owned lots of Mustangs over the years, and just recently sold my last project, a 600HP Cobra replica. (After this, not many cars seem fast to me any more!) You can also catch me over on www.clubcobra.com with the same user name, dalola.

Thanks for reading my novel. I promise to be brief in the future. First impressions, you know....
~Dave

[SVTF-Va]

Hello all,

New registant...glad to finally be here

I have been over on Focaljet waiting for my login packet from SVTOA. Purchased in January, CD Silver with everything. I was considering a MiniS or maybe a 350z, but both of those cost a whole lot more to get what I wanted. And for the Mini I would have to drive over an hour to the dealer...then I drove an SVTF on a windy road and BAM, that was it, especially for 3500 off in incentives which are regularly NOT given on SVT products. That made it a no-brainer. SVT vehicles are worth every penny at retail, but give me some $$$ off and you cannot turn that deal down.

Im still waiting on the Cert (some people just got to have it...and I am one of them) but I have the Team Ford Racing (nice cap actually fits!) and the club stuff came today.

:bna

[snoman76]

i'd like to know who has the most modified focus i'm the proud owner of a knew one and would like to know what works so far i've added a focus central race pipe and k&n filter anyone who maybe has gotten the super charger let me know how that is?:bna :barfy:

[SVTF-Va]

Looks like a Banana guy I think, anyway it just looks like he is having his own party....there are some other interesting ones tho.

From reading a lot of other posts on other boards, there are a few things you can do that seem to be popular.

The consensus so far as I have heard:

Exhaust - popular - Borla, Magnaflow
New Under Pulley from Ford Racing or others - adds HP w/o major work. Wouldn't use it with the SuperCharger tho
Quaife LSD for positraction on front drive
Jackson Racing SuperCharger - a few have it now (posts on FocalJet) and so far really like it, puts about 50 extra ponies
Various Wheels amd Tire changes
CAI intakes (although I have heard some problems about using them from some posters) maybe a shorty vs. the long down tube type...would be better?
K&N drop in air filter
Some have replaced the shifter with the Steeda short shifter
New stronger engine mount
Some people have added Cam work
Some even upgraded the brakes and colored the rotors etc.
That is pretty much it I think.

The thing is that SVT designed this car pretty much all out as-is with great balance and handling out of the box. What you do from here out takes to what you want to do specifically, in other words, if you like drag then you want more power, and quick reaction, if you AutoX then you work on tighter handling and tires, if you like the track then some exhaust, engine and maybe handling or tires as well. If you like buzzing around the twisty roads then you can leave it alone or tweak as desired.

It's definitely not perfect for all things, but it will do everything rather nicely and provide lots of fun while you tweak it more to your satisfaction.

Personally I am thinking about a Borla exhaust within a year and then seriously consider the SuperCharger after that and maybe a drop-in K&N filter to start with. Other than that I am pretty good. I mostly zoom around hilly roads and daily drive to work so that's about all I would ever need..... I think....!

Good Luck and have fun

MM

[jeffocus]

Long time listener, first time caller here. I got my Infared SVTF back in Feb. and have been watching this board since then. I just wanted to say hi and say that I have been having a good time with my new ride.:bna

[Kendog SVT]

Thank you inteller.
Im new to the SVT experience. I love it. Ive had a rough start with my SVT Focus. I picked up the car in 12-20-02. FYI: I live in the ****piest state of the 50. RI. They have so many potholes here. And they don't fix them. It costs to much money I guess. I hit a bad one late one night in Lincoln and dented both front rims and made bubbles in both tires. I had the insurance cover that. About 2-3 weeks later, I hit another pothole in Providence and dented drivers side front rim. One week later, I hit a deer while coming home from work one night. I tried to miss it but, it flew over the car and was killed instantly. The car was gone for 13 days. I missed it. I got it back and its like new now or as close as it will get. I was doubting if I should get rid of it because of the terrible luck. I try to be careful and look for potholes, but I have bad luck. :-(
I look forward to chatting with you all in the future. Any other SVTF owners in RI, let me know. its Satin Silver

02 SVT Focus
#3116 of 4788
Gettin' along

[Biggles]

Another newbie !! I picked up a Sonic Blue SVTF in December,and just recieved the SVTOA stuff. It replaced a 2000 Focus SE. The SE was my winter/daily driver and I drive a Mustang GT in the summer. I mounted a set of Blizzacks on the stock tires and the car is now great in the snow.The Conti's are mounted on Ford Racing 10 Spoke rims. I didn't drive the SE much in the summer,but I love the SVTF so much , the Mustang stays parked most of time !! I plan on racing the SVTF in Solo 2 events. The first one was cancelled because of snow, but that's melted now,so I'm looking forward to killing some cones !!

Alan

P.S. Sonic Blue is the fastest !! :) ;)

[SVTJackl]

02' in CD Silver with all options except TC. I live in Southern Cal and received my car in Jan 03' Still waiting on Cert. #. Has everyone received theirs yet? Looking at a few minor upgrades like Wheels, tires, Bulbs, Paint calipers and that's about it. Like the JRSC but will probably go with Vortech instead. Either way, I'm waiting for the warranty period to expire before doing anything major at this point. Well, that's it. See you in the posts.

[SALMOST]

For all those looking for their SVTF Certificates, I talked to the Customer Service guys at SVT about a month ago and they had said that all build certificates had been sent out in December and that if you didn't get them from you dealer then you could get them sent to you. All you require is a copy of your registration or insurance that you can fax them and they'll send out to you.

Now, like I said, that was a month ago, so things may have changed, if I am mistaken, then anyone please feel free to let me know!

[Zeemee1]

Hi everyone, I just picked up my 2003 SVT Focus, Europeon edition with all the bells and whistles and BRIGHT yellow. This is my third Focus and first SVT. In a word, its spectacular!! Very interested in talking with fellow owners. I have lots of questions.

[bsohn]

I got my yellow Euro Edition car back in May.. by far the best car I've owned and better thn many I have driven which includes a Corvette Z06.. OK the Corvette had by far better power but the fun factor that the SVT focus gives and the ergonomics for daily use is exceptional.. Of course i sort of knew that as the Family had two KONA Editions.

Brion Sohn

[Leeds Bus Man]

Hi, another Newbie here!!!
As I'm from England, I have the Focus ST170 which is our equivalent to your SVT. We are now starting to get quite a few mods over here in Europe, so if any of you are interested on finding out what is happening on the europe scene, why not log into either www.ffoc.co.uk (Ford Focus owners club) or www.stownersclub.com (Ford ST owners club) for further details.

For the record, my car is a June 2002 build, Dec 2002 registered, 3 door RHD ST170 in Magnum Grey.
Mods: Lexus (Altezza) 'B' Style rear lights, LHD Fog light with red bulb, smoked side repeaters, bonnet lifters, morette triple headlights with xenon bulbs fitted, Chrome "Ghia" rear tailgate grab handle and just awaiting delivery of chromed upper and lower front grilles.

[SVTF-Va]

Welcome guys (and possibly Gals..)

I think the ST170 is awfully close in the basics, so you could find a lot of info here and vice-versa, maybe some new ideas as well. I do know that some things are model dependant. For example at one point I believe Fram had a European oil filter but not an SVT one... go figure (it also might have been K&N...)

Anyway you have a cool, fun car that did not break the bank that you can mod quite a bit or leave as-is.

Congrats...:tmb:

[Leeds Bus Man]

Thanks for the welcome,

When you realise the price we pay for everything over here in England, you will realise that running a car is a very expensive thing to do.

For example my car, from Ford, totally standard except for metallic paint. Purchase price is £16400 (approx $25000) which I think is nearly $10000 more than yours!!!

[SVTF-Va]

And we complain!!!! I know your taxes are much worse as well. So enjoy, I think it will hold up fine as long as you take care of it.

We will be jealous of you taking it out on those little twisty English countryside roads on the weekend!

:spinem:

[Leeds Bus Man]

I've had the car 6 months now and have only done 3500 miles in it, as I'm at work most of the time!! But it will be getting a nice 400 mile round trip next weekend to Silverstone GP circuit for Trax, the biggest UK car show of the year!!

[SVTF-Va]

Good Show ol' Man!

Post some Pics if you see anything nice, but take an umbrella just in case!!!!

Got a Lightning storm happening now so I gotta go!! Hope I don't get any hail ...by baby is parked outside tonight!!! sheeesshh!

:jawdrop:

[Leeds Bus Man]

I'm just about to go to bed as it is 0422am over here!!!
If I see anything at Trax you may be interested in I'll try and get some photos and post them up for you all to see.

[jprill]

Hey Leeds, I'm SVT_FocusUSA on the STownersclub.com forum! Welcome aboard!

[DaveSVT03]

Hello all,

I just got my Black 5 door last week. So far, I love it.

Anyone know if there is a formal break in period for this car? I read the manual and the SVT manual says to read the standard manual for break in and the standard manual doesn't seem to mention any restrictions or break in recommendations.

[SVTF-Va]

The guys at SVT (toll-free #) told my friend who also has an SVTF to give it 500 miles and until then do not keep a constant speed for long sustained periods (don't put it on auto on the Interstate for 2 hours, you get my drift..)

I took a long trip at around 2-300 miles, but I ran for awhile at different RPMs, 2500, 3000, 3500 etc. and did not use the cruise control (for fun w/o it anyway) Seemed to be just fine, has ever since and I have 7750 now.

[DaveSVT03]

Thanks!

Where in VA is Locust Grove? I grew up in Great Falls/Herndon.

[SVTF-Va]

Locust Grove is on Route 3 right in the middle between Fredericksburg and Culpeper. The community is Lake of the Woods. You probably have heard of that, lots of Golf Courses around here. A friend of mine at work has a Blue SVTF and he lives in Culpeper. And on another board (Focaljet) there have been postings from someone in Fredericksburg as well.

Some nice little backroads around here to play with. Herndon is a little Northern Va. as opposed to here. There are more cows and crows than apartment buildings where we are!

:tmb:

[SVTF-Va]

Oh yeah, I understand Charleston is pretty sweet (minus any hurricanes of course ):eek:

Probably a little hotter down there as well, I used to live in Greenville a long time ago and my parents live in NC where there are also some awesome driving roads.

[DaveSVT03]

Well at the risk of sounding old, when I used to drive around Herndon/Great Falls it was farms too. I've been back to visit and it's too congested for me now. I do miss the back roads of VA. Lots of cool curves and hills. I learned a lot about driving during the winters too.

Charleston is nice but too straight and flat to really enjoy this car much. Looking forward to trying out some autocrossing - which will be a new experience for me.

We're having an SVTOA regional event in Myrtle Beach this weekend - wish us luck and good weather.

I get up that way a couple times a year - if it's at the right time maybe I can make a local event.

Here's to miles of smiles:)

[SVTF-Va]

Good deal and you're not really THAT old!

I wish we had some events in Va. I think the closest SVT chapter is in MD and there is one around Roanoke. But MD is a big hassle traffic-wise and Roanoke is a long haul for 1 day.

I know there are enough owners here, maybe we can get some events in Richmond or at a track in W.Va or somewhere closer to us.

Anyway good luck and enjoy your rides!

[Gwizzy]

Hello All!

I'm a new SVT owner and I love it! My last car was a 2002 Miata LS... Bad Ass and Fun! (But a nightmare in the winter!!!) Since I live in Michigan (motorcity!)... I thought I should turn back to a Fully Domestic Ride.. the Focus hasn't dissapointed me yet! (We''ll wait to see what happens this winter!) Not to mention... I am able to purchase the SVT for less than the monthly cost of my Miata lease!!! Well I look forward to getting to know all of you... I also post on ...

www.onlineshowoff.com
www.xceedspeed.com

under the same user-name!

Thanks!! -

2003 SVTF, Black
(don't know build number yet...):D

[SVTF-Va]

Welcome Gwizzy!

I haven't heard of anyone who doesn't love this car...except the few that had a problem or two and there are always some that do.

You are a lucky one that lives where there are a lot of events and tracks so..........

Enjoy!

[wayyy2fassst]

Originally posted by SVTF-Va
Welcome Gwizzy!

I haven't heard of anyone who doesn't love this car...


I found an appropriate space to post..............


Hello all,
I purchased my '03 Pitch Black w/blue insert interior three weeks ago. It's not a car that I ever saw myself in (Mustang man), but when Ford offered $2000 rebates and I was without a car (long story), I figured this would be the only way I could ever afford an SVT product. I bought it on a whim. I'm sure I will learn to enjoy the car if I ever get to drive it. My dealer loves the car (he should, he drives it more than I do) Realizing that this car is full of engineering flaws and eventually all will get worked out, I am looking forward to spending time on these forums and getting to know many of you. Hopefully I will get to know my car, too. Just not yet, it goes back to shop this week. Third time is a charm, right?


thanks for the opportunity to vent


pat

[HatchetBlade]

I just got a new 2003 Focus SVT on Sept. 8

[Chucko]

Hi all. I'm a long time Mustang owner (since '85) who just last night got a silver Focus SVT. It's been a while since I had a hot FWD car, but all the old reflexes are already kicking in.

Some of you might recognize me as the originator of the Fordnatics email list... or not.

Anyway, it's good to have a modern, fast Ford again! I'm looking forward to lots of miles and smiles with my new Focus.

[SVTF-Va]

Welcome to the club....you WILL have a lot of smiles with this one and good gas mileage to boot!

:bna

[RicRat]

We just picked up our new 2003 ZX5 SVT Sonic Blue.
So far we love it!! We are waiting on our membership package and certificate, and the break in period so we can take off on a long trip. We live in Texas so everywhere is a long trip, but the roads are great. If anyone has ever driven to Texas you know what I mean.
The wife and I are fighting over who gets to drive it to work!
I say I do cause I'm bigger, she says she does cause she has...I guess she wins!:huh: :mad:

Thanks for the hospitality.:beer:

[KS64603]

hey everyone, sorry for the late post, it's because i haven't gotten around to getting my SVTOA membership til today and i am STILL waiting on my certificate so i can know my build # anyways today is Oct 28 2003 and i purchased my BEAUTIFUL Pitch Black SVTF on Aug 20 2003 so it's been quite awhile and still haven't gotten all my info.... but anywho.. i live in Canada, Toronto to be more precise, so anyone else who lives in Toronto want to get together??? so yea... back on topic.. i LOVE my SVTF especially since i've gotten a new ECU update... i think it's the YRF0 update.. but the dealership didn't tell me what the ECU update name was and there was no sticker saying i got the update.... but still i notice the difference b/c b4 i got the update my exhuast sounding like it was choking during a cold start but it's all good now and i think it has a little more power but the gas milage is still the same i think b/c i didn't notice much difference but yea... i LOVE my Focus... love how it handles and the sound of the exhuast when i'm taking off from the traffic lights...:)puts a BIG smile on my face everytime i take off... so anyways still don't know to much about mods... the only mod i have so far is grounding wires... don't know what to do next... any suggestions?

[RicRat]

Welcome KS64603!
You can call 800-FORD-SVT and they will tell you your build number, that's what I did. I still have not received anything as far as membership info. or cert.
As far as mod's go there is not much out there yet. It seems as tho people who have mod'd. are having more problems. I got the reflash and the dealer put a sticker under the hood. So far no problems at all. Did a long trip this weekend and avg'd. 33mpg running mostly 70 to 75mph with slow downs in the little towns(back roads).
Anyway, welcome to the club and enjoy!:D :)

[jstevens1]

Yeah, I had to call and raise just a little stink about it to get my stuff sent to me finally. I got my Team Ford Racing stuff a couple months before my SVTOA stuff! Luckily for me, because my membership info and such was so far behind schedule getting to me, they adjusted the date on my membership to when it was finally sent to me, not when I actually (5 months earlier) bought the car. The folks at SVTOA you'll talk to on the phone are GREAT, and they're very helpful in understanding your bennies and such. Anyhow, enjoy the experience. So far, I have...

[SOBESVT]

Hi everybody,
Although I have been posting in this board for a while I didn't do the "introductions" threads until today. I got my Pitch Black SVT ZX5 on July 26 and have enjoyed every minute and every mile since. I live in South Florida but wasn't able to find a SVT ZX5 without the Winter Package anywhere here which seems a bit ironic and very useless. On the other hand I got such a good deal that the price of the package became irrelevant. The purchase of this car was a very emotional and irrational decision. Until that day my ride was a 2002 Focus ZTW mainly because I needed the space but after checking out and test drive the SVT there was no way I could go on driving an automatic regular Z-tec (although my 110 lbs dog might not be all that crazy about the results). I whish Ford made an SVT Station wagon here as they do in Europe (ST 170) That would be a real kick a*s car and my ideal Focus. My SVT ZX5 is the next best thing.

[DaveSVT03]

SOBESVT,

Nice color choice:)

Do we have clones? What color are your seat inserts?

Maybe I'll see you at one of the SVTOA events. I'm already considering doing Tampa's event next year.

Dave

[RedSVT 03]

Well, I missed this original thread, so I will go ahead and introduce myself.

New to Fords as of 10/13/03, when I traded in my modified 1995 Pontiac Trans Am convertible A4 on an 03 Infra-Red SVT as listed in my sig. I fell in love with the car after test driving one. I am a previous owner of the following cars:

1992 Chevrolet Cavalier - 5 speed (wrecked 6 months after purchase)

1993 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS - 5 speed, Eibach springs, fully riced out :confused:

1995 Pontiac Trans Am convertible - A4, 3.73's, headers, full exhaust, etc.

I plan on leaving the Focus bone stock. I took off the cheesy dealer advertising plate that they give you, and I removed the dealer sticker off the back. I might add the SVT dead pedal, not sure on that yet.

I look forward to using this board when I have questions. Please feel free to do the same with me if needed.

Oh yah, my name is Dan, and I like cars. :D

[SOBESVT]

Hey Dave,

Black with HIDs look way too cool, doesn't it?

No we do not have clones. My inserts are red and to be totally honest with you I wish I had the blue ones but they were no where to be found in Dade or Browards counties at the time and after seing the production figures I can see why. The red inserts look very good anyway and people are really impressed when they see the interior.

I installed the Micron Cabin Air Filter too.

I don't know about Tampa yet but I will let you know.

[Blurry]

Hey Dan...Welcome!

[BLKSVT03]

My name is Dave I bought my SVTF with Euro Package, and its been fun. My wife made me trade in my 01 GT with 5K on it and i told her i wanted a Focus, luckily my Dealer here in IL just happen to have a Nice black one. All i can say tonight is that i believe every car should come with the Recaro seats. havent yet posted the picture cause i have been too lazy to download it from my camera.

Been reading through the threads on this site and I cant believe how much info there is here.

The biggest problem with the SVT is when my wife tries to drive it!:) Makes me nervous with the clutch. Good to see alot of cool people and topics.

I am pleased to meet you all.

P.S. My SVTF takes curves at 70 that my friends Civic cant take at 50! hehehehe

[RedSVT 03]

Welcome Dave!

[BLKSVT03]

THANK You.

Heres a question that doesnt need a new thread maybe someone can answer for me. In the SVT book it says you receive a "Certificate of Authenticity" is that where I get my Build number? Cause i got this Car back on June 30th and I wonder if I should already have that? Or is it a Myth?

[DaveSVT03]

It will arrive - I would guess it won't be too much longer.

[jstevens1]

Again, you MAY have to call the SVTOA folks on that build certificate. But it is NOt a myth. You will (eventually) receive a certificate of authenticity for your vehicle, naming it by make, model, year, and VIN. On that certificate will be stated your build number (#____ of ____ made). Often, it takes a couple months or so for the SVT folks to get around to getting certificates out. Sometimes, the dealers who sell the vehicles don't get all the paperwork straight at the time of sale, and you know how paperwork goes... Just give the SVTOA folks a call, if you haven't already, and explain it to them. They'll help get you hooked-up with everything you're supposed to have.

On a related, but slightly different subject, has anyone else gotten a free charter membership to Team Ford Racing?

[SOBESVT]

Not me!

[jstevens1]

Funny, but that's ALL I got immediately after I bought my SVTF. In fact, I think my membership MIGHT be up for renewal soon. Have to check that out. There was a letter with the welcome package that explained that it was some new joint venture with SVTOA. They even sent me this cool Team Ford Racing charter member hat. Well, sorta-cool anyhow. Maybe we should start the TFR thing as a thread in the SVTOA Garage forum, and see what gives with it? What are the criteria, the perks, etc? Y'all take care...

[BLKSVT03]

When I bought my SVTF in June I Got the membership to Ford Racing ( which included a free hat:) ) and then from SVT i got a hard cover book all about SVT Lightning, Focus Contour Mustang. Nice book retail price was like 50 bux. Key chain. I havent really checked out the Ford Racing Members area but there are some cool discounts and stuff in there!.

[SOBESVT]

WOW! I didn't get any of that. Just the SVTOA kit with the keychain the magazine and a membership card. From SVT I haven't got anything :confused:

[BLKSVT03]

Do ya think I maybe got all those extras becuase i got the Euro Package?? Thats the only thing i can think of???!?!?!?!?1

[BLKSVT03]

My wife and i are now kooky! yesterday we took my SVTF for its first oil change at the SVT dealer. While we were there they had some great financing options, so we traded in her 99 Honda civic EX for a 03 ZX5? Is that cool? Or just really dorky married people stuff? I await your fun replies!:)

[RedEuro]

Hello All,

[RedEuro]

Hello All,

[RedEuro]

Hi,

Let me try this again, as my previous 2 trys were not succesfull. I have had my 03 Red Euro for about 3 weeks now, 1300 miles. Even though i have Blizzacks on 5 spoke SVT wheels the car is still a blast to drive, even handles pretty good. Dont have any production #s from SVT yet but i think my car was built in 08/03 and was prepped at the dealer 09/16/03. Had 24.5 miles when i drove it home which was a 130 mile trip.

[bsohn]

I got my Euro way back in May and just got the Build Cert from SVT, i am Planning on calling them to find out if they can tell me where in the Euro Cycle it was produced and Where in the 253 Yellow ones it was as i am sure it was one of the early ones of both as there were only 4 Yellow Euros in about 750 miles mine being one of them when i got it.

Brion Sohn

[BLKSVT03]

Well if it helps any, my black Euro was produced in April/03 and i purchased on June 30 2003. Got my production number in late December. So I guess it does take them a bit.

[mfab69]

How fast will a stock SVT focus go, the Dealer where I bought it said it cut out at 110.

[Blurry]

Unless they've changed the 03 to only go 110, the 02's cut-off I believe was 134 but don't hold me to it...

[SCollins]

I appreciate the warm welcome, its my first time on the forum.
Love my 03 Euro package SVT Focus



later

SCollins

[127bull]

This may be old news but SVT waits until the end of production to send out certificates, but membership packets are a hit and miss. I waited over 6 months on one car and the next only took a couple of weeks. Will be interesting to see how long this one will take. By the way I love this car and it will do over 110 (from what I heard.:D)

[HirotoR34]

Hello. I'm new to this forum. I've only had my 03 for a month, and it is without a doubt the best car I have ever owned in my life. I traded in my 00 ZX3 and never looked back. I am looking foward to autocrossing it this summer along with hitting all the major shows in my area. Good times......

BTW: I just received my SVTOA membership package yesterday.
Still waiting on the certificate......:wtf:

[mchedd]

I discovered the '02 will do 110 in 5th - (naturally this is on a track and not on the public roads) - and if I remember correctly I was turning about 6K rpm, so I'm sure it'll pull at least 134 or more once high gear is engaged.

[mikcoff]

I know my 2003 Focus SVT will do over 140mph with out cutting off. That's the fastest I've got it up to so far, just alittle Scarded at that speed!!!

[YLwSvT]

Hi hi! New to the forum stuff but I thought I'd join since I love my 04 yellow SVT euro that I got a few months ago.

Is anyone going to focus on the beach in June?

[Euro_SVT]

Hi -

Picked up my 2003 SVTF on 3/29/2004... it's red with the Euro package.

Looks like I have a run of bad luck... got a tap in the backside 2 days after the purchase. Long story short got a dimple and screw marks so I demanded a new bumper skin from the guy's insurance company...and got it with out a fight.

After reading some of the posts it sounds like I need to take it in already... throw out bearing is noisy AND got the rough idle, surge, alternator light crap goin' on...:mad:

[04 SVT Guy]

Just thought I'd say Hi! I bought my 04'SVT back in Feb. and I Love it! It came with the Northern Package and all the bells and whistles--A much beter car than my 00' ZX3!

[SVT ZX3]

Hey Guys n' Gals. Bought my '03 SVTF June 16th 2004. It was leftover on the lot with only 500km (350miles) on it.My dealership became an SVT dealer in January 03 and they didn't get any 04's so I'm one of about 5 in my city! Got it for a wicked price so I couldn't pass it up, Black :mad: (I hate cleaning black!) 2003 with winter package, audiophile system and sunroof. FYI projector headlamps were N/A in Canada :mad: See you on the boards. :beer: