11 September 2002: Ford in the US has upped its drivetrain warranty on its Focus from 3-year/36,000 miles to 5-year/100,000 miles in a bid to counter a public perception that the car has build and reliability problems.

Unlike its European-built version, which has gained many kudos in the reliability the US-built Focus has acquired a poor reputation in the world's biggest car market, and is currently the subject of a federal investigation into some problems.

The new no-charge Powertrain Extended Service Plan will be transferable from one owner to the next, offering new Focus buyers both long-term peace of mind and improved resale values. The Powertrain Extended Service Plan, which includes full roadside assistance coverage, complements the 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and five-year anti-corrosion warranty currently offered on Ford products.

Focus was the best-selling car in the world last year, according to Ford. In Europe it has a 2-year warranty.