coil spring safety issue

[RudeDog6999]

In the last 2 months I have repaired 3 broken front coil springs on 2 separate Ford Focus, both were 05 models, and all 3 springs broke in the same location (could be a chronic problem, but a search of posts didn't show any others) All 3 springs broke inside a factory installed rubber sleeve, just above the bottom coils (see photos). The most recent case, ruined a tire, and could have caused a serious accident. in the pics, right is the front of the vehicle.

[RudeDog6999]

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8776230@N03/2600759897/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8776230@N03/2601605232/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8776230@N03/2600785917/

[rhandwor]

I observed a lot of rust for a new car does he work in a fertilizer plant? Or is this caused by heavy road salt.

[Davescort97]

Looks like the base of the strut where the spring seats is rusted out. I have seen broken springs on Escorts in which the springs themselves have broken. It's been a problem on the Escorts for quite some time.

[wintonboy]

We just -6 days ago-purchased a 2002 from a dealer. Thew front left spring just broke in exactly the same spot. How hard is it to repalce, and can you just replace one side?

My Windstar coils were covered by Ford even after 100,000 miles. Any warranty on the Escorts?

Thanks.

[rhandwor]

I have replaced one spring with a used spring. Always replace both with a new spring. I would order two new ones from a parts place.
Auto Zone,Advanced and O'Riley's have a tool loaner program. Ask all three if its free before you buy. You will need a spring compressor.
Due to corrision problem definately buy new.
I would plan on a whole day as you may have to go back and get something you don't have. A floor jack two jack stands, half inch metric sockets and ect. will be needed. Buy a haynes manual for a guide as it has pictures and written instructions.
Get a wheel alignment when done.

[wintonboy]

I have to say I am a bit flabergasted. I called the used car dealer I bought the Focus from and told him that the headlight switch had failed as well as the spring breaking. He is 260 miles away. He just asked me for the name and number of a reputable shop near me and then called back a few hours later to say he had made arrangements to change both springs and that a new switch was in the mail. I only have to pay the labor for the second spring change. Not a bad deal.

[Johnny Mullet]

Focus springs are covered under Ford warrantly if they break for like 10 years.

[GringoPete]

One spring in the front passenger side of my focus broke and had to be replaced. My mechanic told me that when it rains water collects inside the rubber sleeve and rots the spring causing it to break after time.