Hello all,
I just picked up a 2007 Metallic Gray ZX4 SES. I was looking for something that got good mpg. and found a deal I couldn't pass up. I have to admit it was different going from an SUV to a car but so far I like it.

Remote car starter, window tinting and audio system is going in tomorrow!

I do need advice though:
1. I can't stand the look of the stock antenna. I don't really want to do the shorty antenna mod, but I am reluctant to buy an aftermarket antenna that I can't actually see a picture of on the car. Does anybody know of a good shorty aftermarket antenna to buy that they know looks good on the car?

2. Engine noise. The road noise on my Focus isn't that bad, better than my SUV actually and I plan on getting some new tires to quiet it down a little more. The engine, on the other hand, is very noticable. With my new system it won't be that big of an issue when I'm listening to music, but I talk on the phone a lot when I drive so it's an issue for me. I've trolled the forums a bit but haven't found any posts that really address engine noise. I can tell you that I have no sound dampening material on the hood, but I don't know how much that would effect the engine noise INSIDE the vehicle. The engine noise almost sounds like its coming from my feet. Any advice to address the engine noise would be appreciated.

3. Anything I can do to increase the MPG? I'm getting around 30mpg combined, which is great don't get me wrong. But if I could do anything to increase that, I would as long as its cost effective.

Thank you in advance and please keep in mind I'm kind of a car idiot...

-T.J.

Remote car starter, window tinting and audio system is going in tomorrow!
Skip on the remote starter until you do some research to find out how to do it right. I've read more than one horror story (help my car won't start and it's parked downtown!) that was directly related to remote starters. Ford makes a module for it that you should be able to find, and that should work well. As far as the aftermarket remote starters- I don't know which is good or bad- search or post a thread in the Car Audio and Electronics forum (http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=51), and you should get the answer you want.


I do need advice though:

1. I can't stand the look of the stock antenna.
You're not alone. I'd ask around in the Car Audio and Electronics forum (http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=51) and see if there is a shark fin replacement out there. I just removed mine. I don't listen to the radio unless the sky is really bad, then only the emergency weather.


2. Engine noise.
I removed the seats, then the molded carpet, and put down sound dampening insulation on the firewall. Ford took a piece of 3/4 foam plumbing insulation, wrapped it in aluminum foil, and put it around the injectors to quiet that noise. If you have a manual transmission you'll notice a knocking sound when in N, clutch engaged. Ignore that, it causes no problems, so if you hear a sound that goes away when you press the clutch pedal down, then remember it's not a problem.



3. Anything I can do to increase the MPG? Clean the MAF, we prefer Autolite plugs, but about 30 is typical. A different air intake will help with fuel economy. A cat-back exhaust might reduce fuel economy.

welcome to the site

Welcome to FF - I get alot of good info on the site and someone always can answer your questions.