2012 5-Door tail lamp scratching body

[silenthill]

I've been having a strange recurring problem with my hatchback. On only the right side of the rear turn signal cluster, the fixture has been rubbing paint off and squeaking. Here's the original damage from the original cluster:


IMG_4102 by silenthill2011, on Flickr

The Ford dealer did replace this cluster, but it's chipping again. It's not visible in this picture because the cluster is pressed tightly against the body (which is causing the chipping):


IMG_4367 by silenthill2011, on Flickr

Has anyone else seen this problem? I don't have a problem with the lefthand cluster--there's plenty of clearance between the plastic housing and the fender. There's not on the right, and the dealer says there's no adjustment. They're looking into options, but I thought I'd see if anyone else has seen this.

[Sponsor]

[FordCustomerService]

Originally Posted by silenthill

I've been having a strange recurring problem with my hatchback. On only the right side of the rear turn signal cluster, the fixture has been rubbing paint off and squeaking...

Silenthill,

I’m glad the dealer is working to have this fixed. We can add another layer of assistance by contacting the Customer Service Manager for your area. To do so, please send a PM with your contact information, dealer name/state, approximate mileage, and VIN.

Take care!

Noemi

[MKorn]

Can the tail light assembly be removed and then sand some of the plastic off to allow a better fit?

i am going to check mine when i get home ...

[journeyforce]

What about adding a small foam pad to the affected area or at each of the corners so as to keep it from being so tight and rubbing?

[Ocysp]

Originally Posted by silenthill

IMG_4102 by silenthill2011

Has anyone else seen this problem?

That's amazing. I have the same exact problem:

[Dick W]

Hmmm.

Ours was loose right there--it would wobble maybe 1/32 or 1/16" when pressed. (L Side was rock solid.) I had the tighten it. Maybe that was a mistake?

[silenthill]

Originally Posted by Ocysp

That's amazing. I have the same exact problem:

Well, it's somewhat reassuring to know that it's not just me. I've got an appointment tomorrow with the dealer and they're going to see what they can do about this (since they already replaced the tail lamp once). They might be consulting with the body shop.

I did send Noemi a message on here as she requested, maybe you should too?

[mcdiv]

Went and checked mine, and while it's not as bad as the ones posted it's still a noticeable chip. Another thing to bring up next time I'm in for work.

It'll be fun to see all the 5 door focuses five years from now with the patch of rust by the passenger side tail light.

[pozi240]

Went out and checked mine....same thing! The left side is fine and has a small gap, the right side is very tight against the body and rubs the paint. I wonder if it has to with the gas filler door?

[silenthill]

I'll report back what I hear from the dealer tomorrow. I've had great service experiences with them so far.

Noemi, when you start to seeing a trending issue on the forums, do you get to report things directly to the product groups? I've always been curious if links to threads on Focus Fanatics ever make it back to the Focus team.