I have a 2001 Diesel Focus with a manual box. I bought the 'station
wagon' when it had been driven 32K km's. At that time the gear box
action was never 'smooth'; rapid shifts just didn't happen! Engaging
first was a struggle and sometimes changing up / down requires some
effort.

The wagon now has 45K km's and the gear shift had become much stiffer.
Entering first or reverse requires a 'sharp' pull. Changing up or down
feels stiff and there's "resistance" - feels a little like an old
truck I once used.

The clutch 'seems' OK, engages and disengages smoothly, doesn't grab
or stick.

I wonder, has anyone else experienced this on a Ford Focus Diesel? Is
it to be 'expected', or is it typical of this model, or...... ???

Any comments help appreciated.
John Hewitt, Malaga, Spain