I just got my 2002 Focus Wagon towed to the dealer because it wouldn't
start. We have been going through a cold snap (-20C for a week+), yet my 10
year old started the first turn.

CAA is contracted for the Ford Roadside Assistance, and he gave the ignition
a turn, and said that the exhaust was frozen and blocked. He said the
tell-tale sound is a solenoid click and fan sound.

He has seen this problem frequently, and has been towing many Fords because
of this. He also indicated that Ford has put a notice to the tow-drivers
which says not to spend time trying to start the car, but to tow it to a
dealer.

I was also told that I could use an electric heater on the exhaust to
defrost the block but be was unsure whether the blockage was before or after
the catalytic converter.

Has anyone else had this problem who can say the frequency that this occurs?
Is there a solution that Ford has done to fix the problem? Has anyone tried
to defrost the exhaust, and if so, where do you put the heater along the
exhaust pipe?

Tim.