Ford facing shortage of Focus models due to dashboard supplier issue

We're nearly certain that robots will one day rise up and take over the planet. We've watched The Terminator enough times now to see how the scenario will play out. Thankfully, robots aren't advanced enough yet to ruin your life, but they might be smart enough to ruin your day... at least if you're a car buyer waiting to pick up a brand-new 2012 Ford Focus.

Production of the popular compact has reportedly been hampered by a machine that makes dashboard coverings. Apparently, the Detroit area supplier's equipment takes unscheduled breaks, and only works intermittently. According to the Associated Press, this issue has put the hurt on Focus production, forcing Ford to fly in needed parts from European vendors in an effort to try and keep assembly moving. That's a spendy way to make sure the Focus get its dash material, but Ford doesn't have other options at the moment.