How To Replace The Fuel Filter Of A Ford Focus
The Ford Focus is a wonderfully economic car. Late models get upwards of 40 miles per gallon, and their lifetime maintenance costs tend to be low. That said, you can save even more on service and maintenance by doing some simple tasks yourself. Replacing the fuel filter in a Ford Focus is one of those money-saving tasks.
You’ll generally want to change the fuel filter every 30,000 miles — so maybe every two or so years, depending on your driving volume. The filter is replaceable on 2000-05 models. In 2006, Ford started using a permanent filter which is part of the fuel pump module.
To change the fuel filter, you’ll need a replacement fuel filter and a socket wrench set. You’ll also need a good quality floor jack and jackstands, or a set of good quality drive-on ramps.
You’ll also need some disposable rubber or latex gloves since gasoline is tough on skin, safety goggles to avoid getting gasoline in your eyes, and a some sort of catch can, since there will be some gasoline in the old filter.
Before starting any work on or near the fuel system, remember, never smoke anywhere near the fuel system or have any type of flame or spark near it!
The fuel system is pressurized, so you’ll have to relieve that pressure before you open any part of the fuel system. Find the fuse box. Inside the fuse box, locate the fuel pump fuse. You will be able to find it based on the diagram on the fuse box cover or by consulting Chilton’s online data base. Remove the fuel pump fuse.
Start the engine and allow it to run until it stalls. Crank it for 5 seconds more to make sure all pressure is relieved. It may not start at all. In either case, this will relieve the fuel pressure.
The fuel filter should be on the passenger side, in the area of the rear suspension, near the leading edge of the fuel tank.
If you’re using a floor jack and jackstands, place the automatic transaxle in Park or the manual transaxle in 1st gear. Firmly set the parking brake, lift the passenger’s side of the car at the jack point, which should be indicated by an arrow or triangle shape underneath the car. Once elevated, place the jack stands under the car to ensure it doesn’t fall or slip. If you’re using ramps, drive onto the ramps until the rear of the car is securely supported. Place the automatic transaxle in Park or the manual transaxle in 1st gear. Firmly set the parking brake.
Above is the evaporative emission tube used on some 2000-04 models. This should be disconnected first
This is the filter location and lines for the 2000-04 models
This is the filter location and lines for the 2005 models
Connected to the fuel filter will be the fuel lines (arrows).
On 2000-04 models, there can be 4 types of quick-release couplings:
On 2005 models, disconnect the fuel line by depressing this type of quick release tabs.
Above is the filter bracket bol for 200-04 models
Depending on the year, there will also be an evaporative emissions vapor line. Disconnect that as well.
The fuel filter will be secured to the car using a bracket. Using a wrench, remove the fuel filter bracket. At this point, you can easily remove the fuel filter.
Above is the filter bracket bol for 2005 models
Place the new filter in the bracket and bolt it in place. Make sure the filter is facing the right direction. New filters usually have an arrow to note this.
Lubricate the fuel tube fittings with clean engine oil. Align the fuel tube fittings and press together until a click is heard and then pull on the fittings to make sure they are fully engaged.
Reconnect the battery ground cable and re-insert the fuel pump fuse.
You can turn the car on and check the area under the fuel filter for any leaks. If you find leaks, turn the car off, remove the fuel pump fuse and disconnect the ground cable. Investigate the source of leaks, such as a loose connection or improperly fitted fuel filter.
When everything looks good, carefully lower the car from the jackstands or drive it off the ramps.
If there are no leaks, then congratulations. You’ve successfully replaced your fuel filter. If you have any questions about the Ford Focus fuel system, you can search Chilton’s data base for your Ford Focus’s specific model and year to find detailed instructions, images, and specific tips from our certified expert technicians on Ford Focus maintenance and repair. Check out our DIY Ford Repair Manual.