Ford Focus FAQ

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NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

myFordFocus.com has no affiliation with the Ford Motor Company.

Everyday Use
Q. Where can I find a copy of the official Ford Focus Owner's Manual
A. Ford has online copies of the Focus Owners manual at Ford.com

Q. Where can I find Focus recalls online? And other related Ford news?
A. BlueOvalNews.com or Edmunds.com

Q. Can I disable the safety belt reminder chime?
A. Yes. See the Owner's Guide section of myFordFocus.com for the 9 step procedure for turning off the belt minder.

Q. Sometimes my hatch won't open when I use the hatch release button, why?
A. If your doors are locked, the hatch button will not release the hatch. It's a feature. Try it with your doors unlocked.

Q. What is the best gas to use?
A. Ford recommends 87 octane. Your Focus is tuned to use 87 octane. Using the higher octane fuels is not necessary. If you are using a aftermarket performance chip, SuperChip or DiabloSport, they do require the higher octane fuel, 91 or 93 octane.

Q. Will high octane gas improve my unchipped engine performance?
A. No! In fact it can cause a lot of internal engine problems over time.

Q. What is the button on the passanger side kick panel with a picture of a fuel pump??
A. That is a fuel pump kill switch to be used in the event of emergency.

Audio
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Q. What is the stock speaker size?
A. Stock speaker size is 5x7 but 6x8 will work as well.

Q. How do I remove my factory head unit??
A. Removing the head unit requires a special tool. They are shaped like a U and have a tapered area on each end that releases the locking mechanisims inside the radio chassis. You can buy them at most department stores and audio shops for around $10. The tools go into the two holes on each side of the head unit. Once in you just pull outwards and the radio will slide right out. You can also go to your local Ford dealership and ask them (very nicely) to remove it for you. It can also be done by shaping a coat hanger in the shape of a U, but this is very difficult and takes much practice.

Reminder: The How-To Library has documents, tips, and drawings for things pertaining to audio installations!

Body Kits
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Q. What Ford Focus body kits are available?
A. There are actually several companies making body kits for the Focus, please see the Body Kits vendor list right here on myFordFocus.com for hypertext links to the manufactures, vendors and prices.

Q. Are there any vendors selling European body parts for Focus, like the RS body parts?
A. Yes there are actually. ZX3tuning.com and BATInc.net are two such companies.

Q. Do body kits comes already painted?
A. Not usually. You will need to have the parts painted before installing them on your car.

Exhaust
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Reminder: The How-To Library has documents, tips, photos, drawings and even video clips on cat-back system installation!

Q. What is a "cat-back" exhaust system?
A. "Cat-back" is a term used to describe the part of the exhaust from the catalytic to the tailpipe. Which includes the pipes, muffler(s) and tailpipe/tip. In the case of the Focus, there is actually another piece pipe between the catalytic converter and the "cat-back", which is called the flexpipe. The flexpipe is not part of the cat-back exhaust kits sold for the Focus.

Q. So what does the flexpipe do?
A. When you rev your engine, it moves. The flexpipe has a mesh material built into a pipe that allows it to "flex" when your engine revs and moves, so the exhaust system doesn't move with it.

Q. But the Focus exhaust system has rubber hangers holding it in place, wouldn't that suffice?
A. The rubber hangers are intented more to keep vibration down and allow the exhaust the freedom to hang independent of the car's body and absorb the vibration of everyday road conditions.

Q. Why would anyone replace the stock exhaust cat-back with an aftermarket system?
A. Primarily for performance reasons. The stock cat-back exhaust is very restrictive, intentially to keep noise down. Aftermarket cat-back systems are usually 2.25 inches in diameter and have only one muffler which is designed for performance using a "straight through" design in the muffler. The pipes are bigger, the bends are smoother, the muffler is a better design. The result is a better performance, but they are also louder! Which is another reason many people replace the stock cat-back with a performance cat-back, for the sound.

Q. What should I look for in an exhaust system(cat-back)?
A. The best made cat-back exhaust kits are "full" stainless steel systems. Referred to as "aircraft quality T-304" stainless steel. What that mean is the pipes are stainless steel inside and out, not a "mild steel" that has been aluminized "aluminum coating". T-304 stainless steel also has the highest chromium content available in steel, which means it's the most resistant to corrosion.

Q. Why is it so important for the pipes to be stainless steel inside and out?
A. Stainless steel "inside and out" is important because many times an exhaust system will actually rust from the inside out. Exhaust gases which are a mix of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, unburnt hydrocarbons, and moisture, condense and attack the pipes internally, causing the corrosion. Combine that with external corrosives, like salts, moisture, mud, vibration, high temperatures and anything less than the best will simply come apart in time.

Q. Won't stainless steel rust too?
A. Yes, just not as fast. Look for a product that carries a long warranty. At least as long as you intend to own your car. A lifetime warranty or a million mile warranty can't be beat!

Q. What about the "flanges" on a cat-back system, should they also be stainless steel?
A. Not necessarily. The flanges(mounting points), should be a minimum of 3/8 of an inch, 1/2 inch is even better. That's plenty thick enough.

Q. Is wider really better?
A. Not always! A 2.25 inch tubing in a cat-back system is all that is needed for a naturally aspirated Focus. If you are planning on Turbocharging your Focus, a 2.5 inch tube cat-back system is your best size.

Q. Can reinstall my stock exhaust system after removing it?
A. Yes, but since the stock cat-back is all one piece, you have to cut it to get it off. You could put it back together using a "boot" and clamps. Please see the How-To Library to see where the stock cat-back needs to be cut.

General Performance
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Q. Where can I find aftermarket performance products for my Focus?
A. The Ford Focus Parts page has a complete list of aftermarket product manufactures and prices for easy comparison and research.

Q. Will "bolt-on" aftermarket performance products void my warranty?
A. No. See http://www.sema.org/main/semaorghome.aspx?ID=8124

Q. What about a Supercharger or Turbocharger?
A. Yes and No. Most likely your Ford warranty does specificy that a turbocharger will void your powertrain warranty. The supercharger however might be another story. In either event, you should consult with your local dealership regarding their warranty specifics.

Q. What is a CAI??
A. A CAI is short for "cold air intake" or "cold air induction", which is a replacment for your factory air box and filter. It brings cooler, fresher air into the engine bringing mild increases to performance and horsepower.

Q. What's available for the Focus?
A. There are several brands and types of cold air induction kits available for the Focus. Please see the Performance Products page for links to manufactures, vendors and prices of what's available.

Q. There seems to be several different types of CAI kits, long tubes, shorties, Iceman, etc., is one better than the other?
A. The AEM and Injen systems are "long tube" kits, that run the filter to the lower grill of the front of the car and generally allows the car to draw in cooler air than the "shorties", which draw warmer air from inside the engine bay. So, in that respect the full length CAI kits are considered to be best. They do however cost more, as there is more material, metal pipe. The drawback with the full length tubes, is that the filter is closer to the ground and run the risk of picking up water, especially when hitting a puddle. That is something to consider when making your decision. The Iceman kit, replaces only the stock upper and lower air ducts, with larger, smoother designed tubes and are made of a plastic that is designed to keep stay cooler than the metal tube kits, which would in turn keep the air cooler. The Iceman keeps the stock air box and replaces the stock air filter with a long life filter much like the K&N replacement filter. The Volant kit is another CAI kit that uses a similar box style system. It does replace the entire stock box and upper duct, and you can use the lower stock duct and snorkle to feed air to the Volant box. The Volant is the only kit that can be directly adapted to use a hood scoop or ram air hood.

Lighting
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Q. what is the bulb size for the N/A spec headlights
A. H4

Q. What is the bulb size for the Euro 2002 Focus headlights
A. H1 for High Beam, H7 for low beam

Q. I saw a Focus with the foglights on but the headlights were not on. How come mine don't do that??
A. The owner more than likely has the foglight mod that allows you to use the foglights without the headlights and also use them with the high beams on. See the How-To Library for complete instructions.

Lubrication
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Q. When should I start using Synthetic oil in my engine?
A. The engineers and metalurgist at Redline have recently come out with an opinion that states at any mileage over 1200 miles. The reason being that premature useage can inhibit breakin by being too slippery and causing glazing of the cylinder walls from the rings.

Q. Can you mix synthetic oil and fossil oil?
A. Yes, but it is best to use 100% synthetic oil of the same brand. But in a pinch mixing will not hurt anything.

Q. Why is synthetic oil better?
A. It is better because it is made to the specifications of what fossil oil could be if all the molecules werre exactly the same. It allows uniformity of cooling, sealing and lubricating/

Q. Is one Synthetic oil better that another?
A. Yes there are three groups of synthetic oils. Group A, Ester based, is the best and most expensive. Group two PAO based oils like Mobil 1 and Amsoil are very good and more reasonable priced. And group three oils which are ultra refined fossil based oil and can be called synthetic due to a loop hole in the law. They are not true synthetics and cannot be called synthetic oil in Europe.

Q. Are synthetic blends worth the money?
A. No. There are two reasons why. One is that you don't know the ratio of synthetic stock to fossil stock. So what are you paying for? And two. Generally blends are from group three oils and are already inferior to real synthetics. Blending them defeats any gain you might get, by lowering the content of an already lesser oil.

Q. What are the three groups of synthetic oil?
A. Group one is POE which is Poly Oil Ester. Group two is PAO which is Poly Alpha Olefin and group three is slack wax isomers.

Q. What does this mean to me?
A. Ester based stock oils have been demonstrated to far out peerform all others. But Price is an issue. Olefins are far superior to petro lubes and group three "phoney" synthetics.

Q. What is the difference in brands of the same group?
A. People who have studied lubricants know that the difference in off the shelf oils is the additive package. That and the advertising costs relate to the expense of bringing the product to market.

Q. So which synthetic should I use?
A. The answer bcomes a function of cost vs return and affordability. If money is not an issue, the answer is Redline ( hands down ) But if money is an issue, the Mobil 1 ( as long as it stays an Olefin base ) or Amsoil, alos an Olefin base. Steer clear of group three phoney synthetics. They waste your money and maybe your engine.

Q. Is synthetic ATF better for my transmission?
A. Yes, if it is a real synthetic like Mobil 1 or Amsoil or Redline (best)

Q. Do Synthetic oils have detergents?
A. Yes, because they need them to resist sludge that is formed by blowby.

Q. How often should I change my synthetic oil?
A. That depends on the type of Synthetic you are using, PAO or Ester base, and the type of driving you do, and the location you do most of your driving in. Esters last longer than PAO bases but a general rule is that PAOs shoul;d never run beyond 7500 miles and Esters beyond 12,000 miles.

Q. What is viscosity?
A. It is the thickness or weight of the oil. It is represented as a number such as 5w-20. Polymeric thickeners , viscosity improvers, are added so oil will thicken as it get hot. A typical Focus recomended oil of 5w-20 is made from 5 base weight oil. At zero degrees C, it behaves like a 5 weight oil. Because of viscosity improvers in the additive package, it will behave like 20 weight at 100 degree C.

Specs & Part Numbers
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Reminder: The Owner's Guide section has even more details on part numbers, fluid capacities, maintenance issues and more!

Q. What is my fuel capacity?
A. 50 Liters (13.2 gallons)

Q. What is my oil capacity? (includes filter change)
A. Zetec: 4.25 Liters (4.5 quarts) SPI: 3.78 Liters (4.0 quarts)

Q. What is my coolant capacity?
A. 5.75 Liters (6.1 quarts)

Q. What is the manual transaxle fluid capacity?
A. 2.0 Liters (2.1 quarts)

Q. What is the Automatic transaxle fluid capacity?
A. 6.6 Liters (6.9 quarts)

Q. Where can I find my Vehicle identification number?
A. The vehicle VIN is attached to a metal tag and is located on the driver side instrument panel. The VIN tag may be seen by looking through the windshield from the outside of the vehicle.

Q. Where can I find my engine number?
A. The engine number is stamped on the engine block and transaxle frame.

Q. What is the compression ratio of my engine?
A. Zetec: 9.6:1 SPI: 9.35:1

Q. What is my engine firing order?
A. 1-3-4-2 on both engines

Q. What is my cubic inch displacement?
A. 121 on both engines

Q. What is my HP rating?
A. Zetec: 130 @ 5300 rpm SPI: 110 @ 5000 rpm

Q. What is my torque rating?
A. Zetec: 130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm SPI: 125 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

Q. What is my spark plug gap?
A. Zetec: 1.3 mm (0.051 inch) SPI: 1.4 mm (0.054 inch)

Q. What is the Motorcraft part# for my Air filter?
A. Zetec: 98AB-9601-C SPI: 98AB-9601-C

Q. What is the Motorcraft Part # for my Battery?
A. Zetec: BXT-96R SPI: BXT-40R

Q. What is the Motorcraft part# for my Oil filter?
A. Zetec: FL-2005 SPI: FL-400 S

Q. What is the Motorcraft part# for my PCV valve?
A. Zetec: 988F-6A666-AA SPI: EV-244

Q. What is the Motorcraft part# for my Spark plugs?
A. Zetec: AZFS 32FE SPI: AGSF 34EE

Suspension
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.

Q.Does the Eibach Sway Bar kit make noise in the front when applying load to the suspension?
A. In the 1st release of the bar set, yes they did. Since then, they have fixed the problem with a Control Collar kit. This allows some side to side movement of the bar (which is needed), but removes the banging/hitting sound from sliding to much. If you have a front Eibach Sway Bar and are experience this knocking sound, contact Eibach for the Control Collar kit.

Wheels, Tires & Brakes
NOTE: Most of this FAQ is base on 2000-2004 Zetec & SPI Model Focus'.
Q. What is the lugnut bolt pattern for the Focus?
A. 4x108

Q. I am buying new lugnuts. What size do I need??
A. 12mm x 1.50

Q. What are the part numbers for the 16" Focus Rims?
A. Painted: Y241-FA Bright: YS41-GA

Q. Will 225/50/15 Tires fit on stock Focus wheels?
A. Yes, they will and also if lowered 2 inches. There is a 1/2" of space between the inner sidewall and shocks. The only rubbing that may occur is in the front when a hard u-tun with the wheel all the way cranked to lock position.