How to put headlights on Ford Focus?
Know what you’re dealing with
Common variations by generation
Tools and safety
- Gloves or clean cloths to handle bulbs without oils from your skin
- Safety glasses
- Socket set (often metric sizes), screwdrivers, and Pliers
- Screwdrivers and trim removal tools for plastic fasteners
- Replacement bulbs or the new headlight assembly, plus any required wiring adapters
- Rags and a flashlight for workspace cleanliness and visibility
Bulb replacement (common path)
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Open the hood and locate the headlight assembly.
- Remove any dust covers or access panels at the back of the headlight housing to access the bulb.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the back of the bulb by gently pressing the release tab and pulling straight out.
- Remove the bulb retaining ring or clip (twist, unclip, or lift as required by your model).
- Carefully remove the old bulb, avoiding contact with the glass. Do not touch the glass with bare fingers; oils can shorten bulb life.
- Install the new bulb by aligning the tabs and seating it fully. Reconnect the wiring harness and secure the retaining clip or ring.
- Reinstall any dust covers or access panels, then close the hood. Reconnect the battery if you had it detached.
- Test the headlights to confirm proper operation and passenger-side symmetry. If one side remains dim or out, reseat the bulb or inspect the connector.
Headlight assembly replacement (when the unit is damaged)
- Turn off the engine and remove the key. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
- Remove any trim panels or covers around the headlight. Some models require removing screws along the top edges or around the bumper area to free the headlight housing.
- Unplug the electrical connector from the back of the headlight assembly and detach any mounting screws or retention clips.
- Gently pull the headlight unit away from the vehicle, noting alignment pegs and spacing to ensure a clean reinstall.
- Install the new headlight by reversing the removal steps. Ensure all seals are intact and all electrical connections are secure before final mounting.
- Reassemble any trim or bumper components, reconnect the battery if disconnected, and test the new unit.
Alignment and testing
- Park on a level surface about 25 feet from a flat wall, with the vehicle perpendicular to the wall and the tires facing straight ahead.
- Turn on low beams and mark the vertical and horizontal centerlines on the wall corresponding to the lamp centers.
- Use the adjustment screws located behind the headlight housing (or under the hood) to bring the bright spots to the marked lines. Make small adjustments and test again.
- Repeat for the other headlight, ensuring both beams are level and evenly aligned.
- For precise specifications, consult the Ford Focus service manual or have a professional alignment performed at a shop, especially if you’ve replaced the entire unit or performed major disassembly.
Model-year and regional variations
When to seek professional help
Summary
