What tyre pressure for Ford Focus ST?
The recommended cold tyre pressure for a Ford Focus ST is typically about 34 psi (2.3 bar) on both the front and rear for most common wheel sizes, but the exact figure depends on model year, wheel size, and load. Always verify the specification on the door jamb placard that matches your car’s configuration.
The precise numbers come from the vehicle’s original equipment load and tire size, which can vary across Focus ST generations. This article explains how to find the official figures, what to expect for common wheel/tire setups, and how to check and adjust pressures to keep handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear in balance.
Where to find the official figures
The definitive values are printed on the driver’s door jamb placard and are also summarized in the owner’s manual. The placard lists the recommended cold pressures for the front and rear tires, typically keyed to the specific tire size installed on the car. If you’re using different tires or wheels, always trust the placard that matches those exact specifications.
Below are typical targets used by many Focus ST configurations. Use these as a baseline only after consulting your placard because actual figures can differ by year, wheel size, and load.
- 18-inch wheels (common sizes such as 235/40R18): approximately 34 psi (2.3 bar) front and rear when the tires are cold.
- 19-inch wheels (common sizes such as 235/35R19): approximately 34 psi (2.3 bar) front and rear when the tires are cold.
- When carrying heavy loads or using winter tires, the placard may indicate a higher pressure by about 1–2 psi; always follow the official numbers for your exact setup.
In practice, starting from the placard’s numbers and keeping them within a 32–34 psi range for most everyday driving helps balance grip, comfort, and tire wear. If you have a different tire size or are operating under unusual conditions, consult Ford’s official documentation or your dealer for the precise figure.
How to check and adjust tire pressure
Regular, accurate checks are essential to ensure your Focus ST performs as designed. Use a reliable gauge and always measure when tires are cold to avoid inflated readings from recent driving.
- Park on a level surface and turn off the engine; wait for tires to cool if they’ve been driven recently.
- Locate the cold tire pressure value on the door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual for your exact tire size.
- Remove the valve cap from a tire and press the gauge onto the valve stem to get a reading.
- Inflate or deflate the tire to the recommended cold pressure; repeat for each tire, including the spare if you always carry one.
- Recheck all four tires (and the spare, if applicable) to confirm the pressure is correct, then replace valve caps securely.
- Record the values and check them at least monthly or after significant temperature shifts or long trips.
Tip: Keep a small gauge in the car for on-the-go checks, and remember that temperature changes can affect pressure by roughly 1 psi for every 10°F (5–6°C) change in ambient temperature. Regular checks help maximize grip, fuel economy, and tire longevity.
Summary
For most Ford Focus ST models, a typical starting point is around 34 psi (2.3 bar) for both front and rear tires when cold, but the exact figure depends on wheel size, tire size, and load. Always verify the specific numbers on the driver’s door jamb placard for your exact configuration, and adjust only after confirming you’re measuring with cold tires. Regular checks and proper inflation help maintain handling, safety, and tire life.
