Your Ford Focus’ headlights help let other drivers know where your vehicle is headed on the road, while helping you abide by state laws. Replacing failing or burned out headlight bulbs on your 2011-2018 Ford Focus is an easy repair that can help ensure you can see to drive safely. It’s recommended that both of your Ford Focus’ headlight bulbs be replaced at the same time, since the bulbs have been used for the same amount of time and they are likely to fail around the same age. Malfunctioning headlight bulbs on your Focus can make it difficult for other drivers to see your Focus on the road, and could put you and others in danger. Our detailed step-by-step instructions will help you perform a headlight bulb replacement on your Ford Focus and help to keep you driving safely.
Safety Glasses
Nitrile Gloves
New Headlights
Flathead Screwdriver
Step 1: Remove the Headlight Assembly
Open the hood and locate the screws at the front and back of the headlight assembly. Use your flathead screwdriver to remove them and set them aside someplace safe.
Pull up on the assembly gently to disengage it.
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Do It Right: Pay close attention to where the headlight bulb is in the assembly, so that when you remove the assembly, you’re sure to change the right bulb. |
Before removing completely, detach the assembly from the electrical connector in the back by pressing down on the tab at the top of the connector to slip it off.
Step 2: Remove the Old Headlight Bulb
Once the assembly is removed, take the dust cover off the back of the bulb or bulbs that need to be replaced.
Remove the old headlight bulb. If you’re changing the low-beam bulb, disengage the clip on the electrical connector holding it in place and turn the bulb counterclockwise to remove it. For the high-beam bulb, push in on the center tab of the connector and lift it up and out of the way, then the bulb can be removed.
Step 3: Install the New Headlight Bulb
Put your new high-beam bulb in place and press the connector down until it engages with a click. The low-beam bulb will require a slight clockwise turn to be secured. Then snap the electrical connector back onto the back of the bulb.
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Do It Right: When you handle your new headlight bulbs, be sure not to touch them with your bare hands. Finger oil or grease can cause a hot spot on the glass that may make the bulb burn out prematurely. |
Reinstall the dust covers, making sure they’re properly sealed.
Step 4: Reposition the Assembly
Snap the electrical connector into place at the back of the assembly.
Gently position the assembly and reattach it using the two screws you removed earlier.
Test your headlights to make sure they’re functioning properly. Close the hood.
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Do It Right: We always recommend you change headlights in pairs, so repeat these steps on the other side. |
The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.