Replacing Fuel Filter In '07 Ford Focus: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel filter in a 2007 Ford Focus is located under the car, on the passenger side, in front of the gas tank. It is a conventional construction consisting of a paper element sealed within a steel canister. The fuel filter should be changed every 20,000-30,000 miles or once every year and a half to two years. To change the fuel filter, you will need to depressurize the fuel system, disconnect the battery ground cable, raise and support the vehicle, and disconnect the evaporative emission pipe, fuel filter outlet pipe, and fuel filter inlet pipe before removing the fuel filter and bracket.

Location of the fuel filter

The fuel filter in a 2007 Ford Focus is located under the car, on the passenger side, in front of the gas tank.

For the UK model, it is in a recessed area just ahead of the fuel tank, visible on the passenger side and just ahead of the rear wheel.

One user has commented that their 2007 Ford Focus fuel filter is attached to the frame of the back axle, which differs from the usual location.

The fuel filter will always be found between the fuel tank and the engine. For most vehicles, the fuel filter is located inside the top of the fuel tank, where it connects with the fuel line. However, on some cars, it might be found elsewhere along the fuel line.

Depressurising the fuel system

Firstly, locate and remove the fuel pump fuse. This will cut off the supply of fuel to the engine, which is essential for safety and to prevent any fuel spillage during the filter replacement process. Once the fuse is removed, start the engine and let it run until it stalls due to a lack of fuel. At this point, turn the key to the 'on' position without cranking the engine, and depress the accelerator pedal all the way for approximately five seconds. This step ensures that any remaining pressure in the fuel injection supply manifold is released. Finally, reinstall the fuel pump fuse.

It is important to note that working with fuel can be dangerous, and it is always recommended to take appropriate safety precautions. Ensure the engine is cool before starting, wear safety goggles and gloves, and have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Now that the fuel system is depressurised, you can proceed to the next steps of changing the fuel filter, which include disconnecting the battery ground cable, raising and supporting the vehicle, and disconnecting various pipes and components.

Disconnecting the battery

Locate the battery in your Ford Focus. It is usually found in the engine bay, typically near the front of the vehicle. The battery will be a rectangular or cuboid-shaped unit, often with two terminals protruding from the top. These terminals are labelled positive (+) and negative (-).

Before proceeding, ensure that you have the necessary tools and safety equipment. Wear protective gloves and eyewear to safeguard against any battery acid or debris. You will also need a wrench or socket that fits the battery terminal bolts.

Loosen the bolt on the negative terminal using your wrench or socket. Turn it counter-clockwise to loosen it. Do not allow the wrench to touch any metal parts of the car, as this could result in a short circuit. If the wrench accidentally touches any metal surfaces, ensure you disconnect the negative terminal before proceeding.

Once the bolt is loosened, carefully remove the cable from the battery terminal. You may need to wiggle it gently to detach it. Set the cable aside, ensuring it does not touch any metal parts of the car.

At this point, the battery is disconnected. You may now proceed with the next steps of changing the fuel filter. Ensure you keep the disconnected cable away from any metal components to prevent accidental contact and the potential for electrical shorts.

Reconnecting the battery will be done by following these steps in reverse. Ensure you reconnect the negative terminal last, after reconnecting the positive terminal and any other components. Tighten the negative terminal bolt securely to prevent loose connections, which could cause electrical issues or power loss.

Removing the evaporative emission pipe

Before starting, it is important to take safety precautions. Work on or near fuel-related components can be dangerous, as highly flammable mixtures are always present. Do not smoke, carry lighters or open flames, or personal electronic devices near the vehicle when completing this task. Always disconnect the battery ground cable when working on the evaporative emission (EVAP) system.

Now, to begin removing the evaporative emission pipe:

• Position the vehicle on a hoist with the gear in neutral.
• Disconnect the battery ground cable.
• Clean the EVAP canister vent solenoid electrical connector and the surrounding area of any dirt or foreign material.
• Disconnect the EVAP canister vent solenoid electrical connector.
• Disconnect the vapor tube-to-EVAP canister quick connect coupling.
• Disconnect the fuel vapor tube assembly-to-EVAP canister quick connect coupling.
• Disconnect the fresh air hose from the EVAP canister.
• Remove the three nuts securing the EVAP canister in place.
• With all connections to the EVAP canister disconnected and the securing nuts removed, carefully lift and remove the EVAP canister from the vehicle.

At this stage, the evaporative emission pipe should be successfully removed from the 2007 Ford Focus. It is important to note that reinstallation of the EVAP canister would involve reversing the removal procedure, and it is recommended to refer to the Ford Focus Service Manual for further details. Additionally, it is advised to perform the Evaporative Emission System Leak Test after reinstallation.

Changing the filter

First, locate the fuel filter. For the 2007 model, the fuel filter is located under the car, on the passenger side, in front of the fuel tank. It is positioned in the line leading from the fuel tank to the engine.

Now, onto the step-by-step process of changing the filter:

Step 1: Depressurise the fuel system

• Remove the fuel pump fuse.
• Start the engine and let it idle until it stalls.
• Crank the engine for about five seconds to release the fuel injection supply manifold pressure.
• Reinstall the fuel pump fuse.

Step 2: Disconnect the battery

Disconnect the battery ground cable to ensure safety during the process.

Step 3: Raise and support the vehicle

Use a jack to raise the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands.

Step 4: Disconnect the pipes

• Disconnect the evaporative emission pipe.
• Remove the fuel filter outlet and inlet pipes.

Step 5: Remove the fuel filter

Remove the fuel filter bracket and carefully take out the old fuel filter.

Step 6: Install the new fuel filter

• Slide in the new fuel filter into the bracket and secure it in place.
• Reconnect the fuel filter inlet and outlet pipes.
• Reattach the evaporative emission pipe.

Step 7: Lower the vehicle and reconnect the battery

• Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and ensure it is securely on the ground.
• Reconnect the battery ground cable.

Step 8: Repressurise the fuel system

Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes to build up pressure in the fuel system.

Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions for your vehicle, and if you're uncomfortable with any of the steps, consider seeking the help of a qualified mechanic.

Frequently asked questions