Replacing Fuel In A 2007 Ford Focus: Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to change the fuel filter on your 2007 Ford Focus, you're in the right place. This process is relatively simple and can be done at home with the right tools and safety precautions. Before you begin, make sure you have safety glasses to protect your eyes, and always be cautious of flammable fuel when working on this part of your car. Now, let's get into the steps you'll need to take to change the fuel filter.

Disconnect the fuse related to the fuel pump motor

Disconnecting the fuse related to the fuel pump motor of a 2007 Ford Focus is a necessary step before replacing the fuel filter. This is because it is important to depressurise the fuel system before carrying out any work on the car's fuel system.

To disconnect the fuse, first locate the fuse box. In the 2007 Ford Focus, the fuse panel is located below and to the left of the steering wheel, by the brake pedal, behind a cover. Once you have located the fuse box, you will need to identify the correct fuse to remove. The fuel pump fuse is usually located in the fuse/relay box under the hood, along with most of the other vital engine fuses and relays.

Once you have located the fuel pump fuse, you will need to remove it. Open the fuse box lid, and look up at the lid. Ford has conveniently provided a fuse puller attached to the lid. Use this tool to pull out the fuse.

After removing the fuse, you can then start your engine, and it will run until it sputters and dies. At this point, your fuel system is depressurised, and it is safe to begin working on replacing the fuel filter.

It is worth noting that some sources suggest loosening the gas cap as part of the depressurisation procedure, as the tank is pressurised and sealed for evaporative emissions control.

Now that the fuse has been successfully disconnected, you can proceed with the next steps to change the fuel in your 2007 Ford Focus.

Remove the fuel pump motor fuse

To remove the fuel pump motor fuse in a 2007 Ford Focus, follow these steps:

First, locate the fuse box. The fuse panel is located below and to the left of the steering wheel, by the brake pedal. It is behind a cover, so you will need to remove this cover to access the fuses.

Once you have located the fuse box, you need to identify the correct fuse. The fuel pump fuse is likely located in the fuse/relay box under the hood, as this is where most of the vital engine fuses and relays are found.

Look for a 15-amp (blue) fuse. This should be the first one you see as you move in from the driver's side of the fuse box to the center of the car, in the row closest to the firewall.

Remove this fuse by pulling it out with your fingers or a fuse puller, if you have one. Be sure to replace the fuse once you have finished your work, and ensure that it is securely placed back in the correct slot.

Please note that removing the fuel pump fuse will cause the engine to stop running, so be sure to only do this when the car is parked and turned off.

Disconnect the negative battery terminal

Disconnecting the negative battery terminal is an important step when changing the fuel filter on a 2007 Ford Focus. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this safely and effectively:

Firstly, you will need to gather the necessary tools and equipment. For this step, you will require a 10 mm fastener. It is also important to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any debris or sparks that may occur during the process.

Now, locate the fuse box. On a 2007 Ford Focus, the fuse box is typically located under the hood of the car. Open the fuse box and identify the fuel pump motor fuse. This is usually fuse number 12, but you can double-check this in your vehicle owner's manual. Remove this fuse, which will relieve the fuel pump pressure and stop the engine.

With the fuse removed, you can now disconnect the negative battery terminal. Using your 10 mm fastener, carefully loosen the terminal and disconnect it from the battery. Be cautious as the battery may contain residual electricity, which could cause a spark. Ensure that you do not touch any metal parts of the battery or vehicle with metallic tools during this process.

Once the negative battery terminal is disconnected, you can proceed to the next steps of changing the fuel filter, such as lifting the car and locating the fuel filter on the passenger side of the vehicle. Remember to reconnect the negative battery terminal once you have completed the fuel filter replacement and started the engine.

Safety should always be a top priority when working on your vehicle. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and take all necessary precautions to avoid injury or damage to your car.

Locate the fuel filter

To locate the fuel filter of a 2007 Ford Focus, follow these steps:

Firstly, it is important to note that the fuel filter is located in different positions depending on the model of the car. For the US model, the fuel filter is attached to the frame of the back axle. For the UK model, the fuel filter is located in a recessed area just ahead of the fuel tank, visible on the passenger side just ahead of the rear wheel.

Now, to locate the fuel filter, follow these steps:

Depressurize the fuel system:

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

• Disconnect the battery ground cable.
• Raise and support the vehicle.
• Disconnect the evaporative emission pipe.
• Remove the fuel filter outlet pipe.
• Disconnect the fuel filter inlet pipe.

At this point, you should be able to see and access the fuel filter. It is located within a bracket at the leading edge of the fuel tank.

If you have a UK model, remember to release the fuel pressure with a hose clamp release tool before removing the hoses. Then, simply remove the clamp bolt that holds the filter.

Remove the bracket from the old fuel filter

To remove the bracket from the old fuel filter of a 2007 Ford Focus, you will need to first locate the fuel filter. It is situated under the car, on the passenger side, in front of the gas tank.

Now, to remove the bracket, follow these steps:

Step 1:

Locate the screw that holds the bracket in place on the fuel filter. This bracket is attached to the body of your vehicle. Using the appropriate tool, loosen and remove this screw.

Step 2:

With the screw removed, you can now detach the bracket from the old fuel filter. Gently lift or wiggle the bracket to separate it from the filter. Be careful not to damage any surrounding components or cause injury to yourself.

Step 3:

Once the bracket is removed, set it aside in a safe place, as you will need to attach it to the new fuel filter later on.

Step 4:

Before proceeding with the installation of the new fuel filter, it is important to also remove the plastic clips from the line attached to the old fuel filter. You can do this by carefully pushing or prying them off with your finger or a suitable tool.

By following these steps, you will have successfully removed the bracket from the old fuel filter of your 2007 Ford Focus, and you can now proceed to install the new fuel filter. Remember to always exercise caution when working on your vehicle and refer to your owner's manual for additional information.

Frequently asked questions