How to Replace Valve Cover Gasket 00-07 Ford Focus

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 80 min · Ford Focus

Replace the valve cover gasket on a 2000–2007 Ford Focus and keep ignition wires in their original cylinder positions.

Steps

1. Disconnect cables and remove the valve cover

   Release the throttle and cruise control cables from their posts and brackets. Label ignition wires if needed, remove them by the boots, disconnect the vent hose, then remove the valve cover bolts and lift the cover carefully.

2. Remove the old gasket and clean surfaces

   Pull the old gasket from its groove and clean the cover and cylinder head mating surfaces without scratching them. Keep debris out of the engine and make sure all old seal material is removed.

3. Install the new gasket

   Seat the replacement gasket evenly in the cover groove and apply a small amount of RTV only at the specified seam joints. Position the cover and start all bolts by hand, then tighten them in the specified sequence and to the vehicle specification.

4. Reconnect wires and cables

   Reconnect the vent hose, reinstall each ignition wire to its original cylinder, and route the leads through their retainers. Reattach the throttle and cruise cables, then start the engine and inspect for oil leaks and smooth throttle return.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.