How to Replace Front Sway Bar Links 00-09 Ford Focus
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Ford Focus
Replace the front stabilizer links on a 2000–2009 Ford Focus, counter-holding the link studs while tightening the new hardware and securing the wheels to specification.
Tools you will need
- Socket Extensions
- Torque Wrench
- 15mm Socket
- 18mm Wrench
- Jack Stands
- 18mm Socket
- 19mm Socket
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Front stabilizer links
Steps
- Raise the car and remove the wheel
Remove the lug-nut covers and loosen the wheel nuts with the car on the ground. Lift the front and support it on jack stands, then remove the wheel for access to the link.
- Remove the old stabilizer link
Hold the back of the link stud with an 18 mm wrench while loosening the nut with a 15 mm socket and ratchet. Remove the upper hardware, then repeat at the lower joint and withdraw the old link.
- Install the replacement link
Position the new link at the upper and lower mounts and start both nuts by hand. Counter-hold the studs while tightening each nut to the vehicle specification, then confirm the link boots are not twisted.
- Refit the wheel and check clearance
Install the wheel and hand-start the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lugs in a star pattern to specification, reinstall the covers, and inspect that the new link clears surrounding parts.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.