How to Replace Headlights & Bulbs 02-04 Ford Focus
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 50 min · Ford Focus
Replace a headlight bulb or the full headlight assembly on a 2002-2004 Ford Focus, starting from removing the grille.
Tools you will need
- Ratchet
- Socket extensions
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Jack stands
- 10mm socket
Parts and supplies
- Headlight bulbs
- Headlight assembly
Steps
- Remove the front grille for access
Twist out its plastic clips with a Phillips screwdriver, pull the panel over the grille free, twist out the parking lights, then remove the grille's four 10mm bolts and lift it off.
- Remove the headlight
Take out the headlight's three upper 10mm bolts and the single bolt underneath (a jack stand under the car helps reach it), then pull the headlight out and unplug its harness.
- Prep the new assembly, or just swap a bulb
On a new headlight, transfer over the rubber boot and wire ties; to swap just a bulb, pull back the boot, push the wire retainer in toward the center, pull the old bulb from the harness and fit the new one, then reset the retainer and boot.
- Reinstall the headlight
Snap the wiring harness back in, reinstall the three top bolts and the one underneath.
- Refit the grille
Slide it into place and clip the bottom in, reinstall its four 10mm bolts, then refit the panel over the grille, front edge first, and snap its clips back in.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.