How to Replace Rear Upper Control Arm 00-14 Ford Focus
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Ford Focus
Replace a worn rear upper control arm on 2000–2014 Ford Focus models, restoring the suspension link while keeping the arm loaded near normal ride height for final tightening.
Tools you will need
- Socket Extensions
- Torque Wrench
- 15mm Socket
- Jack Stands
- 18mm Socket
- Ratchet
- Swivel
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Rear upper control arm
- Wheel lug nuts
Steps
Support the vehicle and remove the wheel
With the car on the ground, loosen the lug nuts slightly. Lift the rear safely, support it on jack stands, remove the nuts, and take off the wheel.
Remove the old upper arm
Use the 15 mm socket and ratchet to loosen both upper arm mounting bolts. Keep control of the arm as the last bolt comes free, then withdraw it from the suspension.
Position the replacement arm
Compare the replacement with the removed arm and orient it the same way. Start both mounting bolts by hand, leaving them loose enough to let the suspension align.
Align and tighten the arm
If needed, use a secured strap to draw the suspension into alignment. Raise the suspension with a floor jack to approximate ride height, then tighten the mounting bolts to the vehicle's specification.
Reinstall the wheel
Fit the wheel and start each lug nut by hand. Snug them in a crossing pattern, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to the vehicle's specification.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.