The second generation Ford Focus has earned people's love for its excellent combination of cost, comfort and reliability. The excellent characteristics of a car do not make you want to exchange it for another; rather, on the contrary, you want to improve it. Fortunately, there are many ways and possibilities for this. The concept of tuning is very multifaceted and can include both banal “eyelashes” on the headlights and a complete engine overhaul with the installation of a turbine. Tuning Ford Focus 2 is no exception, let's try to structure the possible options.
External tuning
If your car is standard, then the first thing you will want to change is the rims. The solution is not the most budget-friendly, but the appearance of the car changes.
External tuning of Ford Focus 2 can be divided into two categories: before restyling and after it. After the update in 2008, the appearance of the model changed significantly, especially the front part. New headlights, a sculpted hood and front bumper gave the car a modern look. Therefore, owners are less likely to do external tuning of the Ford Focus 2. This car doesn't really need restyling. The manufacturer allows the installation of wheels with a diameter from R15 to R18, with different tire sizes, of course. Enthusiasts even manage to install R19. But if your car is for everyday use and not for exhibitions, then it is better not to install more than 17-inch ones, since the ground clearance decreases and the load on the chassis increases.
Good reasons why it's better not to buy a used Ford Focus
Even though Ford left Russia, there are still a lot of Focuses traveling on our roads. Let's focus on the latest, third generation of the model. It debuted in 2011, and was restyled in 2014. In addition to updating the head optics and external body elements, new options have appeared. In addition, they changed the range of engines: they removed the 2-liter diesel and gasoline engine, adding a supercharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost unit with a capacity of 150 hp. With.
Focus is still liquid on the secondary market. Yes, and there is plenty to choose from. For 300,000 ₽ you can buy a copy that has worked in a taxi, and for 650,000 ₽ you can buy a car from private hands made in 2021 with a modest mileage of 65,000 km. It's tempting, but don't rush to shell out your money. The third generation turned out to be controversial, and it has more than enough problems. Let's start with the body.
Body
On cars manufactured before 2013, water leaked into the trunk. It penetrated there through the seal of the interior ventilation valve, which is built into the rear of the body. The owners treated the leak site with sealant. But such prevention did not always help. Therefore, traces of corrosion are often visible in this place.
The windshield is very “soft”. It not only collects chips from stones and scratches from windshield wiper blades, but also cracks from temperature changes. Especially in winter, when it’s freezing outside and the driver has turned the heater up to maximum. Finally, the rubber seals on the hood and doors wear the paint down to metal over time.
Engine
Focus has a wide range of powertrains. Let's look at the most common ones. Duratec petrol engine with a volume of 2 liters and a power of 150 hp. With. installed on pre-restyling cars. Its main problem is clogged fuel injectors. And carbon deposits form on the valves, which simply cannot be removed.
The high pressure fuel pump often leaks. Gasoline penetrates the oil, causing it to dilute. If you miss the moment, you can end up with a major engine overhaul.
Against this background, the modest “survivability” of the right engine mount, due to strong vibrations of the power unit, is mere nonsense.
The Duratec 1.6 Ti-VCT petrol engine is more reliable. It has different levels of boost - 85, 105 and 125 hp. With. Among the problems, we note a leak in the phase shifter control valve on the exhaust camshaft. Oil leaks out very quickly through a faulty valve. If this is not noticed, the engine will starve of oil.
Transmission
There are many problems with the PowerShift robot. A “dry” clutch lasts almost 30,000 km, which is catastrophically short. On cars manufactured after 2013, its service life has been increased, but still jerks during switching have not gone away. Plus, the oil seal on the input shaft and clutch fork wears out quickly.
The classic six-speed automatic transmission 6F35 is noticeably more reliable than the robot, but it is also not without its drawbacks. It has a short service life of the brake drum retaining rings. If they collapse, the death of the unit is guaranteed.
Factory body kits
To radically change your appearance, you can use ready-made branded body kits. Most often, the kit includes front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. There may be special bumper covers. The advantage of the original kits is that they were developed for a specific model, fit perfectly with the standard mounts, and are also painted in standard Ford colors. But they are quite difficult to get, and they are expensive, so most turn to the services of a studio that does the tuning themselves. They can change the Ford Focus 2 bumper to any shape.
“Sensitive” EcoBoost and understandable “aspirated”
If we are talking about Russian-assembled cars, then from the point of view of maintenance cost and reliability, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine (85-125 hp) looks preferable. It is also by no means sinless (oil leaks, short-lived fuel pump, in old cars - the “whims” of the ignition system), but it is simple, studied inside and out by craftsmen, and will definitely not ruin you in repairs.
On European Focuses after restyling, the 1.6 engine was installed either in combination with an automatic transmission or in dual-fuel versions with LPG, but in any case this is rare. But buyers were offered the latest turbo engines of the EcoBoost family with a volume of 1.0 and 1.5 liters. The latter is again a downsized version of the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine.
The upgraded Focus is the company’s first car to feature this new engine, which incorporates all the technological features of the EcoBoost family of engines. This is not only turbocharging, high-pressure direct fuel injection and variable synchronization of both camshafts (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), but also, for example, water cooling of the intake mixture for more efficient air supply.
Like the 1.0-liter EcoBoost, the 1.5-liter engine features an integrated exhaust manifold that improves efficiency by allowing the engine to reach its optimum temperature faster. In addition, the distance that exhaust gases travel between the cylinders and the turbocharger has been reduced. Compared to its predecessor (and the 1.0-liter engine), it seems to be free of overheating problems, but the direct injection fuel injectors are still sensitive to fuel quality.
In any case, both engines are demanding and sensitive to the quality of fuel and lubricants and are much more expensive to repair than “aspirated” engines with distributed injection. Suffice it to remember that the 1.0-liter engine has a timing belt that is “bathed” in an oil bath, so replacing it turns out to be more difficult (and more expensive) than with other engines. Among the problems with the 1.0-liter engine, experts name overheating due to malfunctions of the complex cooling system, delicate fuel injectors and deposits on the valves.
On Russian Focus, a 1.5-liter EcoBoost was offered instead of a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine. At the same time, they were allowed to use 95 gasoline. A controversial decision, especially considering that the predecessor (1.6 EcoBoost) had cases of piston damage due to detonation.
The Ford Focus I suspension requires investment every 100-120 thousand km. Consumables can be considered stabilizer struts, which last 30-40 thousand km. But now you can buy reinforced racks that can last twice as long. The original ball joints will last 100 thousand km and are replaced as an assembly with levers. But they are fastened with rivets, so non-original hinges can be purchased separately, which reduces the cost of repairs.
100 thousand km is the limit for shock absorbers, both front and rear. The repair of the rear multi-link Control Blade suspension, which usually occurs after 120 thousand km, can be especially hard on the wallet. Inspecting all eight levers is not a cheap pleasure. Also, this mileage may require replacement of steering rods and ends; the power steering pump oil seal may leak.
The first thing that comes to mind when mentioning the Ford Focus II chassis is the wheel bearing, which has to be changed after 40 thousand km. In the front suspension, the wheel bearings still cannot boast of longevity (and they need to be replaced instead of the hub); at the same time, the stabilizer struts often give out, usually at the 50-60 thousand km mark. After 100 thousand km, the turn of the levers will come (they are changed along with the silent blocks and the ball joint).
Everything is the same in the rear multi-link: 120 thousand km is the milestone after which it will have to be revised. And here an unpleasant design feature emerges: all silent blocks are changed only together with the levers. To save money, you will have to go to an unofficial service station and repress non-original silent blocks. Naturally, there is no guarantee.
Optics
There are many alternative optics on the market that look more impressive than standard ones. You can start tuning the Ford Focus 2 headlights by installing “eyelashes”: they are inexpensive, and you can install them yourself, and the “look” changes noticeably. Depending on your desire and budget, you can continue tuning by installing lenses, tinting the headlight glasses, or radically replacing all the optics with another one with lenses and blue LED backlighting, for example.
You can do the same tuning with the taillights. The Ford Focus 2 sedan is less common than the hatchback, so there are much fewer alternative taillights available. Moreover, in a body with a sloping rear end there are many more options for creativity. It is especially important to replace rear lights for restyled models. The front part of the car was thoroughly redesigned, but the rear part was left unchanged; the result was not entirely harmonious. This can be corrected by selecting rear lights to your taste for the Ford Focus 2 (hatchback). Tuning almost always starts with the purchase of an ST-style rear spoiler.
How to profitably exchange a used car
To guarantee the legality of the used car exchange service and its objective cost, the purchase and sale process should be carried out at a trusted auto center. Here the client will be offered:
- Diagnostics of the old model, on the basis of which its cost will be determined;
- Selection of cars for exchange, completely new or with a clean mileage history: all cars undergo forensic examination, therefore the car dealership will never sell a car with a “dark past”;
- Legal support of the transaction: the client enters into a notarized agreement and, if necessary, can use the credit services of the car dealership’s partner bank;
- Efficiency of the service: the client does not need to look for buyers for his vehicle; he does not need to settle issues with the traffic police or the bank. The listed functions are the task of the auto center.
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Thus, with minimal documents, it is possible to buy an improved car within one to three days. The used car exchange service makes it possible to regularly change the owner’s vehicle fleet by purchasing its best models.
Vinyl films
Using films for tuning is a great way for those who want to change the exterior of their car as simply and inexpensively as possible. Moreover, you will still have the opportunity to return everything back (except for the money, of course). Just one glued white stripe running across the entire body will make the car look more sporty.
A common option is to cover the hood, trunk, or both in carbon fiber. Some also style the roof with carbon film. If you have the desire and a technological hair dryer, then all the work can be done quite easily yourself. You can change not only the external elements, but also the internal ones. Decorative inserts covered with carbon fiber or wood are often indistinguishable from natural materials.
Body parts
Tuning the exterior of a Ford Focus is of great importance, because it is the appearance that is evaluated first. Airbrushing can be a good option for updating your appearance. If you find a good craftsman, your car can turn into a work of art. Unfortunately, doing this with your own hands is almost impossible. If you don’t have the money for an experienced specialist, you can get by with a more affordable option – vinyl film. By the way, it can also perform a protective function. In addition, you can change the image at any time.
Body kit elements are another step on the path to success. You can buy them individually or in whole sets. There are a huge number of tuning kits on sale, which include bumpers, spoilers, headlight lashes, muffler tips, sills, etc. Don’t forget also about side skirts, decorative trims for the rear pillars and a false radiator grille.
Inner beauty
Tuning the interior of a Ford Focus 2 is not limited to just reupholstering the seats. There are many other items to install. For example, LED lighting for the instrument panel, aluminum door sills and pedals, illuminated door handles and footwells. If the budget does not allow you to redo the entire interior, then you can limit yourself to the steering wheel, armrest and shift knob cover. It is significantly cheaper, but creates a good effect. After this procedure, the steering wheel becomes thicker. Most people like it, but it’s better to test your tactile sensations by first putting on a cover or wrapping the steering wheel in leather.
It's not just the seats that can be reupholstered with new, more expensive materials. It is possible to cover the front panel and door panels. The latter are highly recommended to be done in combination with seats, then you get a complete image of the interior space. The cost of reupholstery will depend on the material chosen. Various combinations look beautiful: artificial leather with perforated leather, Alcantara with natural leather, vinyl with eco-leather.
For those who just want to inexpensively replace a fabric interior with a leather one, it is worth looking for a used option from disassembly. A set of seats, possibly heated and electrically adjustable, will cost significantly less than the services of a tuning studio.
Engine
Tuning the Ford Focus 2 engine is one of the most expensive and complex processes. The key points to guarantee the expected result are the skillful hands of a craftsman and high-quality spare parts.
Engine modifications usually include installation or replacement of:
- forged pistons with double oil channels;
- special lightweight connecting rods;
- reinforced studs and bolts;
- modified valve springs;
- engine mounts with more powerful silent blocks;
- throttle body with a large diameter;
- fuel injectors with increased flow capacity;
- turbines.
Such global changes should be made only if you are going to operate the car in sports mode. The listed changes will allow you to fearlessly drive at higher speeds, and will also increase the maximum service life of the engine.
In order to cope with the increased load and improve power transmission, the clutch is changed to a reinforced one, most often a racing one, manufactured by Exedy, complete with a lightweight flywheel.
Chip tuning “Ford Focus 2”
This is a less expensive way to increase engine power. By flashing the control unit program, you can achieve different goals. An extreme option is to increase power by 30-50 horsepower. This result cannot be achieved without additional modifications to the power unit. A simpler option is to optimize the program code for comfortable everyday use. This means eliminating floating speeds, dips between first and second speed, as well as reducing consumption and increasing traction from low speeds. Many owners highly praise the firmware from Icebreaker (can be found on the Internet).
Chip tuning is a reversible process. If you don't like the result, you can always return the standard factory firmware.
Procedure for self-conduct
- The motor power is measured so that after the procedure the improvements that have occurred can be recorded. You cannot do this yourself, so you need to contact a company that has a dyno stand.
- There are firmwares on the Internet that should be designed specifically for Ford Focus 2
. Using firmware for other cars can lead to dire consequences. - The laptop is connected to the control unit using a K-Line adapter. There are two different methods: plugging into the diagnostic connector under the steering wheel and transmitting information directly to the control unit (to do this, you must first disconnect it).
- The new firmware is “uploaded” into the control unit (usually writing takes 20-30 minutes).
Brakes
After increasing power, the need arises to control it.
Although improving the brake system will not be superfluous even for a car without modifications. The stock brakes do an excellent job in normal operation. But if the riding style is close to racing, then they will begin to lose their effectiveness as the load increases. The main reason is overheating. This problem is solved by installing ventilated brake discs of larger diameter. The calipers are also changed to more powerful ones, with a larger number of pistons (front - 4, rear - 2). A good option for modernization is a kit from the Ford ST model.
The installation of large brake discs is also justified from an aesthetic point of view. Especially if your car has 18-diameter wheels. The standard small brakes look ridiculous with those rims.
Wheel disks
One of the important elements of a car's appearance is the wheels. Therefore, to update the appearance of the Ford Focus 2, it is imperative to install exclusive alloy wheels. The ideal choice would be “skating rinks” measuring 18 inches. By the way, such wheels look beautiful if the owner has not forgotten to slightly reduce the vehicle's ground clearance. The appearance of the car becomes much more dynamic.
Suspension
Tuning the Ford Focus 2 will be incomplete without modifying the car's chassis.
Intervention options are also possible here. You can radically change the suspension to air or adaptive, with the installation of struts and stabilizers produced by H&R. Or you can limit yourself to reinforced silent blocks and stiffer springs. Suspension tuning is of purely practical importance. Modified and reinforced elements not only improve handling, but also increase service life. The only exception would be low-profile tires on large-diameter wheels. Such beauty requires sacrifice, as the load on the entire chassis increases. Not only the wheel bearings suffer, but also the silent blocks of the levers.
Removing the old chain
At the bottom left, near the camshaft sprocket, the chain tensioner is hidden. The manual says, "Press the ratchet through the hole with a thin screwdriver to unlock the chain tensioner, then recess the rod by pushing down on the tensioner shoe and secure the tensioner rod in the recessed position by inserting a suitable rod into the hole." But since this is very inconvenient, we will remove the entire tensioner and then simply charge it on the knee.
We loosen the tightening of the bolts securing the camshaft sprockets, but do not unscrew the bolts.
Remove the tensioner shoe and unscrew the two bolts of the damper.
Remove the timing chain. Unscrew the oil pump chain tensioner bolt and remove it together with the chain.
Inlet and outlet
Many people underestimate the role of air in the correct operation of the engine. But you shouldn’t do this if you are tuning a Ford Focus 2 with an emphasis on increasing power. Extreme methods of upgrading the intake system include installing a turbine (in other words, an air blower). This process is complex and expensive, but the reward will be an additional 40-50 horsepower under the hood. A simpler option is to install a zero resistance filter.
The exhaust system is usually replaced with a direct-flow one. There are many ready-made solutions. The exhaust manifold, muffler and resonator are subject to replacement. The exhaust pipe is split on two sides. The latter does not affect the power, but it looks beautiful.
Technical improvements: what can be done with motors
The power potential of the line of engines installed in the second generation Focus fully satisfies the needs of the car. But a forced increase in power through tuning can negatively affect the service life of the engine - the only way to increase engine power is to reflash the ECU. Chip tuning of engines on Focus 2 will allow you to slightly change the dynamics and calibrate the engine’s appetite.
Installing a turbine or compressor, as well as changing the fuel injection system or boring the cylinders will quickly render the engine unusable. In fact, Focus motors are suitable for tuning, but the cost of any procedure is completely irrational - it is cheaper to swap the motor for any sample suitable in terms of characteristics and dimensions.
What is this all for?
The desire to improve your car is a state of mind. For some, the appearance is more important, for others - the technical component. But they have one thing in common: the desire to create. The limiting factor in this process is usually the budget. You need to pay for any additional or modified component; without investment you will not be able to tune the Ford Focus 2. Restyling is expensive. Many people think that it’s easier to buy an immediately upgraded version of the Focus ST, RS. This makes sense, but often it is the tuning process itself that is more important than the end result.
The main thing is not to cross the line of common sense in the pursuit of perfection or individuality at any cost. Although you can’t spoil the porridge with oil, tuning without a competent approach can turn into a waste of money. Now there is a lot of information available even for implementing a project on your own, you just need to take the time to study.
In the article we did not touch upon such an important stage of tuning as music modernization. But this is a topic for another discussion. There are many nuances when building a high-quality acoustic system.
Salon and other points
If you have the opportunity and desire to improve your car, then external transformation and improvement of the technical part are not enough. Regardless of the type of body, without modifying the interior, the tuning effect will be insufficient. The standard materials in this model are not particularly high quality. Therefore, experts recommend covering the seats, roof and dashboard with leather or Alcantara.
Thanks to this move, the interior will become more stylish and comfortable. The lighting will make it even more attractive. A new audio system will also be a worthwhile investment - it will allow you to listen to music in better quality.
When making your car more original, it is worth remembering its practicality. After all, the main task of tuning is to make the car more reliable and comfortable. For example, you can change the radiator grille to one with a finer mesh to prevent it from getting dirty. Effective tuning – improving the functionality of the car. For example, improving the sound insulation of the cabin.
