Changing Front Shocks and Struts - Ford Focus

After noticing one of the front shocks was leaking oil I had to get them changed. After nearly 10 years and 172,000KMs the originals were due for replacement anyway. Front shock absorbers take a great deal of abuse through normal driving this Ford Focus shock replacement video shows you how strut installation happens on this vehicle.

Worn or faulty shock absorbers affect the safety of your vehicle and can lead to longer braking distances and handling instability. Some people suggest replacing them around the 60,000 mile or 100,000KM mark as proactive maintenance. It is always a good idea to replace worn shocks.

This suspension setup is shared across the equivalent Mazda and Volvo models that use the same Ford C1 vehicle platform.

After looking at the available options I ended up with KYB Excel-G replacements as well as new KYB shock mounts, bearing plates and bump stops. The genuine Ford shocks were $400 compared to the $87 of the KYB. KYB are an OEM supplier to a lot of manufacturers so they should be good quality. Monroe or Bilstein were the other easily available options but KYB turned out to be best value overall.

As always, this is not so much a how to or DIY video, more a watch me do the work. Although there is great information in the video to help you do the job yourself, my videos are strictly for entertainment purposes only and the information contained within should be regarded as such.

Here's a link to the KYB Excel-G shock absorbers that I used which were purchased from MicksGarage:
http://kyb-europe.com/products/shock-...

There is a special tool that makes the job go a lot smoother and that's a strut tool for helping remove the struts from the steering knuckle. There are several options available, but I went with the Laser Tools 3396:
http://www.lasertools.co.uk/product/3396

A big Thank you to Eric O of South Main Auto for his cameo appearance. Here's an example of some of the great work he does over on the SMA channel:
   • Honda Ridgeline: Broken Rear Spring  

Compressing coil springs is a dangerous business and can cause serious harm. If you're in any doubt as to your ability to carry out a safe repair leave this work to a professional.

Don't forget that it's always a good idea to have your wheel alignment checked after any suspension work.

This is my first video edited with the updated version 16 of PowerDirector. The new features are evident from the opening shot!

As always this video was filmed using a pawn shop JVC Everio and occasional GoPro Hero footage. This video also features dashcam footage from a Transcend DrivePro 100.

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Please watch: "Engine Oil Flush - With Results!"
   • Engine Oil Flush - With Results!  
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