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How to Change the Turn Signal Bulb on a 2011 to 2018 Ford Focus

Your Ford Focus’ turn signals help alert other drivers that you are turning left or right, and are required by law to work properly. A rapidly-blinking turn signal is a sign that your bulb is close to failing or has failed, and should be replaced as soon as possible. Changing a flickering or burned out turn signal light bulb on your 2011-2018 Ford Focus is a simple repair that can help you avoid a traffic ticket and keep you safe on the road. Failing turn signals can make it difficult for other drivers to know which direction you intend to go, and could put you and others in danger. Our detailed instructions can help you perform a turn signal bulb replacement on your Ford Focus.


Tools & Materials List

Step by Step Instructions:

Tools & Materials

How to Change the Turn Signal Bulb on a 2011 to 2018 Ford Focus

Your Ford Focus’ turn signals help alert other drivers that you are turning left or right, and are required by law to work properly. A rapidly-blinking turn signal is a sign that your bulb is close to failing or has failed, and should be replaced as soon as possible. Changing a flickering or burned out turn signal light bulb on your 2011-2018 Ford Focus is a simple repair that can help you avoid a traffic ticket and keep you safe on the road. Failing turn signals can make it difficult for other drivers to know which direction you intend to go, and could put you and others in danger. Our detailed instructions can help you perform a turn signal bulb replacement on your Ford Focus. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.

Locate Your Old Bulb

Collin opening hood

Step 1: Locate Your Old Bulb

Open the hood and locate the screws at the front and back of the headlight assembly.
Collin uses a flathead screwdriver to remove the screws holding the headlight assembly together.

Step 2: Remove Screws

Use your flathead screwdriver to remove the screws holding the headlight assembly and set aside.
Collin detaches the headlight assembly’s electrical connector at the back of the headlight assembly.

Step 3: Disengage Assembly

Pull up on the assembly gently to disengage it. You’ll need to detach it from the electrical connector in the back before you remove it completely. Press down on the tab at the top of the connector to slip off.

Remove Old Bulb

Collin removes the cap on the back of the turn signal so he can remove the dust cover and access the turn signal bulb.

Step 4: Access the Back of the Turn Signal

Once the assembly is removed, take the cap off the back of the turn signal and remove the dust cover from the light next to it.
Collin releases the bulb by turning the bulb socket counterclockwise.

Step 5: Remove the Old Bulb from Assembly

Reach in the opening and turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to release it from the assembly.
Collin removes the old bulb from the socket.

Step 6: Remove Old Bulb from Socket

Use the larger opening to access the bulb and detach it from the socket.

Install New Bulb

Collin installing the new turn signal bulb.

Step 7: Install Replacement Bulb

Push your replacement bulb down into its socket and secure it in the assembly with a slight clockwise turn.

Collin replaces the cap at the back of the bulb and the dust cover on the headlight assembly.

Step 8: Replace the Cap

Replace the cap at the back of the bulb and the dust cover next to it. Snap the electrical connector into place at the back of the assembly.
Collin closes the Focus’ hood, another successful DIY repair.

Step 9: Reinstall Assembly

Gently position the assembly so that it can be reattached using the two screws you removed earlier. Test your turn signal to make sure it functions properly and close the hood when finished.

Additional Resources

These step-by-step instructions and video show how to replace the turn signal bulbs on 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Ford Focus models. Changing a burned out or failing turn signal bulb helps you adhere to local road laws, and lets other drivers know of your vehicle’s intended direction to keep you and others safe. You should replace burned out turn signal bulbs to avoid a safety hazard as well as to prevent potentially getting a traffic ticket for a malfunctioning signal. O’Reilly Auto Parts carries headlight bulbs, tail light bulbs, and turn signal bulbs for your Ford Focus to help you make your repairs and keep your car as safe as possible.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.