Replace the air filter in your 2011-2018 Ford Focus | O'Reilly Auto Parts

Skip to content

Learn how to check, remove, and replace the air filter in your Ford Focus with these step-by-step instructions. This video demonstrates an air filter replacement on a 2014 Ford Focus, and the replacement procedures will be similar for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Ford Focus models. Replacing the air filter on your Ford helps to better remove contaminants from the outside air before it enters the engine, and can improve your car’s engine performance and gas mileage. Your 2011 to 2018 Ford Focus’ owner’s manual lists an air filter replacement interval, but if you notice a dirty or clogged air filter or reduced fuel economy, you can replace the air filter as needed to ensure optimal performance.

Tools & Materials List

Step by Step Instructions:

Locate Air Filter

Remove Old Air Filter

Install New Filter

Additional Resources

Your Ford Focus’s air filter helps trap and remove dust, dirt, and contaminants from the outside air before it enters your vehicle's engine. Changing your 2011 to 2018 Ford Focus’s air filter is a straightforward maintenance task that can improve fuel economy and engine performance, as well as helping your engine run at its best even longer. It’s recommended that you change most vehicle’s air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but your Ford’s service manual will detail the manufacturer’s maintenance intervals. A clogged air filter can cause your vehicle to misfire, make unusual engine noises, or you may smell gas when starting your Focus. Our detailed, step-by-step instructions will help you perform an air filter replacement on your 2011 to 2018 Ford Focus and help keep your car running at its best. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.

Show More Show Less

Collin uses his ratchet and socket to remove the four bolts securing the lid of the air filter housing. Collin removes the housing lid, exposing the old filter underneath.

Step 1: Locate Air Filter

Open the hood and locate the air filter housing on the driver’s side of the Focus. Use your ratchet and socket to remove the four bolts securing the lid on the housing. You may need an extension for a couple of bolts.

Show More Show Less

Collin lifts and removes the air filter out of the housing. Collin makes sure the empty housing is clear of dirt and debris before he installs the new air filter.

Step 2: Remove Old Air Filter

Remove the lid and remove the old filter by taking it off the rim inside the housing toward the passenger side.

Do It Right: Make sure the inside of the air filter housing is clear of leaves and debris.

Show More Show Less

Collin installs the new filter and replaces the lid to the air filter housing. Using his socket wrench, Collin secures the air filter housing lid by tightening the four bolts he removed earlier.

Step 3: Install New Air Filter

Install your new air filter, making sure it’s properly seated on the rim toward the passenger side. Put the lid to the air filter housing back in place and secure it with the four bolts you removed earlier. Once the lid is secure, close the hood.

Show More Show Less

Learn how to check, remove, and replace the air filter in your Ford Focus with these step-by-step instructions. This video demonstrates an air filter replacement on a 2014 Ford Focus, and the replacement procedures will be similar for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Ford Focus models. Replacing the air filter on your Ford helps to better remove contaminants from the outside air before it enters the engine, and can improve your car’s engine performance and gas mileage. Your 2011 to 2018 Ford Focus’ owner’s manual lists an air filter replacement interval, but if you notice a dirty or clogged air filter or reduced fuel economy, you can replace the air filter as needed to ensure optimal performance.

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.

Show More Show Less