
You can find rear seat folding buttons at both the left and rear positions inside the trunk. Gently pull the switch and then push lightly with your hand. Locate the switch above the seat you wish to fold down, gently pull the switch downward, and the rear seat will fold down.

I've folded down the rear seats in my Focus several times, and it feels quite convenient. The general steps are: first, clear any items from the seats, then locate a round handle or strap near the top of the seatback, close to the window. Pull it to release the latch. Gently push the seatback forward, and it will fold down smoothly to lie flat. Once folded, the entire trunk space becomes much larger, suitable for large suitcases or ski equipment. When I drive my Focus sedan, I operate it this way. Remember to check if the seat is fully secured after folding to avoid damaging the latch from shaking while driving. Regularly spray some lubricant on the seat hinges to keep them smooth, which can extend their lifespan, especially important during the rainy season to prevent rust. Practicing a few times makes it easier and saves a lot of trouble.

From experience, I've learned that folding down the rear seats of a Focus should be done slowly. After locating the pull tab or button on the outer side of the seat, don't rush to yank and push forcefully—this can easily break the plastic clips. The correct way is to pull steadily, feel for the resistance change, then gently push the backrest down until you hear a click indicating it's locked. Always ensure no one is inside the car and the ground is level during operation—safety first. The benefit is creating extra space for large items, but avoid overloading to prevent damaging the seat fabric. I'd advise new owners to read the owner's manual first, as mechanisms may vary slightly across different model years of the Focus. Regularly inspect and clean the moving parts, such as removing dust buildup, to prevent jamming. Test the function before long trips to ensure everything works properly.

There are significant differences in the Focus models. For example, my 2012 model has a prominent pull strap at the top of the rear seats, which folds them down with a single pull. However, newer versions like the 2020 model might have hidden buttons on the seatbacks. The hatchback Focus offers spacious luggage room when the seats are folded down, while the sedan version has more limited angles. The operation is simple: just find the correct pull tab. After regular maintenance, the operation becomes smoother.


