How to Remove and Install the Focus Exterior Door Handle?
2 Answers
Prepare the tools needed for the removal process: a flat-head screwdriver and a spline wrench. Open the door and locate a small black cover on the side. Use the flat-head screwdriver to gently pry open the small black cover. Take out the spline wrench and use it to loosen the inner screw. Gently pull the lock cylinder outward by hand to remove it. Hold the door handle with your hand, then gently pull it backward and outward to remove the door handle.
I found that removing and installing the Focus exterior door handle is actually quite simple, as I've done it several times. First, open the door and locate the hidden small screws on the inner side of the door trim panel, usually requiring a T30 screwdriver to remove them. Then, use a plastic pry tool to gently pry open the door panel, being careful not to break the clips by applying too much force. Once the panel is off, you can see the fixing points of the exterior handle. Loosen its screws, and some models may also have electrical connectors to unplug. After removing the old handle, align the new handle and reinstall it, tighten the screws, reconnect the electrical connectors, and then reattach the door panel to test if the pulling action is smooth. The whole process requires careful attention, as the screw positions may vary between different Focus generations like the third or fourth gen, so it's advisable to check the vehicle manual or online videos beforehand. For tools, wear gloves to prevent scratches, and disconnect the car battery's positive and negative terminals before starting to avoid accidental short circuits. The entire process takes about half an hour to complete.