Parts for your 2012 Ford Focus-Struts

Maintaining and Replacing Struts on the 2012 Ford Focus

Struts are an integral component in the suspension system of the 2012 Ford Focus. They play a key role in not only providing a smooth ride but also ensuring safety and vehicle control. For owners of this model, understanding the importance of strut maintenance and knowing when to replace them is crucial for both performance and longevity of the car.

Firstly, let's discuss the function of struts. In a vehicle, struts combine the functions of a shock absorber and a coil spring. They absorb the impacts from road irregularities like bumps and potholes, ensuring a comfortable ride. Moreover, struts provide structural support to the vehicle's suspension system, influencing steering dynamics and alignment angles. Therefore, keeping watch over their condition is necessary for the overall handling and control of the car.

Recognising when your struts need attention isn't always straightforward but there are certain signs and symptoms to be aware of. If your Ford Focus is experiencing excessive bouncing, swaying on turns, unusual noises, or uneven tyre wear, then these can be indicators of worn struts. Another tell-tale sign is a hydraulic fluid leak from the struts, which can lead to decreased performance.

Routine inspection is part of general vehicle maintenance and checking your struts should be no exception. This task can be performed whenever you have your tyres rotated or your brakes inspected. A quick visual inspection of your struts can reveal potential issues like corrosion, fluid leakage or damage to the boot. It's advisable to have a professional mechanic perform a more thorough inspection if you're unsure.

When it comes to replacing struts on your 2012 Ford Focus, the timing can vary depending on driving habits and road conditions, but a general rule of thumb is every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres. However, if any of the earlier mentioned symptoms start appearing, it's wise to have them addressed sooner rather than later. Replacing struts involves removing components surrounding the struts, which can be complex and time-consuming. Therefore, it's normally recommended to leave this job to an experienced professional.

If you're considering a DIY approach and have the necessary tools and skills, there are a few steps involved in the replacement process. However, this is not typically recommended unless you're well experienced in vehicle repair. Should you decide to tackle this yourself, you will need a jack, jack stands, a spring compressor, and a set of wrenches and sockets. It's also important to be aware of the need for a post-replacement wheel alignment to ensure that your car handles properly.

1. Begin by safely lifting the vehicle using jack stands, ensuring the car is on a stable surface.
2. Remove the wheel to access the strut assembly.
3. Detach mounting bolts from the strut tower and remove any brake lines or sensors attached to the strut.
4. Utilise a spring compressor to safely decompress the coil spring before removing the strut.
5. Install the new strut assembly and reattach all components in reverse order. Be sure to torque bolts to the manufacturer's specified levels.

A proper maintenance routine also includes ensuring your new struts are of high quality and fitment, as cheap or incorrect struts can drastically affect your car's handling. Once installed, always perform a road test to check for any suspension issues and follow up with an alignment check to ensure your steering geometry is correct.

Overall, maintaining your struts is not just about comfort but is integral to your car's safety and drivability. Regular checks and timely replacements are essential to avoid compounded damages that can lead to higher costs down the road. Whether you take a DIY approach or call upon a professional to handle the job, acknowledging the importance of your struts is a big step towards ensuring the longevity and performance of your 2012 Ford Focus.