Parts for your 2014 Ford Focus-Driveshafts

2014 Ford Focus driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Per the Ford Workshop Manual for the LW Focus (Section 205-04: Front Drive Halfshafts), the Haynes Ford Focus 2011–2018 manual, and Ford/Motorcraft parts catalogues listing left- and right-hand CV halfshafts, the 2014 Ford Focus absolutely uses driveshafts. It’s a front-wheel-drive car, so there’s no long tailshaft/prop shaft to the rear, but there are two front driveshafts (CV halfshafts) that send power from the transaxle to the front wheels.

These driveshafts are the unsung heroes of the Focus driveline. Each one has constant velocity (CV) joints that let the suspension move up and down and the wheels steer left and right while still delivering smooth torque. The outer joint (usually a Rzeppa type) handles steering angles, the inner joint allows plunge as the suspension travels. Many variants also run a right-hand intermediate “jackshaft” with a carrier bearing to balance shaft lengths and trim torque steer.

Look after them and they’ll rack up big kilometres. At each service, a quick visual under the bonnet and from underneath goes a long way:

• Check CV boots for splits, cracks or grease flung onto the inner rim or underbody.
• Listen for clicking on full lock, especially during low-speed turns in a car park.
• Feel for shudder or vibration under hard acceleration that eases off when coasting.
• Keep an eye out for gearbox/axle seal weeps where the shafts enter the transaxle.

Boots are the big one. Once a boot splits, road grit and water rush in, grease rushes out, and the joint chews itself out in short order. Catch a torn boot early and a boot kit can save the shaft. If the joint’s already noisy or has play, a complete shaft is the smarter fix.

When replacing, opt for quality shafts and new seals where needed. Always use a new axle/hub nut, torque it to the workshop spec, and don’t hammer the stub through the hub (use the right puller/press tools). After any kerb strike or big pothole, it’s worth a quick check for bent rims, torn boots and leaks. With sensible servicing and tidy driving, Focus driveshafts can last well past 150,000 km.

FAQs

Does a 2014 Ford Focus have driveshafts or a tailshaft?

It has front driveshafts (CV halfshafts) because it’s front-wheel drive. There’s no rear tailshaft/prop shaft on this model. The CV shafts transmit power from the transaxle to each front wheel while allowing suspension and steering movement.

What are the signs my Focus driveshafts need replacing?

Classic symptoms include clicking on full lock, vibration on acceleration, and visible grease spray from a torn CV boot. If a boot is split but the joint is quiet and tight, a boot-only repair may be viable. If there’s noise or play, a full shaft is usually the better fix.

How long do they last and what might it cost?

With intact boots and regular checks, driveshafts commonly last well beyond 150,000 km. Costs vary by brand and labour, but in Australia and New Zealand a fitted replacement is often in the ballpark of a few hundred to around a thousand dollars per side. Quality parts and correct torqueing help them go the distance.