The serpentine belt in a Ford Focus drives critical accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. Regular inspection and replacement prevent breakdowns and maintain vehicle performance.
Serpentine Belt Routing Diagram
For most Ford Focus models (e.g., 2012-2018), the belt path wraps pulleys in this sequence: crankshaft pulley, tensioner pulley, idler pulley, alternator pulley, power steering pump pulley, and air conditioning compressor pulley. Always refer to your vehicle's manual for specific routing variations.
Simple Replacement Steps
Replace the serpentine belt when worn or cracked. Basic tools include a wrench for the tensioner and gloves for safety.
- Step 1: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Step 2: Locate the belt tensioner and use a wrench to rotate it counterclockwise, releasing tension.
- Step 3: Slip the old belt off the pulleys, noting the routing sequence or referring to your diagram.
- Step 4: Position the new belt onto all pulleys in the correct order, ensuring it seats properly.
- Step 5: Release the tensioner slowly to apply tension. Verify the belt is aligned and not loose.
- Step 6: Reconnect the battery and start the engine briefly to check for smooth operation and no slippage.
Important Tips and Precautions
Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Inspect pulleys for damage during replacement. Use only an OEM-specified belt for compatibility. Replace the belt every 60,000-100,000 miles or as recommended in your owner's manual.