Ford Focus Mk2 Front Wheel Bearing Replacement
In this case, the front right wheel bearing was replaced on a Ford Focus Mk2. The symptom of a failed bearing was a humming noise when driving at high speed.
- Further instructions on wheel bearing replacement and tool lists can be found here;
- Replacement video here.
To carry out the replacement procedure, you will need a new hub assembly, as on the Ford Focus Mk2, the bearing and hub are a single unit (GEN2 non-serviceable unit). The exception is cars with rear drum brakes, but here we are discussing the front axle.
Ford Focus Mk2 hub part numbers
The choice of hub depends on availability and brand preference. The original hub has part number 1471854. Popular aftermarket options include: Pilenga HB-P 5489, GMB GH21190 or Fenox WHB71111.
How to change the wheel bearing on a Ford Focus Mk2
You will need a set of spanners and sockets (sizes 12, 13, 15, 17, 21), Allen keys, Torx T50, as well as a press and mandrels. The ideal option is a special kit for pressing out GEN2 bearings (allows replacement directly on the car without a press).
Removal of the front hub and replacement of the wheel bearing on the Ford Focus Mk2 are shown in detail in the photos below.
Remove the front right wheel.
Before replacing the Focus Mk2 hub, clean the thread on the track rod end of dirt and apply penetrating oil.
Undo the track rod end nut.
Use a specific puller for ball joints and rod ends.
Carefully install the puller on the track rod end to avoid damaging the rubber gaiter.
Press out the track rod end.
Unscrew the drive shaft retaining bolt using an impact wrench (or a breaker bar with an extension).
Remove the brake hose from its mounting on the shock absorber.
Undo the two bolts securing the brake caliper carrier.
Remove the brake caliper together with the carrier.
To avoid damaging the brake hose, suspend the caliper from a spring coil using wire or a cable tie.
Remove the brake disc.
Clean the thread and apply penetrating lubricant to the ball joint pinch bolt.
Undo the nut with a ring spanner. It is very important that the thread is clean, otherwise the ball joint pin may be damaged, leading to its replacement.
Press the ball joint out of the steering knuckle using the same puller.
Unscrew the pinch bolt securing the steering knuckle to the shock absorber.
Remove the loosened bolt from the hole.
Remove the steering knuckle. You may need a spreading tool or chisel to slightly open the clamp on the shock absorber.
Attention! If the car is equipped with an ABS system, the ABS sensor must be disconnected before removing the knuckle (in this example, the model is without ABS).
The removed steering knuckle.
Clean dirt from the removed part.
It is essential to use the correct tools to replace the Ford Focus Mk2 front wheel bearing.
This photo shows an example of crude removal: the edges of the hole are bent from blows with a blunt object. Do not do this.
A hydraulic press for bearing replacement.
Place the steering knuckle under the press using spacers of the appropriate diameter.
With the press ram pushing against the face of the hub, carefully press out the old unit. It is important that it comes out evenly, without tilting.
The pressure required for removal can reach high values.
It is best to support the hub from below so that it does not fall onto your feet when it exits the knuckle.
The old and new hub bearing assembly.
Turn the steering knuckle over and set it horizontally under the press. The mounting bore must be cleaned and greased.
Place the hub bearing into the mounting bore.
The image shows pressure being applied to the inner part of the hub — this is UNACCEPTABLE for a new bearing (it will lead to failure).
You must press only on the outer race of the bearing or use a special mandrel for GEN2 hubs.
The new hub is pressed into the steering knuckle as far as the retaining ring.
Reinstall the steering knuckle on the car in reverse order.
Tighten all bolts using a torque wrench. Torque settings for Ford Focus Mk2:
- Hub bolt (drive shaft): 45 Nm, then tighten by a further 90°.
- Knuckle to shock absorber bolt: 90 Nm.
- Ball joint nut: 50 Nm.
- Track rod end nut: 48 Nm.
Refit the wheel and lower the car from the lift.
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