How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For a 2007 Ford Focus

Replace the power steering fluid on your 2007 Ford Focus by draining the old fluid from the reservoir, and refilling it with Mercon V fluid.
Written by Matthew Lynaugh
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
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You can replace your 2007 Ford Focus power steering fluid by draining the reservoir of the old fluid, and then refilling it with new Mercon fluid. You can find the power steering reservoir in front of the engine, with a labeled cap.
If you feel any changes in your steering wheels’ performance—such as stiffening or unfamiliar noises, you likely need some new power steering fluid. Even if you do not fancy yourself a savvy car person, replacing this fluid yourself is a very manageable task.
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How do I replace my 2007 Ford Focus power steering fluid?

Luckily, you won’t need a mechanic certification to
service the power steering fluid
in a 2007 Ford Focus. Simply follow these instructions:
  • Find the fluid reservoir. This can be located in front of your engine with a cap labeled “Power Steering Fluid”
  • Pop off the cap and position a pump into the reservoir. You can purchase a pump or use household items, such as a turkey baster or empty shampoo bottle
  • Pump the old fluid out of the reservoir. Empty the fluid from the pump into an oil pan or other container, and clean any spills that happen under the hood to prevent any damage from occurring to other parts
  • Pour your new power steering fluid into the reservoir and replace the cap
See, not so bad! You can take a look on the left side of the reservoir to see that you have replaced the proper level of fluid. If you’re feeling up to the task, you can up your fluid game with these additional steps:
  • Disconnect the fluid hose
  • Drain the reservoir of every last drop. You can do this by wiggling the steering wheel back and forth, forcing every bit of fluid out of your system 
If this sounds like too much work or you’d rather leave it in the hands of a professional, you can always take your Focus to your local shop. Here are some things to consider. 
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

Should I change it myself or take it to a mechanic?

If you feel unconfident in your abilities to perform the fluid change yourself, you can never go wrong with bringing it into a shop for a professional to service it. Since it is not a strenuous or time-consuming job, you should have your car back quickly with a bill of about $130
In the interest of saving money on your
Ford maintenance expenses
, you can give the job a try yourself! The bottle of fluid will only cost you $10 to $40 depending on size and brand, and you won’t tack on any additional labor fees.

Which power steering fluid is best for a 2007 Ford Focus?

When you go shopping for power steering fluid, you’ll be bombarded with tons of options. According to the Ford Focus owner’s manual,
Mercon power steering fluid
is the recommended choice, and the Motorcraft brand is the OEM. This fluid also works well on the other brands in the Ford family, including Lincoln and Mercury.
Here are some other great options:
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Motorcraft Mercon V
32 ounces
$39.99
Pennzoil Mercon V
32 ounces
$11.95
Prestone American Vehicle
12 ounces
$9.99
Peak Full Synthetic
12 ounces
$13.29
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When do I need to replace my 2007 Ford Focus power steering fluid?

The general guideline is that the power steering fluid on your Ford Focus should be changed every three to four years, or every 30,000 miles—whichever comes first. Changing the fluid at this frequency will ensure your steering system will always be operating smoothly.
If you come across any of these telltale signs, however, you’ll need to get your power steering fluid changed sooner:
  • Groaning noises coming from the steering gear or power steering pump
  • Difficulty turning the steering wheel
  • Change in the fluid’s color
  • Fluid is leaking

How to save money on Ford insurance

Performing your own power steering fluid changes can save you significant time and money. With all that newfound time on your hands, you can use
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car insurance
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FAQs

The rule of thumb is that you should replace your Ford Focus’ power steering fluid every three to four years, or every 30,000 miles, depending on which comes first. If you notice changes in your fluid or difficulty steering, though, you may need to change it sooner than the rule advises.
Ford recommends Mercon V power steering fluid, and Motorcraft is the original factory brand. Other brands’ Mercon V fluids will also work with your Focus, as well as fully synthetic fluids blended for American vehicles.
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