How to Bleed the Clutch in a Ford Focus
by Lee Sallings
The hydraulic clutch assembly in your Ford Focus should not require bleeding unless the system has been opened for repair. The clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder come as a complete assembly so overhauling the hydraulic system is not an option. It is recommended that the brake system be bled first if required, since the brake system and the clutch use a common fluid reservoir and the brake system has more volume in its cylinders.
Step 1
Remove the rubber air duct that connects the throttle body to the air filter housing using a screwdriver to loosen the hose clamps before twisting and pulling the hose. Locate the bleeder screw, found on the line between the clutch master cylinder and the clutch slave cylinder, and unscrew the dust cap covering it..
Step 2
Top off the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir. Instruct a helper to place his foot under the clutch pedal to prevent bottoming the clutch master cylinder piston in its bore.
Step 3
Slip an 8 mm wrench into the bleeder screw and momentarily open and then close the bleeder screw as a helper pushes the clutch pedal down a few inches. Repeat this step until clean brake fluid, free of air, escapes.
Step 4
Tighten the bleeder screw and reinstall the dust cover. Reinstall the air duct and tighten the clamps securely. Test drive the Focus to verify that the clutch functions properly.
References
- “Chilton 2000-05 Ford Focus Repair Manual”; Jay Storer; 2005
Tips
- A special tool is available from Ford to simplify this procedure by forcing fluid into the system through the bleeder screw. This is how Ford technicians perform this task.
Things You'll Need
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver set
- Brake fluid
Warnings
- Wear safety glasses and work gloves to prevent skin irritation caused by spilled brake fluid.
- Flush any brake fluid spilled on the paint immediately with plenty of clean water. If left unattended, spilled brake fluid will damage or remove the paint.
Writer Bio
Lee Sallings is a freelance writer from Fort Worth, Texas. Specializing in website content and design for the automobile enthusiast, he also has many years of experience in the auto repair industry. He has written Web content for eHow, and designed the DIY-Auto-Repair.com website. He began his writing career developing and teaching automotive technical training programs.
