How to Replace Valve Cover Gasket 04-11 Ford Focus

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New Valve Cover Gasket Set from 1AAuto.com 1aau.to/ia/1AEGS00289
In this video, 1A Auto shows you how to replace a leaking or blown valve cover gasket. This video applies to the Ford Focus, years 00, 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, and 07.
🔧 List of tools used:
• Flat Blade Screwdriver 1aau.to/oY4/1AXAA00013
• 8mm Socket 1aau.to/oJj/1AXAA00017
• Wire Cutters
• Ratchet 1aau.to/o2h/1AXAA00016
• Torque Wrench 1aau.to/oqf/1AXAA00044
• Paper Towels 1aau.to/ofv/1AXSS00035
• Wire Ties
• Pick 1aau.to/ofK/1AXAA00037
For More Info visit us at 1aau.to/h/aJu/
⚠ DISCLAIMER:
While 1A Auto strives to make the information provided in this video as accurate as possible, it makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or applicability of the content. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All do-it-yourself projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. 1A Auto is not responsible or liable for any loss damage (including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, or punitive), liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or resulting from any information posted in this video.

[@1AAuto]

√ *Watch the Video* √ *Buy The Part at 1A Auto* 1aau.to/m/Visit-1AAuto √ *Do it Yourself* √ *Save Money*

[@aaronsauer5371]

This will save me from sitting in a mechanic shop waiting room and getting overcharged for such a simple repair. I’ve used your videos for repair on my personal and professional vehicles. You guys make the best tutorials on KZbin, hands down. Thank you for everything you do.

[@toddmiller5322]

Fair warning to those about to perform this repair, although valve cover gaskets can harden and shrink with age causing a leak, a failure in the PCV system(PCV valve stuck closed) will cause them and other oil seals to rupture. The easiest check for a stuck closed failure is to open the oil filler cap and see if there is a good deal of air being pushed out and oil is sputtering out of the hole. If that is the case you'll need to replace the PCV valve as well, otherwise the new seals will just rupture again. Replace the hose from the PCV valve to the intake while you are in there, those are prone to failure causing a vacuum leak and a Lean Bank 1 code along with a rough idle. The smart thing when doing a PCV valve replacement on these engines would be to use a bulkhead connector(use red locktite on the threads) to replace the PCV valve at it's original location on the cover, then use 2 lengths of a quality oil resistant hose from both the bulkhead connector and intake manifold port to move the PCV valve to a remote location more conducive to regular replacements. Even better would be to take this a step further and install an oil catch can inline so you can keep the inside of your intake manifold and the backside of your intake valves nice and clean.

[@viniciusribeiroleao]

I just saved 135 dollars doing it myself. Thanks to that video! Thanks a lot.

[@jasonhale3972]

I would gladly pay $135.00 not to do it

[@snarkygnome619]

I have used all evening trying to remove 2 or 3 very stubborn bolts in a very hard place (different engine version) . I can easily imagine 135 being worth it if you value your time. Then again shop would prolly charge more for this engine.

[@LauraGarcia-tg5ed]

Thanks to all the A1 Auto video repairmen for simply explaining the procedures and not cussing like a lot of the guys do in other car repair videos.

[@pnew1537]

Thank you so much! It's people like you that help people like me do their own work. Went perfectly. I also like putting tools in a bin so you don't forget them under the hood. Us old people need that too!

[@loi9624]

Thank you for instructing replace cover gasket. You show very clear

[@guillermoelizarraras7834]

Very good. Down to the point and not making a show about the person. Not wasting time on unnecessary issues or jokes. Very good

[@1AAuto]

+Guillermo Elizarraras Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@oddieott]

I feel like if I went to a garage I'd be paying like 300 some dollars for this and this is easier then changing a ball joint lol thanks for the video

[@porkchop10]

Changed my plugs yesterday and discovered 3/4 wells had oil. Signs of seepage around valve cover was obvious, but I wasn't expecting the pools around the plugs lol. I used a t-shirt to soak it up due to paper towel liking to tear, and didn't want to lose any down there. Looks like this will be a few coffees or beers one Saturday to tackle. Thanks for the video!

[@1AAuto]

+Jerrod York Thanks for checking us out! 1AAuto.com

[@Countryboy316]

I just pulled my plug and it all drained down, I realized what happened when I went to start it and it smoked for a couple of seconds

[@leemeister9107]

This was a very helpful video. I was able to get the job done in about an hour. If I hadn't watched the video first, I surely would have been stumped by that hidden electrical connector in the middle of the valve cover. The tip about bending the metal bracket out of the way was a big help too.

[@1AAuto]

Thank you for watching. Glad to be of help. Please let us know how the repair comes out! 1aauto.com 888-844-3393

[@aNGeLofReVenGePSN]

+1A Auto Parts What if the valve cover just doesn't come off? Any tips? I undid every bolt, spark plug, everything.

[@R0bertCc]

Good deal! And great to know an average joe like me can do this. I did all the steps on this video and managed to be done in like 55mins and back on the road, my zx3 is running strong! Just need motor mounts to have a smoother ride, and continue to add more miles and memories. 135,xxx on the odo

[@bryanhall4101]

I just changed valve gaskets today on my 2005 Ford Focus. Actually quite easy after watching this video. Thank you!

[@1AAuto]

+Bryan Hall Thanks for checking us out. 1aauto.com

[@user-sw7hm2to5f]

Terrific step by step video. Straightforward, accurate, no BS. Thank you very much!🍻

[@dapho6287]

Thank you so much for your very informative video! You helped me fix my car! I have also used several of your other videos to be able to fix or replace other things on my Focus and my Yukon. Without your detailed videos, I wouldn't have been able to get it done.

[@pedroduron3879]

Thank you 🙏!! Your tutorial is awesome, I never thought I could do it myself and I did it!! I felt like Toretto haha

[@gonedeep43]

Best video out there for this common issue. Thanks for sharing.

[@charley5211]

Great video.. Made changing wife 05 focus valve cover very easy.. Thanks.. 👍👍

[@diresa22]

Gracias. Me ahorraste 100 dolares. I have not used the sealant that some comments recommended (I followed your video 100%) and so far no leaks. Awesome.

[@cameronbevan4094]

you forgot adding a bit of rtv where the front cover (timing) meets the block before placing the cover back on. If you dont do that, youll get a leak.

[@Slking507]

Not necessary on the focus. You are just making it more of a pain in the ass for if it ever needs replaced again.

[@Thedjsmokeybear]

I don’t think it’s necessary either. It comes with only 2 tiny gobs of it

[@pfsantos007]

Exactly. Only needed on the two spots where the timing cover meets the cylinder head. Small but important detail.

[@Pilinchi1]

Oustanding video that covers the entire process. Well done!

[@victorstartheman]

Great demonstration...!!! Thanks

[@14PANCHOKID]

Thank you very much I did it in less than an hour

[@1AAuto]

+14PANCHOKID Nice work. Congratulations on the successful repair. 1aauto.com 866-403-3393

[@old-school-rigs9378]

It has not been said enough...but thank you so much, I'll save so much by doing this myself.

[@rw7051]

Thanks. i missed those 2 bolts in the middle. better now.

[@tfdtfdtfd]

Great video -- very clear steps.......question: wouldn't it make sense to also replace spark plugs while there?

[@avguillen1]

Great demonstration. What were the symptoms that lead to valve cover gasket? The reason I'm asking is because I have a 2003 focus with the same engine as the one in video and I've notice oil on the bottom of the hood as well as on top of the engine. I also have to keep adding about a quart of oil every two to three weeks. After seeing this video, I will remove the spark plug wires and check inside for any oil. Thanks.

[@elgecko84]

Thanks for the video, it's perfect!

[@1AAuto]

Thanks for checking us out!+Charlie

[@joea104]

Great video!! Thank you very much.

[@jackwright8159]

very good video. helped me change mine on 2008 ford focus. i am looking for the wire clip that is mounted on value cover bolt to wold wire off engine. i can find it any where. i hope you could help

[@mr.nobody4900]

Thanks for that video! , A + Tutorial

[@davidkuest6224]

Excellent video! Thank you

[@jaroslavvietoris1648]

Very useful video!Thanks

[@1AAuto]

+Jaroslav Vietoris Thank you! We love empowering our customers and showing how to perform DIY auto repairs with our high-quality auto parts. 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@kntowrry33]

Looks good. I have a 2009 PZEV engine and yours looks pretty close. Looking at the engine my left side is a bit more exposed as the fluid container is now under. Am I missing something since 2009 is not in the years you say the video is for?

[@tadlandin2733]

I know this video is pretty old, and thank you for the video. While doing this, I found two pins in the area where cylinders 2 and 3 are, right in the same area where the temperature sensor is. They're about an inch long each. I couldn't find where they would go so I left them out. The car seems to be running fine without them, but does anyone have any idea where they might go?

[@starfox4919]

Gotta add some rtv silicone before adding the cover back

[@Brumchuq23]

It is crazy how the 14 is pretty much the exact same!!!

[@nitroxur]

Great video. Just bought gaskets from 1a auto but i must say it's hard to keep the gaskets from falling out. Is there any advice how to keep them from falling out while installing it back on to the motor?

[@abdulwahedy5528]

Hi, thanks for video, could you show me where is the location of PCV valve of Ford Focus mk2 diesel? thanks

[@willycifuentes2825]

Thank you, probably that's why a got misfire in my car and i'm aware of wet spark plugs in my car too.

[@1AAuto]

Thank you for watching. Please let us know how the repair comes out! 1aauto.com 888-844-3393

[@rokanator1]

Excellent video as always! Should I use any RTV sealant to hold the gasket in place?

[@1AAuto]

Thanks for watching. Using a RTV sealant isn't necessity. Just make sure you clean where the cover sits. You see me do it in the video wipe it down and make sure there is no oil before you install the valve cover with the new gaskets. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393

[@BugzKiller]

So the spark plug seals come with the gasket as a kit? I had to change this I guess because some of my plugs are getting oil down by the threads and electrodes but not above that. So if not oil leaks past the seals where the spark plugs are should they still be changed? Again just getting some oil on the threads and the electrodes nothing above. So overall if there is no oil in the spark plug well do I need to worry about the spark plug seals? Because the valve cover gasket does not leak at all.

[@pujedumaa4707]

very good thanks

[@1AAuto]

Thank you for watching! Glad to be of help. Let us know how the repair turns out. 1aauto.com 888-844-3393

[@user-xl7vd7is6q]

Great Video! So no silicone needed??

[@1AAuto]

+Английский Язык Thank you! No silicone is needed for this repair! www.1aauto.com

[@walterrojas1075]

Would it be a bad idea to go ahead and knock out the spark plugs while doing this?

[@alexskywalker888]

Yes, it would be a bad idea. You don't want any schmoo dropping off your plugs onto your valvetrain.

[@andrewwesterhold7354]

I was thinking the same thing. I was going to change the plugs in mine anyways.

[@BlitzEvade]

will i need to add sealant ?? before putting it back on? thanks

[@alfredough]

2011 here. All the plugs were SOAKED ESPECIALLY THE RIGHT TWO. Causing harsh vibrations.

[@devinsheaven]

Just over torqued one of the valve cover bolts need a new one where could I buy one?

[@luisvargassalazar8601]

One question. I searched your website for a part that I need for a 2007 Chevy Tahoe, but it doesn't give me results. It is the ABS control module. I would appreciate it if you have it so I can buy it.

[@zuljindragon8346]

I have replaced my valve cover twice and the inner gasket is still leaking should I use a little sealent?

[@samuelpreciado]

is the oil change really needed ? i recently changed my oil and i noticed a little oil leak on the gasket area ... please let me know

[@1AAuto]

It's a good idea to change the oil afterwards in case any contaminants got in when you had the valve cover removed. Thank you for watching. www.1AAuto.com?KZbin&CTA%20Comment&ATony 866-403-3393

[@JasonStewartsStreak]

I want to know, I just changed my oil, filter, fuel filter and replaced my plugs and noticed they were swimming in oil, that's why I replaced the valve cover gasket. I also added antisieze to all the bolts going in the aluminum head and rtv ultra blue on the cracks where the timing cover bolts on per the service manual. So since I just did the oil change do I need to do another?

[@jacobgensimore7346]

It is always a good idea to change the oil after having the valve cover off just to make sure that no dirt or anything dropped into the oil... if any did and the oil filter does not have a chance to catch it then it could cost you more down the road.

[@jacobgensimore7346]

Its kinda like when someone says proceed at your own risk.... Its up to you really but in my experience i would just change the oil. That $30 oil change could save you hundreds on other repairs... if you have ever seen someone sandblast the paint right off of metal then think what a couple of grains of sand would do to the inside of your engine... something to ponder

[@vasel208]

Will it be ok to also use a sealant on the new gasket ?

[@vasel208]

I've found the answer below. 👍

[@BugzKiller]

You have to put a couple dabs of RTV sealant where it goes over the timing chain cover correct, anybody?

[@romper4444]

U don't have to(u can) just on cars that require extra insurance to stop leaks but that was an older technique employed on older pushrod equipped engines or current V8 trucks

[@CYaya15]

on one of my ignition coils the bolt keeps spinning, what can I do to get it out? so I can remove the spark plug

[@Snadzies]

The bolt holding the coil doesn't go through the valve cover and into the cylinder head so when you take the valve cover off the coil will come with it.

[@DastardlyBastard]

What is the sensor in the middle of the plugs called that has rubber boot on it ? I thought it would be the camshaft position sensor but your video shows that to be at the end of the cover? Thanks.

[@robertpayne5165]

maybe knock sensor?

[@cameronbevan4094]

piston temp guage/sensor

[@kekegenkamaru]

at 2:27 what does that connector with the rubber cap do?

[@mannshambles7006]

I've heard that those bolts should be torqued to 89 inch pounds. Your video says 6 ft. pounds or 72 inch pounds. Which is correct? 2005 Ford Focus 2.0L

[@pono321]

Not sure either I don't use torque wrench just not too tight nor too loose and you'll be fine. Next

[@Tyrsblade]

do you have any advice on how to remove a valve cover that is stuck on the engine?

[@jacobgensimore7346]

Bigger hammer...lol

[@cameronbevan4094]

just got to work it lose, takes some elbow grease...or since youre replacing the gasket try prying into the gasket with a screw driver to pop it, but be careful

[@chrisfurlong9301]

Hit it with a rubber mallet

[@CarmelInez]

That's for supplies needed upfront

[@devinsheaven]

Hey I just changed the gaskets to my 06 focus but I haven’t done an oil change yet and my car is beginning to chop when I don’t give it gas what should I do? (Mind you I did over torque and break one screw on the engine cover)

[@1AAuto]

+Devin's Heaven We wouldn't be able to diagnose an issue like that here, you may want to have a local mechanic take a look at it. Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@devinsheaven]

@@1AAutogotcha but my engine was running smoothly before I replaced my gaskets

[@zomrob69]

At 8:14, what is that harness connecting to?

[@scottishbawbag315]

arnt u supposed to put two blobs of silicone on the block before fitting?

[@bryanhall4101]

Stuart Lilley no! Not on these gaskets.

[@cameronbevan4094]

yep!! i didnt do that and i got a leak...gotta start all over again

[@cameronbevan4094]

right by the timing where it meets the block

[@natedowd]

How do u remove the oil out before u reinstall the gasket

[@flycorvus]

U need patience and a nice pile of paper towel.

[@keybearer26]

Hey 1aauto guys I have a quick question. For the one 8mm bolt in the middle of the valve cover what are the thread dimensions? I can't find that bolt anywhere. Thanks for the help and awesome videos😀

[@1AAuto]

+keybearer26 We do not have that information available to us. Your local dealer might be able to get a replacement bolt for you. Hope this helps you out. 1aauto.com

[@keybearer26]

1A Auto Parts thanks so much!

[@nataliemanzo34]

keybearer26 or next time you can go to your local junkyard and remove that screw of another Ford Focus

[@KJ-um1gq]

What’s the torque value for the torque wrench? 60 inch pounds?

[@lukeoefelein5601]

6 foot pounds

[@motube2389]

I just didn't get why you wanna do an oil change after all of this as you said :)

[@DiversifiedMachinist]

moe raw In case anything foreign dropped inside the engine after you have removed and replaced the valve cover. Better safe than sorry.

[@coachmel9287]

How can I tell if it's the valve cover for the valve cover gasket that needs to be replaced? Also, how do I know if I need new plug?

[@1AAuto]

+Coach Mel We wouldn't be able to diagnose an issue like that here, you may want to have a local mechanic take a look at it. Thanks for checking us out! 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@AltruisticWarrior]

You'll be able to tell most often if you have oil leaking into the valley of the head, spark plug wells or the cylinder head temperature sensor area.

[@jamescarlson4676]

It frustrates me how easy they are able to take everything off. Meanwhile I have to apply 900 lb of tq just to get the electrical connecter disconnect.

[@BlueBoxInc]

So no silicone needed where the timing chain is like as is when oem?

[@cameronbevan4094]

you will need rtv gasket maker around the timing area or youll get a leak

[@pono321]

I don't believe that's necessary with the new gasket design from feltpro. There's a new improved design ends in r-1

[@cameronbevan4094]

i didnt put those 2 globs of rtv around the timing and i just had to go back and redo it because it leaked...i did a video about it on my channel

[@RellekEarth]

I ahve unbolted every single bolt and electrical attachment to the valve cover and it isnt moving even slightly. Is it possible that the gasket has cemented the cover to the engine?

[@1AAuto]

+RellekEarth Thanks for watching! It is possible that it is just stuck on there pretty good if the gasket is old, but you should be able to get it off! 1aauto.com

[@RellekEarth]

@@1AAuto hmm. I sat for an hour with a plethora of hammers, mallets and other bludgeoning items and couldnt get it off. I will likely have to take it in to get it fixed. I was really excited to do this myself too haha

[@RellekEarth]

It did move slightly but i also have a stripped bolt on the top of the valve cover. It is the one on the far left sparkplug cover that holds it down to the valve and sparkplug. Is this bolt connected to the engine block? Or is it only on the valve cover,

[@pono321]

@@RellekEarth I say block

[@CactusCowboy57]

I used a small pry bar leveraged against the underside corner/edge of the valve cover. With gentle pressure it 'popped' and it was then easy to lift the valve cover off.

[@micahrigdon3744]

What is the name of the harness under that rubber boot?

[@1AAuto]

+Micah Rigdon Are you referring to the fuel injector wiring harness?

[@WelderShoes]

Why bend that metal bracket when you could just remove it? One bolt holding it on in my car. 13 mm.

[@mariominjarez8374]

do i have to put black silicone? thx

[@1AAuto]

You should use a new gasket as shown in the video. Thanks for watching. 1aauto.com

[@mariominjarez8374]

1A Auto Parts ok thx

[@mariominjarez8374]

do you have a video the show how change the water pump in the same engine?

[@1AAuto]

What's the year, make, model and engine size of your vehicle ? I'll see if we have a video for you.

[@mariominjarez8374]

1A Auto Parts 06 ford focus 4cyl 2.0

[@joehyundaitech7961]

is it ok to while the plugs are in to spray brake cleaner down the wells and then use air to dry it out ?

[@keeshonanderson6046]

I was wondering the same thing. Hopefully we get an answer on it

[@joehyundaitech7961]

@@keeshonanderson6046 im still waiting for a answer oh well. one thing I know is it is a good idea to use compresed air to blow off all the dirt that is on the valve cover befor you take the coil on packs out and use brake cleaner

[@bave8927]

2:27 what is that called? My tab snapped and broke, not sure how to replace. what does it do?

[@cameronbevan4094]

if anyone needs this part, i can get one at a salvage yard

[@cameronbevan4094]

if the tab broke, it may still rest but it wont lock on. best is to get another tab from a salvage yard, snip the wires and solder the replacment tab on with heat shrink wrap around the wiring, i did that with a fuel injector tab, works just fine.

[@zack7407]

What do I do when a bolt is stuck in there and rounded out

[@jasondeaver2117]

Swear and start throwing things 🤣

[@keithsummers3112]

What if you dont have a torgue wrench?

[@lukeoefelein5601]

tighten the best you can and check for looseness after some driving around

[@spicynegra94k]

Mine isn't budging. 😮

[@kubansky]

what engine is it?

[@charlesdjones1]

07:02 torque specs and pattern

[@1AAuto]

+Charles Jones Torque the bolts in a crossing pattern to 6 foot-pounds

[@charlesdjones1]

@@1AAuto Thanks! I was actually just providing a time stamp for people looking for that like I was.

[@angelaperry2222]

why run your car a little bit and then do an oil change?

[@jamescarlson4676]

POV *You are here because u were just going todo a simple plug and coil change, but the motor decided that the spark plugs need lubed.

[@Phen0mable]

This is pain

[@uhcarlosg7424]

Fords engine bay on this car sucks, they were too lazy to find a good spot for the cables so they just through em all on top of the engine