Tools You Will Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification. Incorrect torque can damage components.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed, including metric.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm. A pickle fork can work but risks damaging the ball joint.
* Tie rod end separator: To separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Again, a pickle fork can be used but with caution.
* Hammer and punch: Possibly needed for stubborn components.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Press or bearing puller: Needed to remove the old bearing from the hub assembly. A press is preferable.
* New wheel bearing: Make sure you get the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
* Wheel bearing grease: Pack the new bearing with grease.
* Clean rags: To keep things clean.
* Shop manual: A repair manual specific to your 2005 Ford Focus is invaluable.
Steps (General Overview - Consult Your Repair Manual!):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels that are not being worked on. Raise the vehicle securely using the jack and place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Carefully remove the brake caliper and hang it securely out of the way using a wire or bungee cord to avoid stressing the brake line. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line.
4. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (If Applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub assembly.
5. Disconnect Tie Rod End: Use the tie rod end separator to separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. This step often requires significant force.
6. Disconnect Ball Joint: Use the ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the control arm. Again, this may require significant force.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: Once the tie rod and ball joint are disconnected, the hub assembly should be able to be removed. This often requires some wiggling and might involve removing some bolts securing it to the strut.
8. Press Out the Old Bearing: Use a press or bearing puller to remove the old wheel bearing from the hub assembly. This is a crucial step and requires the right tools. Damaging the hub during this process will require a replacement.
9. Install the New Bearing: Carefully press the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly using a press. Ensure it's seated correctly and flush. Pack the new bearing with grease.
10. Reassemble Everything: Reinstall the hub assembly, making sure everything is properly aligned. Tighten all bolts to the correct torque specifications using your torque wrench. Reattach the tie rod end, ball joint, brake caliper, and ABS sensor.
11. Reinstall the Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands. Double-check all lug nuts are securely tightened.
13. Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle to ensure the repair was successful. Listen carefully for any unusual noises.
Warnings:
* This is a complex repair. Incorrectly performing these steps can lead to serious injury or damage to your vehicle.
* Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle.
* Use the correct tools and follow proper torque specifications.
* If you are unsure about any step, seek professional help.
This is a simplified overview. A detailed repair manual is essential for successfully completing this repair. Improper repair can lead to serious safety issues. If you're not comfortable, take it to a qualified mechanic.
