Here's a general outline. This is NOT a substitute for a proper repair manual specific to your vehicle year and model. A repair manual will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and crucial warnings that could prevent damage to your car or injury to yourself.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Ratchet
* Extensions
* Possibly a swivel socket
* Torque wrench
* Jack and jack stands (essential for safety!)
* Wheel chocks
* Pry bar or similar tool (possibly)
* Wire brush
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster)
Steps (General Outline - Consult Your Repair Manual for Precise Details):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Access the Starter: The starter on a 2000 Ford Focus is typically located on the transmission bellhousing, near the engine block, but its exact accessibility varies. You'll likely need to:
* Raise the vehicle securely using a jack and jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Secure the vehicle with wheel chocks.
* Remove the undertray (if present) for better access.
* Possibly remove some components to gain better visibility and access (check your repair manual for specifics, it might involve removing parts of the exhaust system or other components).
3. Disconnect the Electrical Connections:
* Locate the large starter cable(s) and smaller wiring harness connector(s) attached to the starter.
* Use a wrench to carefully loosen and remove the large cable nuts.
* Carefully unplug the wiring harness connector.
4. Remove the Starter Bolts:
* Identify the starter mounting bolts (usually two or three). They might be difficult to access.
* Apply penetrating oil to the bolts if they're stuck.
* Use the appropriate sockets and extensions to carefully remove the bolts. The starter might be a bit snug against the bellhousing.
5. Remove the Starter:
* Once the bolts are removed, the starter should be free to remove. It might be a bit tight, requiring some gentle persuasion with a pry bar (use caution to avoid damaging anything).
6. Install the New Starter:
* Carefully position the new starter in place, ensuring it's properly aligned with the mounting holes.
* Install the mounting bolts.
* Connect the electrical cables, making sure they're securely fastened.
7. Reassembly:
* Reinstall any components you removed to access the starter (exhaust, undertray, etc.).
* Lower the vehicle safely.
8. Reconnect the Battery: Connect the negative battery cable.
9. Test: Attempt to start the engine.
Important Considerations:
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten the starter mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Over-tightening can damage the starter or the bellhousing. This information is critical and found in your repair manual.
* Grounding: Ensure a good ground connection between the starter and the engine block. Clean any corrosion from the ground points if necessary.
* Starter Removal Challenges: Accessing the starter can be the most difficult part of the job. Be prepared to spend time carefully working around other engine components.
Again, I strongly advise using a repair manual specific to your 2000 Ford Focus SE automatic. This is a complex task, and a repair manual will significantly reduce the risk of damage and injury. Improperly performing this repair can lead to further vehicle damage or personal injury. If you're not comfortable with this type of repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
