Ford Focus ST Mk3 (ST250) Maintenance Guide

Ford Focus ST Mk3 ST250 Maintenance Guide

The Ford Focus ST Mk3 ST250, produced from 2012 to 2018, is a popular hot hatch known for its performance, handling, and daily usability. Whether you own a pre-facelift model (2012-2014) or a facelift model (2015-2018), regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your ST250 in optimal condition. This guide will provide you with key maintenance tips, covering both the pre-facelift and facelift versions, and reference the official Ford service schedule.

Looking to maintain your Focus ST250? Check out our range of service and maintenance items here. 

Engine and Oil Maintenance

The heart of the Focus ST Mk3 ST250 is its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. Like all performance vehicles, keeping the engine in good shape is vital for longevity and reliability.

• Oil Changes: The engine oil should be changed every 12 months or 12,500 miles (20,000 km), whichever comes first. It's important to use high-quality synthetic oil to maintain engine health and prevent premature wear. If you’re driving the car more aggressively or in harsh conditions, more frequent oil changes are recommended.
• Air Filter: Check the air filter every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) and replace it if necessary. A clean air filter ensures optimal engine performance by allowing a smooth airflow into the engine, improving fuel efficiency and power output.
• Spark Plugs: The spark plugs should be replaced every 37,500 miles (60,000 km). Worn spark plugs can cause poor fuel economy, rough idling, and even misfires. Regularly replacing the spark plugs will ensure a smooth engine performance. Consider swapping them every 25,000 miles (40,000km) if you drive the car hard. 

Transmission and Clutch Maintenance

The Focus ST Mk3 ST250 comes with a six-speed manual or optional Powershift automatic transmission. Both need specific maintenance to ensure smooth shifting and reliable performance.

• Manual Transmission: Ford recommends changing the transmission oil every 36,000 miles (58,000 km). This is an often overlooked service but is important to prevent premature wear of transmission components. Always check for smooth shifting and listen for any unusual noises, which could indicate issues with the gearbox.
• Powershift Transmission: If you have the Powershift automatic version, ensure the transmission fluid is changed every 36,000 miles (58,000 km) as well. Powershift transmissions are generally reliable, but they can experience issues such as harsh shifting if the fluid is not changed regularly.
• Clutch: The clutch in manual ST250 models should be inspected periodically. If you notice slipping, difficulty shifting, or an unusual feeling in the pedal, it may be time to replace the clutch.

If you're experiencing clutch issues, check out our wide range of aftermarket and Genuine Ford clutch items here.

Suspension and Steering

The Focus ST Mk3 ST250 comes with a sportier suspension setup designed for performance. Over time, suspension components may wear out, especially if the car has been driven aggressively or on rough roads.

• Suspension Check: It’s important to inspect suspension components such as struts, shocks, and bushings at regular intervals. Ford recommends checking the suspension every 25,000 miles (40,000 km). Worn-out suspension parts can lead to reduced ride comfort, poor handling, and excessive tyre wear.
• Steering: Pay attention to any unusual noises or resistance in the steering system. Any issues with steering can be a sign of worn-out steering components, such as tie rods or steering rack problems. Ford recommends checking the steering system every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) as well.

If you're seeking suspension parts for your ST250, whether it's lowering springs, coilovers or even Powerflex bushes, you can find them here

Brakes

As a performance vehicle, maintaining the brakes in good condition is essential for safety and driving enjoyment.

• Brake Pads and Discs: The brake pads should be inspected every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) and replaced when necessary. Disc rotors should also be checked for signs of warping, cracking, or excessive wear. Depending on your driving habits, brake pads may need replacement more frequently, especially if the car is used for spirited driving.
• Brake Fluid: Brake fluid should be replaced every 36,000 miles (58,000 km) to maintain optimal braking performance. Old or contaminated brake fluid can lead to reduced braking effectiveness and even failure, so it's crucial to follow this maintenance schedule.

Brake pads and discs are often overlooked, we highly recommend considering upgrading your brake system especially if you are tuned. Check out our list of brake products here

Cooling System

The cooling system plays an important role in maintaining the engine at optimal operating temperatures, especially under high-performance conditions.

• Coolant: The coolant should be flushed and replaced every 62,500miles (100,000km) or 5 years, whichever comes first. Over time, coolant can become less effective, leading to engine overheating and potential damage.
• Hoses and Belts: Check hoses and belts for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks during each service. Replace them if necessary to prevent overheating or breakdowns. Ford recommends inspecting hoses and belts every 37,500 miles (60,000 km).

Common Issues to Watch For

While the Focus ST Mk3 ST250 is generally a reliable performance car, there are a few common issues that you should be aware of, especially as the car gets older.

• Turbocharger: The turbocharged engine can sometimes develop issues with the turbocharger over time, such as boost leaks or oil consumption. Regularly monitor for any unusual loss of power or blue smoke from the exhaust, as this could indicate turbocharger problems. Check the condition of the intercooler and boost pipes during service to prevent leaks.
• Boost Leaks: Boost leaks are a common issue in turbocharged cars and can affect performance. Check the MAP sensor, MAF sensor, and boost solenoid for any issues. If you’re experiencing a lack of power or a rough idle, consider performing a boost leak test or using diagnostic tools like Forscan.

Service Intervals Summary

Here’s a quick reference to key maintenance intervals for the Focus ST Mk3 ST250, based on the Ford service schedule, they are split into Minor and Major stages:

Minor Service: Recommended every 1 year, or 12,500 miles (20,000km)

A minor service should consist of:

• Engine Oil
• Oil Filter
• Cabin Filter
• OE Air Filter (or aftermarket filter cleaned)

Major Service: Recommended every 3 years, or 37,500 miles (60,000km)

A Major Service should consist of everything included in the Minor Service, including changing the spark plugs. 

Brake Fluid Change: Every 2 years, or 25,000 miles (40,000km)

It is always recommended to check other vital parts, such as steering parts, brake pads and discs, coolant, hoses and belts during your regular service routine. 

Conclusion

The Ford Focus ST Mk3 ST250 is a great performance hatchback that, with the right maintenance, can provide many years of enjoyable driving. Regular servicing and timely replacement of wear parts such as the oil, brake pads, suspension components, and transmission fluid will help maintain its performance and reliability. By following the recommended service intervals and staying on top of common issues, you can ensure your Focus ST250 continues to deliver an exciting driving experience for years to come.