How do you replace the rear turn signal bulb on a Ford Focus?

Answer 1

(This is how I changed the rear turn signal in my 2004 Ford Focus ZX3)

You'll need a Philips head screwdriver....

First, pop the hatch (and if you have one, remove the hatch cover, as it will be in the way). If you look inside the moulding near the floor, you'll see an opening with access to the lights. This won't get you into the turn signal directly, but you'll want to unscrew the wingnut-like screw by hand. This will loosen the light housing on the exterior of the car.

Once you've removed the wingnut, you'll need to remove the screw on the exterior of the car between the light housing and the hatch.

Once the screw is out, you'll need to pull the light housing off completely. This definitely takes some work, and patience. You're basically pulling the screw (which was the wingnut) completely away from the car... and it doesn't let go without a fight.

I found two things worked best for me. First, start at the very bottom of the light housing and get your fingers under the plastic to work it up. Once you have it loosened at the bottom, use a flat head screw driver to pry the sides up that are against the opposite sides of the car... just watch your paint job.

When you finally get the light housing off, the rest is fairly simple. Unscrew the light and pull the bulb light tabs out (may take a second hand) and the bulb should come out cleanly. Pop the new bulb in and screw it back into the hole.