How do you remove the alternator on a 2004 Ford Focus?

Answer 1

The alernator is "behind" the engine, and visible from the left side of the engine compartment. This location places the alternator very near the exhaust piping and even though there is protective cooling vents, alternators fail as early as 70,000 miles.

The alternator is removed from underneath the vehicle. The following gives the basics and the OEM workshop manual absolutely should be used for the EXACT order for removal. This is not a difficult procedure, as long as you follow the OEM.

0) disconnect the battery [negative] terminal.

1) Raise the vehicle on jack stands.

2) remove the serpentine belt.

2) From underneath, remove the plastic cooling vents. go slow as there are tabs as well as bolting.

3) disconnect the battery wiring at the alternator.

4) remove the engine lower rear, middle anchor bolt and move the engine forward about 3 inches. You have to do this very simple step or the alternator will not have clearance for removal. Do not worry as the engine will not "fall down". I used an old fashioned alternator belt tensioner to push and hold the motor forward.

5) remove the alternator bolting. The battery is really heavy, so be prepared.

6) drop the alternator down and out.