Adding a turbo to a Ford Focus that didn’t come with one typically costs roughly $4,000 to $12,000 once you factor in parts, labor, and tuning. In many cases, it can be more economical to buy a Focus that already has a turbo (such as an ST/RS) or a used turbocharged model instead of retrofitting.
The following overview explains what goes into retrofitting, the main cost drivers, and practical options depending on the Focus generation and engine. It also covers potential regulatory and reliability considerations.
Cost breakdown
Before listing the typical price ranges, note the main cost drivers: the quality and scope of the turbo kit, included components, shop labor rates, tuning needs, and any required supporting modifications.
- Turbo kit price (turbo, intercooler, piping, hardware, and wastegate): $1,500–$5,000
- Exhaust and intercooler upgrades: $300–$1,200
- Fuel system upgrades (injectors, pump, lines): $300–$1,000
- Engine management/tuning (ECU flash, dyno tune): $500–$1,000
- Labor for installation and tuning: $1,000–$3,000
- Additional parts and misc. (oil lines, cooling, gaskets, clutch if needed): $200–$2,000
Conclusion: A turbo retrofit on a Ford Focus is a significant project that can require substantial investment. Many buyers find purchasing a factory-turbo Focus or a used turbocharged model to be a more straightforward, cost-effective path.
Paths and their costs
Scenario 1: Non-turbo Focus to bolt-on turbo kit
For a typical late-model Focus that did not come with turbo, a complete aftermarket bolt-on kit plus supporting upgrades usually ranges from roughly $4,000 to $12,000+ when you include labor and tuning. The total can climb higher if you need extensive fuel system upgrades, a larger intercooler, a more robust exhaust, or if installation is complex. Some premium or highly tuned setups can exceed $15,000 once all contingencies are accounted for.
Scenario 2: Factory-turbo Focus (ST/RS) and light upgrades
If your goal is enhanced performance on a factory turbo engine, modest gains can often be achieved with ECU tuning and selective parts (intake, exhaust, intercooler upgrades) for roughly $1,000–$3,000, plus any installation labor. This route avoids a full retrofit and leverages the existing turbo architecture.
Note: Emissions testing, safety inspections, and warranties vary by location. Always consult a licensed shop and verify local regulations. In many cases, the value of starting with a factory-turbo car outweighs retrofitting a non-turbo model.
Model-year and engine considerations
Ford Focus generations differ significantly. The Focus ST/RS models (older and newer generations) use a factory turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, while base Focus variants are typically naturally aspirated. Converting a non-turbo Focus to turbo depends on engine type (1.6L Zetec, 2.0L Duratec, 2.0L EcoBoost, etc.) and may require substantial wiring, engine management integration, and cooling upgrades. Costs reflect these complexities and can vary widely by engine and year.
Smart alternative: consider a turbo-equipped option
Rather than retrofitting, many buyers find it more cost-effective to purchase a Focus that already has turbo performance, such as a Focus ST or a well-maintained turbocharged model. Depending on age and mileage, a used ST/RS can be a viable route to the speed you want without the uncertainty and extra cost of a retrofit.
Summary
Retrofit turbo projects on a Ford Focus represent a wide cost range and substantial mechanical work. Real-world installed costs typically run from about $4,000 to $12,000+ when you factor parts, labor, and tuning, with higher totals possible for advanced setups. For many buyers, starting with a turbo-equipped Focus or a recent used model offers a clearer, more economical path to turbo performance.
If you’re considering this, obtain multiple quotes from reputable shops, clearly define what’s included in the kit, confirm compatibility with your exact Focus model and year, and account for regulatory requirements and warranty implications in your area.
Is it worth fixing a turbo on a car?
Since turbos improve torque, your car will be faster and more responsive, whether you just need a boost to overtake - or you're going full throttle on the motorway! Not only that, you can make use of all that extra power without using any extra fuel.
Can you put a turbo in a Ford Focus?
We have been making Ford Focus Turbo Kits since 2001 and have a lot of happy Customers still running them today. We do all our own Custom Tuning. The 2012-2017 Turbo kit works with both the 5 speed and the Automatic Focus , I have 2 Kits on DCT Automatic Focus running for 2 years now with no Transmission issues.
How much is a turbo for a 2017 Ford Focus?
The range of prices of Turbochargers and Parts for the 2017 Ford Focus goes from $572.99 up to $755.99 for the most premium parts.
What are the first signs of turbo failure on a Ford?
Some of the signs and symptoms of a broken turbo include loss of power, slower accelerating and difficulty maintaining speed. Turbo failures are thankfully rare because your car turbo is designed to last as long as your car.