There are two air filters: the engine air filter located in the engine bay and the cabin air filter located behind the glove box.
The 2013 Ford Focus relies on an engine intake air filter to keep dirt from entering the engine and a cabin air filter to improve interior air quality. Below are the locations, along with practical steps to locate and replace each one, plus the tools you’ll need.
Engine air filter: location and replacement
The engine air filter sits in a rectangular plastic housing in the engine bay, typically on the side of the engine compartment toward the front. It is secured with clips or screws and connected to the large intake hose.
What you'll need
- New engine air filter of the correct size
- Flat-head screwdriver or socket set (if needed to release clips or screws)
- Clean rag to wipe the housing interior
Having the right replacement filter and basic tools on hand makes the process quick and straightforward.
Step-by-step
- Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing—the large rectangular black plastic box with the intake hose attached.
- Release the clips or remove the screws securing the lid, then lift the lid off.
- Take out the old filter, noting the correct orientation (arrows on the filter indicate airflow direction).
- Wipe the inside of the housing with a clean rag to remove any debris, then place the new filter in the same orientation.
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws firmly.
After replacing, start the engine to check for any unusual noises. If the engine runs roughly or the check engine light appears, reseat the housing and confirm the filter is seated correctly.
Cabin air filter: location and replacement
The cabin air filter purifies the air entering the vehicle’s interior and is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access requires lowering the glove box and removing a cover to reveal the filter.
What you'll need
- New cabin air filter
- Phillips or Torx screwdriver (depending on trim) – some models use no screws
- Flashlight to help see inside the cavity
Having the right tools ready helps make the cabin filter replacement smooth and quick.
Step-by-step
- Open the glove box and gently press in the sides to disengage the stops, allowing the box to drop down.
- Locate and remove the cabin filter cover on the side of the cavity (clips or screws may hold it in place).
- Remove the old filter, noting the airflow direction indicated on the filter.
- Install the new filter with the arrows pointing toward the rear of the vehicle.
- Reattach the filter cover, lift the glove box back into place, and secure it.
After installation, run the climate control briefly on fresh air to confirm even airflow and lack of odors.
Summary
For a 2013 Ford Focus, two air filters matter: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. Both replacements are manageable DIY tasks with common tools and a few minutes of time, helping maintain engine efficiency and interior air quality.
Does a cabin air filter help with allergies?
Cabin air filters also help to reduce the amount of those allergens that can get into your vehicle. Pollen, dust and other allergens can build up in your filter during heavy pollen season, so you may need to change it sooner.
What is the best Ford Focus engine?
What's the best Ford Focus engine to get? For its blend of performance and economy, and its sheer availability on the used market, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine is our pick of the range. Halfway through the car's life, mild-hybrid technology was added to the range to marginally improve fuel consumption.
Where is the cabin air filter located in a 2013 Ford Focus?
First under the glove box remove the two plastic tabs that secure the bottom panel. Next remove the bottom panel. On the left side of the footwell locate the air filter housing.
Where is the air filter in a Ford Focus?
Side. Use your ratchet and 8 mm socket to remove the four bolts securing the lid on the box. You may need an extension for a couple of these bolts.