2008 Focus Information
Disclaimer: If you do not have a 2008+ Focus and have nothing positive or helpful to say in regards to the 2008+ Focus, please do us all a favor and don’t post in this thread. This is for 2008+ Focus owners to share information and discuss the unique aspects of the latest Focus model.
Lastly, If you have 2008+ Focus Information that I have not included, please send me a PM and I will add it in.
The 2008 Focus is OBDII
Engine:
The 2008 Focus, like many other Foci is powered by the 2.0L Duratec engine. It comes in two forms, PZEV and non-PZEV. The main differences between the two are a few less horsepower on the PZEV (due to a more conservative PCM tune) and the different factory intake design on the PZEV. The PZEV Focus does not use the “Ram Air” setup that the non-PZEV uses.
Since the 2008 Focus shares the same basic engine as the previous years of Foci, many aftermarket parts for the earlier years will also work on the 2008+ Focus.
So I have a 08 Focus, Where do I start?
The most common starting block for most owners are basic bolt on modifications. The most common being an Intake and Exhaust.
Intake: (See this thread for more info on each http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=156858)
What Will fit:
The Steeda Short Ram Intake (SRI) and K&N typhoon are the only intakes that will fit an 08 Focus as of now.
Why wont others fit?
The MAF housing and mounting locations on the 2008 focus has changed. Since most aftermarket intakes utilize the stock housing, there will be problems matching the two up.
Currently, there is no TRUE CAI setup that will work with the new Focus
There is the option of also adding in a drop in filter from K&N. This is only an option for the NON-PZEV focus
Exhaust:
Most other companies exhaust systems from pervious years will fit the 2008+ Focus. However some systems might require slight modification.
FocusSport is the only company as of now that makes a specific exhaust for the 08+ Focus.
However other companies exhausts have been known to also fit the 08+. TruBendz 2.3L/2.0L Duratec ZX3/ZX4/ZX5 exhaust has been successfully installed on an 08 Sedan, courtesy of BradWhite. His thread on the install can be found here http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=165125. However, since this exhaust is not designed for the 2008+ focus, some slight modifications were needed to make the fitment perfect. Ford Racing in partnership with Borla also made an exhaust system that will fit the 2008 Focus. However, these systems would also require slight modification and are currently discontinued and sold out. If one appears on ebay, it will fit.
Anyone else with anymore info regarding other brands of exhausts and the 2008 focus please PM me.
Header:
Every aftermarket header for the previous year Focus WILL fit the 2008. However, like with previous Foci, a tune will be required to eliminate the Check Engine Light (CEL or MIL) that will be thrown. This is due to the elimination of the third o2 sensor which serves no practical function and will not harm the car when it is disconnected.
Legality regarding aftermarket header applications vary state to state, so check with your local laws before installing (if you care)
Intake Manifold:
Like the header, the Intake manifold on the 2008 Focus is the same as the previous years of Foci. Only one company makes an intake manifold for the focus. That company is Cosworth. Their intake manifold will require custom dyno tuning in order to function properly. See Honhon’s thread here for more info, http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=142899. As I mentioned before, most of the other intakes listed here WILL NOT fit the 2008+ Focus.
Motor Mounts:
I just attempted a rear (dogbone) motor mount install today. The bolt size holding the mount in place has changed for the 08+. You will need to drill out the bushings yourself or get them from Mike at Hillbish and he will take care of it for you. His user name is b16sir1991 and hes one of the best guys on here!
Grounding/Drive-by-Wire/Big 3:
The new 2008 Focus relies on a “Drive-by-wire system.” This means that the throttle body is controlled electronically by sensors on the gas pedal and throttle body. This system replaces the traditional cable driven system.
However, one side effect of Drive-by-Wire is the sensors can be prone to electrical interference and disturbance. As a result the throttle response can be decreased and the idle can be a bit rough and uneven. Many members have done what is referred to as grounding the throttle body. This helps with some of that interference and members claim increased throttle response and idle smoothness (especially on the Automatic cars). More information on this mod can be found here http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=160010.
Members have also reported gains in both MPG and power from grounding other parts of the engine/electrical system. However, these gains have been heatedly debated. More info can be found here http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=163212&highlight=throttle+body+ground.
Finally, a select group of members have done what is called the Big 3. The Big 3 combines grounding certain components with an additional + feed to the alternator. Once again legitimacy of this mod has been heatedly debated. Make your own decision on it here http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=163897.
Will be expanded as the days go by
