Used Ford Focus headlight: how to buy the right one

To buy the right used Ford Focus headlight, match your generation, your bulb type, and the correct side of the car. A used headlamp is a genuine unit at a fraction of the new price, and singles typically sell for well under what a new Ford lamp costs, so it is one of the better-value used parts to buy, as long as you get the spec right.

Which Focus do you have?

The headlight changed across the generations and they do not interchange. The Mk2 ran from 2004 to 2011, with a facelift in 2008 that altered the front end. The Mk3 ran from 2011 to 2018, also with a mid-life facelift around 2014 that changed the light. The Mk4 arrived in 2018. So you need both the generation and roughly the year, because the facelift versions differ. Your registration confirms the exact build.

Halogen or xenon: which do you need?

The Focus was sold with standard halogen headlights and, on higher trims, xenon (HID) units. They are not interchangeable, because the wiring and control gear differ. Check your existing light, or whether your car has projector lenses with control units, and buy the type that matches. Fitting a xenon lamp to a halogen car, or the reverse, means it will not work properly.

Left or right: getting the side correct

Headlights are side specific, so you need the nearside (passenger, left in the UK) or offside (driver, right) unit. Listings should state the side clearly. If you are replacing one damaged lamp, note which side of the car it is on as you look at it from the driving seat, and match that. Order the wrong side and nothing will line up.

What should I inspect?

Check the photos for cracks in the lens, internal condensation, and yellowing or fogging. Light surface marks polish out, but a cracked lens or a damp unit is one to avoid. Check the mounting tabs are intact, since broken tabs make the lamp hard to align. A good seller shows the lens clearly and says whether the unit was tested working.

Buy with confidence

Browse our Ford parts for current Focus stock, or our lighting collection for other models. Every unit is inspected, ships with free tracked UK delivery, and is covered by our 30 day returns policy. Send your registration or old part number and we will match the right headlight and side before you buy. Parts worth your trust.