Focus ST Short Shifter Install Guide

By installing a performance short throw shifter on your Ford Focus ST, you can make driving more fun without breaking the bank. A short throw shifter will make shifting in your manual Focus ST smoother by reducing the distance between your hand and the shifter pivot point.

Even if you're new to mods, installing a short shifter is easy. Our step-by-step instructions will walk you through the installation process and get you back on the road in no time. Just remember to have the right tools on hand and take your time while you work.

Focus ST Short Throw Shifter Install Instructions

We went with a Ford racing short throw shifter, but the steps will be the same for most Focus ST shifters.

Parts and Tools Needed:

• Panel Removal Tool
• ¼” Ratchet
• 5.5 mm Socket
• 10 mm Socket
• Short Extension

Step 1: Remove Shift Boot Retainer

Lift up on the retainer surrounding the shifter boot to loosen it.

Once the retainer is detached enough to slide the panel removal tool beneath it, use the tool to detach the rest of the clips from the console.

Press up on the plastic clips to release the retainer from the boot.

Step 2: Disassemble Console

Remove the three screws holding the console in place. Once the screws are removed, pull up then outwards on the side trim panel to remove it from the console.

Step 3: Remove Side Trim

Using the panel removal tool, remove the push pin from the driver's side trim panel. Pull up on the panel with both hands to remove it. Repeat the process for the passenger's side trim.

Pro Tip: The push pin on the passenger's side of the trim is underneath a panel that'll need to be removed with the panel removal tool in order to access the pin.

Step 4: Disconnect Console Harness

Underneath the console will be two wiring harnesses. Undo the clips on both of these harnesses to disconnect them from the console.

Step 5: Remove Center Console

There are four remaining screws holding the console in place. Two are located in the front, and two are in the back on either side of the console. Remove these screws to free the console.

Now that the console is free to move, lift it up past the shifter and emergency brake and set it aside.

Step 6: Unhook Shifter Cables

Using the panel removal tool, wedge the tool under the two shifter cables and push to pop the cables free from the sockets.

Step 7: Remove Shifter Bolts

Using a ratchet, remove the four bolts holding the factory shifter in place.

Step 8: Remove Stock Shifter

First, you'll need to disconnect the shift cables from the retainer. On the far side of the cable is a spring. Push the spring down and slide the cable up to disconnect it.

Once the cables are free from the shifter, pull up on the shifter assembly to remove it from the car.

Step 9: Install New Shifter Bolts

Slide the new shifter into position. Tighten the four bolts with a ratchet to secure the shifter.

Step 10: Reattach Shift Cables

Reattach the two shift cables to the new shifter by snapping them into place with your hand.

Step 11: Reinstall Center Console

Put the console back into position by placing it over the shifter and emergency brake. Reattach the front and rear screws to lock it in place.

Remember to reattach the wiring clips at the base of the console.

Step 12: Reinstall Trim Panels

Reinstall the driver's side and passenger's side trim panels by snapping it back into place and popping the trim pin back in.

Next, reinstall the trim panels on the top and sides of the console. Remember to reinsert the screws that you removed in step two.

Step 13: Reinstall Shifter Boot

Reconnect the clips from the original trim plate to the boot of the new shifter. Snap the assembly back into the console.

Congratulations, you're all done!

Make the Most of Your Ford Focus Short Throw Shifter

Now that you've installed your new short throw shifter in your Ford Focus, you'll have way more fun driving with quick and responsive shifts. A short throw shifter is just the start of upgrading your Focus ST though. Take your performance to new levels by upgrading your Focus ST's clutch. If you're interested in other cheap and easy upgrades, check out these other 5 cheap Focus ST mods. For any other transmission upgrades or replacements, check out our Focus ST transmission parts.