Replacing the head gasket on your Ford Focus’s 2.0L EcoBoost engine is a critical repair that demands quality parts. A failing gasket can lead to coolant loss, engine overheating, and significant power loss, making the choice of a replacement kit one of the most important decisions for your vehicle’s longevity. With several options on the market, from complete sets to trusted OEM suppliers, selecting the right one ensures a reliable seal and a smooth-running engine.
This roundup is designed to help you navigate the key choices for your 2012-2017 Ford Focus. We have compiled a list of eight prominent head gasket kits, detailing their components and fitment to assist you in making a well-informed purchase. Whether you are a professional mechanic or a dedicated DIYer, finding the correct kit is the first step toward a successful and lasting repair.
Top 8.0L EcoBoost Head Gasket Kits for Your Ford Focus
- DNJ HGB4236 Cylinder Head Gasket Set with Head Bolt Kit
- Roneeson Engine Cylinder Head Gasket Kit for Ford Focus
- AUCERAMIC HGS4236 Cylinder Head Gasket Set Compatible
- SecosAutoparts Cylinder Head Gasket Set 2.0L Compatible
- DNJ HGS4236 Head Gasket Set for Ford Focus 2.0L
- Fel-Pro HS26133PT-1 PermaTorque Head Gasket Set
- Victor Reinz 417-571 Head Gasket Set for 2.0L EcoBoost
- Mahle BX38514 Head Gasket & Component Set
DNJ HGB4236 Cylinder Head Gasket Set with Head Bolt Kit
This DNJ kit stands out by including a crucial component many sets leave out: the head bolts. For a proper head gasket installation, it is essential to use new head bolts, as the factory torque-to-yield bolts are designed for one-time use and can lose their clamping force if reused. This all-in-one package saves you the time and effort of sourcing bolts separately, ensuring you have everything needed for the core of the repair.
The set is engineered specifically for the 2012-2017 Ford Focus with the 2.0L L4 DOHC engine. It contains the primary cylinder head gasket and a full complement of associated seals and gaskets to restore the integrity of your engine’s top end. By providing a complete solution, this kit helps streamline the repair process for both professional technicians and experienced home mechanics.
Roneeson Engine Cylinder Head Gasket Kit
The Roneeson kit offers a straightforward solution for Ford Focus owners with models from 2012 to 2016. This package includes the essential gaskets required to address a blown head gasket, focusing on the primary components needed to get the job done. It is a suitable option for those who may already have other necessary parts or are looking for a direct replacement for the failed gasket.
Designed for the 2.0L engine, this kit ensures a proper fit and seal for your vehicle. The inclusion of a complete gasket set means you can tackle the repair with confidence, knowing you have the correct parts for your specific model year. Its focused approach makes it a practical choice for a standard head gasket replacement.
AUCERAMIC HGS4236 Cylinder Head Gasket Set
For a comprehensive repair, the AUCERAMIC set is an excellent choice. It features a Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gasket, which is the modern standard for durability and a reliable seal in today’s engines. Beyond the main gasket, this extensive kit includes valve stem seals, camshaft seals, and both intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, covering nearly every sealing surface you will encounter during the job.
This kit is notable for its broad compatibility, matching numerous OEM and aftermarket part numbers such as HS54995 and CM5Z6079A. Having all these components in one box prevents project delays and ensures consistency across the entire repair. It is a thorough kit for those who want to refresh the top end of their engine completely while it is apart.
SecosAutoparts Cylinder Head Gasket Set 2.0L
SecosAutoparts emphasizes reliability and quality control with their head gasket set. The manufacturer states that each product undergoes a strict inspection process and is tested before leaving the factory. This focus on pre-shipment verification provides an added layer of confidence, as a head gasket is a component where failure is not an option.
Compatible with Ford Focus models from 2012 to 2016, this kit replaces part numbers CM5E6051DF and HS54995. The commitment to product stability and long-term performance is a key benefit, aiming to deliver a repair that stands the test of time. For buyers who prioritize manufacturing diligence, this set is a strong contender.
DNJ HGS4236 Head Gasket Set
This DNJ HGS4236 set provides the same high-quality gaskets and seals as other DNJ kits but is offered without head bolts. This is an ideal option for mechanics who prefer to purchase their head bolts from a specific supplier or for those who have already acquired the bolts separately. It offers flexibility while still delivering the reliable DNJ components.
It is designed to fit 2012-2017 Ford Focus 2.0L engines, ensuring precise fitment and performance. The kit includes all the necessary gaskets to create a complete seal across the cylinder head. Choosing this set allows you to customize your parts list while relying on a trusted brand for the gaskets themselves.
Fel-Pro HS26133PT-1 PermaTorque Head Gasket Set
Fel-Pro is a legendary name in the sealing products industry, trusted by professionals and DIYers alike. The PermaTorque brand signifies a gasket that is designed to seal with lower bolt loads, which is particularly beneficial for modern aluminum engine blocks and heads. This technology helps prevent distortion and ensures a consistent, reliable seal under the high temperatures and pressures of the EcoBoost engine.
The HS26133PT-1 set is engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications, providing peace of mind that the repair will restore your engine to its original performance. Fel-Pro gaskets are known for their rigorous testing and quality materials, making this set a premium choice for a critical repair where failure is not an option.
Victor Reinz 417-571 Head Gasket Set
Victor Reinz is another top-tier manufacturer often supplying original equipment components to vehicle makers. Their head gasket set for the 2.0L EcoBoost is built to the same high standards, ensuring a perfect fit and long-lasting durability. Using a Victor Reinz kit is like installing an OEM-level part, which is a compelling reason for many technicians.
This set is designed to withstand the specific challenges of turbocharged engines, including higher combustion pressures and thermal cycling. The materials and construction are selected to provide a robust seal that maintains integrity over the long term. For those seeking OEM-quality or a trusted European brand, this set is an outstanding option.
Mahle BX38514 Head Gasket & Component Set
Mahle is a global original equipment supplier known for its high-quality engine components. The BX38514 set typically includes not only the head gasket but also a full suite of related parts, such as valve stem seals and manifold gaskets. This comprehensive approach ensures that every critical seal on the top of your engine is replaced with a premium part.
Choosing a Mahle kit means you are using components that are often identical to those installed at the factory. The reliability and engineering behind Mahle products make this set a top-shelf choice for a repair that you only want to do once. It represents an investment in quality and peace of mind for your Ford Focus.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an 8.0L Focus EcoBoost Head Gasket Kit
Let’s be real, if you’re shopping for a head gasket kit for your 8.0L Focus EcoBoost, you’re probably in the middle of a pretty serious repair. I’ve been there. It’s a big job, and the last thing you want is to do it twice because you picked the wrong parts. The market is flooded with options, and knowing what separates a good kit from a bad one can save you a ton of time, money, and frustration down the road.
First and foremost, you need to think about the gasket material itself. The 8.0L EcoBoost engine is a high-performance, turbocharged unit. It creates a lot of heat and a lot of cylinder pressure. A basic composition gasket just isn’t going to cut it here. You’re looking for a Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) gasket. These are the industry standard for modern, high-stress engines. They are made of multiple thin layers of steel with special coatings that provide an incredible seal against combustion pressure and coolant. Don’t even consider a kit that doesn’t feature a proper MLS head gasket.
Next, look at what else is included. A true “kit” should be just that – a complete set of everything you need for the job. This means it should include not just the head gasket, but also new intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, throttle body gaskets, and new valve cover gaskets. Crucially, it must include a new set of head bolts. These are torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, which are designed to be stretched to a specific point for a perfect clamp load. They are a one-time-use item; reusing old ones is a guaranteed path to another failure.
Brand reputation is your best friend here. While you might not be familiar with every gasket manufacturer, sticking with known brands like Fel-Pro, Victor Reinz, or OEM Ford parts is a safe bet. These companies invest heavily in research and development to ensure their products meet or exceed the original specifications. A no-name kit from a questionable online seller might save you twenty bucks today, but it could cost you a thousand dollars tomorrow if it fails.
Finally, consider the source. Buy from a reputable parts store or a well-known online retailer that stands behind their products. This makes warranty claims or returns much simpler if you run into an issue. When you’re doing a job this intensive, peace of mind is worth its weight in gold. Taking the time to select the right Best 8.0L Focus EcoBoost Head Gasket Kit Review 2025 components is the most important first step to getting your car back on the road, reliably.
FAQ
Can I use a cheaper, non-MLS head gasket on my 8.0L EcoBoost?
I strongly advise against it. The factory installed a Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) gasket for a reason. The turbocharged engine generates extreme cylinder pressures and temperatures that a traditional composite gasket cannot handle for long. Using a cheaper alternative is one of the biggest risks you can take with this repair. It might seem fine at first, but the likelihood of a premature failure is extremely high, meaning you’d have to do the entire labor-intensive job all over again.
Is it absolutely necessary to replace the head bolts?
Yes, one hundred percent. The head bolts on modern engines like the 8.0L EcoBoost are Torque-To-Yield (TTY). This means they are intentionally stretched to a precise yield point during the installation process to achieve the correct clamping force. Once they’ve been stretched, they lose their tensile strength and will not provide the same clamping force if reused. Skipping new head bolts is a guaranteed way to end up with a head gasket that doesn’t seal properly, leading to another leak or worse, a warped cylinder head.
Should I get the cylinder head resurfaced even if it looks flat?
Absolutely. This is not a step you should ever skip. Even if the head looks perfectly flat to the naked eye, microscopic warping and surface imperfections are almost always present after a gasket failure. These tiny imperfections will prevent the new gasket from sealing correctly. A machine shop can precision mill the head to ensure it is perfectly flat and has the correct surface finish for the MLS gasket to seal against. It’s a relatively small cost and time investment compared to the total job, and it’s critical for a lasting repair.
What other parts should I replace while I’m doing this job?
Since you’ll have the engine torn down pretty far, it’s the perfect time for some preventative maintenance. I always recommend replacing the thermostat and the water pump. You’ll already have the coolant drained and many components removed, so the labor is mostly done. It’s also a great time to check your spark plugs and coils. Addressing these items now can prevent another major repair bill in the near future and save you from having to disassemble the same area again.
How long does this repair typically take for a home mechanic?
This is not a quick weekend project for the faint of heart. If you’re an experienced home mechanic with the right tools, you’re still looking at a solid 15 to 20 hours of work, spread over several days. The process involves disconnecting a huge amount of wiring, hoses, and components to remove the intake manifold, turbocharger, and other parts to access the cylinder head. You also have to factor in the time to take the head to a machine shop for inspection and resurfacing. Rushing this job is a recipe for mistakes, so be patient and methodical.