Does your Ford Focus ST feel a little… sluggish? Maybe you’ve noticed it doesn’t pull as hard as it used to, especially when the weather heats up. You’re not alone! Many Focus ST owners experience this, and the culprit is often heat soaking the engine. That’s where an intercooler comes in, but with so many choices out there, picking the right one can feel like navigating a maze. It’s a big decision, and you want to make sure you get the best bang for your buck.
Choosing the wrong intercooler can lead to wasted money and disappointment, while the right one can unlock your Focus ST’s full potential, giving you more power and better performance. This guide is here to make that choice easy! We’ll break down exactly what you need to know about intercoolers for your ST, helping you understand the differences and what features really matter.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear picture of how to find the perfect intercooler to keep your Focus ST running cool and strong. Let’s dive in and get your ST performing at its peak!
Our Top 5 Intercooler For Focus St Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Intercooler For Focus St Detailed Reviews
1. Mishimoto MMINT-FOST-13GD Performance Intercooler Fits Ford Focus ST 2013+ Gold
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your Ford Focus ST with the Mishimoto MMINT-FOST-13GD Performance Intercooler. This intercooler is designed to boost your car’s performance and handle more power. It’s a great way to get more out of your ST, making it more fun to drive.
What We Like:
- It gives your Focus ST a power boost of up to 5 horsepower and 7 foot-pounds of torque.
- The intercooler is 4.3 inches thick, which helps air flow better. It can handle up to 550 wheel horsepower.
- You don’t need to change your front bumper, and it keeps your fog lights. It also works with different MAP sensors.
- It lowers the temperature of the air going into your engine by 34 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The core size is 128% bigger, and the fin surface area is 32% larger for better cooling.
- It comes with a Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty, so you can trust its quality.
- It looks great and is available in Sleek Silver, Stealth Black, and Bold Gold.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers noticeable gains, the power increase is modest for some performance enthusiasts.
- The installation process, though designed for no bumper modification, might still require some technical know-how for optimal results.
Overall, the Mishimoto MMINT-FOST-13GD Performance Intercooler is a solid upgrade for your Ford Focus ST. It offers improved cooling and a small power bump without major modifications.
2. Mishimoto MMICP-FOST-13KWBK Intercooler Pipe Kit Compatible With Ford Focus ST 2013+ Wrinkle Black
Rating: 9.4/10
Want to give your Ford Focus ST a little more power and a cooler engine? The Mishimoto MMICP-FOST-13KWBK Intercooler Pipe Kit is designed just for that. This kit replaces your stock intercooler pipes with better ones that help your engine breathe easier. It’s a direct fit for the 2013 and newer Ford Focus ST, making installation straightforward.
What We Like:
- It gives your car a boost of 8 horsepower and 10 torque when used with other Mishimoto parts.
- The hot side pipe is 14% bigger than the original, and the cold side pipe is 10% bigger.
- This means your engine gets 21% more airflow, helping it perform better and stay cooler.
- The wrinkle black finish looks sharp under the hood.
- It’s a direct fit, so you won’t have trouble installing it.
What Could Be Improved:
- To get the full power gains, you need to buy other Mishimoto parts.
- The initial cost might be more than you expect.
This intercooler pipe kit is a solid upgrade for your Ford Focus ST. It offers noticeable performance improvements and a cleaner look for your engine bay.
3. Rev9 ICK-056 ICK-056 Front Mount Intercooler Kit
Rating: 8.9/10
The Rev9 ICK-056 ICK-056 Front Mount Intercooler Kit is a performance upgrade designed for your Ford Focus ST from 2013 to 2018. This kit, also known as a FMIC, is a bolt-on part, meaning it’s made to be installed without major modifications. It’s a great way to improve how your car runs, especially if you want more power and better engine cooling.
What We Like:
- Bolt-On Installation: It’s designed to fit your Ford Focus ST easily, making installation straightforward.
- Performance Upgrade: This kit helps cool the air going into your engine, which can lead to more horsepower and better throttle response.
- Designed for Focus ST: It’s made specifically for the 2013-2018 Ford Focus ST, ensuring a proper fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Difficulty: While it’s a bolt-on, some users might find the installation process challenging without some mechanical knowledge.
- Potential Fitment Issues: Although designed for the Focus ST, minor adjustments might be needed for a perfect fit in some cases.
This Rev9 intercooler kit offers a noticeable boost in performance for your Focus ST. It’s a solid upgrade for drivers looking to get more out of their car.
4. KUUHLERSAT Front Mount Intercooler Compatible With Ford Focus ST Bolt-On Upgrade 400hp 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Rating: 9.0/10
Give your Ford Focus ST the cooling power it deserves with the KUUHLERSAT Front Mount Intercooler. This upgrade is designed to be a direct fit for your 2013-2018 Focus ST with the 2.0L L4 Gas Turbocharged engine. It’s built to handle up to 400 horsepower and beyond. This intercooler will help your engine perform better and last longer.
What We Like:
- This intercooler is a direct fit, meaning installation should be straightforward for your 2013-2018 Ford Focus ST.
- It’s made of all aluminum and tig-welded for strength and durability.
- The black anodized finish looks great and helps protect the intercooler.
- It’s rated for 400hp+, so it can handle serious power upgrades.
- It helps improve engine performance and makes your engine more durable.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a direct replacement, some users might prefer more detailed installation instructions or tips.
- The specific end-to-end length of 37 inches might require careful planning during installation to ensure it fits perfectly without any modifications.
This KUUHLERSAT intercooler is a solid upgrade for your Ford Focus ST. It offers improved performance and cooling for your turbocharged engine.
5. Mishimoto MMINT-FOST-13SL 2013+ Ford Focus ST Intercooler (I/C ONLY) – Silver
Rating: 9.3/10
Boost your 2013+ Ford Focus ST’s performance with the Mishimoto MMINT-FOST-13SL Intercooler in a sleek silver finish. This intercooler is designed to upgrade your car’s cooling system, helping your engine run cooler and stronger. It’s a great addition for anyone looking to get more out of their Focus ST.
What We Like:
- It’s designed for a perfect, direct fit, making installation a breeze.
- Mishimoto tests all their products thoroughly. This means you get reliable quality and performance data.
- You can choose from different finishes and colors. This adds style to your engine bay, making it look as good as it performs.
- Every Mishimoto product comes with a Lifetime Warranty. This even covers accidental damage to your car or truck.
- Their engineering team handles all research and development in-house. This ensures top-notch quality and performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is listed as “I/C ONLY,” meaning it’s just the intercooler itself. You might need to purchase other components separately for a complete cooling system upgrade.
- While the silver finish is stylish, more color options could appeal to a wider range of preferences.
The Mishimoto intercooler offers a significant upgrade for your Ford Focus ST. It provides both enhanced performance and a stylish look for your engine bay.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Upgrading Your Focus ST’s Intercooler
Want to give your Ford Focus ST a power boost and keep its engine running cool? An upgraded intercooler is a fantastic way to do it. This guide will help you find the best one for your car.
What is an Intercooler and Why Does Your Focus ST Need One?
Your Focus ST’s turbocharger makes the air going into the engine really hot. Hot air is less dense, meaning it has less oxygen. Less oxygen means less power. An intercooler acts like a radiator for this hot air. It cools it down before it goes into the engine. Cooler, denser air means more oxygen, which gives your Focus ST a big power and performance improvement!
Key Features to Look For
1. Size Matters: Core Size and Flow Rate
Bigger is usually better when it comes to intercooler cores. A larger core has more surface area to cool the air. Look for an intercooler with a significantly larger core than your stock one. This allows for better airflow and more efficient cooling. A good intercooler will also improve the flow rate, meaning more air can pass through it easily.
2. Core Design: Bar-and-Plate vs. Tube-and-Fin
- Bar-and-Plate: These are the most common and generally offer the best performance. They have fins sandwiched between internal passages, creating a very effective cooling surface. They are also quite durable.
- Tube-and-Fin: These are lighter and can offer good cooling, but they might not be as robust as bar-and-plate designs and can sometimes have lower flow rates.
3. End Tanks: Cast vs. Fabricated
- Cast End Tanks: These are molded and can look very neat. However, they can sometimes restrict airflow compared to fabricated tanks.
- Fabricated End Tanks: These are welded together and often provide smoother airflow into and out of the intercooler core.
4. Fitment and Mounting
A good intercooler should be a direct bolt-on upgrade. This means it will fit perfectly in your Focus ST’s engine bay without needing major modifications. Check reviews to see how easy installation is.
Important Materials
Most performance intercoolers are made from aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight and conducts heat very well, making it ideal for cooling applications. The end tanks are often made from aluminum as well, either cast or fabricated.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- High-Quality Aluminum: Using thicker, more durable aluminum for the core and end tanks improves longevity and cooling efficiency.
- Efficient Fin Design: The shape and density of the fins on the intercooler core play a big role in how well it cools.
- Smooth Internal Passages: Well-designed internal passages in the core and end tanks reduce air resistance and improve flow.
- Rigorous Testing: Reputable brands often test their intercoolers for performance and durability.
Reducing Quality:
- Thin or Low-Grade Aluminum: This can lead to the intercooler being less effective and more prone to damage.
- Poor Welding or Sealing: Leaks can severely reduce performance and even damage your engine.
- Restrictive End Tank Designs: These can hinder airflow, negating the benefits of a larger core.
- Cheap Materials: Using cheaper materials can save money but often sacrifices performance and reliability.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most Focus ST owners who upgrade their intercooler notice an immediate difference. You’ll likely experience:
- Increased Horsepower and Torque: Especially noticeable on the higher end of the RPM range.
- Reduced Heat Soak: This means your car will perform consistently, even during spirited driving or in hot weather. Your engine won’t lose power as quickly when it gets hot.
- Better Throttle Response: The engine can breathe more freely.
- Improved Engine Reliability: Cooler air is less likely to cause detonation, which can damage your engine.
This upgrade is perfect for anyone who enjoys spirited driving, participates in track days, or simply wants to get the most out of their Focus ST. It’s one of the most effective bolt-on modifications you can do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will an upgraded intercooler void my Focus ST’s warranty?
A: This can vary by dealership and manufacturer policy. Generally, if the modification doesn’t cause a problem, it’s less likely to void your warranty. However, it’s always best to check with your local Ford dealer.
Q: Do I need to tune my Focus ST after installing an intercooler?
A: While not always strictly required, a tune is highly recommended to take full advantage of the intercooler’s benefits. A tune can optimize your engine’s air-fuel mixture and timing for the cooler air, maximizing power gains.
Q: How much horsepower can I expect from an upgraded intercooler?
A: The gains can vary depending on your specific Focus ST model, other modifications, and the quality of the intercooler. However, you can typically expect anywhere from 5-15 horsepower and a similar increase in torque.
Q: Is installing an intercooler difficult?
A: For most Focus ST models, intercooler upgrades are designed as direct bolt-on replacements. If you’re comfortable with basic tools and have some mechanical knowledge, you can likely install it yourself. Otherwise, a professional mechanic can do it quickly.
Q: Can I use a larger intercooler than the recommended size?
A: While bigger is often better, you need to ensure the intercooler fits without rubbing against other engine components. Overly large intercoolers can sometimes create too much pressure drop, which can reduce performance.
Q: What is “heat soak” and how does an intercooler help?
A: Heat soak is when the intercooler gets too hot from the turbocharger and can no longer cool the intake air effectively. This leads to a loss of power. A larger, more efficient intercooler can dissipate heat better, reducing heat soak and maintaining consistent performance.
Q: Are there any downsides to installing an upgraded intercooler?
A: The main potential downside is cost. Also, some very large intercoolers might slightly increase the pressure drop, which could marginally affect throttle response if not properly managed with a tune.
Q: How do I know if my Focus ST’s stock intercooler is failing?
A: Signs of a failing stock intercooler can include a noticeable loss of power, especially under load, increased engine temperatures, and sometimes a whistling sound from the intake system. However, most people upgrade proactively for performance gains.
Q: Which Focus ST generations benefit most from an intercooler upgrade?
A: All turbocharged Focus ST models will benefit from an upgraded intercooler. However, the gains can be more significant on later generations that often have higher boost pressures and greater potential for heat soak.
Q: Can I install an intercooler myself?
A: Yes, many owners successfully install their own intercoolers. It typically involves removing the front bumper and stock intercooler, then installing the new one. Online guides and videos can be very helpful.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.