All models of the Ford Focus are equipped with the BeltMinder feature, which sounds a chime and flashes a warning light on the instrument panel if a seat is occupied but the seat belt is not fastened while driving. The BeltMinder feature is enabled by default, but it can be disabled. Note that the procedure changed slightly with the 2005 model year of the Focus.

  • All models of the Ford Focus are equipped with the BeltMinder feature, which sounds a chime and flashes a warning light on the instrument panel if a seat is occupied but the seat belt is not fastened while driving.

Ensure that the parking brake is set, the vehicle is in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual), the ignition is off, the doors are closed, all seat belts are unbuckled, and the headlights and parking lights are off.

Turn the ignition switch ON, but do not start the engine. Wait for the seat belt light to go out (this takes from 1 to 2 minutes).

Perform one of these two actions (depending on the year of your vehicle) within 50 seconds:

2000-2004: Buckle, then unbuckle the seat belt 3 times. Turn the headlights on, then off. Buckle, then unbuckle the seat belt 3 times.

  • 2000-2004: Buckle, then unbuckle the seat belt 3 times.
  • Buckle, then unbuckle the seat belt 3 times.

2005-beyond: Buckle, then unbuckle the seat belt 9 times.

The seat belt warning light will be turned on for 3 seconds, then off.

Buckle and then unbuckle the seat belt once within 7 seconds after the seat belt warning light turns off. This step will toggle the BeltMinder feature on or off.

Watch the seat belt warning light after completing Step 4. If the BeltMinder feature has been enabled, the warning light will flash four times per second for 3 seconds, turn off for 3 seconds, then flash four times per second for 3 seconds again. If the feature has been disabled, the warning light will flash four times per second for 3 seconds without repeating.

TIP

The BeltMinder feature is enabled separately for the driver and front passenger seats. To enable or disable the feature on the passenger seat, repeat the procedure while sitting in that seat.

WARNING

Whether or not the BeltMinder feature is enabled, always wear seat belts while driving.