One of the things that the Ford Focus was known for when it was first introduced was its innovative suspension design, built for better handling as well as a supple ride. The front suspension is a key part of this, and if it's not aligned correctly, then not only will the handling suffer, but the tires may wear abnormally. The toe of the vehicle is responsible for how much the leading edge of the tire points in toward the center or out toward the fenders when driving.
Park the vehicle in a well-lit area and point the steering wheel so that it's straight and level. Place your assistant on one side of the vehicle, with you on the other, or both of you by the front tires.
Pick a location on the tire as a frame of reference. This should be a lug on the tire with a straight edge, or any other point of reference that's the same on both front tires. Use the tape measure to measure the distance between the rear of the tires and write the number on the concrete using the chalk. Repeat this process on the leading edge of the tires as well. The difference between these numbers is the amount that your toe is off.
Loosen the adjusting nut on the tie rod end using an open-end wrench, then unbolt the tie rod end from the spindle using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. If your numbers indicate that the leading edge of the wheels is wider than the rear edge, then you want to extend the tie rod end to push out the rear. If your numbers indicate the rear edge is wider, then you need to tighten the tie rod end on the linkage. This is going to take some experimentation and should be done equally on both sides.
Bolt the tie rod end into the spindle using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket and repeat the measuring process listed in step 2. You may have to remove and adjust the tie rod ends several times until it's correct, but ultimately, you want the leading edge of the tire to be about 1/4-1/2-inch within the measurement of the rear edge. Once it is, tighten down the adjusting nut using an open-end wrench.
