Did 2012 Ford Focus have transmission problems?
The 2012 Ford Focus is a popular compact car known for its sleek design and fuel efficiency. However, it has also been the subject of numerous complaints regarding its transmission system. In this article, we’ll explore the transmission issues associated with the 2012 Ford Focus, their causes, and what owners can do to address them.
Common Transmission Problems in the 2012 Ford Focus
Many owners of the 2012 Ford Focus have reported issues with the car's transmission, particularly with the dual-clutch automatic transmission system, known as the PowerShift transmission. These problems have been widely documented and include:
- Shuddering and Jerking: Drivers often experience shuddering or jerking when accelerating from a stop or shifting gears.
- Delayed Shifting: The transmission may hesitate or delay when shifting between gears, leading to a rough driving experience.
- Premature Wear: Some components of the transmission system, such as the clutch, have been reported to wear out prematurely.
- Transmission Failure: In severe cases, the transmission may fail entirely, requiring costly repairs or replacements.
Causes of the Transmission Issues
The primary cause of these transmission problems lies in the design of the PowerShift transmission. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, the PowerShift system operates more like a manual transmission but is controlled electronically. While this design was intended to improve fuel efficiency, it also introduced several challenges:
- Software Glitches: The transmission control module (TCM) software has been known to malfunction, leading to erratic shifting behavior.
- Mechanical Defects: Faulty clutch components and seals have been identified as common sources of the issues.
- Heat Sensitivity: The transmission system is prone to overheating, which can exacerbate wear and tear.
Ford's Response to the Problem
Ford has acknowledged the transmission issues in the 2012 Focus and has taken steps to address them. These include:
- Extended Warranties: Ford extended the warranty coverage for the PowerShift transmission to cover repairs for certain components.
- Software Updates: The company released software updates for the TCM to improve shifting performance.
- Recalls and Repairs: In some cases, Ford issued recalls to replace defective parts or repair the transmission system.
What Should Owners Do?
If you own a 2012 Ford Focus and are experiencing transmission problems, here are some steps you can take:
- Check Warranty Coverage: Verify if your vehicle is still covered under Ford's extended warranty for the PowerShift transmission.
- Visit a Certified Mechanic: Have your car inspected by a certified mechanic to diagnose the issue and recommend repairs.
- Contact Ford Customer Service: Reach out to Ford's customer service to inquire about potential recalls or assistance programs.
- Consider Legal Options: If you’ve faced significant expenses due to transmission issues, you may want to explore legal options, as class-action lawsuits have been filed against Ford regarding this matter.
Conclusion
While the 2012 Ford Focus offers many appealing features, its transmission problems have been a significant drawback for many owners. If you’re considering purchasing a used 2012 Focus, it’s essential to ensure that any transmission issues have been addressed. For current owners, staying informed about warranty coverage and repair options is key to resolving these problems effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2012 Ford Focus transmission still under warranty?
The company noted that, in addition to the clutch warranty extension, all 2011-15 Fiestas and 2012-16 Focuses are covered for 10 years and 150,000 miles for the transmission control module, whose failure can cause the cars to default to neutral.
Is there a recall on the transmission on the 2012 Ford Focus?
Ford issued the recall to address the TCM defect in Ford Focus 2012-2018 models. The recall might affect any Ford vehicle with a DPS6 clutch or Powershift transmission. The announcement came after many complaints from owners experiencing problems with their cars jerking, stalling, and having trouble shifting gears.
Is 2012 a good year for Ford Focus?
The 2012 Ford Focus is the first model year of the third generation with all-new styling, engines, and interiors. Reliability ratings are fair, according to J.D. Power, with more complaints than any other model year. Only one engine is available, and is a four-cylinder with average power for the class.
Will the 2012 Ford Focus fix the transmission for free?
Q: How much does it typically cost to fix transmission issues in a 2012 Ford Focus? A: Although the average cost to repair a 2012 Ford Focus transmission ranges from $1,500 to $1,800 at a mechanic, Ford will actually fix the transmission for free due to a class-action lawsuit and recall.
Which year to avoid Ford Focus?
What Are Ford Focus Years To Avoid? Some Focus model years have more issues than others, and those from 2001-2003 and 2012-2013 are cars to avoid if you are in the market for a used vehicle. Many of these models are at the center of multiple recalls and legal action.
What does it cost to replace a transmission in a 2012 Ford Focus?
The cost of a new 2012 Ford Focus transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the car, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
What is the transmission lawsuit on the 2012 Ford Focus?
The lawsuit alleges that certain Ford Focus and Fiesta vehicles are equipped with a defective PowerShift Dual-Clutch Automatic (DPS6) Transmission (“PowerShift Transmission”) that may slip, buck, kick, or jerk, and result in sudden or delayed vehicle acceleration.
What is the transmission problem on a 2012 Ford Focus?
As thousands of consumers who have purchased or leased a defective 2011-2015 Ford Fiesta or 2012-2015 Ford Focus have discovered, their transmissions and clutch assembly may contain a defect that causes, among other problems, transmission shuddering, slips, bucking, kicking, jerking, harsh engagement, premature ...
What are the symptoms of Ford Focus transmission problems?
2014 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
Rough Shifting: Many drivers report that the car has a rough gear-shifting problem. This makes driving uncomfortable. Acceleration Delays: Some drivers notice a delay when pressing the gas pedal.
What years did Ford Focus have bad transmissions?
CINCINNATI (Howard Ain) -- Complaints about the operation of two of the Ford Motor Company's top selling models prompted the company to make changes. The problem goes back three years and involves the transmissions. It concerns the 2012, 13 and 14 Ford Focus and the Ford Fiesta.
