Did the 2017 Ford Focus have transmission problems?
Yes. Some 2017 Ford Focus models experienced transmission issues, particularly those equipped with the PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Not every car suffered problems, but the DPS6 transmission earned a reputation for reliability concerns in several markets, prompting software updates, warranty actions, and recalls.
Background on the 2017 Focus transmission
The 2017 Ford Focus in the United States and many other markets relied on Ford’s PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (often referred to as DPS6). While designed for smooth, efficient shifting, this transmission has been associated with reliability concerns in multiple model years, including 2017. Ford issued technical service bulletins and software updates aimed at improving shifting behavior, and some regions offered extended warranty coverage or recalls to address wear, clutch life, or valve-body issues. The situation varied by market, trim, and individual vehicle history.
Common transmission problems reported in the 2017 Focus
Below is a rundown of symptoms and failures that owners and reviewers frequently cited for 2017 Focus models with the PowerShift transmission. This list summarizes what many drivers reported rather than applying to every car.
- Hesitation or delay when accelerating from a stop or after gear shifts
- Rough or clunk-like shifts between gears
- Shuddering or bucking during gear changes, especially at low speeds
- Transmission slipping or failure to engage, leading to loss of drive
- Warning lights or transmission fault codes appearing on the dashboard
- Unusual noises (clunks, grinding sounds) coming from the transmission area
These issues were frequently reported across model years that used the DPS6 PowerShift setup, with some owners experiencing improvements after updates while others required more extensive repairs. The prevalence of problems can vary by individual vehicle history, maintenance, and application of any software or hardware recalls.
What Ford did and how owners were affected
In response to complaints and observed performance gaps, Ford and its dealer network pursued several actions aimed at mitigating PowerShift issues in affected Focus models, including:
- Software updates to the transmission control module to smooth shifting and reduce shudder
- Technical service bulletins (TSBs) guiding technicians on care for the DPS6 system and related components
- Warranty actions and, in some markets, extended coverage for the PowerShift transmission
- Occasional clutch pack, valve body, or other internal components replacement when failures occurred
For potential buyers or current owners, checking the vehicle’s recall status and service history is important, as some vehicles may have already benefited from updates or previously completed repairs.
How to assess or address potential PowerShift issues in a 2017 Focus
If you own or are evaluating a 2017 Focus, consider these steps to determine whether the PowerShift transmission might be a concern and what to do about it.
- Check for open recalls and service campaigns related to the PowerShift transmission using official resources (Ford owner portal or NHTSA recall database).
- Review maintenance and service history for evidence of transmission software updates or component replacements.
- Note any symptoms such as delayed acceleration, rough or delayed shifting, shuddering, or warning lights — document when and under what conditions they occur.
- If symptoms are present, schedule a diagnostic with a Ford dealership or an experienced technician who is familiar with DPS6 systems.
- Discuss potential remedies, which may include software updates, valve-body/clutch-pack servicing, or, in some cases, transmission replacement under warranty or goodwill programs.
Owners should remember that experiences vary widely. Some 2017 Focus cars operated without incident for many thousands of miles, while others required attention for shifting irregularities or failures. Checking recall status and seeking qualified service promptly can help mitigate risks.
Summary
The 2017 Ford Focus did see transmission-related complaints in some vehicles, especially those with the PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Ford generally responded with software updates, service bulletins, and warranty actions, but experiences varied by vehicle and market. If you own a 2017 Focus or are considering one, verify recall status, review service history, and be attentive to shifting behavior. A well-maintained example with updated software is more likely to avoid the most common PowerShift issues.
What is the transmission lawsuit on the 2017 Ford Focus?
2017 to 2024 FORD FOCUS vehicles built with dual-clutch transmissions prone to shuddering, slipping, bucking, jerking, hesitation while changing gears, premature internal wear, delays in downshifting and, in some cases, sudden or delayed acceleration may be affected by the class settlement.
What are the main issues with the 2017 Ford Focus?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Paint/Trim. Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
- Exhaust.
- Engine Major.
- Transmission Major.
- Drive System.
- Climate System.
- Suspension/Steering.
- Electrical Accessories.
Does the 2017 Ford Focus still have transmission problems?
Despite the news saying the problems are 2016 and earlier, the 2017s and 2018s have the same transmission and same issues, if you look around online, albeit a bit less frequently. It's a bit less of a gamble, but it's still a gamble. If you're heart set on a Focus, get a manual, or the 1.0T model.
What year Ford Focus has transmission problems?
Ford Focus models from 2012 to 2016, equipped with the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, are known for transmission problems. These issues include shuddering, jerking, delayed acceleration, and difficulty stopping. While the problem was most prevalent in these years, some sources mention similar issues in 2017-2018 models as well, notes The Lemon Law Experts.
This video discusses Ford Focus transmission issues and recalls: 46sPhillips VisionYouTube · Mar 17, 2025
- Years affected: 2012–2016, with some issues also reported in 2017-2018 models.
- Problematic transmission: The DPS6 PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission.
- Common issues: Shuddering, jerking, slipping, harsh engagement, and delays in shifting or acceleration.
- Ford's response: Ford has issued recalls, extended warranties, and offered customer service programs to address these problems. Some owners have had their transmissions replaced multiple times without a complete fix.
