Does a 2013 Ford Focus have a transmission recall?
Yes—some 2013 Ford Focus vehicles were recalled for issues related to the PowerShift dual‑clutch automatic transmission. Whether your specific car is affected depends on its VIN and the region where it was sold.
This article explains which campaigns have touched the Focus, how to verify your vehicle’s recall status, and what steps to take if your car is affected or you’re experiencing transmission symptoms.
Background on the transmission issues and affected models
The PowerShift (DPS6) dual‑clutch automatic transmission used in certain Ford models, including the Focus, was linked to complaints of hard or delayed shifts, shuddering, and in some cases loss of drive. In response, Ford and safety regulators published recall campaigns to correct the condition. These recalls were VIN‑specific and could involve software updates, repairs, or, in some cases, transmission replacement. The scope extended beyond the 2013 Focus to other vehicles that shared the same transmission family, with additional VINs added through later recall expansions.
Scope of recalls and affected years
The campaigns primarily targeted Focus models with the PowerShift transmission produced in the early to mid‑decade, along with related Ford models that used similar gearboxes. Over time, more VINs and model years were included in expanded recalls. Exact eligibility depends on the car’s VIN and where it was sold.
- PowerShift (DPS6) transmission recalls affecting Focus and other Ford models, prompted by reports of shudder, shifting hesitations, or transmission failure.
- Expanded recall campaigns added additional VINs and model years, sometimes overlapping with Fiesta, Escape, and Transit Connect platforms that used the same transmission family.
- Repairs under recall terms typically involved transmission software updates, component revisions, or, in some cases, transmission replacement at no cost to the owner.
Bottom line: not every 2013 Focus is included in a recall. VIN verification is essential to confirm eligibility for free recall service.
How to check if your 2013 Focus is recalled
To determine whether your specific vehicle is covered by a recall, use these steps to verify against official listings and your owner information.
- Visit the NHTSA Recall Look‑Up page and enter your vehicle’s VIN to see active recalls.
- Log into Ford’s Owner Portal or contact Ford Customer Service to search by VIN and review recall status.
- Contact your local Ford dealer or an authorized service center to confirm recall eligibility and schedule the required service if applicable.
Because recalls are VIN‑specific, a Focus that is not listed in a recall may still have a related service bulletin or potential warranty coverage—always consult the dealer for an official determination.
What to do if your Focus is recalled or you’re experiencing transmission symptoms
If your VIN is listed in a recall, Ford will cover eligible repairs at no cost to you. If you’re seeing transmission symptoms but your VIN isn’t currently listed, you may still have a service bulletin or warranty extension; have a dealer diagnose the issue.
- Do not ignore symptoms such as hard shifting, delayed engagement, shuddering, or loss of drive. Have the vehicle checked promptly.
- Bring any recall notices or communications to the dealership so they can verify eligibility and perform the fix.
- Ask about loaner or rental options if the repair requires extended time.
Remedies vary by recall campaign and model year, and the exact fix will be determined by Ford and your dealer based on the specific campaign linked to your VIN.
Summary
In short, some 2013 Ford Focus vehicles were part of recall campaigns tied to the PowerShift dual‑clutch transmission. The only sure way to know if your car is affected is to check the VIN against official recall listings through the NHTSA database or Ford’s owner services. If your car is listed, the recall work should be done at no cost. If not, monitor for future recalls and report any transmission concerns to your dealer promptly.
