Has Ford fixed their transmission problems?
Ford has made substantial progress through recalls, software updates, and redesigned transmissions, but not all issues are resolved for every model or year. Reliability now varies by vehicle history and model line.
What Ford has done to fix the issues
Ford's approach has combined recall campaigns, software updates, and hardware redesigns. The following overview outlines the main steps and when they occurred.
- Recalls and service campaigns targeting PowerShift dual‑clutch transmissions in older Fiesta and Focus models, with customers offered repairs or replacement under warranty.
- Software updates to transmission control modules for several models to improve shift timing, clutch engagement, and overall drive feel.
- Hardware revisions in newer production to address wear, clutch behavior, and reliability concerns within the PowerShift family and other automatic transmissions.
- Extended warranty programs or goodwill adjustments in some markets to cover transmission components beyond standard terms.
Overall, Ford’s public actions show a sustained effort to reduce recurrence and provide remedies to affected owners; however, coverage and effectiveness vary by region, model, and year.
Current status by model family
The following summaries reflect trends across Ford’s model lines as of 2024–2025. Individual experiences may differ based on maintenance, driving conditions, and service history.
- PowerShift-based vehicles from the early- to mid-2010s (such as Fiesta and Focus): reliability improved after multiple recalls and software updates, but some owners of older units may still experience hesitations or shuddering until a repair or replacement is completed.
- 10-speed automatic vehicles (used in pickups like the F-150 and large SUVs): software updates and production refinements have reduced many complaints; some drivers still report rough shifting, delay in engagement, or distinct transmission feel in certain conditions.
- Newer models with redesigned transmissions (post-2017 onward): Ford has marketed improved reliability due to updated hardware and software, and early data from recent model years generally show stronger performance, though independent reviews vary by trim and usage.
In summary, Ford has mitigated many earlier transmission issues through recalls, software updates, and redesigns. However, older models and certain configurations may still experience problems, and reliability can depend on individual vehicle history and maintenance.
What consumers can do today
To determine reliability for a specific vehicle and stay ahead of potential issues, check current recalls, review maintenance history, and consider extended warranty options. The following steps are recommended.
- Check for open recalls on the NHTSA website or with your dealer; ensure any required software updates or hardware repairs have been completed.
- Review your vehicle’s service history for transmission-related repairs or fluid changes; document symptoms such as shudder, hesitation, slipping, or rough shifts.
- Ask about coverage under Ford’s extended warranty or goodwill programs for transmission components where applicable.
Proactive maintenance and staying informed about recalls can help minimize risk and improve long-term reliability.
Bottom line
Ford has made substantial progress addressing transmission problems, with widespread recalls, software updates, and redesigned hardware contributing to improved reliability in many vehicles. The issue is not universally resolved for all models or model years, so buyers and owners should verify specific vehicle service history, recall status, and any relevant warranty coverage when evaluating reliability.
Summary
Ford’s transmission reliability picture has improved significantly since the peak of PowerShift-related controversies, driven by recalls, software patches, and hardware redesigns. Newer production tends to show stronger reliability, but owners of older models should confirm service work and warranty status to avoid surprises.
