Is there a recall on 2012 Ford Focus transmissions?

Yes. Some 2012 Ford Focus models equipped with the PowerShift 6-speed dual‑clutch transmission have been recalled for transmission-related issues in past years; the current status depends on your VIN and dealership. This article outlines what happened, how to check your vehicle, and what to expect if your car is affected.

Background: PowerShift transmission issues in early 2010s Focus

The 2012 Ford Focus used a PowerShift 6‑speed dual‑clutch automatic transmission in several markets. While designed for quicker shifts and better efficiency, this transmission drew scrutiny over shuddering, slipping, hard shifting, and, in some cases, loss of drive. Ford and regulatory agencies conducted investigations and issued service campaigns and recalls to address the problems. Not every Focus was affected, and many owners did not experience issues, but a notable subset required dealer intervention.

The following list highlights the kinds of issues that led to recalls and service campaigns for these vehicles.

• Shuddering or grinding when shifting, particularly at low speeds or during start-up


• Delayed engagement or harsh or abrupt shifting between gears


• Sudden loss of drive or transmission failure while driving


• Warning indicators or abnormal transmission behavior that prompted service

These issues were addressed through various recall campaigns and service actions, including software updates and, in some cases, hardware replacements. The exact remedy depended on the VIN, production date, and the specific campaign.

How to check if your vehicle is recalled

To determine whether your exact car is affected, use these steps to check recall status by VIN and manufacturer guidance.

• Look up your VIN on the NHTSA recall database at nhtsa.gov/recalls or use Ford's official VIN lookup tool on ford.com.


• Find your 17-character VIN, located on the driver's side windshield, the door frame placard, or your vehicle registration documents.


• Enter the VIN to see active or completed recalls and any related service campaigns for your vehicle.


• Contact Ford Customer Service or your local Ford dealer to confirm current coverage and schedule any necessary service.


• Keep documentation of recalls and service visits; recall repairs are performed at no charge when applicable.

Note that VIN-specific status matters: some 2012 Focus cars have active or completed campaigns, while others may show no open recalls. It is important to verify with official sources using your exact VIN.

What to expect if your car is affected

Recalls and service campaigns for the PowerShift transmission can involve software calibrations, valve body adjustments, or, in some cases, hardware replacements. The repair work is typically performed at a Ford dealership and is covered under recall or campaign terms.

• Software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) to improve shifting and engagement


• Inspection and possible replacement of transmission hardware components (such as actuation or clutch-related parts) if required by the campaign


• Vehicle reprogramming and test drives to confirm normal operation after service


• All eligible recall work is provided at no cost to the owner when the vehicle is covered

After service, many owners report improved shifting behavior and a reduction in previous symptoms. Keep a service record and confirm that the recall work was completed in the vehicle’s history.

Summary

For 2012 Ford Focus models, there have been recalls and service campaigns tied to the PowerShift transmission. The existence and scope of any recall depend on the specific VIN, production date, and the campaigns active at the time. The best course of action is to check your VIN against official recall databases and contact Ford or a local dealer to obtain a definitive, VIN-specific status and arrange any required service.

For ongoing updates, consult the NHTSA recall database and Ford’s official recall/VIN lookup tools, and inquire with your local dealer. If you own a 2012 Focus with the PowerShift transmission, staying informed and promptly addressing any recall notices can help maintain reliability and safety.

Is the 2012 Ford Focus transmission still under warranty?

The warranty on the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has been extended to 10 years/240,000 km from the warranty start date, to cover an intermittent loss of transmission engagement while driving, or a reduction of power or possible no-start condition.

What is the recall on the Ford Focus transmission?

Ford Focus transmission recall focus is on a 2022 recall for all models equipped with an automatic transmission that have a shifter cable bushing that can become damaged or missing, potentially causing the vehicle to roll away. Ford also issued a recall for certain 2016-2018 Focus models with a 1.0L engine and manual transmission, due to the risk of a fire from a clutch fracture and transmission fluid leak. Additionally, a 2015 recall (14M02) extended the warranty on the transmission control module (TCM) for certain 2012-2015 models with a PowerShift transmission due to numerous failures. 
This video explains the PowerShift transmission recall for Ford Focus and Fiesta vehicles: 58sFordTechMakulocoYouTube · Mar 31, 2015
2022 recall: Shifter cable bushing 

• Affected vehicles: All models with an automatic transmission.
• Problem: A damaged or missing shifter cable bushing can prevent the shifter from engaging the correct gear, and even if the shifter indicates "Park," the transmission may not actually be in park.
• Safety risk: This could cause the vehicle to roll away unexpectedly if the parking brake is not applied.
• Solution: Ford dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing and protective cap for free. 

This video demonstrates the 2022 Ford Focus transmission recall: 59sRams to the RescueYouTube · Jun 20, 2022
2016-2018 recall: Clutch fracture 

• Affected vehicles: 2016-2018 Ford Focus with a 1.0L GTDI engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. 
• Problem: The clutch can fracture, which can cause damage to the transmission assembly and leak transmission fluid. 
• Safety risk: A leak in the presence of hot engine or exhaust components could increase the risk of fire. 
• Solution: Ford dealers will fix this recall for free. 

2015 recall (14M02): Transmission Control Module (TCM) 

• Affected vehicles: 2012-2015 Ford Focus with a DPS6 automatically shifted manual transmission. 
• Problem: The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is covered by an extended warranty up to 10 years or 150,000 miles due to frequent failures. 
• Safety risk: The recall specifically targets the TCM, not the shifting problems themselves. Many owners report that the transmission problems like shuddering and jerking persist. 
• Solution: This recall extends the warranty on the TCM but doesn't guarantee a fix. Owners should check with the dealership for reimbursement and any potential repairs. 

How to check your recall status

• Visit Ford's official recall page and enter your 17-digit VIN. 
• Use a third-party recall checker like RepairPal or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. 

Will Ford fix 2012 Focus transmission for free?

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.

Is there a recall on the 2012 Ford Focus transmission?

It's not a recall perse, it is an extended coverage Ford put out should the TCM in your transmission fail. It is good for 10 years from the factory warranty start date or 150,000 miles. So depending on when your 2012 Focus' warranty started, if it's before May of 2012, it's out of warranty.