What is Ford doing about Focus transmission problems?
Ford has addressed Focus DPS6 PowerShift transmission issues through software updates, extended warranty coverage, and recalls or service campaigns. The company has also begun shifting away from the problematic PowerShift in newer models in favor of more traditional automatic transmissions.
Which models are affected
The focus of attention has been the DPS6 dual-clutch transmission used in the 2012–2016 Ford Focus, with similar units in some 2013–2016 C-Max and other markets’ Focus variants. The scope varied by region and year, and owners frequently reported symptoms such as shuddering, hesitation, and abrupt or delayed shifts.
What Ford is doing about Focus transmission problems
Software updates and service campaigns
Ford has issued multiple software updates for the transmission control module to adjust clutch engagement, shift timing, and torque delivery in order to reduce shudder and hard-shift symptoms. These updates are typically rolled out through dealer service visits as part of recalls or Customer Satisfaction Programs in various countries.
Actions documented by Ford and regulators have often centered on recalibration of the transmission control software and related components, with some campaigns requiring a dealer visit to apply the fix and verify operation.
In summary, software-level remedies have been the first line of defense to improve drive feel and reliability for many affected Focus owners.
Warranty coverage and goodwill measures
Ford has extended warranty coverage for PowerShift components in several markets, offering longer protection windows beyond the standard terms and, in some cases, goodwill assistance to help with repair costs. The specifics—such as coverage length, mileage limits, and eligibility—vary by country and model year, so owners should check with their local dealer or Ford’s customer service portal for current terms.
These warranty and goodwill programs have been intended to reduce out-of-pocket repair costs for affected customers and to encourage timely remedies rather than prolonged disputes.
Overall, Ford’s warranty extensions and goodwill measures have complemented software fixes to address ongoing customer concerns.
Regulatory actions and market responses
Regulators in the United States and other regions have pursued investigations into PowerShift transmissions. Ford has conducted recalls and service campaigns aimed at addressing defect risks, including potential failure modes associated with the clutch and transmission control systems. In parallel, Ford has been gradually moving away from the DPS6 PowerShift in newer models, replacing it with more traditional automatic transmissions where feasible.
The regulatory and market response has influenced Ford’s strategy, pushing a shift toward more conventional transmissions in newer Focus iterations and related models.
What owners can do
Owners should verify whether their vehicle is covered under active recalls or service campaigns and seek official remedies through authorized dealers. If you own a Focus with a PowerShift transmission, consider the following steps.
- Check your VIN against Ford’s recall and service campaign listings and consult the NHTSA or local regulatory databases for updates.
- Schedule a diagnostic at an authorized Ford dealer to inquire about the latest software update for the transmission and any applicable recall remedy.
- Request documentation of any software update, repair, or replacement and keep all service records for warranty or goodwill claims.
- If you experience symptoms such as shuddering, slipping, or hard shifts, report them promptly and discuss potential warranty coverage or goodwill assistance with the service advisor.
Prompt action and thorough documentation can help ensure you receive appropriate remedies under Ford’s programs.
Summary
Ford’s response to Focus transmission problems has combined software updates, extended warranty coverage, and recall/service campaigns, set against a broader shift away from the PowerShift dual-clutch design toward more traditional automatics in newer models. For affected owners, checking coverage, securing timely remedies from dealers, and keeping detailed service records remain the best course of action.
