What is the most common problem on the 2013 Ford Focus?
The most commonly reported problem for the 2013 Ford Focus centers on the PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmission, which owners frequently describe as rough shifting, shuddering, and occasional failure. In addition, many owners report problems with the MyFordTouch infotainment system and related electrical glitches. These issues have been the focus of owner forums, consumer reviews, and official recall campaigns in the model year.
PowerShift transmission: symptoms and context
The PowerShift six-speed automated manual was a defining feature of many 2013 Focus trims, but it also became the focal point of widespread complaints. Below is a summary of the most frequently reported transmission symptoms by owners and reviewers.
The following list highlights common transmission-related experiences reported with the 2013 Focus. Each item reflects patterns seen in owner feedback and regulatory data for this model year.
- Rough or abrupt shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds or during acceleration from a stop
- Shuddering or jerking during upshifts or downshifts
- hesitation or delay when moving from Park/Drive or when pressing the accelerator
- Unusual noises such as grinding, clunking, or whining coming from the transmission area
- Transmission slipping or, in some cases, entering a limp mode to protect the drivetrain
Taken together, these symptoms point to the PowerShift dual-clutch design used in this generation of Focus. Ford issued service campaigns and updates over time to address shifting behavior and related reliability concerns, though experiences varied by vehicle and maintenance history.
MyFordTouch infotainment and electrical issues
Alongside transmission concerns, a large share of 2013 Focus owners report problems with the MyFordTouch infotainment system, which was integrated across several Ford models at the time. The issues commonly cited include touchscreen and software glitches that affect usability and driver distraction risk.
The following list outlines the most frequently described infotainment and related electrical problems seen in reviews and owner reports for this model year.
- Touchscreen unresponsiveness or freezing during use
- Bluetooth pairing failures or dropped connections for hands-free calling or audio streaming
- System reboots or the display going blank while driving
- Voice command misinterpretations or navigation inaccuracies
- Occasional battery drain or electrical gremlins linked to the infotainment system
While Ford offered software updates and some hardware fixes as part of recall campaigns and Service Bulletins, experiences with MyFordTouch could vary by trim level and the vehicle’s update history. Owners who rely heavily on the system are often more likely to notice these issues.
Beyond the core issues: reliability context and how owners can respond
Taken together, the 2013 Ford Focus shows a reliability profile that centers on two high-profile problem areas: the PowerShift transmission and the MyFordTouch system. Prospective buyers and current owners should be aware of these tendencies and verify that any potential vehicle has up-to-date software, a clean maintenance history, and any open recalls addressed by a dealer. Checking the VIN against the NHTSA recall database and Ford’s service campaigns can provide VIN-specific information about outstanding items.
For owners, practical steps include scheduling a diagnostic with a qualified technician if transmission shuddering or rough shifting occurs, and performing MyFordTouch software updates at a Ford dealer or trusted service provider to reduce the likelihood of touchscreen and interface glitches. Regular maintenance and careful monitoring can help mitigate some of the reliability challenges associated with this model year.
Summary
In summary, the most commonly reported problem for the 2013 Ford Focus centers on the PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmission, with symptoms like rough shifting and shuddering taking center stage. The MyFordTouch infotainment system also features prominently in owner complaints, contributing to an overall reliability narrative for this model year. Prospective buyers should review recall and software-update histories and consider a pre-purchase inspection to assess the transmission’s condition and the infotainment system’s functionality.
