What type of automatic transmission does Ford Fiesta use?

The Ford Fiesta uses different automatic transmissions depending on model year and market. In Europe, it has commonly used a PowerShift dual-clutch transmission, while North American models have relied on conventional torque-converter automatics. Availability varies by engine and trim, and newer generations have shifted away from dual-clutch options in some markets.

Overview of automatic transmissions in the Fiesta

Conventional torque-converter automatics

Traditional automatic transmissions with a hydraulic torque converter have been used on several Fiesta generations, particularly in North America and some older European variants. These units typically come in 4- or 6-speed configurations depending on the year and engine pairing.

Before listing typical configurations, note that torque-converter automatics are designed for smooth shifting and broad compatibility with a range of engines and driving styles.

• 4-speed automatic variants found on earlier Fiesta generations in some markets


• 6-speed automatic variants used on later models in certain markets or engine combinations

Conventional torques-converter automatics generally offer straightforward maintenance and predictable behavior, though fuel efficiency benefits are typically lower than dual-clutch designs in some driving scenarios.

PowerShift dual-clutch automatics

PowerShift is Ford’s branded name for its dual-clutch automated manual transmissions. These units use two clutches to pre-select gears for faster upshifts and downshifts, and they have appeared as the common automatic option on many European Fiesta models, especially with EcoBoost engines. Configurations have included 5- and 6-speed versions in different generations.

Before listing the typical configurations, it helps to understand that dual-clutch automatics can deliver quicker shifts and lighter feel, but early versions sometimes faced reliability and smoothness concerns depending on usage and maintenance.

• 5-speed PowerShift commonly found on earlier European Fiests with certain EcoBoost engines


• 6-speed PowerShift used on later European Fiests and in some trim-engine combos

PowerShift transmissions are praised for efficiency and swift gear changes, but owners should be aware of potential quirks such as reluctance at very low speeds or issues linked to clutch wear in some early implementations. Proper servicing and using the recommended transmission fluid are important with these units.

Market-specific notes and current status

Transmission availability for the Fiesta varies widely by region and production year. In North America, the Fiesta has predominantly used conventional torque-converter automatics with the early-to-mid generations, while European models have more often featured PowerShift dual-clutch automatics in many trims. Ford has adjusted offerings over time, and some markets have shifted away from dual-clutch units in favor of traditional automatics or different gearbox options depending on engine choice and emissions requirements.

Key market distinctions include:

• Europe: PowerShift dual-clutch automatics were common with several Fiesta generations, especially with EcoBoost engines


• North America: Conventional torque-converter automatics were more common for the Fiesta’s US and Canadian models


• Other regions: Availability varies by local market decisions and supplier arrangements

Conclusion: If you’re buying or renting a Ford Fiesta, confirm the exact transmission type from the vehicle’s build year, market, and trim, as the Fiesta’s automatic lineup changed across generations and regions.

Summary

In short, the Ford Fiesta uses more than one automatic transmission type. The most common setups are traditional torque-converter automatics in many markets and PowerShift dual-clutch automatics in many European models. Always check the specific year, engine, and market to determine the exact transmission in a given Fiesta.

Which year did the Ford Fiesta have transmission problems?

Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.

What kind of transmission does a Ford Fiesta have?

The Ford Fiesta has been offered with several transmission types, including manual and automatic dual-clutch (PowerShift) transmissions. Standard models typically come with a 5-speed manual, while automatic options include a 6-speed PowerShift dual-clutch, a 6-speed manual on performance models, or a 7-speed PowerShift on newer vehicles.
 
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Manual transmissions

• 5-speed manual: Available on most standard models.
• 6-speed manual: Offered on high-performance ST models. 

Automatic transmissions

• 6-speed PowerShift (DPS6): A dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is also known for being problematic in certain model years (primarily 2011-2016). 
• 7-speed PowerShift: A newer version found in more recent models like the 2020 Fiesta. 
• 4-speed automatic (4F27E): A traditional automatic transmission that was used in some diesel models. 

How to determine your transmission type
You can find your specific transmission type on: Your vehicle's window sticker, A build sheet, and By decoding your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Which Fords have a CVT transmission?

Ford uses Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) primarily in its hybrid models, including the current Ford Escape Hybrid and Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid, as well as the Ford Maverick hybrid. These transmissions are also found in the non-hybrid Ford Territory Trend in some markets. Older hybrid models like the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Ford C-Max also used this technology.
 
This video explains the pros and cons of the Ford Maverick's eCVT transmission: 46sAOCreatrixYouTube · Aug 7, 2021

• Ford Escape Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid: These models use a CVT to optimize fuel efficiency. 
• Ford Maverick: The hybrid version comes with a CVT paired with a 2.5L hybrid engine. 
• Ford Territory Trend: In some markets, this model features a CVT, though it may have an older-style shifter. 
• Older Models: Ford previously used CVTs in hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and in the Ford C-Max. 

Is the Ford Fiesta automatic transmission reliable?

The Ford Fiesta is notorious for transmission problems, with the 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 models struggling most significantly. This is most likely due to Ford's PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission, which is featured in the affected models and is notorious for failing prematurely.