What type of automatic transmission does the Ford Fiesta use?
The Ford Fiesta is a popular compact car known for its efficiency, affordability, and reliability. One of the key components that contributes to its performance is its transmission system. In this article, we’ll explore the type of automatic transmission used in the Ford Fiesta and what makes it unique.
Understanding the Ford Fiesta's Automatic Transmission
The Ford Fiesta, particularly models from 2011 to 2019, is equipped with a unique type of automatic transmission called the PowerShift transmission. This transmission is a dual-clutch system, which differs from traditional automatic transmissions in several ways.
What Is a PowerShift Transmission?
The PowerShift transmission is a dual-clutch automated manual transmission. It combines the efficiency of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic. Here’s how it works:
- It uses two clutches: one for odd-numbered gears (1, 3, 5) and another for even-numbered gears (2, 4, 6).
- The system pre-selects the next gear, allowing for seamless and quick gear changes.
- Unlike traditional automatics, it doesn’t use a torque converter, which improves fuel efficiency.
Advantages of the PowerShift Transmission
The PowerShift transmission offers several benefits, including:
- Improved fuel economy compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
- Smoother gear transitions for a more comfortable driving experience.
- Enhanced performance due to quicker gear shifts.
Challenges and Controversies
While the PowerShift transmission has its advantages, it has also faced criticism and challenges:
- Some drivers reported issues with shuddering and hesitation during gear changes.
- There were concerns about long-term reliability, leading to recalls and extended warranties for certain models.
- Ford addressed these issues with software updates and mechanical fixes in later models.
Conclusion
The Ford Fiesta’s PowerShift transmission is a testament to innovation in automotive engineering, blending the best of manual and automatic systems. While it has faced its share of challenges, it remains a key feature that sets the Fiesta apart in the compact car market. If you own a Ford Fiesta and have concerns about your transmission, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help ensure optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ford Fiesta automatics any good?
The gearbox mostly impresses, but it seems less well tuned than some dual-clutches. It sometimes doesn't change up or down when expected. It's also a bit frustrating having to shift via buttons on the side of the gearknob, rather than moving the lever itself.
What kind of transmission is in a Ford Fiesta?
Dual-clutch automatics
These are dual-clutch transmissions. Ford EcoSport, Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus.
Which Fords have the CVT transmission?
Currently you can find CVTs on the Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape PHEV, and Ford Maverick.
Does Ford Fiesta use CVT?
Offering smooth performances and impressive fuel economy ratings, CVTs are gaining in popularity, especially on smaller cars like the Ford Fiesta and C-Max, whose hybrid powertrain uses an electronically controlled CVT.
How do I identify my automatic transmission?
The best way to identify your automatic transmission is by the bolt pattern on the pan. There are many charts out there, but here is an example of one. Conventional automatic transmissions are the most common type of automatic transmission. They are found in a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury sedans.
Does Ford use CVT transmissions?
Currently you can find CVTs on the Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape PHEV, and Ford Maverick.
What type of automatic gearbox does a Ford Fiesta have?
The new six-speed dual-clutch gearbox will be the only auto option for the updated Fiesta, and it will be available with the 1.0-litre Ecoboost and 1.6-litre petrol engines.
What years did 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 year Fiesta has 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.
How do you tell if it's a CVT transmission?
To identify a continuously variable transmission, look for a gear selector that does not have set gear positions. Instead, it may have a series of letters or numbers that indicate the vehicle's driving mode.
