What year to avoid Ford Focus?
Short answer: avoid model years 2012–2016 if the Focus has the PowerShift 6-speed automatic, and exercise caution with 2012–2014 models that use MyFord Touch. These years are the most commonly cited for reliability problems. Later generations or well-documented, well-maintained examples tend to be more reliable.
Problematic PowerShift years to approach with caution
Here is a concise look at the model years most often flagged for PowerShift transmission trouble, which has been a major talking point for used-Focus shoppers.
- 2012–2016 Ford Focus models equipped with the PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Reported issues include rough or delayed shifts, hesitation, slipping, and, in some cases, transmission failure. Several markets saw recalls and extended warranties intended to address these problems.
Conclusion: If you’re buying a PowerShift-equipped Focus, prioritize a full transmission service history and a professional inspection. Otherwise, consider a model year outside this range or a conventional automatic/manual option if available.
Infotainment and electronics concerns (MyFord Touch)
The MyFord Touch system, used on many 2012–2014 Focus models, has been notorious for software glitches and touchscreen issues that affected reliability and usability.
- 2012–2014 Focus models with MyFord Touch. Owners reported screen freezes, laggy responses, navigation glitches, and intermittent system crashes, despite software updates from Ford.
Conclusion: If you’re shopping for a 2012–2014 Focus, verify the infotainment system has the latest software update and a history of successful repairs if issues occurred. For lower risk, consider later years with improved electronics or confirm a factory/software update path has been completed.
Practical steps for shoppers considering a used Ford Focus
To minimize risk when buying a used Focus, follow these steps to verify history and condition before committing to a purchase.
- Check for open recalls on the vehicle’s VIN with NHTSA or Ford and ensure all recall work has been completed.
- Take a thorough test drive that includes city driving and highway speeds to observe any transmission behavior (shudder, hesitations, or slipping) and electronics performance.
- Request full maintenance records, especially any transmission service (for PowerShift models) and major electronics/software updates (for MyFord Touch-equipped cars).
- Have a qualified mechanic inspect the powertrain, particularly the transmission/clutch system on PowerShift models and any lingering electronics issues.
- Verify that the infotainment system (if present) has up-to-date software and functional hardware, or be prepared for potential future updates or replacements.
- Consider prioritizing newer model years or generations known for improved reliability, and verify any remaining warranty coverage that could offset future repairs.
Conclusion: A careful pre-purchase evaluation—with a focus on recalls, service history, and a professional inspection—can help you avoid the most problematic Focus years. If reliability is a priority, leaning toward later generations is a prudent strategy.
Summary
In the used Ford Focus market, the clearest red flags are model years 2012–2016 with the PowerShift transmission and 2012–2014 with MyFord Touch electronics. If you must buy from these years, demand thorough recall completion and a complete service history, and have the car inspected by a qualified technician. More reliable options tend to be later generations (2015–2018 and beyond) or non-PowerShift configurations. Always verify recalls and maintenance history as essential parts of your decision process.
What years of Ford Focus are most reliable?
- The 2010 Ford Focus. The 2010 Ford Focus stands out for its dependability and fewer reported issues.
- The 2011 Ford Focus.
- The 2018 Ford Focus.
- The 2007 Ford Focus ST.
- The 2015 Ford Focus ST.
- Explore Quality Ford Cars for Sale at Preston Ford in Burton, OH.
What years of Ford Focus had bad transmissions?
Ford Focus models from 2012 to 2016, equipped with the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, are known for transmission problems. These issues include shuddering, jerking, delayed acceleration, and difficulty stopping. While the problem was most prevalent in these years, some sources mention similar issues in 2017-2018 models as well, notes The Lemon Law Experts.
This video discusses Ford Focus transmission issues and recalls: 46sPhillips VisionYouTube · Mar 17, 2025
- Years affected: 2012–2016, with some issues also reported in 2017-2018 models.
- Problematic transmission: The DPS6 PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission.
- Common issues: Shuddering, jerking, slipping, harsh engagement, and delays in shifting or acceleration.
- Ford's response: Ford has issued recalls, extended warranties, and offered customer service programs to address these problems. Some owners have had their transmissions replaced multiple times without a complete fix.
What is the best used Ford Focus to buy?
Which used Ford Focus hatchback should I buy? Engine: Unless you need a diesel for long-distance fuel economy, the 123bhp 1.0-litre petrol will suit all your needs in terms of performance and running costs. The 118bhp 1.5-litre is the best diesel option and is reasonably flexible once you've got past some turbo lag.
Which Ford Focus years to avoid?
You should avoid Ford Focus years 2012-2018, as they are known for significant issues with the dual-clutch automatic transmission, steering, and electrical systems. The 2007 model year is also frequently cited for problems with the alternator and tire wear.
Years to avoid and their common issues
- 2012-2018:
- Dual-clutch automatic transmission: The main problem with this range is the PowerShift automatic transmission, which can cause jerky shifting, hesitation, and complete failure.
- Power steering: Issues with the power steering system have been reported, including failure.
- Electrical problems: Owners have reported frequent electrical glitches and infotainment system malfunctions.
- 2007:
- Alternator: A high rate of alternator failure was reported, sometimes with little warning.
- Tire wear: The 2007 model can experience premature tire wear.
- 2013 and 2014:
- Transmission: These years are particularly noted for transmission problems, with the 2013 model receiving poor reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports.
- Steering: Some models from these years had recalls related to the steering gear.
What to consider instead
- If you want a third-generation Focus, opt for one with a manual transmission to avoid the problematic automatic gearbox.
- For improved reliability, consider models from 2011 (final year of the second generation) or 2018-2019 (late third generation).
- The 2015 model year is also seen as a turning point, with fewer reported transmission problems than the preceding years.
