What years did Ford Fiesta have transmission problems?
The Ford Fiesta’s most widely reported transmission problems involved the PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmission (a dual-clutch design). The strongest pattern of complaints centered on model years around 2010 through 2016, with issues varying by market and configuration. Not every Fiesta had problems, but the DPS6 PowerShift was the primary source of trouble for many drivers during that period.
Note: Ford stopped U.S. Fiesta sales after 2019. The issues described here pertain mainly to older Fiesta models equipped with the PowerShift transmission, not any hypothetical late-model Fiesta still being sold in the U.S. or other markets after that date.
The root issue and common symptoms
The PowerShift system used in many Fiesta models is a six‑speed dual‑clutch transmission (often referred to as DPS6). In practice, drivers reported shuddering on takeoff, hesitant or abrupt gear changes, rolling or slipping at low speeds, and occasionally unexpected transmission failure. Ford and dealers addressed many of these symptoms through software updates, recalibration, and, in some cases, replacement of clutch assemblies under warranty or recall programs.
Scope by market and model year
Across markets, the transmission problems were most often reported in Fiests equipped with the PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmission. The following bullets summarize the years and market patterns where complaints were most prevalent.
- Europe and other markets: roughly 2010–2015/2016 Fiesta models with the DPS6 PowerShift—particularly prone to shuddering, rough gear changes, and clutch wear.
- United States: 2011–2016 Fiesta versions with the PowerShift automatic; similar complaints with low-speed shudder, hesitation, and occasional driveability faults; some vehicles benefited from software updates and, in some cases, clutch pack replacements under warranty.
- Related campaigns: multiple recalls and service campaigns (and software updates) were issued in roughly 2012–2017 to address PowerShift behavior; coverage varied by VIN and by market.
Concluding paragraph: The core problematic window centers on 2010–2016 Fiests with the PowerShift DPS6, with regional and model-year variations. If you own or buy a used Fiesta with this transmission, verify recall status and service history; software updates and, in some cases, clutch replacements have been used to address symptoms.
What to check if you’re buying a used Fiesta
To avoid unwelcome surprises, confirm whether the car has the PowerShift transmission and whether any recalls or service campaigns have been completed. Ask for a thorough test drive that targets takeoff, gear engagement, and any shuddering. Check maintenance records for software updates and any transmission-related repairs, which are sometimes logged under warranty coverage in many regions.
Summary
Summary: The Ford Fiesta transmission problems were most pronounced in the PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmissions, mainly in model years around 2010–2016, with variations by market. Recalls and service campaigns helped address some symptoms, but potential buyers and owners should verify recall status and maintenance history before purchase or launch into ownership.
