Which Ford models have transmission problems?

The most commonly cited Ford transmission issues involve the PowerShift dual-clutch transmissions in some early- to mid-2010s small cars and the later 10-speed automatics used in trucks and large SUVs. Symptoms often include jerking, shuddering, hesitations, or occasional slipping, with Ford implementing recalls, service bulletins, and warranty programs in some cases. This article outlines which models are most frequently mentioned in reports, what problems have been reported, and how owners can pursue remedies.

Below, we detail the main problem areas, the specific models and years most often associated with transmission trouble, and practical steps for owners to verify recalls, get software updates, or seek warranty coverage. The information reflects reporting from consumer groups, regulator databases, and Ford communications up to the present date.

PowerShift era trouble spots

The following models and generations are the most commonly cited in reports and recall campaigns tied to Ford’s PowerShift automated manual transmissions, used in several small-car platforms during the 2011–2016 period. These issues typically manifested as abrupt or hesitant shifts, shuddering on takeoff or at low speeds, and occasional stalling in some driving conditions. Ford and various regulators have issued service bulletins and, in some regions, extended warranties or recalls to address the symptoms.

The list below highlights the main models associated with PowerShift concerns:

• Ford Focus (2011–2016) with PowerShift dual-clutch transmission. Reports commonly described jerky or shuddering shifts and abrupt engagement, especially at low speeds or during city driving.


• Ford Fiesta (2011–2016) with PowerShift (DPS6) transmission in applicable markets. Similar symptoms were reported, including shifting hesitations and rough engagement.


• Notes: While Focus and Fiesta are the best-documented cases in North America and other regions, PowerShift variants were used across several Ford small-car platforms in the era, with regional differences in availability and recall actions. Owners should check their VIN against Ford’s recall and service bulletin listings for specifics.

Conclusion: PowerShift-related issues mainly affected certain Focus and Fiesta models from the early- to mid-2010s. Ford responded with service bulletins and, in some cases, warranty coverage or recalls to address prolonged symptoms. For exact eligibility, owners should consult Ford’s official recall portal or NHTSA’s SaferCar database.

10-speed automatics in larger Ford models

Starting in 2017, Ford rolled out a 10-speed automatic transmission (the 10R-family) in popular full-size trucks and larger SUVs, including the F-150 and Expedition, with later availability in some Mustang configurations. Some owners reported shifting irregularities such as hard or delayed shifts, shuddering, or hesitation during acceleration or gear changes. Ford issued software updates and, in some cases, technical service bulletins to improve shift quality; analyses and consumer reports also noted improvements over time as refinements were introduced.

Models most commonly discussed in relation to 10-speed transmission concerns include:

• Ford F-150 (2017–2020) with the 10-speed automatic. Reports included shift delays, occasional harsh or abrupt gear changes, and perceived lag during downshifts; Ford released software updates and further calibrations to address these symptoms.


• Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator (late-2010s to early-2020s) using the 10-speed Automatic. Some owners reported similar shift quality concerns, though less frequently than in the F-150 population.


• Ford Mustang (2018–2020) with the 10-speed automatic. A subset of owners reported shifting irregularities, though many were resolved with software updates and dealer calibrations.

Conclusion: The 10-speed automatics introduced in Ford’s mid-to-late-2010s lineup have generated fewer widespread complaints than the early PowerShift issues, but still appear in certain model-year ranges and configurations. Ongoing software updates and warranty programs have addressed many cases, and owners should verify their vehicle’s software status and recall history using official sources.

What owners can do if they suspect transmission problems

If you notice symptoms such as shuddering, hesitations, slipping, or harsh shifting, take these steps to protect your vehicle and your investment:

• Check for active recalls or service campaigns for your exact VIN on NHTSA’s SaferCar website or Ford’s recall portal.


• Schedule a service appointment with an authorized Ford dealer to have a diagnosis, software updates, or replacement under warranty if eligible.


• Keep detailed symptom notes (when it happens, ambient conditions, mileage, and driving mode) and bring them to the service visit.


• Ask about any applicable extended warranties or goodwill programs, especially if your vehicle falls in known problem years or configurations.


• If you experience a safety-related symptom (such as sudden loss of drive), report it to NHTSA and Ford promptly.

Note: Warranty coverage and recall eligibility vary by model, year, region, and VIN. Always rely on official sources for the latest information and consult your local Ford dealer for a formal diagnosis.

Summary

Ford has faced transmission-related complaints across two broad families: the PowerShift dual-clutch transmissions in some Focus and Fiesta models from the early- to mid-2010s, and the later 10-speed automatics in the F-Series, Expedition/Navigator, and some Mustang variants starting around 2017. Symptoms have ranged from jerking and shuddering to hesitations and, in rare cases, shifting failures. Ford has responded with service bulletins, software updates, and recalls or warranty programs in certain markets. For the most accurate, VIN-specific information, consult NHTSA’s recall database and Ford’s official recall/warranty portals, and discuss any symptoms with a certified Ford technician.

What years did Ford have transmission problems?

Ford Models Most Affected By Transmission Issues
Many owners have reported gear slipping, shuddering, and loss of power while driving. Lawsuits and recalls have also been issued related to these models, especially in earlier versions released between 2011 and 2016.

Has Ford fixed their transmission issues?

Ford has made improvements to the 10-speed transmission, and many issues have been addressed through hardware and software updates, particularly in later models and through service bulletins. However, problems like harsh shifting and other issues continue to be reported, and some critics argue the fixes have not fully resolved the underlying issues, says this article from Houston Engines. 
How Ford has addressed the problem

• Hardware updates: A redesigned CDF drum with a lip to hold the bushing in place was introduced in late 2023 and is standard in 2024 models to prevent a common failure mode. Other internal parts like the outer drive shell have also been improved. 
• Software updates: Ford has issued software updates to improve shifting quality. 
• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): TSBs have been issued to dealerships, which include instructions for repairing the transmission, sometimes with the option to replace the entire unit under certain conditions. 
• Recalls: Ford has issued recalls for specific issues, such as a recall for a software glitch that could cause the transmission to shift into neutral unexpectedly. 

Why some owners still experience problems

• Persistent issues: Despite the updates, some owners of newer models report issues with shifting quality. 
• Unresolved issues: Critics argue that the fixes may not have resolved the core problems, states this article from Houston Engines and some legal observers believe the issues are still unresolved, notes this article from Houston Engines. 
• Older models: Vehicles from earlier model years are more likely to be affected by the original problems, as they have not benefited from the later hardware and software improvements. 
• Inconsistent effectiveness: The effectiveness of the updates and repairs can be inconsistent, and some owners have experienced the same problems after repairs were made, notes this article from Houston Engines. 

What Ford cars have bad transmission problems?

Manufacturing Defects: Some Ford models, such as the Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta, have been known to experience transmission defects due to faulty design in dual-clutch automatic transmissions.

What years of Ford Focus to stay away from?

The Ford Focus years to avoid are 2012-2016, due to major issues with the automatic PowerShift transmission. Other years to avoid include 2007 and 2008 for electrical and steering problems, and 2017–2018, which had lingering transmission and other issues, although fewer than previous years. 
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems in the 3rd generation Ford Focus: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Apr 13, 2022
Problematic model years

• 2007–2008: These models are associated with faulty electrical systems, door handle failures, and frequent issues with steering and suspension. 
• 2012–2016: This range is considered the most problematic, primarily due to the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, which frequently failed and is expensive to repair. Problems included hesitation, jerking, and complete failure, often before 100,000 miles. Some models in this period also had issues with power steering and electrical glitches. 
• 2017–2018: While improved, these years still saw some lingering transmission problems and sporadic electrical issues. 

What to look for in other model years

• Manual transmission: The problematic issues mainly affected the automatic versions of the third-generation Focus (2012-2018). Models with a manual transmission from this period are generally considered more reliable. 
• Earlier models (pre-2012): While not entirely trouble-free, models before 2012, especially around 2011, are often seen as more reliable than their successors due to simpler transmissions. 
• Later models (post-2016): The 2018 and 2019 models are often praised for improved reliability and handling. 

You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Ford Focus models: 1mCarAraCYouTube · Nov 13, 2023