Which transmission is Ford recalling?
Ford is recalling vehicles equipped with the PowerShift dual-clutch transmission.
This recall centers on Ford’s six-speed PowerShift automated-manual transmission (also known as DPS6 in some markets). It targets issues that can cause mis-shifts, shudder, or loss of drive, and spans several models from the early to mid-2010s. Owners should verify coverage using their vehicle identification number (VIN) with Ford or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What transmission is involved?
The recall focuses on the PowerShift dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission. This type of transmission uses clutches instead of a traditional torque converter and is designed for efficiency, but has been linked to shifting irregularities and other reliability problems in certain state conditions and model years.
Which models and years are affected?
Ford has identified a range of models and year windows in its recall notices. A typical, representative list includes:
- Ford Focus (various years around 2011–2016)
- Ford Fiesta (roughly 2011–2016)
- Ford C-Max (roughly 2013–2016)
- Ford Escape (roughly 2013–2016)
Note: The exact VINs and year ranges vary by recall. Owners should verify coverage for their specific vehicle using the VIN on Ford’s recall page or the NHTSA recall database.
Conclusion: The recall spans several popular models that used the PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, with coverage dependent on VIN and model year. Verify your status to know if your vehicle is eligible for a remedy.
What are the symptoms and risks?
Symptoms commonly reported with the PowerShift transmission issues include shuddering or jerking during acceleration or deceleration, unintended or delayed gear engagement, and in some cases a loss of drive or transmission failure. These issues can affect vehicle controllability and safety, which is why the recall and remedies are being issued.
What should owners do?
If you own a Ford vehicle that might be affected, take these steps:
- Check your VIN against Ford’s recall list or the NHTSA recall database to confirm status.
- Schedule a free repair at an authorized Ford dealer if your vehicle is recalled.
- Provide any relevant maintenance records and describe symptoms to the service advisor.
- Stay informed for any updates to the recall remedy or coverage.
Conclusion: Owners should act promptly to obtain the recall remedy, which is provided at no cost and aims to restore reliability and safety.
What remedies have been offered?
Remedies for the PowerShift recall have generally included software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) and, in some cases, replacement of transmission components or the entire transmission, depending on the model, year, and defect identified. The specific remedy is determined by Ford in coordination with NHTSA and is performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.
How to verify and stay informed
To verify whether your vehicle is included in the recall, use the VIN lookup on Ford’s official recall page or the NHTSA recall database. Sign up for recall alerts so you receive notices if the remedy scope changes or additional vehicles are added.
In practice, checking your VIN and following dealer instructions is the best path to a timely repair and to maintain vehicle safety and reliability.
Summary
Ford’s current recall relates to the PowerShift dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission (often labeled as PowerShift or DPS6). The recall covers several mid-2010s models such as the Focus, Fiesta, C-Max, and Escape in affected VIN ranges. Owners should verify coverage using their VIN, contact a Ford dealer for a free remedy (software updates and, if needed, component or transmission replacement), and monitor official recall notices for updates.
For the most up-to-date and model-specific information, consult Ford’s official recall page and the NHTSA recall database with your vehicle’s VIN. This article reflects the latest public notices but is not a substitute for official vehicle recall documentation.
