The Ford Focus is a stylish and reliable compact car. However, models from 2012 to 2018 are known because of transmission problems. These issues range from small annoyances like jerking and hesitation to serious failures requiring expensive repairs.
Knowing about these problems can help you fix them or decide whether selling your car might be better.
What Are the Common Transmission Problems in the Ford Focus?
Here are the following common problems:
- Jerking or Shaking: Many owners report that their car jerks or shakes during a gear change. This happens often with the dual-clutch PowerShift transmission, especially when accelerating. It makes driving uncomfortable.
- Slow Acceleration: You might notice a delay when you press the gas pedal. This can be risky, especially when merging onto highways or driving in heavy traffic.
- Slipping Gears: Slipping occurs when the transmission fails to stay in the correct gear. This can cause a sudden loss of power while driving.
- Grinding Noises: Some drivers hear grinding or clunking sounds from the transmission. These types of noises are produced from broken or damaged parts.
- Complete Transmission Failure: In serious cases, the transmission may completely stop working. This makes the car undrivable.
- Dashboard Warning Lights: The transmission control system might turn on warning lights. These lights mean there’s a problem that needs to be fixed immediately.
Ford Focus Transmission Problems by Model Year
Let’s explore how these issues affect specific model years:
2012 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
This is the first model which uses a dual-clutch transmission. Many owners face the following issues:
- It has a rough gear-shifting problem. The car didn’t switch gears smoothly.
- The clutch broke out or damaged faster than expected.
- It may have transmission overheating.
2013 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
The 2013 Ford Focus has similar transmission problems to the 2012 model. It includes the following common issues:
- Jerking while driving.
- Slipping gears.
- Clutch damage.
In this model, sometimes the latest software installation doesn’t fix these problems. However, due to these constant issues, Ford has extended warranty coverage for some vehicles. Find out from Ford that your vehicle is eligible for free or heavily reduced repairs.
2014 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
The 2014 Ford Focus has the following transmission issues:
- Rough Shifting: Many drivers report that the car has a rough gear-shifting problem. This makes driving uncomfortable.
- Acceleration Delays: Some drivers notice a delay when pressing the gas pedal.
- Grinding Noises: The car produces strange grinding sounds which is another common issue in this model car.
Because of these problems, many owners took legal action against Ford for the 2014 model year.
2015 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
The 2015 Ford Focus has transmission problems like shaking and slipping gears. Ford issued several technical service bulletins (TSBs) to fix these issues, but TSBs didn’t completely solve the problem.
2018 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
This model is much better than earlier models. However, it also has some issues. Many drivers report that they do not shift gear smoothly which may be the reason for transmission failure in some cases.
Ford Focus Transmission Problems Recall
Ford already knows that many Focus models have transmission problems. These problems lead to recalls. These recalls are mostly for cars with the PowerShift transmission. Additionally, it also includes:
- Clutch Replacement: Fixing damaged clutches that cause shaking when driving.
- Software Updates: Update the latest software of the transmission control module to fix glitches
- Transmission Repairs: Repairing internal damaged parts that cause transmission failure.
To find out if your car is part of a recall, visit the Ford website. Open the website and enter your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). If it’s included, repairs are usually free at Ford dealerships.
How to Fix Ford Focus Transmission Problems
If your Ford Focus has transmission problems, here’s how you can fix it:
- Visit a Certified Mechanic
Take your car to a professional mechanic for a full or detailed check-up. They can identify problems and suggest the best solution. Common fixes include:
- Replacing the clutch.
- Reprogramming the transmission module.
- Repairing or replacing damaged or broken internal parts.
- Perform a Software Update
Sometimes, outdated software is the main cause of transmission issues. To update the latest software, visit a Ford dealership. This can fix many common problems.
- Replace Faulty Parts
Some problems just need replacement. For instance, you can solve clutch or transmission control module problems by simply replacing broken or damaged parts. A professional mechanic can easily identify the broken part and fix the problem quickly by replacing those parts.
- Check for Extended Warranties
If your Ford Focus has transmission problems, you might qualify for an extended warranty. This can lead to discounted or free repairs. Contact Ford to check if your car is eligible.
Should You Sell Your Ford Focus with Transmission Problems?
Yes, you can sell your car with issues. Selling is the best option for you if your car needs too many repairs and has transmission problems. CarBrain makes it easy to sell cars with transmission issues. Here’s why selling to us is a good idea:
- Quick Offers: You will get a fair price for your car in just minutes.
- Free Towing: We’ll pick up your car for free.
- Easy Process: You don’t need to fix your car before selling it.
Conclusion
Dealing with Ford Focus transmission problems can feel stressful, but you're not alone, Carbrain is here to help you. Whether your car has been recalled or has ongoing issues, we will help you to understand the problem. After knowing the main issue, you can check for recalls or look into professional repairs.
But fixing the transmission costs is more expensive than your car's total worth. However, selling your car might be a better option.
CarBrain helps you to sell your car with mechanical problems quickly, easily, and stress-free. Get a fair offer today and avoid the hassle of expensive repairs!
