The Ford Focus, a compact car loved for its fuel efficiency and affordability, has unfortunately earned a reputation for transmission troubles, particularly in certain model years. Understanding which years are most affected and the nature of these problems is crucial for potential buyers and current owners alike, helping them make informed decisions and prepare for potential repairs. Let's dive into the specific years and issues that have plagued the Ford Focus transmission, and what you can do about it.
The Infamous DPS6: Why Are We Talking About This?
The primary culprit behind the Ford Focus's transmission woes is the DPS6 (Dual PowerShift 6-speed) automatic transmission. This transmission, designed to improve fuel economy and offer a smoother driving experience, instead became a source of frustration for many drivers. The DPS6 is a dry dual-clutch transmission, a type of automatic that's supposed to offer the efficiency of a manual with the convenience of an automatic. However, in the Focus, it frequently exhibited problems like:
- Harsh Shifting: Jerky and uneven gear changes, especially at low speeds.
- Shuddering or Hesitation: A vibrating or shaking sensation during acceleration.
- Delayed Engagement: A noticeable lag between pressing the accelerator and the car moving.
- Complete Transmission Failure: In some cases, the transmission would fail entirely, rendering the car undrivable.
These issues weren't just annoying; they often posed safety concerns, particularly in situations requiring quick acceleration or smooth maneuvering. Ford faced numerous lawsuits and recalls related to the DPS6 transmission, highlighting the severity of the problem.
Which Ford Focus Years Are Most Affected?
The Ford Focus models most affected by the DPS6 transmission problems are those produced between 2012 and 2018. While some earlier Focus models had minor transmission issues, the DPS6 problems were concentrated in this specific timeframe. Here's a breakdown:
- 2012-2018 Ford Focus (with the DPS6 transmission): These are the prime suspects. If you're considering buying a used Focus from these years with an automatic transmission, proceed with extreme caution.
- 2012-2016 Ford Fiesta (with the DPS6 transmission): While this article focuses on the Focus, it's worth noting that the Fiesta also suffered from the same DPS6 transmission issues during these years.
It's crucial to verify whether a specific vehicle has the DPS6 transmission. Not all Focus models within these years were equipped with it. Some had a standard manual transmission, which is generally more reliable.
Digging Deeper: What Makes the DPS6 So Problematic?
The DPS6 transmission's issues stem from several design and manufacturing flaws. Here are some of the key factors:
- Clutch Material: The clutch material used in the DPS6 was prone to degradation, especially in hot or humid climates. As the clutch material wore down, it caused the transmission to shudder and shift erratically.
- TCM (Transmission Control Module): The TCM is the "brain" of the transmission, responsible for controlling gear changes and other functions. The TCM in the DPS6 was known to have software glitches and hardware failures, leading to shifting problems and even complete transmission failure.
- Seals and Leaks: The transmission seals were often inadequate, leading to fluid leaks. Low fluid levels can exacerbate other problems and cause further damage.
- Lack of Cooling: The DPS6 transmission lacked adequate cooling, which contributed to overheating and accelerated wear and tear, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
These factors combined to create a perfect storm of transmission problems, leaving many Ford Focus owners stranded and frustrated.
The Class-Action Lawsuit and Ford's Response
The widespread transmission problems led to a class-action lawsuit against Ford. The lawsuit alleged that Ford knew about the DPS6's defects but continued to sell vehicles equipped with it. As a result of the lawsuit, Ford offered settlements to affected owners, including reimbursement for repairs, extended warranties, and in some cases, buybacks of the vehicles.
Ford also issued several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and recalls related to the DPS6 transmission. These included software updates for the TCM and replacements of faulty components. However, these fixes were often temporary, and many owners continued to experience problems even after the repairs were performed.
Spotting the Signs: How to Identify Transmission Problems Early
Recognizing the early warning signs of transmission problems can help you address them before they escalate into major repairs. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Unusual Noises: Clunking, grinding, or whining sounds coming from the transmission.
- Difficulty Shifting: Hesitation or resistance when shifting gears.
- Slipping Gears: The engine revving high without the car accelerating properly.
- Dashboard Warning Lights: The "Check Engine" light or a specific transmission warning light illuminating on the dashboard.
- Fluid Leaks: Reddish-brown fluid leaking from under the car near the transmission.
- Shaking or Vibrating: Excessive shaking or vibrating, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
- Erratic RPMs: Unstable engine RPMs, especially when idling or shifting.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to take your Ford Focus to a qualified mechanic for inspection and diagnosis.
What Are Your Options if You Own a Problematic Focus?
If you own a Ford Focus with the DPS6 transmission and are experiencing problems, you have several options:
- Check for Recalls and TSBs: Contact your local Ford dealer or check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to see if your vehicle is subject to any outstanding recalls or TSBs related to the transmission.
- Consider Repair or Replacement: Depending on the severity of the problem, you may be able to repair the transmission by replacing faulty components, such as the clutch or TCM. However, in some cases, a complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Explore Aftermarket Solutions: Some aftermarket companies offer upgraded clutch kits or modified TCMs that are designed to address the DPS6's flaws. These solutions may offer improved performance and reliability.
- Trade-In or Sell: If the transmission problems are severe and costly to repair, you may consider trading in or selling the vehicle. Be honest with potential buyers about the transmission issues.
- Consult with a Transmission Specialist: Seek advice from a reputable transmission specialist who is familiar with the DPS6 transmission. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.
Prevention is Key: How to Minimize Transmission Problems
While the DPS6 transmission is inherently flawed, there are some steps you can take to minimize problems and extend its lifespan:
- Regular Maintenance: Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual, including regular transmission fluid changes.
- Gentle Driving: Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, which can put extra stress on the transmission.
- Avoid Stop-and-Go Traffic: If possible, avoid driving in heavy stop-and-go traffic, which can cause the transmission to overheat.
- Consider an Auxiliary Cooler: Installing an auxiliary transmission cooler can help to keep the transmission fluid temperature down, especially in hot climates.
- Software Updates: Ensure that your TCM has the latest software updates from Ford. These updates may address some of the known issues with the DPS6 transmission.
Looking Ahead: Lessons Learned from the DPS6 Debacle
The Ford Focus DPS6 transmission saga serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of implementing new technology without thorough testing and quality control. It also highlights the importance of automakers being transparent and responsive to customer complaints.
Ford has since moved away from the DPS6 transmission in its vehicles, opting for more conventional automatic transmissions or manual transmissions. Hopefully, lessons learned from the DPS6 experience will help Ford and other automakers avoid similar problems in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What years of Ford Focus have transmission problems? The most problematic years are 2012-2018, particularly those equipped with the DPS6 automatic transmission.
- What is the DPS6 transmission? It's a dry dual-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission used in the Ford Focus and Fiesta, known for its numerous issues.
- What are the symptoms of a failing DPS6 transmission? Common symptoms include harsh shifting, shuddering, delayed engagement, and unusual noises.
- Is there a fix for the DPS6 transmission? While some repairs and software updates exist, they often provide only temporary relief. A complete replacement with an aftermarket solution might be a more reliable long-term fix.
- Did Ford issue a recall for the DPS6 transmission? Yes, Ford issued several recalls and TSBs related to the DPS6 transmission, but these didn't always resolve the underlying problems.
- What should I do if my Focus has DPS6 problems? Check for recalls, consider repair or replacement options, and consult with a transmission specialist.
Conclusion
The Ford Focus years equipped with the DPS6 transmission are undeniably associated with significant transmission problems. Understanding the specific years affected, the nature of the issues, and potential solutions is crucial for both current and prospective owners. Thorough research and proactive maintenance are essential to mitigating the risks associated with this problematic transmission.