Ford Focus Gearbox & Transmission Problems
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Jerky gear changes in Focus
The Focus uses a dual-clutch transmission, which is really a manual transmission with an automated shift mechanism. They have two clutches that both come into play when shifting from one gear to another. Ford has had trouble with some vehicles fitted with the DPS6 transmission built from April 12, 2011 to August 23, 2013. Check the build date on yours to see if it falls within those dates. Even if it doesn't I would be monitoring the transmission operation very carefully, and I wouldn't hesitate to take it back to the dealer if you believe it isn't functioning correctly. What you report is typical of a problem Focus transmission.
Ford Focus 2013: Oil leak
I would guess that the dealer has tried a quick fix that hasn't worked rather than actually attacking the cause of the leak, which probably requires him to dig deeper into the car to identify and repair it. Take the car back and request that he make another attempt to fix it.
2012 Focus Titanium auto transmission noise
I would want the dealer to check the transmission. It's a dual-clutch auto and they have been known to vibrate in the Focus under load like you describe.
2012 Ford Focus dual-clutch transmission
I can understand your frustration, but you can only bear with it for the moment, as Ford is attempting to fix the issue. It's when a company stops trying to fix a dud product that you have some power to demand more action. In this case, your options are limited. The only thing you could do is express your frustration in a way that they are left in no doubt about it.
Focus auto issues
There is a problem with your gearbox and it needs to be sorted out. The computer in your car needs to be checked, maybe even replaced, and perhaps the gearbox itself might need to be replaced. Take it back to the dealer and demand action.
Ford Focus Ambiente shuddering
To start with keep an accurate record, dates, times, what is said etc., of any conversations to have with the dealer personnel and Ford so you have plenty of ammunition to put to Ford if it comes to a head. Request a meeting with the Ford dealer and take them for a drive so you can demonstrate your concerns about the car, than ask for a Ford representative to assess the car, again preferably with you present. Shuddering is a sign of a clutch problem with the gearbox, erratic movements could also be a clutch issue, but could also be an electronic problem with the gearbox computer.
Focus Trend take-off shudder
Yes it is. I also observed a shudder similar to what you report when road testing a Focus some time ago. The so-called auto in this case is not a traditional automatic gearbox that we have become used to over many, many years, it's a new technology automated manual gearbox, which in effect means it's a manual gearbox, but with an automated shift mechanism. As part of that mechanism it has two clutch packs that release and engage when it's shifting gears, and these are known problem areas. These gearboxes are not just fitted to Fords, but many other vehicles as well. VW's recent well-publicised difficulties are related to the gearboxes it uses. The shudder is annoying and will potentially get worse, so I would press your case with the dealer and with Ford to have it fixed.
Ford Focus transmission shudder
It's interesting that Ford acknowledges there is an issue, but that it is acceptable. That would suggest that they don't know how to fix it. One owner we know of has managed to get her car replaced after complaining about transmission shudder, perhaps you should try the same course of action through your state consumer affairs people.
Ford Focus Trend clutch trouble
First, your car has a double-clutch automated manual gearbox, not a conventional automatic you probably thought you were getting. One of the differences between a double-clutch transmission and a conventional automatic is that they roll backwards on an incline if you don't keep your foot on the brake, as you would if you were driving a manual. A number of carmakers use similar transmissions, from the same maker or other producers. VW was one of the first to use one of the new-age automatics and it has been plagued with issues, essentially the same ones you complain about. The clutch packs appear to be the cause of the issues, the shuddering etc. that you report; the electronics can be another source of trouble. We have spoken to Ford and we know that a Ford representative has been in contact with you to arrange a test drive of your car, and the company ha s arranged a loan car while yours is being evaluated.
Ask Smithy Xtra Focus LX lazy auto transmission
Without driving the car it’s impossible to comment on whether it is slipping or not, for that I would suggest you take your car to an auto trans specialist and have them drive it. In the meantime drive the loan car and do your own evaluation. Your experience is another example of why it’s important to have an extended test drive before you buy.
