Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT âÃÂâ Due to ongoing limited part availability, program terms have been revised. âÃÂâ Vehicle pickup & delivery has been added. âÃÂâ Labor allowance table has been updated. âÃÂâ Additional repairs updated. âÃÂâ Added Attachment VI Mobile Repair/Vehicle Pickup and Delivery Record. âÃÂâ Added Attachment VII Mobile Repair Assessment.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Ford Focus powertrain problems
critical Owners of the 2013 Ford Focus have filed 1,049 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 44,210 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
1,049
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 Focus | 37 |
| 2010 Focus | 41 |
| 2011 Focus | 18 |
| 2012 Focus | 1,348 |
| 2013 Focus (this page) | 1,049 |
| 2014 Focus | 1,535 |
| 2015 Focus | 540 |
| 2016 Focus | 655 |
| 2017 Focus | 430 |
16crashes
1fire
10injuries
1fatality
When does it fail?
Of the 1,049 powertrain complaints filed for the 2013 Ford Focus, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Powertrain accounts for 50% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 12 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 1,049 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission; Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Non-Ford Part Usage: ⢠Vehicles that are still covered by the 8 years/80,000-mile Emissions warranty coverage MUST be serviced with a NEW Ford Motor Company TCM. ⢠Vehicles outside of or exceeding the 8 years/80,000-mile coverage are authorized to use a used Ford Motor Company TCM, a refurbished original Ford TCM, or an aftermarket TCM that will successfully complete the required Ford software updates.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Ford is extending the warranty coverage on the DPS6 automatic transmission TCM to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. This extended warranty coverage will address intermittent symptoms of loss of transmission engagement while driving, no-start, or a lack of power.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This customer satisfaction program updates the TCM software in affected vehicles to provide improved detection and over warning of electrical circuit failures in the TCM. As communicated in a previous Customer Satisfaction Program (14M02), electrical circuit failures within the TCM may develop and result in intermittent symptoms of loss of transmission engagement while driving, no-start, or a lack of power. Updating the TCM software will help ensure the vehicle operator is alerted to potential issues with the TCM prior to failure.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Certain 2011 through 2014 Model Year Fiesta and Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission - Transmission Clutch Shudder / Transmission Input Shaft Seal Warranty Extension
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2013 Ford Focus dual-clutch transmission is a chronic underperformer. Owners report violent shuddering, grinding, and jerking during acceleration from stops and gear changes—especially 1st-to-2nd transitions—that persists or worsens despite multiple dealer repairs. The car hesitates entering traffic, loses power entirely on highways forcing emergency lane changes, and sometimes stalls without warning. One owner had the transmission repaired five times before 51,000 miles and still experienced the same faults; another was told dealers had three other Focuses with identical failures sitting in the service department.
Dealers claim the shudder is "normal design" or "how the car is supposed to feel" and initially refused to document complaints. Ford issued two customer satisfaction programs (14M01 for clutch/seals, 14M02 for TCM reprogramming) and multiple software updates, but owners report problems reappear weeks after each repair. Parts are routinely on back-order for 6–12 weeks. Many owners were pressured to buy new cars instead of fixing the transmission, or faced $1,700+ clutch replacement bills after warranties expired—even though the fault was known at purchase.
Unrelated but significant: the fuel vapor system's stuck-open purge valve causes fuel tank deformation, rough running, and stalling; check engine lights proliferate with multiple fault codes; and some owners report engine shutdowns at highway speeds. Door locks freeze in winter, electrical gremlins plague the dash, and one motor mount failure let the engine drop and trigger airbags. Ford's recalls (18S32, 19S22 for the purge valve; 14M01 and 14M02 for transmission) often get misapplied or disputed by dealers, leaving owners to pay for "free" recall work or facing refusal of coverage.
Same Ford Focus powertrain reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Dual-clutch transmission shuddering, jerking, and harsh shifting
The DPS6 dual-clutch transmission produces violent shuddering, jerking, and grinding noises during acceleration from stops and gear changes, particularly in 1st-2nd gear transitions. The problem persists or worsens even after multiple dealer visits, software reprogramming, and clutch/seal replacements. Owners report the shudder can last several seconds and makes the car feel unsafe, especially when entering traffic or merging onto highways.
When: Most commonly when accelerating from stops or slow-speed maneuvers; some owners report it at any speed or under load (hills, turns); often worsens over mileage or progressively deteriorates despite repairs
Symptoms owners cite: Violent shuddering and jerking during acceleration; Loud grinding noise during gear shifts; Hesitation when accelerating from stops or traffic lights; Transmission slipping or disengaging; Rough, delayed engagement in first gear; Shuddering that worsens over time despite multiple repairs; Excessive vibration during turns and acceleration
Codes mentioned: Code 7000 (transmission reprogramming needed), P0090C (transmission), P2862, P2837, P287B (clutch actuator faults)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have performed numerous repairs including TCM/PCM reprogramming (often 3–10+ times), clutch pack and seal replacement, input shaft seal replacement, and transmission fluid changes. Multiple owners report 'clutches on back order' (6–12 week delays). One owner had transmission replaced five times before age 51,000 miles. Despite repairs, the problem typically recurs within weeks or months.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued Customer Satisfaction Programs 14M01 (transmission clutch shudder/input seal warranty extension) and 14M02 (transmission control module extended warranty to 150,000 miles or until ~Feb 2015). Ford also issued TSB 13-9-4, TSB 14-0047, TSB 15-0120, TSB 15-0121, TSB 16-0044, and software update program 15B22B. Dealers initially told owners shuddering was 'normal' or 'designed that way' and refused to document complaints on service orders. Ford extended transmission warranty to 100,000 miles after complaints mounted, but many owners report Ford still denies coverage or refuses further repairs once parts are replaced.
Loss of power or transmission engagement at highway speeds
The transmission intermittently loses all power or engagement (enters 'neutral' or 'transmission fault' mode) without warning, especially at highway speeds or during passing maneuvers. The vehicle decelerates rapidly, forcing emergency lane changes and creating immediate collision hazards. Clutch disengages unexpectedly, cutting engine power from the driveshaft.
When: Most frequently reported after prolonged highway driving (20–25+ miles) or in hot weather; can occur during acceleration from stops, lane merging, or highway passing; intermittent and difficult to replicate for mechanics
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of power while driving; Transmission enters 'neutral' or 'transmission fault mode'; Engine RPMs increase but car will not accelerate; Vehicle decelerates rapidly at highway speed; Rapid speed loss forcing emergency maneuvers; Check engine light comes on; Service transmission light appears; Car will only shift into 1st or 2nd gear after power loss
Codes mentioned: P0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold), P1450 (unable to bleed fuel tank vacuum), P0443 (EVAP purge control circuit), Transmission fault codes (various), Fault codes P2862, P2837, P287B
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have replaced TCM (transmission control module) multiple times, reprogrammed PCM/TCM, replaced clutch assemblies and seals. One owner had TCM replaced twice within 3 weeks with no resolution. Another owner reports transmission replacement in 3-week backlog with dealer advising to 'continue driving' despite the hazard. Parts frequently on back order (3–12 weeks).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued recall 18S32 (18V735000) and 19S22 (19V515000) for stuck-open canister purge valve (CPV) causing fuel tank deformation and fuel gauge errors, with PCM software updates intended to improve CPV detection. However, owners report Ford denies coverage or claims recalls were already completed when VIN lookup shows otherwise. One owner cites NHTSA recall overview stating PCM software may not adequately detect stuck-open CPV, leading to excessive vacuum, fuel tank deformation, and drivability concerns (stalling, rough idle, hesitation). No effective full transmission replacement program found in narratives; dealers cite 'no fix available.'
Transmission control module (TCM) and fuel system faults with check engine light
Check engine light illuminates with multiple diagnostic trouble codes related to transmission control, fuel vapor system, and oxygen sensors. Owners report faulty fuel gauge readings, difficulty starting (especially after refueling), rough idle, stalling, and hesitation. The vehicle exhibits the symptoms outlined in Ford recall 18S32/19S22 for a stuck-open canister purge valve (CPV) that can deform the plastic fuel tank.
When: Often appears shortly after refueling or after prolonged driving; can be intermittent; worsens over time if not addressed; some owners report multiple codes appearing or changing over weeks
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light or service transmission light illuminated; Multiple diagnostic trouble codes present; Rough, unsteady idle with RPM fluctuations; Engine stalling after refueling or during driving; Hesitation and jerking at lower gears; Inaccurate or erratic fuel gauge readings; Loss of power or drivability concerns; Engine starts hesitantly, requires multiple ignition turns
Codes mentioned: P0420 (catalyst system efficiency), P144A (EVAP purge vapor line restricted/blocked), P1450 (unable to bleed fuel tank vacuum), P0131 (O2 circuit low voltage, bank 1, sensor 1), P0443 (EVAP purge control circuit), P0452 (fuel tank pressure sensor low), P0456 (EVAP system leak detected), P0460 (fuel gauge inaccurate), P2196 (O2 sensor signal stuck high)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have replaced TCM/PCM, reprogrammed software (often from Ford headquarters), cleared codes, and updated fuel vapor system components. One owner was charged $1,000+ in labor and $180 diagnostic fee despite the components being part of recalls. Canister purge valve (CPV) and sensors replaced per recall. Repairs frequently ineffective; codes re-appear or new codes emerge.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued recall 18S32 (18V735000) and 19S22 (19V515000) addressing stuck-open CPV and PCM software inadequacy in detecting the fault. NHTSA recall overview states the CPV malfunction can lead to fuel tank deformation, excessive vacuum, and drivability issues (stalling, rough idle, hesitation, erratic fuel gauge, incorrect distance-to-empty). However, owners report Ford denies coverage, claims recalls already completed or don't apply despite symptoms matching recall description. Owners claim they were charged for 'recall' parts (e.g., CPV, sensors) that should be free and that Ford refuses to acknowledge the recall is applicable.
Stuck-open canister purge valve (CPV) causing fuel tank deformation
The canister purge valve (part of the fuel vapor/EVAP system) sticks open, allowing excessive vacuum to build in the plastic fuel tank. This causes the tank to deform, resulting in inaccurate fuel gauge readings, incorrect distance-to-empty calculations, and engine stalling or rough running due to improper fuel delivery and vapor pressure.
When: Can occur at any mileage; may develop gradually or suddenly; often discovered when check engine light appears or fuel gauge malfunctions
Symptoms owners cite: Fuel gauge reads incorrectly (jumps up and down); Distance-to-empty (DTE) inaccurate; Engine stalls or runs roughly; Check engine light illuminated with EVAP/fuel codes; Hesitation and jerking when accelerating; Difficulty starting after refueling
Codes mentioned: P0420, P144A (EVAP purge vapor line restricted/blocked), P1450 (unable to bleed fuel tank vacuum), P0443 (EVAP purge control circuit), P0452 (fuel tank pressure sensor low), P0456 (EVAP system leak detected)
Repairs/costs cited: Canister purge valve replaced per recall (18S32/19S22). One owner was charged $1,000+ labor despite CPV replacement being part of a recall. Parts often back-ordered; repair delayed weeks or months. PCM software update intended to better detect stuck-open CPV condition.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford recall 18S32 (18V735000) and 19S22 (19V515000) issued. Recall narrative states PCM software was previously inadequate in detecting stuck-open CPV; updated software release intended to address this. CPV replacement covered as part of recall (should be free). However, owners report dealers billing labor and diagnostic fees, with Ford denying recall applicability despite symptoms matching recall description.
Transmission clutch actuator malfunction (Actuator A and B)
The transmission clutch actuator (which engages the transmission into gear) malfunctions, preventing the vehicle from moving or causing it to suddenly jump into gear. One owner's daughter's car would not move at all despite revving the engine in both drive and reverse; diagnosed as 'Transmission Actuator A' failure. Another owner describes the car suddenly lurching forward as if possessed, with harsh gear engagement.
When: Can occur intermittently or suddenly at any speed; reported after sustained driving or upon attempting to move the vehicle
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not move despite engine revving; Transmission will not engage gears; Harsh or sudden gear engagement; Car lunges forward unexpectedly; No response to drive/reverse selection
Repairs/costs cited: One owner's vehicle required Transmission Actuator A replacement at a dealership. Labor cost ~$1,000. No other repair details provided.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owners note that Actuator A and B failures have not been issued a recall despite presenting safety concerns. Two existing recalls (14M01 and 14M02) address other transmission issues (clutch shudder, transmission control module), but actuator failures are not covered. One owner petitioned Ford CEO Jim Farley and NHTSA, calling for recall and warranty extension for actuator failures given their safety implications.
Engine shutdown and stalling during driving
The engine shuts down or stalls unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, at traffic lights, or at intersections. In several cases, the car shuts down at highway speeds or during acceleration, forcing emergency maneuvers and creating severe crash hazards. Restarting the vehicle is sometimes difficult or requires manipulation of ignition or transmission controls.
When: At various speeds and driving conditions; some instances during acceleration, merging, or traffic lights; often after transmission faults develop
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts down while driving; Stalling at traffic lights or in intersections; Stalling during acceleration or highway merging; Loss of power steering when engine cuts; Engine does not restart immediately; Requires manipulation of gear selection or ignition to restart
Codes mentioned: Check engine light appears, Transmission fault codes
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have attempted software updates, TCM/PCM reprogramming, and electrical diagnostics. In one case, dealer charged $380–$500 for 'electrical wiring issues' repair, but second opinion identified it as Ford's responsibility (recall-related). No permanent fixes documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner reports a dealership claimed 'electrical wiring issues' and charged for repair; however, a second mechanic determined it was Ford's responsibility. Owners cite multiple recalls (14M01, 14M02, and others) and TSBs (TSB15-0120, TSB16-0044) but report Ford has not issued a full recall for engine shutdown. One owner notes the vehicle is the 'most complained car of that year' with multiple recalls already in place.
Motor mount failure causing airbag deployment
Motor mounts fail, allowing the engine to drop forward toward the radiator. The impact triggers the airbag system to deploy unexpectedly. All components connected to the motor shift forward, tearing connections and creating additional damage. This represents a significant structural and safety failure.
When: Reported at 35 mph; unknown if this is typical onset speed or coincidental
Symptoms owners cite: Airbags deploy suddenly without collision; Vehicle rolls off road; Engine visibly shifted forward; Radiator and connected components damaged
Repairs/costs cited: Owner requested Ford field rep retrieve airbag module data to determine cause. Dealership employees were not permitted by supervisor to examine the vehicle due to extent of damage under hood. No repair completed; vehicle not returned to functional state.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued a claim but dismissed it; refused to allow owner to speak with anyone with authority to address the issue. No investigation of motor mount defect or data retrieval from airbag module performed. Owner expressed concern that other Focus vehicles may have the same motor mount defect, and that failure at high speeds could cause a catastrophic crash.
Electrical and door lock failures
Multiple electrical gremlins occur: door locks fail to engage in cold or dry weather, interior lights and A/C panel lights do not illuminate, instrument panel goes dark and displays incorrect information (0 MPH, no fuel), turn signal indicators malfunction internally while working externally, remote key fob unresponsive or intermittent, clock resets unexpectedly, iPod connectivity fails intermittently.
When: Door lock failures in cold/dry weather (40°F, sometimes at -below freezing); electrical intermittent failures occur during driving or after parking; some occur concurrent with transmission issues
Symptoms owners cite: Door locks will not engage in cold/dry weather; Door locks disengage while driving; Instrument panel goes dark or displays wrong info; Interior overhead lights, A/C lights, radio lights do not work; Turn signal blinkers malfunction inside car (work externally); Hazard lights do not work; Remote key fob unresponsive; Clock resets to default time; iPod connectivity fails intermittently; Warning chime sounds continuously with no apparent cause
Repairs/costs cited: One owner attempted WD-40 and freeze-lock sprays without success on door locks. Electrical issues eventually addressed via recall (door latch safety recall mentioned), but intermittent nature made replication difficult. One owner paid $240–$380 for electrical repair that a second mechanic identified as Ford's responsibility.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Electrical recall mentioned (door latch safety recall) but timing unclear. One owner reports dealer finally fixed electrical issue after customer pointed out vehicle was built at Michigan assembly plant, matching known problem list. No specific TSB cited for electrical gremlins in narratives.
Synthesized from 1,049 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 11 most recent
The transmission has been repaired time and time with no fix. The recall fix was a failure as well. Took the transmission in for repair they stated that was normal for that transmission. Sometimes it jets off then other times it will not go. Ford should have replaced my car or that transmission awhile ago. The car is currently getting worse.
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the transmission was slipping. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle would fail to respond while attempting to drive from a complete stop or while shifting into gear. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the transmission clutch and the transmission control module…
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Ford focus. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the transmission overheating warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and parked the vehicle on the side of the road. The contact waited for five minutes before restarting the vehicle, and continued driving to her destination. The vehicle was taken to larry h. Miller super Ford (1340 500 w, salt lake…
This car shudders when starting from a stop. Especially bad going up an incline
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Ford focus. While accelerating the vehicle from a stop or while in reverse, the vehicle shuttered without warning. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission clutch failed. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred six times. The vehicle was service per a technical service bulletin for the transmission clutch failure. The…
I had already begun noticing the shuddering and lurches when I was notified of the recall. I immediately brought it to my local dealership in may 2015. During this first visit the service department replaced the clutches, clutch assembly, seal, and fluids as allowed by the recall. I brought the vehicle back to service in october 2015 at which time I was told this problem would never be fixed, but…
Transmission jerks.,hesitates,slips revs up,stalls out,module for transmission reprogrammed,replaced,clutches replaced,still same problem.they cannot repair,will sit parked in driveway.
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Ford focus. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the engine stalled without warning. The contact also mentioned that the gear failed to reverse the vehicle intermittently. The contact also stated that while attempting to accelerate, the vehicle hesitated. The failures was persistent. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was not diagnosed or…
Since the focus was first drove there has been a shutter,a noise coming from what we thin is the transmission. We bought this car in ny and took it to the dealership twice and told us that the car needed to be drive and should stop this at a 1000 mi. Moved to ar took it to the dealership they said it was under recall? That the car needed to be reprogrammed concerning drivetrain. Took it back 2…
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle started jerking. No warning lights were illuminated during the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but the mechanic stated that he would not repair the vehicle. The vehicle was then taken to a Ford dealer where it was diagnosed with a wiring failure. The vehicle…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2013 Ford Focus?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2013 Ford Focus?
It's a serious issue. 1049 complaints have been filed, including 16 reports involving a crash and 1 fatality(ies). We've classified it as critical based on NHTSA's reported outcomes.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 784 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 15,000 and 76,000 miles, with the median around 44,210. A quarter of owners report trouble before 15,000; a quarter make it past 76,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Ford/Focus.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.