Ford Focus & Fiesta PowerShift problems and known issues

Generation:

PowerShift (Fiesta 2011–2016, Focus 2012–2016)

Years:

2011–2016

Engine:

DPS6 six-speed PowerShift automatic

The DPS6 is a dry dual-clutch automatic, and Ford’s own program documents say leaking input shaft seals can contaminate the clutch with fluid and cause excessive shudder during light acceleration. Customer Satisfaction Program 14M01 extended coverage of the seals, clutch and software to 7 years or 100,000 miles on 2011–2014 Fiesta and 2012–2014 Focus cars built before June 6, 2013, and the coverage transfers to later owners. In 2019 Ford added further coverage and software updates for some 2014–2016 cars.

Sources: [1][2]

Generation:

PowerShift (Fiesta 2011–2016, Focus 2012–2016)

Years:

2011–2016

Engine:

DPS6 six-speed PowerShift automatic

A failing transmission control module can cause intermittent loss of engagement while driving, a no-start or a lack of power. Program 14M02 extended TCM coverage to 10 years or 150,000 miles on 2011–2015 Fiesta and, after later supplements, 2012–2016 Focus cars; some cars are also covered by 14M01 and the reprogramming campaign 15B22.

Sources: [3][1]

Generation:

PowerShift (Fiesta 2011–2016, Focus 2012–2016)

Years:

2011–2016

Engine:

DPS6 six-speed PowerShift automatic

Owners of 2011–2016 Fiesta and 2012–2016 Focus cars with the DPS6 sued in Vargas v. Ford. A revised settlement won final approval in the Central District of California on March 5, 2020, with the court finding it guaranteed at least $77.4 million to class members through repurchases and cash payments; repurchase eligibility generally followed state lemon-law standards. Some PowerShift cars on the used market are former buybacks.

Sources: [4][5]

Generation:

Focus (2012–2018)

Years:

2012–2018

Engine:

2.0L GDI and 2.0L EcoBoost (Focus ST)

A malfunctioning canister purge valve can pull excessive vacuum in the fuel vapor system, which can deform the fuel tank and cause stalling. Ford recalled 2012–2018 Focus cars with the 2.0L engines, followed up with 19V-515 and, in 2026, 26V-369 for cars repaired incorrectly the first time.

Sources: [6][7][8]

Generation:

Focus (2012–2018)

Years:

2015–2018

Engine:

1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder with 6-speed manual

The clutch on 2015–2018 Focus cars with the 1.0L EcoBoost and six-speed manual can fracture, damaging the transmission and possibly causing a fluid leak and loss of drive. Recalls 18V-169 and 18V-845 replaced the clutch, and 26V-376 covers cars repaired incorrectly.

Sources: [9][10][11]

Generation:

Focus (2012–2018)

Years:

2016–2018

Engine:

1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder

The 1.0L EcoBoost drives its oil pump with a belt inside the engine, and on 2016–2018 Focus cars the belt or its tensioner can fail, causing a loss of oil pressure and engine damage.

Sources: [12]

Generation:

Focus (2012–2018)

Years:

2012–2015

Engine:

All engines

A component inside the door latch can break, so a door may not latch or may open while driving. Ford recalled 2012–2015 Focus cars under 16V-643, and the expanded 20V-331 campaign also took in 2011–2014 Fiesta models.

Sources: [13][14]

Generation:

Fiesta (2011–2019)

Years:

2014–2015

Engine:

1.6L EcoBoost (Fiesta ST)

If the 1.6L EcoBoost is driven with too little coolant, the cylinder head can overheat and crack, leaking oil onto hot parts and creating a fire risk. Ford recalled 2014–2015 Fiesta ST models along with other 1.6L vehicles and added a coolant level monitoring remedy.

Sources: [15]

Generation:

Fiesta (2011–2019)

Years:

2011–2013

Engine:

All engines

On 2011–2013 Fiestas built through September 2012, the passenger-side curtain airbag would not deploy in a side impact when the front passenger seat was empty, which failed the federal occupant-protection standard.

Sources: [16]