Equipment Problems of Ford Focus - part 1

Ford Focus owners have reported 1,501 problems related to equipment (under the equipment category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Ford Focus based on all problems reported for the Focus.

1 Equipment problem of the 2013 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/29/2026

The "shift tower" typically refers to the external mechanism on top of the transmission where the shifter cables connect. Problems with this part, which is a broken internal pin, result in a shifter that moves freely without engaging any gears. The gear become in operatable when driving down the highway, which is a hazard on the road. There were no warning light just not ale to change gears.

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2 Equipment problem of the 2012 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/03/2026

The powershift for the transmission is the issue. Got two notices about a software update and followed through with updates. When done my Ford dealership said they couldn’t do anything else and that I was just going to be like it was. I never received any more recalls or even a class action letter! I recently called Ford motor headquarters and they found my information and could not confirm any additional recalls to me or the class action letter that was sent to me and said that they would not do anything for me! no goodwill — thisissue from this area continues and I very concerned for my safety! need help.

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3 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/02/2026

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shuddering, jerking, and hesitating to accelerate as needed. The vehicle then stalled. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that there was coolant intrusion into the cylinders and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 26v011000 (equipment); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

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4 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 02/22/2026

I am reporting about the recall that was previously done about the backup camera going black and hard to see out of ect for the Ford fusion and other Ford vehicles . However I own a 2018 Ford Focus se hatchback and the camera is doing the same thing and it is not added to the recall so I am hoping you can investigate this and help with it getting a recall for safety because the recall on the other vehicles states it can cause an accident and this would be a huge issue as there are blind spots so the camera is important thank u for your time.

5 Equipment problem of the 2017 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 02/08/2026

I am reporting a safety-related defect in my 2017 Ford Focus equipped with the powershift dual-clutch (dps6) transmission. The vehicle has experienced ongoing transmission and clutch-related issues, including shuddering, jerking, hesitation from a stop, delayed engagement, and unpredictable acceleration behavior. These issues are most noticeable in low-speed driving, stop-and-go traffic, and when accelerating from a complete stop. The clutch has previously required replacement/repair, yet the same drivability problems persist. The vehicle continues to jerk and hesitate in a way that makes it unsafe to enter intersections, merge into traffic, or drive in congested conditions. I have been informed that further repairs are not cost-effective and that the transmission/clutch issues are likely to continue despite repair attempts. Being advised that the vehicle is “not worth repairing” due to this known transmission design is concerning and suggests a systemic defect rather than normal wear. I am aware that Ford has faced widespread complaints, investigations, and class-action litigation related to similar powershift dual-clutch transmission failures in earlier model years. Although my 2017 model year was excluded from the settlement, the symptoms and behavior of my vehicle are consistent with the same known defect pattern. The condition appears to be worsening over time and presents a clear safety risk due to hesitation, sudden engagement, and loss of driver control during normal driving situations.

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6 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 02/01/2026

I was pulling onto the interstate when my car stop pulling an transmission went out I was in fear for my safety an others due to being on an interstate an couldn’t go into gear I finally got to the media or shoulder of the interstate to call for help I was left stranded with high cost to get it to Ford dealership in bowling green ky clutch kid 4,000$ to fix it I was in fear I was goin to get. Hit by a car it was scary.

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7 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 01/16/2026

Transmission clutch shudder -transmission clutch . I took my vehicle in before it would have severe issues to the ashland ohio Ford dealer and they told me that there was nothing wrong with my vehicle. And now my vehicle is not drivable due to this recall parked. Please help me it would be a blessing!.

8 Equipment problem of the 2017 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 01/10/2026

?unknown- transmition seem to slip or acted like stalling or about to die. Would jerk forward and shutter till finally would not start after being turned off. So had it towed because would not start again. ?myself and others in my 2017 Ford Focus titanium edition were traveling over a bridge at the time of the incident and very well have stalled out or quit running in the middle of traffic on a bridge causing a collision or worse loss of life ?no- no service center has addressed the issue not due to me not trying but merely, nothing's been done from where I've taken it to ?no- at the moment that is not required as of yet. ?yes- the forward jerking and shuttering started a couple of years every now and then, until it turned into such a severe situation. ?no - no signs signals lights or anything on the dash showed any kind of sign of anything wrong with the vehicle.

9 Equipment problem of the 2017 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 12/05/2025

My 2017 Ford Focus is grounded due to the oil pump safety recall involving loss of oil pressure and engine stall. Ford is refusing to provide alternate transportation unless I pay out of pocket. As a result, I am unable to work and have no safe transportation while Ford repairs a known safety defect. I have already missed an entire week of work due to their negligence, and they are unwilling to help.

10 Equipment problem of the 2013 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 11/20/2025

The vehicle began to experience issues where it was difficult to start and ran rough. Multiple times after turning off vehicle and attempting to restart later it would not restart. Had vehicle towed to dealership for repairs, they conducted a recall repair and test over multiple days. Picked up vehicle, drove approximately 7 miles. Went into store came back and vehicle would not start. Multiple other recalls are listed for this date range and motor that likely could be impacting my current vehicle. However, this VIN is not listed as a specific recall. Current situation places driver and passenger at risk as the vehicle does not run properly and does not restart.

11 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 11/19/2025

My 2018 Ford Focus with dps6 powershift transmission exhibits documented defect symptoms: shuddering, delayed engagement, jerking, slipping, and unpredictable low-speed behavior. Ford corporate has refused to open a defect case or provide arbitration review. This transmission family has known litigation history and systemic defect documentation.

12 Equipment problem of the 2017 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 10/23/2025

My rear view camera only works about 15% of the time. I get a little dust on it and it's useless. You recalled a bunch of older Ford models today but not on my vehicle despite it being the exact same camera as on the fusion model. I've been waiting for this recall for years and am greatly disappointed. Same thing happened with the bad transmission issue previously. The transmission skips just like all the other models that got recalled and you did nothing for the 2017 Ford Focus. Extremely disappointed in this inaction.

13 Equipment problem of the 2016 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 09/08/2025

The rear view camera does not work most of the time. Hasn't for years. Seems Ford can't make a rear view camera that works, since I see Ford recalling all manner of other vehicles for their rear view camera. They need to do it for the Focus as well.

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14 Equipment problem of the 2013 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 09/01/2025

The reverse camera assist and alerts are faulty. The camera when you put the car into reverse is upside down all of a sudden. The alerts continue to beep when I put the car in reverse as well. It's very dangerous because you think something is behind you even though there is nothing. Because the camera is upside down you can see anything behind you as well it just beeps non stop with no assistance.

15 Equipment problem of the 2015 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/16/2025

The driver’s side door will not latch and the door cannot close. This is the same defect covered by Ford recalls 16s30 and 20s30, but my VIN was excluded. Ford crc opened case number cxh05284452-z8x6j1, but denied coverage. I have had to rent a vehicle while my car is unsafe to drive. This is a major safety hazard as the door can open while driving.

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16 Equipment problem of the 2008 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/11/2025

Starter has always been difficult but now key stuck in ignition and won't start either.

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17 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/05/2025

Loss of engine power, engine noise. I am submitting this complaint regarding Ford motor company’s handling of an active safety recall affecting my vehicle and its failure to complete recall-related repairs after directing me to a dealership for evaluation. I previously filed a complaint with NHTSA regarding this safety issue. Following that complaint, Ford motor company contacted me and instructed me to bring my vehicle to an authorized Ford dealership for recall inspection and repair. I complied fully and delivered my vehicle as directed. The vehicle remains at the dealership and has not been returned to me in a repaired or operable condition. After the vehicle was brought to the dealership, Ford customer service opened case # [xxx]. I was advised in writing by a Ford representative that the matter would be escalated and that a supervisor would contact me on or about December 30, 2025. No supervisor ever contacted me. I waited almost two weeks beyond the promised date and followed up by email with no response. When I later contacted Ford customer service by phone, I was informed that my case had been closed. I was not notified in advance of the closure, was not provided any written explanation, and the promised supervisory review never occurred. At the time the case was closed, my vehicle remained at the dealership and the recall issue had not been resolved. I am requesting that NHTSA review Ford motor company’s handling of this matter to determine whether Ford is complying with its own published recall bulletin and service guidance for this specific recall number, including required inspection, escalation, and resolution procedures. I relied on Ford’s recall bulletin and representations when bringing my vehicle to the dealership. I respectfully request that NHTSA evaluate whether Ford’s actions comply with federal recall obligations and whether recall-related cases are being closed without proper review, notice, or completion of required repairs. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information.

18 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/04/2025

Door lock and windows dint work properly. Transmission not working appropriately or at . Randomly says transmission overheating or won't go in reverse.

19 Equipment problem of the 2016 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 08/01/2025

My car is showing signs of recalls but it’s stating that it doesn’t have any recalls. There is a recall of the transmission failing because of the clutch and causing the car to just randomly cut off while driving putting risk of a crash to me and my kids there is a recall on the fuel pump being messed up causing the car to cut off randomly while driving because of the vapors and that’s what my car has been doing also putting danger to me and my kids while driving.

20 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 07/31/2025

I keep getting denied for warranty tcm had the code I did a report after it was I would be covered had proof of the codes and deny me for another service that’s under warranty pretty much just take my money send me out the way and then I get stuck on the highway from the problem in having to fix it myself.

21 Equipment problem of the 2016 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 07/20/2025

The car failed to start, it did not recognize it was in park. After trying to start my car with the keys it failed. My safety is put at risk, my car failing to recognize which gear shift it is in causes malfunctions while I am on the road, especially since I drive long distances at high speeds. I had a master technician review and preform a diagnostic on my vehicle and the codes formed for this test matched hand in hand with tcm issues under the TSB. After this, I went to the dealership to discuss this issue and the only thing that came of it was informing me that I was not eligible for a recall due to my VIN, even if I have all the symptoms under the TSB for my Ford Focus 2016. Since my car failed to start I was not able to bring it to Ford and have it tested, especially after asking if it is eligible and they insisted that it was not. No warning signs from the dashboard appeared on my vehicle to inform me of this issue. I travelled to meet with family and did not end up using my vehicle for a few days and when I tried to start my car, it would not engage. The only warning sounds I would consider a correlation before the problem would be a clicking from the starter pre-firing when I opened the door, and while the car was off.

22 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 07/08/2025

Engine light is on for no reason and when the rpm’s spike and stutter when accelerating.

23 Equipment problem of the 2012 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 07/03/2025

The power steering shut down suddenly while I was driving it. I am [xxx], and certainly did not have the power to turn the wheel like it needed. If there had been fast moving traffic at that time, I could have been hit and severely injured, why hasn't this been recalled yet? the problem has been confirmed by an independent service center. I had to go there when my power steering intermittently came back on because it was only 6 blocks away from my house and I didn't dare try to drive it to a Ford dealer which was 12 miles away. I'm not positive about the light coming on, but I believe I saw a circle with an "I" inside of it I was too stressed to notice completely, when I was trying to control my car. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

24 Equipment problem of the 2013 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 06/12/2025

The car shows a warning transmission fault service now.

25 Equipment problem of the 2012 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 06/12/2025

Unknown.

26 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 06/02/2025

The vehicle's transmission control module is not working. The Ford Focus vehicle put my family and I at risk because we would be driving along in the Ford vehicle then all of a sudden it would slow down abruptly in traffic as it loses power. We've only had the vehicle 7 years and it is one of the most expensive problems to have with the car. Many reports online state that transmission control modules and transmissions in general are known complaints for 2018 Ford Focus cars. A diagnostic was performed by a Ford dealer's service center. It was determined the part needs to be replaced. This is very dangerous. I would like for this to be repaired without causing any additional expenses to my family as the Ford company is aware that more than few models have this problem before reaching 7 years or 100,000 miles.

27 Equipment problem of the 2015 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 06/01/2025

A major electrical issue has occurred in this car since June 1, 2025. The traction control system dashboard indicator (the skidding car) comes on even though I am not using the tcs. When this happens, I get a message saying "hill start assist not available," and am unable to manipulate my headlights, use turn signals, or lock/unlock my doors (I need to use the physical key to lock/unlock the driver's side door). If this "hill start assist" issue occurs and I turn off my car (or if it occurs when the car is off), then I am unable to start my car. I get a new message saying "no key detected," and the ignition does nothing. I have a physical key, and not a fob. If the tcs light goes away, then I am able to start up my car. However, this is unpredictable; there appears to be no way to force the tcs light to disappear, and sometimes it will stay on for over an hour with my key in the "on" position. As of late, it hasn't gone away at all, making the car unusable. This causes obvious safety issues when on the road, as I cannot use turn signals or change my lights as it gets darker or it begins to rain/snow. When not on the road, I cannot use my car at all. A dealer recently confirmed the problem with the body control module, but was unable to fix it. They managed to turn the car on, but the problems returned after 24 hours. As I was driving home on July 18, 2025, the tcs light came on and suddenly I could not use turn signals or change my lights. I still had over an hour to drive home. I did arrive home safely, but have not been able to use my car since.

28 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 05/19/2025

My car smells like it’s leaking gas and when I took a flash light n went under the car it shows the tank and the hose connected to the tank has signs of it being wet but when the car is running it smells a lot worse and constantly is shaking, shuddering and causing my transmission to malfunction and I’ve read online that there was a re call # 14s20 but I can’t find it on this website.

29 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 05/02/2025

I originally purchased this car in June of 2022. Less than a week after I purchased it, the issues started. My check engine light came on and my vehicle revved high, but did not accelerate. When it did this, it made a mechanical humming/grinding noise. It did this for a few short trips, then the issue seemingly resolved itself. . . The check engine light never turned off. I got the following codes from my reader: p0420, p2782, and p07a3. This vehicle had multiple recalls regarding the tcm malfunctioning. I tried multiple times to have Ford do the repairs as stated in the recalls. They have refused every single time. I was told that the warranty did not apply to my vehicle, then that the parts were on a major backorder, and that I should leave my car with them for an undisclosed period of time. This is not feasible, as I have 2 jobs and a child. Within the last few months, my transmission has started doing the same thing as well as overheating. I am going through coolant much faster than I should. As the issue gets worse, Ford has been of no assistance. Despite my efforts to have the recall work done as legally required, I have been turned away and am now past the 10 year/150k mile replacement warranty. I had brought it in before it ever reached that point. I am terrified to take my child to school or make it to work. My vehicle stalled on the interstate last night and I almost lost my life. There isn't really a trigger, as it acts up like this at random. Some days I drive it with no issues at all. Others, it takes me nearly an hour to get home on an otherwise 18 minute commute.

30 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 05/02/2025

My 2018 Ford Focus (dps6 dual-clutch automatic transmission) suffers from severe hesitation and shuddering when accelerating from a stop, especially under 10 mph. More concerning, the car has stalled multiple times while merging into traffic and during right turns at intersections. We can no longer safely take free right turns due to the risk of the car dying mid-merge. This poses an immediate safety hazard and mirrors known failure patterns in earlier Focus and fiesta models. Ford previously extended warranty coverage for the same tcm defect in 2011–2016 models, but my 2018 — which uses the same dps6 system — has been excluded without explanation. The dealership acknowledged the tcm failure but refused to cover the repair. Instead, they charged me $300 to tell me they would not perform the service Ford originally recommended (a fuel injector purge) and that I now need to replace the tcm entirely. This is a known, documented issue that Ford has admitted to in other years. My car has lost power four times in the last three months, and all signs point to this being the early stages of the same defect. Allowing this failure to persist without coverage or recall is negligent and dangerous. Ford is knowingly placing families like mine at risk by refusing to act. I request an NHTSA investigation into the 2018 Ford Focus dps6 models, which are experiencing the same failures that have already led to recalls, lawsuits, and warranty extensions in earlier years.

31 Equipment problem of the 2012 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/21/2025

Transmission problem.

32 Equipment problem of the 2016 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/19/2025

Was at a red light and the clutch wouldn’t work. I had to pull the clutch up with my foot. I was so afraid someone was going to hit me. Then when you drive the car sometimes the clutch sticks and you can’t put into gear. I looked on the internet to see if other people were having the same problem. There were so many people who had the problem. I called Ford dealer up to see if a recall . The mechanic said no they haven’t had the problem. I told him to look it up cause there was all kinds of people with the problem. I called Ford up to do a complaint. At that time was told no recalls to have anything fixed on the car. I took it to my mechanic and it was what the internet people had said the problem is. Plastic actuator arm to the back of the pedal is made of plastic and is breaking clean off!! my car is in the shop getting fixed. I can send the bill when I pick my vehicle up. Was told anywhere from 850 to 1000.

33 Equipment problem of the 2018 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/14/2025

I am experiencing symptoms of safety recall 23s64 on my 2018 Ford Focus — specifically, intermittent oil pressure warning lights. I took my car to a Ford dealer who initially stated the issue may be recall-related, but later refused to inspect the oil pump belt and tensioner unless I paid out of pocket, despite the recall bulletin (mt23s64a) stating Ford will reimburse 2. 8 hours of labor for the inspection even if no failure is found. I contacted Ford customer relationship center and they were unable to locate the labor code or confirm the policy, and gave me the same incorrect info. This appears to be a violation of federal recall policy, where the dealership and manufacturer are both refusing to honor a safety recall without charging me for the diagnosis.

34 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/07/2025

The primary issue is a shuddering or jerking sensation when accelerating from a stop or during low-speed maneuvers, especially during the 1st to 2nd gear shift. Delayed shifting, slipping gears, and even the vehicle shifting into neutral at inappropriate times.

35 Equipment problem of the 2014 Ford Focus

Failure Date: 04/03/2025

I wish to file a complaint regarding my 2014 Ford Focus, which is experiencing transmission failures related to the known defective transmission system. Ford acknowledged widespread issues with this transmission in customer satisfaction program 14m02, which extended coverage for the transmission control module (tcm). The tcm module was replaced, under recall, in April 2025 and during that same visit at b & b Ford, barnwell SC I was told that I needed to replace the acutators and this would stop the car from shuddering during acceleration. This cost me $658. 00 out of pocket. I noticed almost immediately that the car was still shuddering during acceleration and called b & b Ford back and I was told to drive it for 500 miles and then let them know if it continued. Due to an illness I did not drive the car that much but then in October 2025 I started noticing the shuttering again. I contacted b & b Ford again and they agreed to look at the car. Now they are telling me I need to replace the clutch/fork system at a price of $3300. 00 that I will have to pay for. I have filed a complaint, a lot of good that will do me, with Ford. They are fully aware of systemic failures in the transmission. Safety hazard: transmission hesitation, shuddering, and sudden loss of power create dangerous driving conditions, especially when merging or crossing intersections. Unfair limitation of remedy: the expiration of 14m02 leaves owners like me with out of pocket expenses that are outrageous. And again I will say - Ford knows about these issues and will not do anything about them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! this is a manufacturers defect. I am requesting that an inquiry be made into this matter immediately and that Ford make a recall that covers the issues that I am having along with many other Ford Focus owners. Take responsibility for the defect in this car.



Focus Service Bulletins
Focus Safety Recalls
Focus Defect Investigations