There are 50 owner-reported powertrain & transmission complaints for the 2014 Ford Focusin NHTSA's database. These are unverified consumer reports and may not reflect confirmed defects.
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power and unexpectedly came to a stop. The message that the transmission was hot was displayed. The vehicle was restarted and driven back to the residence, but then failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed with fuel system and clutch failures. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000. The VIN was not available.
My 2014 Ford Focus with approximately 145,000 miles is experiencing a failure of the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The vehicle hesitates, jerks, and has difficulty shifting, which creates a safety concern when driving in traffic. The issue was diagnosed by a dealership, and I was quoted approximately $1,800 for the TCM replacement. I contacted Ford for assistance, but they stated the vehicle is “outside of their programs” and refused to help, despite this being a widely known issue with Ford Focus transmissions. This defect affects the safe operation of the vehicle and should be investigated.
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked and hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Zone, but no diagnostic trouble code was found, and there was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 107,500.
The transmission is over heating while driving and jerking back constantly once it hits mph on 3. It doesn’t drive properly because of the transmission.
Problems with dual clutch automatic transmission Ford Focus Class action lawsuit of 2013.
Complaint Description: This complaint involves a 2014 Ford Focus with VIN [XXX] . The vehicle experiences severe transmission shuddering, slipping, delayed acceleration, and hesitation when attempting to accelerate from a stop. The vehicle sometimes struggles to move forward normally when entering traffic or crossing intersections. These symptoms appear consistent with the widely documented PowerShift DPS6 dual-clutch transmission defect affecting 2012–2016 Ford Focus vehicles. The hesitation and delayed engagement create a potential safety hazard when merging into traffic or attempting to accelerate normally, as the vehicle does not respond immediately to throttle input. The vehicle also appears to have electrical irregularities associated with the transmission control system, which may be related to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) failures previously reported in these vehicles. Although there are currently no open recalls associated with this VIN, the vehicle continues to exhibit transmission behavior that creates an unsafe driving condition. This complaint is being submitted so that the issue can be documented as part of the ongoing safety record regarding PowerShift transmission failures in these vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
10/02/23. Recall repair 14M02B was performed by blue Springs Ford, blue springs MO. Milage on car 96,028. Car has had normal oil change by same dealer. Car now at 107,000 miles only slightly over 10,000 miles in two years has same TMC issue but code now is P07A5. Diagnosed by same dealership and because 1st time replacement done. They are not obligated to fix again. I would agree except for the lack of miles put on Car since repair. Asking for another repair due to faulty parts.
Here’s an overview of the transmission issues with the 2014 Ford Focus — and how many owners feel Ford Motor Company has repeatedly failed to properly fix them. What’s wrong with the transmission The 2014 Focus (and many models 2012–2016) came with a dual-clutch automatic transmission system (PowerShift transmission). That system used “dry” clutches — rather than a traditional, fluid-cooled torque-converter — which turned out to be a flawed design in real-world use. Dry clutches tend to overheat, wear out prematurely, slip, and fail, especially under common driving conditions. [XXX] +2 [XXX] +2 As a result, owners of 2014 Focus vehicles reported a long list of recurring symptoms: rough or jerky shifting, shuddering when accelerating from a stop, slipping gears, delayed or harsh gear changes, grinding or clunking noises, hesitation before accelerating (especially dangerous when merging or pulling out), and in some cases failure to shift properly or unexpected behavior like popping out of gear. [XXX] + [XXX] m + [XXX] m +3 For many drivers, these issues didn’t appear once — but kept happening repeatedly. In some cases, transmission control modules (TCMs) were replaced; in others, clutch/seal assemblies were replaced. Yet—even after repairs—the problems often resurfaced. Ford Transmission Settlement +2 CarComplaints +2 Some complaints describe serious safety and reliability concerns: jerky or unpredictable acceleration or deceleration, failure to downshift when braking (in one complaint the car “lurch[ed] forward into intersections at red lights”), slipping unexpectedly — all of which pose danger to drivers, passengers, and others. [XXX] +2 ️ Why many owners and lawsuits say there was a systemic defect According to class-action complaints, the problem isn’t just “bad luck” — it stems from fundamental design, manufacturing, and programming flaws in the PowerShift transmission. The dry- INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I am requesting an investigation into a vehicle I purchased on November 28, 2025, in a transaction conducted using the business name RideTime LLC. After taking possession of the vehicle, I noticed inconsistencies related to the title and odometer reading. I titled the vehicle on December 1, 2025, prior to full confirmation of these discrepancies. Subsequent investigation through Experian AutoCheck, consultation with the Virginia DMV, and inspection by a licensed mechanic revealed evidence consistent with title jumping and possible odometer tampering. Additionally, a mechanic identified indicators consistent with prior flood damage that were not disclosed at the time of sale. I acted in good faith and relied on representations made during the sale, including the use of the business name RideTime LLC. Once the discrepancies were confirmed, I immediately ceased any attempt to sell or transfer the vehicle and am reporting the matter for investigation and guidance on proper resolution.
My 2014 Ford Focus experienced a sudden failure of the DPS6 transmission. The vehicle shows trouble code P07A3 (Clutch A Stuck On). The car jerks violently when shifting, loses power, hesitates in traffic, and sometimes fails to engage gears properly. This creates a dangerous situation when merging, crossing intersections, or accelerating from a stop. Sport mode stopped working, and the transmission enters a failure state during driving. The problem puts my safety and the safety of others at risk because the vehicle does not respond consistently when accelerating. Multiple times the car lurched or delayed when I tried to pull into traffic. A dealership inspected the vehicle and confirmed the transmission problem, but refused assistance because the TCM warranty was marked “expired,” even though this is a known DPS6 defect that affects many 2012–2016 Focus vehicles. Ford customer service also refused escalation. A warning lamp (Check Engine) appeared, and the issue progressively got worse. The problem is reproducible at any time, and the vehicle is unsafe to drive.
While has had the transmission recall work done x 2 and was told by the mechanics that to recync “drive it like you stole it” when you can prior to the last recall fix in Feb and just had the cpv recall replacement done in February it was not driven a lot and I am in my late 60’s so I do not drive it like a teenager. During that recall repair they said I needed to replace the engine bolts ( I would think would be related due to the “drive it like you stole it” to resync the transmission but had to pay for out of pocket and found a transmission bolts also needed replaced that I wasn’t told by the ford service guy. Recently in driving it would thunk when stopping and pinched forward and had major excelleration delay when trying to turn in traffic causing safety issues. Shifting was erratic and would stay in like 1st or 2nd when should have been going to 3/4th gear.Took in to service at ford again as the wrench showed up on dash finally thinking it was the auto shift transmission to be told I had a complete computer failure to replace at my cost of approx $2400. Isn’t this part of what controls the sync in the transmission in the first place? Isn’t this part of what they should have done on the other recalls like the 18v-735 or should it not be covered as the reprogramming apparently failed and at some point destroyed the computer module system?
During acceleration there is a hesitation. With the Transmission almost like the car was put into neutral. The accelerator needs to be fluttered to get it to respond. This has happened several times pulling into traffic. This last time it happened the notice came on stating that the Transmission is over heating. Pulled over to let it cool down. I notice recalls for this problem but my car is not listed. This happens at different speeds Any help would be appreciated. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2014 Ford Focus SE with PowerShift automatic transmission. Transmission Control Module (TCM) failed, causing vehicle to lose power while driving. Ford confirmed VIN not covered under Customer Satisfaction Program 14M02 despite identical issue and safety risk. Requesting investigation and expansion of TCM coverage. Ford is stating that this was never attached to my vin number although it is an identical issue
Transmission has a shudder when shifting from first to second gear. The transmission exhibits a noticeable shudder during the transition from first to second gear, indicating potential issues that may need to be addressed. This shudder can affect the overall driving experience and should be inspected to ensure smooth and efficient gear shifts.
I understand there were problems with the 2014 transmissions on Ford Focus models. Even though my car has a manual transmission, I believe it had similar problems to the automatic teansmissions.in switching from 1 to 2, it would sometimes drop. I'm now having issues with my transmission and wondering if the problem is the same.
I am filing a complaint against Ford Motor Company for their refusal to honor Recall 15B22 (Customer Satisfaction Program) related to the transmission issues on my 2014 Ford Fusion Hatchback. We purchased this vehicle as the second owners, and it currently has only 140,000 miles. Despite the recall still being in effect, Ford has denied coverage and is demanding nearly $2,000 to repair the transmission, stating that it needs a new computer. This has caused significant hardship for my family. The vehicle is my son’s first car, purchased with the last of our savings, and it has been stuttering horribly, making it unsafe and unreliable to drive. What should have been an exciting and empowering first-car experience has turned into a stressful financial and emotional burden. Recalls exist to correct known defects that compromise safety and vehicle reliability. Ownership status should not be grounds for denying repairs. Ford’s refusal to perform the repair under Recall 15B22 violates the spirit and intent of consumer protection laws and leaves families like mine without recourse. I respectfully request that your office investigate this matter and require Ford to cover the transmission repair under the recall, as they are obligated to do. I am happy to provide additional documentation, including my vehicle information, service denial, and any related correspondence. Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to your assistance in resolving this matter fairly and promptly
I am having an issue with the duel transmission. My car has been stalling making it unsafe. It has been giving me a warning saying the transmission is overheating even just driving short distances. The clutch A has been getting stuck and not dis engaging causing the car not to be able to shift gears. I have spent all of the money I have on this car and can’t afford to pay money to get it fixed when ford is aware of the issues when it was manufactured. They have issued recalls and are responsible to fix the problem. The recall needs to be extended so that hard working tax payers like me don’t feel screwed over by ford and out of so much money. I feel taken advantage of. And I’m broke , stuck with a car that is unsafe to me or others on the road.
I am writing 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). Unfortunately, my vehicle’s failure occurred 2 months after the program expired in June 2025, and I was informed by my dealer that Ford will no longer cover the repair. This situation is deeply concerning for several reasons: Known Defect: Ford has long been aware of systemic failures in the transmission. Numerous recalls, service programs, and even class-action settlements confirm that these problems are widespread and not isolated. 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 expensive repairs for a defect Ford already admitted responsibility for. Ford’s responsibility to address this issue should not end simply because the program expired, particularly when the defect poses ongoing safety risks. I am requesting that Ford: Provide goodwill coverage to replace/repair the failed transmission control module (or related components) at no cost to me. Extend support for affected owners beyond the June 2025 expiration, as the defect persists in vehicles on the road today. I have filed or will be filing this complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Better Business Bureau Auto Line, and my State Attorney General’s office so that my concerns are documented at the federal and state level. I urge Ford to take responsibility and ensure customer safety by addressing this defective transmission beyond arbitrary deadlines. [XXX] 2014 Ford Focus INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the vehicle jerked abnormally and was sluggish. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
The vehicle started two jerk while driving and dropped in speed. My dashboard displayed a “transmission fault” message. After stopping the vehicle would have trouble getting back up to speed.
Showing 1–20 of 50 complaints
Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA. A high complaint count may reflect vehicle popularity, not defect severity. Data sourced from NHTSA public records.
Data synced from NHTSA on Apr 25, 2026