Ford Extends DPS6 Transmission Warranty Coverage for Affected Focus & Fiesta Models
Ford Motor Company has significantly expanded warranty protections for owners of certain Focus and Fiesta models equipped with the problematic DPS6 dual-clutch automatic transmission. This decisive action comes after years of widespread consumer complaints about erratic shifting behavior and potential safety concerns.
Key Warranty Updates:
- Coverage extended to 7 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first)
- Applies to specific 2014-2016 Focus and 2014-2015 Fiesta models
- Covers clutch components and related transmission hardware
- Includes reimbursement for previous qualifying repairs
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Understanding the DPS6 Transmission Issues
The PowerShift DPS6 transmission, introduced in the 2011 Fiesta and 2012 Focus, represents Ford's attempt to combine the efficiency of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic. This dual-clutch design promised better fuel economy but ultimately delivered frustration for many owners.
Common Symptoms of DPS6 Problems:
- Rough or jerky shifting, especially at low speeds
- Delayed acceleration when starting from a stop
- Transmission shudder or vibration during gear changes
- Unexpected shifting into neutral while driving
- Illuminated transmission warning lights
These issues stem primarily from two components: the clutch assembly, which can wear prematurely, and the Transmission Control Module (TCM), which may fail unexpectedly. Ford has addressed these concerns separately through different warranty extensions.
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Detailed Warranty Coverage Breakdown
The enhanced protection applies to specific model years and production dates, reflecting periods when transmission components were most problematic.
Eligible Vehicles:
- Focus Models: 2014-2016 built between July 4, 2013 and November 5, 2015
- Fiesta Models: 2014-2015 built between July 4, 2013 and October 15, 2014
Owners should verify their vehicle's build date on the driver's door jamb sticker. Earlier models (2011-2013 Fiesta and 2012-2013 Focus) received similar warranty extensions previously.
Covered Components:
- Clutch assembly (including materials and seals)
- Input shaft seals
- Transmission control module (separate 10-year/150,000 mile coverage)
- Related labor costs for diagnosis and repair
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How to Take Advantage of the Warranty Extension
Ford has established specific procedures for owners to access these warranty benefits and seek reimbursement for previous repairs.
Steps for Current Issues:
- Schedule an appointment at an authorized Ford dealership
- Request a transmission diagnostic check
- Provide your vehicle's complete service history
- Ask about the latest technical service bulletins (TSBs)
Reimbursement Process:
Owners who previously paid for covered repairs can submit documentation for reimbursement through Ford's customer service channels. Required materials typically include:
- Detailed repair invoices showing paid amounts
- Proof of ownership during repair period
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
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Technical Background: Why the DPS6 Fails
Automotive engineers point to several design factors that contribute to the DPS6's reliability issues:
Primary Failure Points:
- Dry Clutch Design: Unlike conventional automatics that use hydraulic fluid, the DPS6's dry clutches experience more friction and heat
- Seal Degradation: Input shaft seals can leak, allowing contamination of clutch surfaces
- Software Challenges: Early TCM programming struggled to manage the complex clutch engagement patterns
- Material Selection: Original clutch materials wore faster than anticipated in stop-and-go driving
Ford has implemented running changes to address these issues in newer production models, including revised clutch materials, improved seals, and updated control software.
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Safety Considerations and Recourse Options
While not officially classified as a safety recall, the transmission issues have prompted significant concern among regulators and consumer advocates.
Safety-Related Symptoms:
- Unexpected loss of propulsion when shifting to neutral
- Delayed acceleration when entering traffic
- Transmission overheating warnings
Owners experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact their Ford dealer. In cases where dealers refuse warranty coverage, consumers may escalate through:
- Ford's customer relationship center
- State lemon law provisions (varies by jurisdiction)
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaint system
Software Update Alert: Approximately 165,000 vehicles never received a critical TCM software update that provides enhanced failure warnings. Ford is attempting to re-contact these owners.
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Comparative Reliability: DPS6 vs. Other Ford Transmissions
The DPS6's problems stand in contrast to Ford's generally positive transmission reputation.
| Transmission Type | Typical Lifespan | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| DPS6 Dual-Clutch | 60,000-100,000 miles | Clutch shudder, TCM failure |
| 6F35 Conventional Automatic | 150,000+ miles | Occasional solenoid issues |
| Manual Transmissions | 200,000+ miles | Clutch wear (normal maintenance) |
This comparison helps explain why Ford continues offering manual transmissions in these models while addressing the DPS6's shortcomings.
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Owner Experiences and Long-Term Solutions
Analysis of owner forums and repair data suggests several strategies for managing DPS6-equipped vehicles.
Maintenance Best Practices:
- More frequent transmission fluid checks (despite "lifetime fluid" claims)
- Aggressive driving to help keep clutch surfaces clean
- Prompt attention to any shift quality changes
- Regular software updates from Ford dealers
Many automotive experts recommend considering extended warranty coverage for vehicles nearing the 100,000-mile limit, as repair costs outside warranty can exceed $2,500.
