Ford Focus models have been really popular in the American market. Unfortunately, today, you can't buy the new Focus because they were discontinued in North America due to Ford's ambition to sell more SUVs. Currently, the Focus is the history along with Fiesta. But still, hundreds of thousands of these cars are still running around and many of them are sold used.
Ford PowerShift transmission highlights
- Average lifespan:90,000-110,000 miles
- Reliability Score:Low
- Prone to minor issues:Yes
- Price for repair after failure:$1,500-$3,000
- Price for replacement:$3,500-$5,000
- Availability of parts:Poor
- Common problems:clutch kit failure, electronic glitches, control module problems, super expensive repair.
Is there a transmission fluid dipstick in the Ford Focus?
We can't say for all Focuses since the start of the model's history, but since 2011, when the third generation of these cars started selling, you can't check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick. We know that in some previous models you could do that, but not in the newer ones.
So, you shouldn't search for the dipstick in the transmission because there is no dipstick. Also, there is no plug that can be used to insert an aftermarket dipstick like in some other transmissions.
What kind of transmission does the Ford Focus use?
Some rare Focuses in America use manual transmissions (usually the S trim) but the vast majority of these cars are equipped with the dual-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission marketed as PowerShift.
We can't say the transmission is really good as it usually fails at about 100,000 miles and required clutch replacement and also TCM repair or replacement. But regarding fluids, this is not the transmission you should worry much about.
This is basically the manual transmission with just about 2 liters of fluid in it and the fluid only ensures the mechanical part of the transmission works well. So, the automatic part of the transmission has no fluids and doesn't depend on them.
Can you still check the fluid level in the Ford Focus transmission?
No, you can't. Unless you have special knowledge about how the Focus transmission should be serviced. Also, you can purchase the service manual from Ford and complete the checking, refilling, and other tasks by yourself if you have enough knowledge and experience as a car mechanic.
But for the majority of us, the only way to check the transmission fluid level is just to follow the simple advice: go to the dealership or to the repair shop you trust and have the fluid level checked.
How often should you change the fluid in your Focus transmission?
Ford's service interval guide says that you should have the transmission fluid checked and probably changed every 30,000 miles. And we agree with that. This is the optimal interval for fluid change in any transmission.
For changing the fluid in the transmission, you should be careful with the fluid type you buy. Bad fluid will cause premature transmission death. For both PowerShift and manual transmission, the fluid change procedure is quite important.
We should say that the transmission fluid change is not really simple. If you think you can do it yourself, you need to check first whether you have the needed experience and knowledge. Otherwise, better put that wrench aside and don't touch the transmission.
What can happen if you have a low fluid level in the transmission?
One of the worst things about the transmission in your Ford Focus is to work with a low fluid level. In this case, the transmission will overheat, and the gears will have rough contact with each other. It means they will certainly wear off quickly and maybe even break fast after the next try of acceleration.
If the PowerShift transmission works without fluid in it, it will survive a couple of days or weeks, but then it will certainly die leaving you without the possibility to drive. So, the best decision for you is to have that fluid level checked at the dealership. Also, you should keep up with the maintenance requirements that Ford provides you with.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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