I’m thinking of buying a 2018 Ford Focus SE Hatchback. It’s an automatic with a 6-speed transmission. Are these still using the problematic DCT, and are they still prone to the same issues as earlier models?
Yes, it still has the DCT. Ford made improvements to it over the years, but it’s still not great. I’d recommend getting a car with a traditional automatic transmission or even a manual. You’ll save yourself a lot of headaches.
@Keaton
Thanks for your reply. The low price and mileage are what’s tempting me—$10k for a car with 25,000 miles and still under factory warranty. Corollas at this price are older with more miles. Do you think it could still be worth it?
@Ori
I get why you’re tempted, especially with those numbers. Some people haven’t had issues with the newer models, but it’s always a gamble with the DCT. If you do decide to go for it, haggle hard. Mention the DCT concerns to negotiate the price down—$10k seems a bit steep unless it’s loaded with features.
The real question is whether you’ll ever fully trust the car, knowing the transmission might fail down the line. It’s a solid little car otherwise, but that transmission will always be in the back of your mind.
@Keaton
Thanks for the advice. I’ll definitely try to negotiate and be ready to walk away if they don’t budge.
Yes, the automatic models still use the DCT unless you find one with an EcoBoost engine. The EcoBoost models have a traditional automatic and avoid most of the issues like shuddering.
I have a 2018 SEL with the DCT, and it’s been mostly fine. I’m at 32,000 miles and haven’t had major issues, but I’ve learned to drive it differently. For example, I avoid creeping in traffic and try to keep my acceleration smooth. It can feel a little weird at times, but no major problems yet. $10k feels a bit high for an SE unless it’s fully loaded. Definitely negotiate, especially since I’ve seen similar cars with more features at that price.
@Colby
I had a 2012 with the DCT, and after multiple transmission services, they finally replaced it with a newer PCM. It’s still a DCT, though, and you’ll occasionally feel it slip under certain conditions. A tune can help smooth things out, but that’s an extra $400-500.
I just bought the same car you’re considering—2018 SE Hatchback. Got it at 32,000 miles, and so far, so good. I’ve noticed some light shuddering and that the shifter feels a bit fragile, but nothing major yet. Looking back, I probably should’ve gone with a Fusion or the Mustang I saw on the lot, but I’m still happy with my decision. It came with a 2-year warranty, and my payments are $213 a month on $11k (I put $1,600 down).
@Baylen
Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m still thinking it over.