Looking at getting one and hearing mixed things. Curious about the automatic transmission – anyone know if it’s reliable?
Are you talking about the 2.0L diesel model available in Europe? If so, those typically come with the Ford MPS6/Getrag 6DCT450 wet-clutch transmission. It’s much more reliable than the Ford DPS6/Getrag 6DCT250 dry-clutch we had here in the U.S. Just remember it’s basically an automated manual, so things like coasting in traffic or constant stop/start driving can put extra wear on it. But it shouldn’t have the same reliability issues as the DPS6.
@West
Yes, it’s the 2.0 diesel we get here in Europe. My dealer is still waiting for a document from Ford, so I don’t even know the exact transmission model yet. This gives me some hope, though. Any tips on confirming the transmission type?
@Shai
For the Mk4 2.0L diesel, it should be either a 6-speed manual or the 6DCT450. Good news is the 6DCT450 doesn’t have the major issues the DPS6 has. Just keep up with maintenance like regular oil changes, avoid heavy towing, and try not to coast too much in traffic. It does have some known issues, like solenoid failures and clutch replacements around 100k miles, but these are manageable if you stay on top of maintenance.
@West
Thanks! I’ll check with my dealer next week about which exact transmission it is and get more details on maintenance.
I’m buying the SW version, but I keep hearing that the transmission is expensive to maintain. Now I’m pretty nervous about it.
Shai said:
I’m buying the SW version, but I keep hearing that the transmission is expensive to maintain. Now I’m pretty nervous about it.
Honestly, if it’s an automatic, I’d avoid it. Ford’s automatics have been known to have costly issues, and you could end up replacing parts over and over.
@Drue
Is it just Ford automatics that are a problem, or automatics in general?
Shai said:
@Drue
Is it just Ford automatics that are a problem, or automatics in general?
This particular 6-speed dual-clutch auto has some design flaws. Many people experience drivability issues, and when it fails, it can be expensive to fix (think loud bangs and the car not moving at all).
The 2.0L is a solid engine. But the DP6 transmission can be hit or miss. Some of them run perfectly fine for over 150k miles without issues, while others need repairs every 15,000 miles. It’s kind of a gamble. Try searching “Ford DP6 transmission problems” to get a better idea.
@Vero
Thanks for the heads-up! I’ll do some more research on Google.
Honestly, don’t buy it.
Teo said:
Honestly, don’t buy it.
Why do you say that?
Teo said:
Honestly, don’t buy it.
Why do you say that?
I couldn’t buy a car knowing the transmission has a history of issues. It’s like entering a relationship you know won’t last – bound to cost you time and money.
If it’s not a true manual, skip it. I bought mine with 41k miles, and by 108k, I was constantly dealing with transmission issues. Warranty and a class-action suit covered some repairs, but now I’d have to pay out of pocket if it breaks again. Love the car otherwise, but the transmission is just a headache. If you’re financing it, maybe look at a Honda or Toyota instead.
@Perry
Thanks for sharing. Are the North American DPS6 and the European versions the same? Because I’m really starting to worry.
Shai said:
@Perry
Thanks for sharing. Are the North American DPS6 and the European versions the same? Because I’m really starting to worry.
Honestly, I’m not sure.
I have a 2015 SE sedan, and after just 16,000 miles, I started having DCT issues. It was stuck on a waitlist for repairs, and I had to drive without even gears and reverse for months. I love the car itself, but Ford’s handling of the DCT issues has left a bad taste. If you get one, keep it as a secondary car and make sure you have disposable income for repairs.
@Aspen
I appreciate the advice. I’ve been looking forward to getting a sporty, family-friendly car. Maybe I’ll drive it for 6 months and see how it holds up.
Shai said:
@Aspen
I appreciate the advice. I’ve been looking forward to getting a sporty, family-friendly car. Maybe I’ll drive it for 6 months and see how it holds up.
If you’re going to drive it, try Sport mode or Hill-Assist to help manage the transmission better. Avoid stop-and-go traffic when you can, and if you’re going slow, put it in ‘L’ to keep the RPMs down. With Hill-Assist, it downshifts more on braking, which can be useful on hills. Just remember to be gentle with the gas pedal; this transmission likes steady inputs.