I’ve been eyeing the Ford Focus hatchback because it’s exactly what I want, and they’re super cheap. But I keep hearing horror stories about transmission problems.
Are they really as bad as people say? Are there any circumstances where it’s worth the gamble, or should I steer clear entirely?
If you’re going to get one, make sure it’s a manual. That way, you avoid the transmission headaches altogether.
Check if the model has the DPS6 transmission. Those are the problem automatics. The TCM (transmission control module) fails a lot, and while it’s covered under warranty to 150,000 miles, replacements are often on backorder for months.
@Bin
Most of these are probably out of warranty by now. Personally, I wouldn’t touch a 2012+ Focus with an automatic transmission.
The 2012-2018 Focus with the 2.0L automatic is the one to avoid. Same goes for the Fiesta.
Go for a manual transmission and enjoy the car without any of the automatic issues.