Since 2019, Ford has been accused of hiding defects in certain Ford Focus cars. These defects cause jerking, trouble stopping, and severe engine issues. A federal lawsuit in Delaware claims the Powershift Transmission has many problems and safety concerns.
Internal documents indicate that Ford was aware of these transmission issues but chose to sell the defective cars. This led to a $10 million fine in Australia for ‘unconscionable conduct’ and a current investigation by the Department of Justice for fraud. These legal actions empower affected owners and underscore their rights in this situation.
It’s important to understand if these transmission issues impact your Ford Focus and what legal rights and options you have.
This article will help you recognize the signs of transmission problems, identify which Ford models are affected, and explore your legal avenues. You’ll learn about the class action lawsuit against Ford and whether joining it or pursuing a lemon law case is the right path for you.
How to Know if Your Transmission is Affected
If you own a Ford Focus, you need to be aware of the common signs of transmission problems. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
- Jerking or Shuddering: If your car jerks or shudders when you accelerate or shift gears, it may have a transmission issue.
- Difficulty Stopping: If you experience trouble stopping your car, it could indicate a problem with the transmission that is affecting the overall braking system.
- Delayed Acceleration: A lag or delay when you press the gas pedal can be a sign that your transmission is not functioning properly.
- Strange Noises: Unusual noises, such as grinding, whining, or clunking when shifting gears, are often signs of transmission trouble.
- Warning Lights: If the check engine light or transmission warning light comes on, you should have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to take your car to a certified mechanic for a thorough inspection. They can diagnose the problem and determine if it is related to the known transmission defects in Ford Focus models.
Which Makes and Models of Ford are Affected?
Any Ford vehicle with a DPS6 clutch or PowerShift transmission might have transmission problems. The following Ford models have this type of transmission:
- Ford Fiesta
- Ford Puma
- Ford Galaxy
- Ford Edge
- Ford Focus
- Ford S-MAX
- Ford C-MAX
- Ford Mondeo
- Ford Ecosport
- Ford Escape
While most lawsuits focus on the Fiesta and Focus models, they are not the only ones affected by the DPS6 transmission issues. Ford continues to sell newer models, like the 2022 Ecosport and Edge, with this transmission type. If you own one of these vehicles, staying informed about potential transmission problems and your legal rights is essential.
Can I Join the Ford Focus Class Action Lawsuit?
If you own a Ford Focus with transmission problems, you might be eligible to join the class action lawsuit against Ford.
You must own or lease a Ford Focus with the defective DPS6 clutch or PowerShift transmission. Your vehicle must have experienced transmission issues like jerking, difficulty stopping, or severe engine problems.
You can combine your case with others by joining the class action lawsuit. This increases your chances of a successful outcome. You will also have access to legal representation without bearing the full cost yourself, and if the lawsuit succeeds, you may receive compensation for repairs, buybacks, or other related expenses.
Lemon Law Case or a Class Action Settlement: Which Should I Pursue?
Pursuing an individual lemon law case may provide you with more compensation than joining a class action settlement. A lemon law claim allows you to seek compensation directly from the manufacturer if you have experienced repeated issues with your vehicle during the warranty period. You may receive a refund or cash compensation for your defective vehicle through a lemon law claim.
In contrast, class action lawsuits involve multiple people with the same issue filing a single claim against the manufacturer. The settlement in a class action is shared among all participants, which might not fully cover your individual damages.
For your specific case, a class action settlement may not be sufficient to cover all the costs and problems associated with your defective vehicle. Pursuing an individual lemon law claim can provide a more tailored and potentially higher compensation for your unique situation.
Let Lemon Law Assist Help You!
To know if you qualify for a claim, you should talk with an expert lemon law attorney who can assess the details of your specific case and determine your eligibility.
Lemon laws are complex and require specialized knowledge, so having an experienced legal representative on your side is vital. Auto manufacturers often have their own teams of specialized attorneys, so you should protect your interests by doing the same.
If you have questions about your Ford Focus or any other vehicle, Lemon Law Assist can help you. We are the number one leading lemon law firm in California, helping consumers across the state recover millions for their lemon law claims.
Our team of experts regularly secures outstanding settlements from major auto manufacturers, including Subaru, GM, Tesla, and Ford. Find out what you could receive by calling us at 424-403-2820 or contacting us today for a case evaluation. We are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What years of Ford Focus had transmission problems?
The Ford Focus models from 2012 to 2016 are known to have transmission problems related to the DPS6 clutch or PowerShift transmission.
Is there a recall on Ford transmissions?
Yes, Ford has issued recalls for certain models with transmission issues, including the Ford Focus and Fiesta, due to defects in the PowerShift transmission.
What is the Ford Focus transmission recall lawsuit?
The Ford Focus transmission recall lawsuit involves claims that Ford sold vehicles with defective transmissions, which caused jerking, trouble stopping, and other issues. Plaintiffs argue that Ford knew about these problems but continued to sell the cars without addressing the defects.
Is there a recall on my Ford Focus?
To find out if your Ford Focus is under recall, you can check the recall status using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Ford’s official recall website or by contacting Ford customer service.
How do I find out about the Ford Focus transmission recall?
You can find out about the Ford Focus transmission recall by visiting Ford’s recall website and entering your VIN, contacting Ford customer service, or checking for any recall notices you may have received in the mail.
How can I tell if my Ford has a recall?
You can tell if your Ford has a recall by checking your VIN on Ford’s recall website, contacting Ford customer service, or looking for any official recall notices sent to you by Ford.
