2017 Ford Focus
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 903 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 10th highest complaint count among 19 Focus model years with reports.
Of the 2017 reports, 18 involved a crash and 2 involved a fire. 16 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Power train, manual transmissionJun 9, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Focus and 2013-2016 Fusion vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 18V169 and 18V845. The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.
A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can increase the risk of a fire.
Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Additionally, dealers will inspect Focus vehicles and replace the clutch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 5, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S43. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6,2026.
Campaign 26V376000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storage, evaporative emissions, canisterJun 9, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Focus vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 18V735. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving.
An engine that stalls while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S40. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6,2026.
Campaign 26V369000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, electrical, engine block heaterJan 15, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed February 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026. This recall expands previous recall number 25V685.
Campaign 26V012000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, electrical, engine block heaterJan 15, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S01. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026.
Campaign 26V011000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engine, oil/lubrication, pumpDec 22, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus and 2018-2022 Ford EcoSport vehicles. The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner may fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure.
A loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the oil pump tensioner assembly and oil pump drive belt, free of charge. If engine failure occurs due to a damaged oil pump belt and/or oil pump belt tensioner, Ford has authorized dealers to replace the engine assembly as an interim repair before the availability of remedy parts for the final repair. This repair will be free of charge (parts and labor). Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S64.
Campaign 23V905000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storageJul 5, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012 and 2017 Focus vehicles equipped with 2.0L GDI gasoline engines and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles equipped with 2.0L GTDI engines, previously recalled under 18V-735. The affected vehicles did not have the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) updated as intended. Therefore, the Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, possibly causing excessive vacuum in the fuel vapor management system.
The excessive vacuum may result in an engine stall while driving, without warning and without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Powertrain Control Module. Dealers will also check for fault codes and replace the CPV as needed. If the CPV is replaced, dealers will inspect and replace the carbon canister, fuel tank and fuel delivery module as necessary. The recall began July 29, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S22.
Campaign 19V515000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, manual transmissionNov 28, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus vehicles equipped with a 1.0L Fox GTDI engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.
A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can increase the risk of a fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update vehicles with software that detects and prevents prolonged clutch slip, and will replace the clutch, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S07. Note: This recall is an expansion of Recall 18V-169.
Campaign 18V845000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storageOct 22, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles with a 2.0L GDI or 2.0L GTDI engine. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, possibly causing excessive vacuum in fuel vapor management system.
The excessive vaccuum may result in an engine stall while driving, without warning and without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Powertrain Control Module. Dealers will also check for fault codes and replace the CPV as needed. If the CPV is replaced, dealers will inspect and replace the carbon canister, fuel tank and fuel delivery module as necessary. The recall began August 19, 2019. Owners may contact Ford Customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S32. Note: Until the vehicle is serviced for this concern, owners are advised to keep the fuel tank at least halfway full.
Campaign 18V735000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/otherAug 28, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Focus vehicles. The rear left side seat back frame may have an insufficient weld between the outboard pivot bracket and the pivot nut joint, resulting in the seat back having reduced strength. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
The reduced seat back strength may increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the rear second left side rear seat back as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 10, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C13.
Campaign 17V528000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, hatchback/liftgate, lockSep 28, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Ford Focus hatchback vehicles manufactured February 14, 2012, to August 26, 2016 and equipped with a manual transmission. The hatchback of the affected vehicles may be unlatched with a single press of the interior latch release button. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
With only a single press needed, the driver may accidently unlatch the hatchback, increasing the risk of injury to any unsecured passengers in the back.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Body Control Module with updated software, free of charge. The recall began February 10, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16C13.
Campaign 16V698000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
903 reports, newest first.
Power train, Dec 28, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that vehicle intermittently hesitated while in second gear. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where a diagnostic test was performed; however, the mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. The failure persisted, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer where a service tech drove with the contact. The service technician witnessed the vehicle jerking while in second gear. The service tech informed the contact that the clutch assembly needed to be repaired. The contact was also informed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired but remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Power train, Dec 22, 2023
My car is takes a while to pick up speed when pressing on the accelerator. Also when pressing on the accelerator my car jerks. I took it to the dealership and they said it’s my transmission. I didn’t receive a warning light.
Power train, Dec 18, 2023
I am writing to bring to your attention a matter of significant concern regarding the transmission system in Ford Focus vehicles, and I kindly request that you consider issuing a recall for the affected models. I am the owner of a Ford Focus [2017], and unfortunately, I have experienced a critical issue with the transmission. After conducting thorough research, it has come to my attention that a substantial number of Ford Focus owners are grappling with similar transmission failures. This widespread problem is causing distress among Ford customers and has the potential to pose serious safety hazards. The transmission failures in Ford Focus vehicles have been well-documented, and the frequency of reported incidents indicates a systemic issue that warrants immediate attention. As a loyal customer of Ford, I believe it is crucial for the company to take responsibility for these recurring problems and take proactive measures to rectify them. Several reasons support the urgent need for a recall: Safety Concerns: The transmission failures in Ford Focus vehicles can result in sudden loss of power, delayed acceleration, and unpredictable shifts. These issues pose a significant safety risk, especially during highway driving or in emergency situations. The potential for accidents and injuries is alarming and demands swift action. In light of these concerns, I urge Ford Motor Company to initiate a recall for Ford Focus vehicles affected by transmission failures. By taking proactive steps to address this issue, you will not only ensure the safety and satisfaction of your customers but also uphold the integrity of the Ford brand.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Dec 18, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for an oil change, the mechanic discovered fuel in the oil. The dealer was alerted of the failure and the vehicle was towed to the dealer. A test was performed on the vehicle and the contact was instructed to drive the vehicle for 700 miles to test the fuel system. The contact's father then tested the vehicle after 700 miles and confirmed that a fuel odor was coming from the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and remained in the dealer's possession. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.
Engine, Dec 16, 2023
While driving on interstate, an oil light came on and vehicle slowed rapidly causing a very unsafe situation with attempting to safely pull over. Once pulled over, I did not want to risk further engine damage, so I shut off immediately and had vehicle towed to dealer. Even though I placed a large sign on steering wheel and keys not to run engine, dealer states test driving. Further examination reveals the oil pump is seized and my only option for repair is a new engine. The recommended maintenance for the oil pump is 150,000 miles and it failed at 69,000 miles without any warning or recommendation for service by Ford. This is a know issue that is putting hundreds of thousands drivers world wide at risk of a potential serious accident if power loss occurs at an inopportune time!
Fuel system, Gasoline, Dec 12, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that after her daughter refueled the vehicle at the gas station, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the vehicle started after several attempts. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing rough idling. Additionally, the contact stated that while her daughter was making a right turn and merging onto a ramp, the vehicle stalled inadvertently in the middle of the road. The contact's daughter was unable to pull to the side of the roadway. The contact stated that her daughter was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts. The contact's daughter then pulled to the side of the road. The contact stated that her daughter was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the purge valve had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V515000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine, Dec 11, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted on several occasions however, on other occasions the vehicle would not restart. Additionally, the contact stated that the coolant reservoir had to be topped several times. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the PATS transceiver module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not able to start, and the contact was informed that the head gasket needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Power train, Dec 8, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated while attempting to reverse, the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that he could shift into drive(D); however, the vehicle failed to shift into reverse(R) after several attempts. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact the VIN was not covered under an unknown recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 5, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was later driven to a local mechanic who diagnosed that the failure was related to an emissions failure. No further information was provided. The contact stated that the vehicle had stalled on multiple occasions. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 103,000.
Power train, Dec 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving in stop-and-go traffic, the vehicle would hesitate or stall without warning. The vehicle had been serviced on three separate occasions under warranty by Asheville Ford (611 Brevard Rd, Asheville, NC 28806) and Frederick Motor Company (1 Waverley Drive, Frederick, MD 21702) where the dual-clutch system was replaced. The contact stated that after each repair, the failure returned within 6-8 months after the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
Power train, Engine, Dec 1, 2023
Wet belt failure due to manufacture decent and design flaw. Wet belt seized up the motor at 80,000 miles no oil went to motor and we had to replace it. Motor cost us 6,000 and we had to buy a used one because ford stopped making them because of the defect. However they refused to help financially with the motor. We were also told that the wet belt can break again so basically the car is useless and we can’t sell it to anyone knowing that it is defective. We want the car purchased back from ford.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 30, 2023
I was headed back home for thanksgiving, traveling down I20 from Birmingham to Anniston AL, when the oil light suddenly came on, then 2 minutes later a "default Engine-service now" warning appeared. The car immediately started making a loud rattling noise, sputtered and stopped accelerating. I almost got rear-ended and was terrified! I managed to exit the interstate and pulled into a gas station. Checked oil levels, which were fine. Got back on I20 and drove slowly (with hazard lights flashing) back to previous exit, where there was an express oil change. They could not identify the exact problem, but mechanic speculated it was the oil pump since he just fixed another ford vehicle with the same issue. I had my car towed back to Pep Boys in [XXX] (where I live). After inspecting my vehicle, I was informed that the oil pump had completely malfunctioned. The whole thing, including belts and tensioner had to be replaced. I'm still waiting to find out if any further damage was caused to the engine. So far, the bill is up to $4000 and I have been without a vehicle for 6 days. I would like to note that I completed regular oil changes and maintenance on this vehicle. Upon searching online, I have seen many other reports of this same issue on Ford Focus models, yet there has been no recall or action taken by ford and no action taken by the NHTSA. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Nov 30, 2023
The contact's wife owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud sound and experienced rough driving. The next day while pulling out of the driveway, the oil warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Engine, Nov 29, 2023
The oil pressure indicator light came on. Ford dealership inspection concluded an internal belt failure which resulted in a clogged oil pickup screen and engine failure.
Power train, Nov 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate while in reverse(R). There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that there was a failure with the TCM (Transmission Control Module). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
Power train, Nov 24, 2023
I purchased my 2017 Ford with approximately 300 miles on the speedometer. Have driven my vehicle with care and routine maintenance getting well over 40 miles per gallon. Twice I have had a issue with the clutch and/or transmission under warranty. The car would shutter and vibrate while shifting from 1st gear to 2nd gear and increasingly become worse the more driven. Whether the car is warm or cold, still it would shutter. Was a hassle getting the dealership to fix this issue both times, but got it done. The same issue is starting all over again at 91,000 miles and the warranty is now void. Hoping this repetitive issue can or will be repaired. Thank you
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Nov 13, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. While driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle stalled. Upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle stalled again. The contact stated that the fuel gauge was reporting inaccurately. The mileage displayed the wrong reading. The contact was unable to use the specified fuel and had to use a higher-octane fuel. The vehicle failed to accelerate above 30 MPH. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the vehicle had failed inspection. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V515000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The approximate failure mileage was 42,000.
Power train, Nov 13, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started shaking excessively. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to her residence. The contact also stated that the failure had been reoccurring for over a year. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with a failed transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 12, 2023
On three occasions the engine, on my 2017 Ford Focus, has stalled while driving, without warning and without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. The 1st two times (Sept 5th and 29th) it stalled the check engine and battery light came on. When it stalled the 3rd time (Oct 28th) only the check engine light came on. I had repairs done to the car when it stalled the 2nd time but after the repair work was complete the car still stalled. I researched online and Ford had recalled the Ford Focus for intermittent stalling but when I called them and gave them my VIN # they said my car was not on the list, but they suggested I contact you to report the safety issue I am having with my car. I am very, very afraid to drive it, since it puts my safety at risk and my husband and children. My car is our main driving source.
Power train, Nov 5, 2023
Transmission Available for inspection Being able to accelerate and or brake is essential for safety in a vehicle and this is compromised. Nothing has been confirmed but plenty of matching information on vehicle type. Vehicle has not been inspected No warning lights came on and this began this year
Power train, Nov 3, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered briefly before returning to normal functionality. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the dual-clutch. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 20,000.
Power train, Oct 31, 2023
Driving home from work, the transmission started to shudder and jerk as it shifted. On the highway the vehicle did not shift appropriately. Once home, the vehicle would not go into reverse. After pulling code P287A, the vehicle would no longer start. Ford confirmed it has the same transmission (DPS6) as vehicle mentioned in [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Oct 31, 2023
Vehicles dual clutch transmission dry clutch overheats causing the transmission to stop shifting.
Power train, Oct 29, 2023
I've had continuous issues with the DPS6 in my 2017 Focus that is consistent with that from previous model years, which Ford claims has been resolved. It has NOT been resolved. At 62,000 miles, the original transmission blew and had to be replaced in 2021. In spring of 2023, issues with the faulty TCM continually propped up and has been a considerable financial burden, as I've replaced components of the DPS6 to no avail and spent a considerable amount of money trying to resolve the issue. Shifting is challenging, the vehicle does not always turn on consistently and the transmission will occasionally kick into neutral and skip gears. I've replaced the actuators and the "lifetime" A/T fluid (which also should be investigated), and purchased a new TCM, which has been an even bigger arduous expense to get programmed and replaced. Overall, this has just been a huge financial burden and has cost me far more than the vehicle is currently worth. I'm displeased that NHTSA has not yet gotten involved and held Ford accountable for their poor craftsmanship. The TCM issue began in mid-April 2023, starting with skipping gears and jerking of the car. No accident occurred from this, but the car is a hazard to drive, but I rarely have any alternative as it is my daily driver that I pay a lot of money to be stuck with.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Power train, Oct 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at various speeds after refueling, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road on some occasions. On other occasions, the contact was not able to pull to the side of the road and turned on the hazards lights. The message "Hot" was displayed and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that she turned off and restarted the vehicle after the vehicle had cooled down. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had stalled while driving from a complete stop. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal several times until the vehicle responded. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic several times, where the computer was reset, and the fuel pump was replaced; however, the check engine warning light illuminated a month after the repair, and the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission clutch was stuck. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer then referred the contact to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed that the transmission clutch was stuck. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact followed up with the manufacturer, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 96,500.