2013 Ford Focus

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 2,112 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 12 times.

Avoid One of the Ford Focus years to avoid: 2.3× the complaints of a typical Focus year. Which Ford Focus years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
53,000 milesMedian miles at failure

1,680 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Ford Focus problems

860 of the 2,112 complaints (41%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train · transmission817
504
Engine226
432
Steering220
400
Electrical System199
333
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system131
111
Unknown or Other114
000
Structure › Body · body and frame70
210
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration36
200
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system35
000
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control31
011

2013 Ford Focus transmission problems

41% of all complaints

860 of the 2,112 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • shudders or judders25% · 215
  • jerks, lurches or bucks24% · 204
  • hesitates before moving or accelerating19% · 166
  • sets off warning lights on the dash16% · 135
  • stalls14% · 124
  • slips or will not engage a gear14% · 119

Share of the 860 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
37,584 mi
median of 703 reports
Peak year of filing
2015
139 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
6 · 0 · 4
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
None
“Our 2013 ford focus has had the shudder clutch replaced 3 times in 4 years. We paid $2500 for them to replace the clutch, forks, and adjust the tcm module. Within a year it went again. They replaced under our warranty from the first fix. Then a year later, it went again, warranty was out but ford sent a letter to replace for free. They did.. and now it’s broke again. It shudders and jerks so bad.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 18, 2025
“I have the DPS6 Transmission from the Michigan plant. My Focus SE started to shudder, jerk, didn't want to shift,. Also, acted like the car was going to stall and when in reverse wouldn't back up. I also had problems with loss of power. I didn't feel safe when driving, what happens when I'm on the road if the car won't shift when in traffic? It's a hazard !!”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 19, 2025

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2012: 5 complaints, 3 about the transmission'122013: 154 complaints, 65 about the transmission2014: 218 complaints, 128 about the transmission'142015: 235 complaints, 139 about the transmission2016: 263 complaints, 79 about the transmission'162017: 194 complaints, 59 about the transmission2018: 162 complaints, 35 about the transmission'182019: 360 complaints, 124 about the transmission2020: 153 complaints, 53 about the transmission'202021: 90 complaints, 30 about the transmission2022: 94 complaints, 45 about the transmission'222023: 84 complaints, 48 about the transmission2024: 52 complaints, 28 about the transmission'242025: 31 complaints, 19 about the transmission2026: 17 complaints, 5 about the transmission'26Recall 12E035000 (equipment)Recall 13V085000 (door locks and latches)Recall 13V335000 (headlights)Recall 14V495000 (electrical system)Recall 15V813000 (electrical system)Recall 16V643000 (door locks and latches)Recall 16V698000 (door locks and latches)Recall 18V735000 (fuel system)Recall 19V515000 (fuel system)Recall 20V331000 (door locks and latches)Recall 26V011000 (equipment)Recall 26V369000 (fuel system)NHTSA investigation RQ23006NHTSA investigation RQ19005
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2013 Focus peaked in 2019, with 360 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 41% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 17 so far.

12 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Evaporative Emissions › Canister26V369000
Filed Jun 9, 2026257,868 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. 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.

Risk. An engine that stalls while driving increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. 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.

Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater26V011000
Filed Jan 15, 2026116,672 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. 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.

Risk. An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy. 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.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch20V331000
Filed Jun 8, 20202,147,323 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.

Risk. A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Evaporative Emissions › Canister19V515000
Filed Jul 5, 201957,488 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Evaporative Emissions › Canister18V735000
Filed Oct 22, 20181,282,596 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hatchback/Liftgate › Lock16V698000
Filed Sep 28, 201664,038 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. 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."

Risk. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch16V643000
Filed Sep 6, 20162,046,297 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component within the door latches may break, preventing the doors from latching and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.

Risk. A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S30.

Electrical System › Wiring15V813000
Filed Dec 2, 20159,017 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured January 11, 2012, to April 1, 2013, and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles manufactured May 03, 2012, to October 14, 2013. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor may provide incorrect signals to the powertrain control module (PCM).

Risk. The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began on January 7, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17-S1.

Electrical System › Wiring14V495000
Filed Aug 11, 2014133,227 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to April 1, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines and Focus ST vehicles manufactured February 14, 2012, to October 14, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor may provide incorrect signals to the powertrain control module (PCM).

Risk. The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17.

Exterior Lighting13V335000
Filed Aug 1, 20136,308 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Focus BEV vehicles equipped with High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, manufactured September 15, 2011, through May 6, 2013; and model year 2013 Focus ST vehicles equipped with High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, manufactured February 16, 2012, through May 7, 2013. Due to a wiring incompatability, the front side marker lamps may not function. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. Without the proper illumination of the side maker lamps, the vehicle may be less visible in night time conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will modify the headlamp assembly wiring, free of charge. The recall began on August 16, 2013. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13C04.

Latches/Locks/Linkages13V085000
Filed Mar 7, 20135,675 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Focus and C-Max vehicles built from November 16, 2012, through November 21, 2012; and model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from November 14, 2012, through November 21, 2012. The left rear door child lock was built incorrectly. As a result, the child lock may not engage when the operator uses normal force to activate the child lock.

Risk. The operator may incorrectly believe the child lock is engaged. However, the door may be opened from the inside, increasing the risk of injury to an unrestrained child.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected rear door latches, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

Equipment12E035000
Filed Oct 2, 2012440 vehiclesYakima Products, Inc.

Defect. This recall involves aftermarket parts sold by Yakima Products, Inc. for use on model year 2012 and 2013 Ford Focus vehicles. This recall is being conducted by Yakima, not by Ford. Certain combined Q-Tower and Q128 Clip rooftop rack systems, part numbers 8000124 and 8000728, do not fully contact the door frame.

Risk. Without proper contact of the rooftop rack clip to the door frame, there is insufficient clamping pressure and friction. The system may slide off the vehicle when loaded with accessories, possibly becoming a road hazard to other vehicles or causing injury to pedestrians.

Remedy. Yakima will notify owners, and Yakima or a Yakima dealer will refund the purchase of the Q-Tower and Q-128 Clip system. There is no replacement system available for the 2012-2013 model year Ford Focus. The safety recall began on October 15, 2012. Only vehicles equipped with the vehicle rack system are affected. This recall is being conducted by Yakima, not Ford. Owners may contact Yakima at 1-888-925-4621.

All 12 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2013 Focus.

Loss of Motive PowerRecall query RQ23006Closed
Opened Sep 15, 2023Closed Dec 20, 2024fuel system

On September 15, 2023, the Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) opened this Recall Query (RQ) after receiving 98 consumer complaints alleging loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles. The RQ focused on the effectiveness of the remedies of Recall 18V-735 and 19V-515. In October 2018, Ford issued Recall 18V-735, which updated Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software in MY 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles equipped with 2.0L GDI engines built prior to April 13, 2017, and those with 2.0L GTDI engines built prior to February 2, 2018. The recall addressed vehicles …

Door Latch FailuresRecall query RQ19005Closed
Opened Dec 19, 2019Closed Feb 7, 2022Led to recall 20V177000door locks and latches

In December 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation based on 235 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging doors failed to latch when closed, and/or inadvertently opened while driving, on model year (MY) 2012-2014 Ford Fiesta, and 2013-2014 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ. Some VOQs reported the failure occurred after the latch had been remedied under a prior recall which involved fracture of the latch pawl spring tab due to thermally induced cyclic fatigue. Other VOQs alleged a similar failure in vehicles not previously recalled. A latch with a fractured pawl …

Door Latch FailurePreliminary evaluation PE16001Closed
Opened Jan 16, 2016Closed Oct 29, 2016Led to recall 16V643000door locks and latches

In January, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation based on consumers' allegations of doors failing to latch and/or inadvertently opening on model year (MY) 2012-2013 Ford Focus vehicles (subject vehicles).ODI has received 464 unique reports related to the alleged problem, with over 200 claiming that the door(s) opened inadvertently while the vehicle was in motion.One consumer alleged an injury that occurred while driving when a door inadvertently opened and then closed on a child's arm.Another alleged that a door that inadvertently opened struck a parked …

Technical service bulletins

154 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2013 Focus. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 41transmission 41equipment 23engine 20body and frame 4equipment adaptive/mobility 4fuel system 3visibility 2
14M02 S7Warranty extensionMay 4, 2023transmission

Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Due to ongoing limited part availability, program terms have been revised. Vehicle pickup & delivery has been added. Labor allowance table …

14M02 06Warranty extensionNov 7, 2022transmission

Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission; Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Non-Ford Part Usage: Vehicles that are still covered by the 8 years/80,000-mile Emissions warranty coverage MUST be serviced with a NEW Ford …

14M02-S5Warranty extensionJul 30, 2021transmission

Ford is extending the warranty coverage on the DPS6 automatic transmission TCM to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. This extended warranty coverage will address intermittent symptoms of loss of transmission engagement while driving, no-start, or a lack of power.

20B22-S4Service campaignSep 2, 2020transmission

This customer satisfaction program updates the TCM software in affected vehicles to provide improved detection and over warning of electrical circuit failures in the TCM. As communicated in a previous Customer Satisfaction Program (14M02), electrical circuit failures within the TCM may develop and result in intermittent symptoms of loss of transmission …

14M01-S7Warranty extensionAug 26, 2019transmission

Certain 2011 through 2014 Model Year Fiesta and Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission - Transmission Clutch Shudder / Transmission Input Shaft Seal Warranty Extension

14M02-S4Warranty extensionAug 26, 2019transmission

Certain 2011 through 2015 Model Year Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Model Year Focus Vehicles Equipped with a DPS6 Automatic Transmission - Transmission Control Module Extended Warranty Coverage

Showing the newest 6 of 41 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2013 Ford Focus 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★11.6%
2013 Ford Focus 5 HB FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★11.6%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Power Train
Filed Sep 25, 2026MI

Transmission error stating clutch A engaged. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection. My safety and the safety of others were put at risk because the vehicle would not move after being stopped at the stop light or stop sign or stop during traffic.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 23, 2026IL

The vehicle suffered a major mechanical and electrical failure on July 28, 2026, and was immediately towed to an authorized dealership. After a multi-day delay awaiting a senior technician's analysis, the dealership issued a single service ticket grouping two distinct issues: a failed Canister Purge Valve (active Safety Recall 26S40) and localized wiring damage. The dealership fraudulently drafted the ticket to imply that external rodent damage caused the recall component failure. However, forensic photographic proof uploaded to the manufacturer database on August 13, 2026, reveals a classic consequential engineering failure: the wiring insulation is severely bubbled and thermally fused from extreme internal circuit resistance caused entirely by the defective recall component. An adjacent plastic snack wrapper remains completely pristine and untouched, disproving the rodent narrative. The vehicle has now been held in safety detention for 57 consecutive days. A corporate supervisor explicitly confirmed on a recorded line that the manufacturer has possessed these forensic photos since mid-August but left the safety file stagnant due to an internal database text-field error. Their software is failing to match the vehicle's engine string '2.0L I4 DI Ti-VCT' to the recall applicability screen 'GDI', creating a data-entry roadblock to deny a free safety remedy. I am requesting an immediate federal audit of the manufacturer's database alignment for Recall 26S40 and a manual technica

Electrical System
Filed Sep 9, 2026ME

RE: FAULTY THROTTLE WIRING / LOCATION CAUSING CORROSION 2013 FORD FOCUS - RECALL NEEDED To Whom It May Concern: My 2013 Ford Focus SE Flex with VIN [XXX] lost power while traveling from [XXX] to [XXX] a couple times before completely dying. My code reader was getting fixed throttle codes 2112, 2111 and pending codes 122, 223. I switched out the throttle body AND accelerator pedal position sensor. This did NOT resolve the issue. I had the Focus towed to Downey Ford in [XXX] where they found a Technical Service Bulletin stating endless Focuses had this issue with corroded wiring, which appears to be caused by TSB 15-0036, which is regarding the wiring harness rubbing against a sharp part of the intake, which can cause shorts in the cables. This Ford Dealership repair cost me $845.80 + grief + an extended stay at my hospitable parents in [XXX]. This concern should be escalated to RECALL status as it leaves your loyal customers stranded on the roadside. My request is a full refund from Ford for $845.80 CAD. See Downey Ford Invoice # SO # XXX attached. Source: [XXX] [XXX]: Bear with me, this is going to be a bit long. TL;DR: Car will not accelerate, CEL/MTC states problem with "accelerator pedal position sensor". Wiring harness has been cut into by rubbing on intake. I want to splice it to fix it, but need advice due to length/resistance requirements. Two weeks ago, my wife was driving my 2013 Ford Focus SE Hatchback and right as she got off the freeway, it instantly lost power, a

Power Train
Filed Sep 2, 2026IA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that the transmission failed, and the vehicle lost motive power, and the vehicle was stuck in the middle of traffic. The contact referenced several satisfaction programs for the issue; however, the VIN was not included in the repair. The vehicle was towed back to the residence due to it not being able to operate. The contact stated there was an unknown warning light on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the transmission had overheated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and it was confirmed with transmission failure.

Power Train
Filed Sep 2, 2026WI

I purchased a 2013 Ford Focus from Boucher Ford of Menomonee Falls, WI in February, 2026. A few months later, Ford issued a recall on this car that requires the Powertrain Control Module to be reprogrammed to avoid issues like a collapsed fuel tank or stalling while driving, potentially causing an accident. I had been informed by a mechanic that this car was sold to me with a custom tune on the PCM. This tune was not disclosed to me when I purchased the car and due to the PCM being modified, the recall cannot be performed without damage to the PCM rendering the car undriveable. I tried working with Jeff Samp (General Manager) at the dealership but he told me they were not required by law to check for tunes when a car is traded in and that he could have someone "look at the car" but if they damage the PCM performing the recall, they will not be held responsible. I opened a case with Ford Motor Company and was informed that they would escalate to some kind of dealership oversight department and that it might take a couple weeks to get a response. I never received a response so I called Ford to inquire and was told that they are not sure why I was told that, that no such department exists, and that all they can do is call the dealership on my behalf and "ask" them to deal with it. Facts: 1. They sold me a car with a modified Powertrain Control Module which can affect many things, even falsely disabling check engine lights. 2. A FEDERAL RECALL for my own safety cannot be performe

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 31, 2026OK

Issue happened in November 2016. The glass sunroof exploded while driving NE on I-44 just SW of Springfield MO. The reason I am reporting this now, is that I saw a news article about this happening often. Until I saw the news article I thought it was a one of event. We did not witness anything hitting the car/sunroof. I don't expect anything from this report. I just wanted report that a Ford Focus experienced this type of event.

Power Train
Filed Aug 21, 2026MI

See attached document for complaint.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 14, 2026GA

I am reporting a severe vehicle safety hazard and engine stalling incident on my 2013 Ford Focus caused by an un-remedied factory emissions safety defect (related to Ford Recall 26S40 / 18S32). Due to an incomplete factory software monitoring patch, the canister purge valve stuck open and allowed continuous, unchecked engine vacuum to pull straight out of the plastic fuel tank. This heavy vacuum physically collapsed and deformed the bottom of the plastic fuel tank inward by approximately 0.25 to 0.375 inches. This structural collapse compressed the internal fuel pump assembly and mechanical float arm, falsifying the dashboard fuel gauge and distance-to-empty calculations. On April 2nd, while driving on Interstate 95 at midnight, the vehicle displayed an inaccurate fuel level, ran completely dry, and suffered a sudden engine stall in high-speed traffic without warning. My family and I were trapped in a highly hazardous situation and were forced to physically push the disabled vehicle 3 miles down the highway in total darkness. We ultimately had to enlist the emergency intervention of the Florida State Patrol Road Rangers to dispatch a unit and supply fuel so we could safely clear the interstate. The vehicle has since thrown a hard diagnostic trouble code P0443, confirming a complete electrical circuit malfunction of the EVAP system. Ford's failure to successfully deploy a functional software monitor has caused severe structural damage to my fuel system and created an imminent,

Engine
Filed Jul 14, 2026GA

The evap canister purge valve has been a recurring problem for this vehicle. The canister was replaced in 2021, but continued having problems, as it pulled a vacuum on the fuel tank in upwards of 3/8 inch. (Documented by Murray Ford in 2023 and reassuredthere was no issue by them) the vehicle has displayed inaccurate fuel readings and caused our family to be disabled and then stranded in the night on highway 95. It put the safety of my family, and other motorists at risk The problem hasn't been duplicated because their "software fix" essentially ignored the problem altogether. There were no warnings. According to my vehicle it had at least 50 miles til empty. The fuel sending unit is displaying innacurqte fuel readings, and the fuel pump has displayed symptoms, characterized by surging, stalled when accelerating from a stop, and of course, completely shutting off, while on the highway. I've tried my best to trust and be patient with Ford and for them to do the right thing, but have been brushed off.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 4, 2026NC

I had my purge valve replaced under 24N07 ford costumer satisfactory program and the faulty purge valve damaged my catalytic converter and caused my engine light to illuminate with P0420.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 20, 2026CA

Transmission problems and my car is still under 100000 and it’s a 2013 ford focus

Unknown or Other
Filed May 17, 2026FL

While driving home from work, I was attempting to accelerate my RPMs showed 4000. However, my speed did not match the car. He hesitated and was doing a lot of jerking after I got home turned off the car turned it back on my check engine light came on and it threw a code P07A5.

Power Train
Filed May 8, 2026VA

The "shift tower" typically refers to the external mechanism on top of the transmission where the shifter cables connect. Problems with this part, which is a broken internal pin, result in a shifter that moves freely without engaging any gears. The gear become in operatable when driving down the highway, which is a hazard on the road. There were no warning light just not ale to change gears.

Engine
Filed Apr 14, 2026OH

The vehicle began to experience issues where it was difficult to start and ran rough. Multiple times after turning off vehicle and attempting to restart later it would not restart. Had vehicle towed to dealership for repairs, they conducted a recall repair and test over multiple days. Picked up vehicle, drove approximately 7 miles. Went into store came back and vehicle would not start. Multiple other recalls are listed for this date range and motor that likely could be impacting my current vehicle. However, this VIN is not listed as a specific recall. Current situation places driver and passenger at risk as the vehicle does not run properly and does not restart

Steering
Filed Mar 20, 2026MA

Steering wheel became hard to turn and then no steering and steering loss Stop safely came on the instrument panel, had car towed home and have had no one look at it yet

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Mar 18, 2026FL

The vehicle was serviced at Bartow Ford in Bartow, Florida, where approximately $1,100 was paid for the installation of a Body Control Module (BCM). Less than two weeks after this repair, the vehicle was returned to the same dealership due to issues involving the windshield wipers. According to the dealership’s own written statement, their technician began diagnosing the issue by replacing a blown fuse and tracing the wiring harness. While inspecting the wiring harness near the heater hose area, the technician observed coolant dripping onto the harness. When the technician touched the harness, it immediately caught fire. The shop foreman then had to disconnect the battery to prevent further damage. This fire occurred while the vehicle was in the possession and control of the dealership and during active diagnosis by their technician. Despite this, the dealership is now attempting to charge approximately $3,700 to repair the wiring harness and related components. We find this unacceptable. It is unreasonable to expect the customer to pay for repairs to damage that occurred during dealership service and inspection. This situation raises serious concerns, particularly because the dealership had recently performed electrical work on the vehicle involving the BCM only two weeks earlier.

Steering
Filed Feb 11, 2026VA

During recent freezing weather, upon starting the car and attempting to turn, I realized that the steering wheel was frozen solid. While researching what could have happened, the war warmed up enough to melt the water in the electric power assisted steering motor, allowing the vehicle to turn. Now, the EPAS is seized up completely. If I had been driving when it locked up completely, it could have proved fatal. The problem has not been reproduced, as it just happened in the last couple of weeks. I never got any check engine light pertaining to this issue. OBDII showed not errors for the EPAS.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Dec 1, 2025MA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V331000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Power Train
Filed Nov 18, 2025NJ

Our 2013 ford focus has had the shudder clutch replaced 3 times in 4 years. We paid $2500 for them to replace the clutch, forks, and adjust the tcm module. Within a year it went again. They replaced under our warranty from the first fix. Then a year later, it went again, warranty was out but ford sent a letter to replace for free. They did.. and now it’s broke again. It shudders and jerks so bad. My college daughter takes it to and from school and relies on it. I don’t understand how Ford gets away with this as it is an ongoing issue with this year make and model vehicle. It’s dangerous, will stall… and jerk. They charge to fix and all it is a bandaid for an ongoing inevitable failure again. On top of that all the electrical to the radio, speakers and such went as well. The vehicle has less than 98k miles on it. It is well taken care of. This transmission issue is Fords negligence. It’s dangerous, deadly; and I cannot believe they continue to charge for an issue they know about.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Nov 17, 2025178,391 milesWY

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, the RPM decreased, and the vehicle turned off independently. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that a dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the fuel line and fuel system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V515000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 178,391.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 9, 2025IN

The reverse Camera assist and alerts are faulty. The camera when you put the car into Reverse is upside down all of a sudden. The alerts continue to beep when I put the car in reverse as well. It's very dangerous because you think something is behind you even though there is nothing. Because the camera is upside down you can see anything behind you as well it just beeps non stop with no assistance.

Electrical SystemCrash2 injured
Filed Sep 9, 2025MN

Erratic shifting and eratic slipping gears , first happened while on highway and then it wouldnt go in any gear besides reverse and would say transmission overheat wait 5 min . caused another veihcal behind me to slam on there brakes and they ended up getting rear ended from the car behind them ..... all becouse of my cars tcm or transmission issues>!!!! also not too mention ` random unusual noises coming from clutch or shifter when not even start car yet _delayed start and delayed shifting .. i could go on and on this car is a nightmare

Electrical System
Filed Aug 19, 2025TX

While driving, the electric power steering went out. I purchased this vehicle on Aug 15 2025 and the Carfax report did not have any information pertaining to an issue with EPAS. To have this repaired will cost me over $3k which I was not prepared for. Being that other Ford vehicles have this EPAS recall, shouldn't a recall be made on the 2013 Ford Focus as well.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Aug 11, 2025105,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the failure persisted. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission after finding metal shavings inside the transmission fluid. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 105,000.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Filed Jul 31, 202560,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH on two occasions, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was steered to the side of the roadway and restarted. The contact stated that after the first failure, the vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the failure could not be replicated; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that on the second failure, the vehicle was able to restart; however, the failure persisted upon restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to another unknown dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Transmission Control Module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Power Train
Filed Jul 23, 202570,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was shifted into park and restarted. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with PCM failure. The contact stated that the PCM had been reprogrammed before. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

Power Train
Filed Jun 30, 2025CO

Transmission not shifting properly

Power Train
Filed Jun 30, 2025126,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stop, the transmission was slipping, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 126,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 17, 2025103,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle shuddered and hesitated. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 103,000.

Power Train
Filed Jun 13, 2025169,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly shifted into neutral(N), and the message “Transmission Overheated - Pull Over for 5 Minutes” was displayed. The contact coasted to the side of the road and waited before continuing to drive. The contact stated that while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start immediately, causing the contact to make several attempts to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission was hesitating, and the vehicle was jerking while downshifting. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed failures with dual clutch, engine failure, Clutch A failure, and a failure with the Transmission Control Module(TCM). The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V523000 (Power Train). The contact drove the vehicle to work and while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to immediately start, and the vehicle became inoperable. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V523000 (Power Train). The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 169,000. The VIN was not available.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 12, 2025IL

The car shows a warning transmission fault service now

Electrical System
Filed May 30, 2025TN

Power steering randomly stops working when vehicle is running. It happens most often right after I start the vehicle. I can turn the vehicle off and back on a couple times to get it to work. I am worried that it will happen while active driving. Power steering light comes on dashboard. It has happened many times.i will list the last date that it happened.

Power Train
Filed May 24, 2025CA

When I drive my car it takes time before it kicks in to drive correctly

Power Train
Filed May 16, 2025130,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that occasionally upon starting up the vehicle, the transmission was difficult to shift into gear. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact shifted into neutral and was able to push the vehicle because the reverse(R) was inoperable. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 15, 2025PA

Power train or speed control. The transmission acts up and it’s a common problem in this model and it’s almost caused an accident and I haven’t had a reliable source of transportation since this issue arose.

Power Train
Filed May 6, 2025180,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the transmission was slipping, and the vehicle lost motive power. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the clutch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Filed Apr 29, 2025103,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V735000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the recall repair was performed. The contact was concerned that the dealer had not properly completed the recall repair. The contact stated that the recall remedy was incomplete, and that the powertrain control module (PCM) should have been updated, and the evaporative emissions canister purge valves and the evaporative emission canister should have been replaced; however, the dealer had not performed the additional repairs. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that no additional repairs were available because the recall repair had been deemed completed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.

Power Train
Filed Apr 1, 2025OH

The transmission seems like it doesn’t want to go right away. It gives off a twitch which doesn’t allow me to start up right away and causes my tires to spin.

Power Train
Filed Mar 13, 202559,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated after driving approximately 35 MPH, the contact attempted to shift to reverse; however, the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the clutch needed to be replaced. The contact researched and became aware of an unknown NHTSA Campaign Number; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.

Engine
Filed Mar 8, 2025TX

I have a current recall on my transmission I notify for it. I went up there to get the recall fixed. They plugged it up to the machine to see about my transmission, and they said it came back with a cold that was not associated with the recall for my transmission, but it did say something was wrong with my transmission, I looked into that popped up on the cold reader and it’s it. I gave them the number and they said that Ford will be unable to pay for it and they told me I would have to pay $175 in order to hook it up to the main machine to see what exactly the code is if it match the cold that will pay for me new transmission. I explained to them that if I have a recall on the car for my door, lash and my transmission , why would I have to pay for so he kept running around loops not trying to give me a correct response basically just making me trying to pay for them to hook up something that should be for free so my car is accelerating is not accelerating speed, it keeps on clicking is something to do with my transmission, which it has a recall on it before in Orange will not fix it Paid paid off so I need someone to help me solve this matter because Ford and Orange is trying to make me pay for something that is a recall that should be fixed and free if someone call me back at [XXX] thank you INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Power Train
Filed Mar 6, 202524,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly lost motive power before suddenly jolting forward. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the clutch, slave cylinder, and shift levelers. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 24,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 2, 2025FL

My car randomly puts itself in 2nd gear and wont go more than 25 mph

Power Train
Filed Feb 19, 2025NY

I have the DPS6 Transmission from the Michigan plant. My Focus SE started to shudder, jerk, didn't want to shift,. Also, acted like the car was going to stall and when in reverse wouldn't back up. I also had problems with loss of power. I didn't feel safe when driving, what happens when I'm on the road if the car won't shift when in traffic? It's a hazard !! Had a new clutch, seals, gasket, cylinder put in (2023) and now( End of January 2025) it's started again along with shift forks as I was told by the dealership. Ford FIX THE PROBLEM your DPS6 Transmission should be REPLACED !! Are you waiting for deaths to happen ? You've known about this but haven't helped your customers.

Power Train
Filed Feb 3, 2025137,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the transmission hesitated while upshifting to the next gear. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and heard an abnormal ticking sound coming from the transmission. The contact was able to get the vehicle back to the residence safely. The dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired after the first failure; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was provided an estimate for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 137,000.

Power Train
Filed Jan 29, 2025AZ

The vehicles power steering assist has failed and there are active recalls from the same manufacturer and year but not my specific VIN.

Power Train
Filed Jan 16, 2025MO

My transmission went out on me and I was stuck right in the middle on the highway. That puts everyone’s safety at risk. These Automatic transmission’s are faulty from factory and Ford is refusing to “FIX” them. They will only accept to update the TCM and that’s not a fix when it has internal problems. I did get a warning on the screen saying transmission malfunction and a check engine light.

Steering
Filed Jan 4, 2025NH

Power steering malfunction. Wheel not working on low temperature.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 3, 2025CA

Has a bad electrical problem and the transmission is got right

Engine
Filed Dec 18, 2024CA

The vehicle jerks from gear to gear when getting the car to move, hesitates and feels like it's skips

Power Train
Filed Dec 17, 2024WA

I started experiencing intermittent (what seems like transmission) Issues about a little over a year ago. It would randomly occur and usually after the engine was warmed up and I had been driving a lot that day. It would only occur from a dead stop and then starting to accelerate from 1st to 2nd gear. The RPMs would go way high but the car wouldn’t accelerate I would let off the gas and then give it a little gas right away and it would seem to “grab” and the car wouldn’t accelerate start to go. It has over time increasingly gotten worse increasing from just 1st to 2nd gear and now 2nd to 3rd gear. I have a transmission that is a dual clutch transmission so it is an automatic but when I want to I can put my gear shifter into “S” mode (sport mode) and the car then acts as a manual transmission needing the driver to change gears by pushing a + or a - button on the gear shifter either when accelerating or downshifting gears. It never acted up in “S” Mode only during automatic driving until recently. What sparked my need to write in about this is when I was driving down the freeway the car all of a sudden lost power but the RPMs accelerated up into the Red zone on my tachometer. Essentially I was dead driving 60 mph down the freeway and quickly losing speed cars were swerving around me and one almost rear ended me. It put my life and the life of my passengers all at risk and it was scary! I had a good friend of mine who is an ASE Certified mechanic look at the car and he couldn’t

Complaints 1-50 of 2,112, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2012
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2018837730Above average
20179001020Above average
20161,1841020Above average
20151,022940Above average
20142,6061291Do not drive
2013 — this page2,11212123Fatalities reported
20123,7708155Fatalities reported
2011113000Routine
2010287040Above average
2009229023Fatalities reported
2008250200Above average
2007391272Fatalities reported
2006205231Fatalities reported
2005441590Above average
20043876131Fatalities reported
20039777171Fatalities reported
20029398201Fatalities reported
20011,76114478Fatalities reported
20003,686181189Fatalities reported
199911000Routine

Compare every Focus year →

2013 Ford Focus: questions buyers ask

Is the 2013 Ford Focus a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Focus years to avoid: owners filed 2,112 complaints, 2.3 times as many as a typical Focus year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (41%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2013 Ford Focus?

The transmission: 860 of the 2,112 complaints (41%) are about it. Owners most often say it shudders or judders (25%), jerks, lurches or bucks (24%) and hesitates before moving or accelerating (19%). The typical report comes at 37,584 miles.

How many recalls does the 2013 Ford Focus have?

12 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 9, 2026. The largest, 20V331000, covered 2,147,323 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2013 Ford Focus problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 53,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 37,584 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2013 Ford Focus?

Yes, 3 times. The latest, RQ23006 ("Loss of Motive Power"), was opened Sep 15, 2023 and closed Dec 20, 2024.

Are there service bulletins for the 2013 Ford Focus?

The manufacturer filed 154 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (41), the transmission (41) and the engine (20). They include a warranty extension, 14M02 S7, filed May 4, 2023. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

3 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jun 9, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.