MileageCurve What breaks, and at what mileage
  1. Home
  2. Ford
  3. Focus 2012–2018

Ford Focus 2012–2018

3rd generation (Mk3, global C-car) · C346 (Ford Global C)

NHTSA data through 13 August 202616,709 complaints, 12,115 with mileageMethod

A DO NOT DRIVE recall covers part of this generation — check the VIN before driving it home.

Reports with mileage
12,115
Median of reported failures
58,000 mi
Most-reported system
Transmission and driveline (36.8%)
Recalls
23

Before-you-buy checklist ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

On this generation, failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 25,000 and 87,400 miles.

Figure 1 · Ford Focus 2012–2018 · 12,115 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 5,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 1,200 complaints.

Mileage at failure, Ford Focus 2012–2018Histogram of 12,115 owner-reported failures by mileage, in 5,000-mile bins from 0 to 200,000. The tallest bin is 0 to 5,000 miles with 1,200 complaints, 9.9 percent of the total. Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 25,000 and 87,400 miles. A further 66 complaints, 0.5 percent, were reported above 200,000 miles and are shown as a separate detached bar. Median mileage at failure is 58,000.
  • Rest of the range
  • Median
  • 200,000+ — 66 complaints (0.5%), plotted separately
10%
5,000
25%
25,000
Median
58,000
75%
87,400
90%
120,000

Tallest bin: 1,200 complaints between 0 and 5,000 miles. Based on 12,115 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 5,000 miles.

Show the numbers
Complaints by mileage bin
MileageComplaintsShare
0–5,0001,2009.9%
5,000–10,0005234.3%
10,000–15,0004743.9%
15,000–20,0003933.2%
20,000–25,0003823.2%
25,000–30,0003412.8%
30,000–35,0004673.9%
35,000–40,0004393.6%
40,000–45,0005214.3%
45,000–50,0004613.8%
50,000–55,0005524.6%
55,000–60,0004583.8%
60,000–65,0006245.2%
65,000–70,0004894.0%
70,000–75,0005284.4%
75,000–80,0004373.6%
80,000–85,0005384.4%
85,000–90,0003933.2%
90,000–95,0003763.1%
95,000–100,0003282.7%
100,000–105,0003402.8%
105,000–110,0002201.8%
110,000–115,0002211.8%
115,000–120,0001771.5%
120,000–125,0002061.7%
125,000–130,0001371.1%
130,000–135,0001691.4%
135,000–140,000920.8%
140,000–145,0001201.0%
145,000–150,000630.5%
150,000–155,0001150.9%
155,000–160,000460.4%
160,000–165,000690.6%
165,000–170,000320.3%
170,000–175,000310.3%
175,000–180,000270.2%
180,000–185,000230.2%
185,000–190,000130.1%
190,000–195,000100.1%
195,000–200,000140.1%
200,000+660.5%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.

What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.

Owners filed 16,709 complaints with NHTSA about the 2012–2018 Ford Focus, and 12,115 of them record the mileage at which the failure happened. That is enough to show not just what fails, but when.

Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 25,000 and 87,400 miles. The median is 58,000 miles.

The most-reported areas are the transmission and driveline (36.8% of complaints, typically around 50,000 miles), the engine (12.7% of complaints, typically around 55,000 miles), the steering (9.6% of complaints, typically around 72,000 miles).

23 recall campaigns cover this generation. 1 of them carry a severe NHTSA advisory.

If you arrived asking “is it reliable?” — this page answers the version of that question the data can support: which problems owners reported, and at what mileage.

How many miles does a 2012–2018 Ford Focus last?

Half of the failure reports on the 2012–2018 Ford Focus were filed by 58,000 miles and 90% by 120,000 miles — figures drawn from 12,115 NHTSA complaints that record an odometer reading, so they time reported failures, not the cars whose owners never filed one.

66 reports (0.5%) came in past 200,000 miles — each one proof a Focus reached that mileage, not that it died there.

Before you buy a 2012–2018 Focus: the 3-minute check

Generated from 12,115 mileage-tagged complaints, 23 recall campaigns, 5 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

  1. A DO NOT DRIVE recall covers part of this generation. Run the VIN before you drive it home — the fix is free at any dealer.
  2. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 23 campaigns cover this generation; an open recall is a free repair you can make the seller's problem.
  3. Check transmission (dps6 powershift dual-clutch) on 2012–2018 (2012–2016 covered by settlement) cars. Dry dual-clutch transmission shudder, slipping, hesitation on take-off, bucking and loss of motive power, caused by dry clutch friction material degradation and input shaft seal leakage contaminating the clutches. The…
  4. Check transmission control module on 2012–2016 cars. DPS6 transmission control module failure causing sudden loss of transmission engagement or unintended movement; subject of an NHTSA recall covering 2012-2016 Focus.
  5. Check door latches on 2012–2015 cars. Door latch pawl spring tab can break, allowing a door to appear closed but open while driving; NHTSA recall covering 2012-2015 Focus.
  6. Complaint reports are not spread evenly across model years here — see the by-model-year table below before you settle on a year.
  7. End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car. Aggregate data describes the population; the example in front of you has its own history.

For a buyer, failures on this generation are spread rather than concentrated: the middle half falls between 25,000 and 87,000 miles, with a median of 58,000. There is no single mileage threshold to watch, which means condition and maintenance records are more informative than the odometer.

On inspection, the transmission and driveline and the engine are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. The transmission and driveline in particular shows a median failure mileage of 50,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.

None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.

What fails, and when

Figure 2 · Ford Focus 2012–2018

When each system fails

Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.

  1. Throttle and speed control581 reports35,0009,000–66,000Throttle and speed control: 581 reports, median 35,000 miles, middle half 9,000 to 66,000 miles.
  2. Transmission and driveline6,152 reports50,00018,000–84,000Transmission and driveline: 6,152 reports, median 50,000 miles, middle half 18,000 to 84,000 miles.
  3. Electrical system1,105 reports55,00024,000–87,000Electrical system: 1,105 reports, median 55,000 miles, middle half 24,000 to 87,000 miles.
  4. Engine2,116 reports55,00024,000–88,000Engine: 2,116 reports, median 55,000 miles, middle half 24,000 to 88,000 miles.
  5. Problems owners could not categorise1,207 reports60,00034,000–87,000Problems owners could not categorise: 1,207 reports, median 60,000 miles, middle half 34,000 to 87,000 miles.
  6. Fuel and propulsion system1,333 reports67,00042,000–95,000Fuel and propulsion system: 1,333 reports, median 67,000 miles, middle half 42,000 to 95,000 miles.
  7. Steering1,612 reports72,00047,000–96,000Steering: 1,612 reports, median 72,000 miles, middle half 47,000 to 96,000 miles.
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

Complaints by vehicle system
SystemComplaintsShareMedian25–75%
Transmission and driveline6,15236.8%50,00018,000–84,000
Engine2,11612.7%55,00024,000–88,000
Steering1,6129.6%72,00047,000–96,000
Fuel and propulsion system1,3338.0%67,00042,000–95,000
Problems owners could not categorise1,2077.2%60,00034,000–87,000
Electrical system1,1056.6%55,00024,000–87,000
Throttle and speed control5813.5%35,0009,000–66,000
Body structure5253.1%55,00036,000–73,000
Fuel system3822.3%80,00056,000–110,000
Engine and its cooling system3111.9%73,00051,000–97,000

Where your car sits

Failure reports by the odometer reading they were filed at. Pick the anchor nearest your car — or type the exact mileage: your marker lands on this curve and on the timing chart above.

Figure 3 · Ford Focus 2012–2018 · 12,115 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.

Cumulative share of reports by mileage, Ford Focus 2012–2018Of 12,115 reports that record mileage, the share filed below each odometer reading, rising in steps at each 5,000-mile bin edge. 51 percent below 60,000 miles. 76 percent below 90,000 miles. 90 percent below 120,000 miles. Median 58,000 miles.
  • 60,000 mi — 51% of reports below
  • 90,000 mi — 76% of reports below
  • 120,000 mi — 90% of reports below
  • Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it below

The staircase tops out at 99%: the remaining 0.5% of reports (66) came above 200,000 miles.

Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

At 60,000 miles

51% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

In the reporting window

  • Transmission and driveline — middle half 18,000–84,000 mi
  • Engine — middle half 24,000–88,000 mi
  • Steering — middle half 47,000–96,000 mi
  • Fuel and propulsion system — middle half 42,000–95,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — middle half 34,000–87,000 mi
  • Electrical system — middle half 24,000–87,000 mi
  • Throttle and speed control — middle half 9,000–66,000 mi

At 90,000 miles

76% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Transmission and driveline — median 50,000 mi
  • Engine — median 55,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 60,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 55,000 mi
  • Throttle and speed control — median 35,000 mi

In the reporting window

  • Steering — middle half 47,000–96,000 mi
  • Fuel and propulsion system — middle half 42,000–95,000 mi

At 120,000 miles

90% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Transmission and driveline — median 50,000 mi
  • Engine — median 55,000 mi
  • Steering — median 72,000 mi
  • Fuel and propulsion system — median 67,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 60,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 55,000 mi
  • Throttle and speed control — median 35,000 mi

Which systems, and when

Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 58,000 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

The transmission and driveline accounts for 36.8% of complaints (6,152 reports, 4,645 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 50,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 18,000 and 84,000 miles.

A single system taking 36.8% of all complaints is a concentration worth noting. It means that for this generation, most of what owners reported came back to one area of the car rather than being distributed across many small faults.

The engine accounts for 12.7% of complaints (2,116 reports, 1,382 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 55,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 24,000 and 88,000 miles.

The steering accounts for 9.6% of complaints (1,612 reports, 1,370 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 72,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 47,000 and 96,000 miles.

The fuel and propulsion system accounts for 8.0% of complaints (1,333 reports, 823 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 67,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 42,000 and 95,000 miles.

Problems owners could not categorise accounts for 7.2% of complaints (1,207 reports, 698 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 60,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 34,000 and 87,000 miles.

The electrical system accounts for 6.6% of complaints (1,105 reports, 792 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 55,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 24,000 and 87,000 miles.

Differences between model years

Within this generation, complaint volume is not constant across model years. The 2012 model year drew the most — 4,977 complaints — while 2018 drew the fewest at 1,112. The median year sits at 1,566.

That makes 2012 an outlier: roughly 3.2 times the median year of this generation. A single year standing that far apart usually reflects either a first-year issue that was later corrected, or a component change introduced for that year. Anyone shopping this generation has a straightforward reason to prefer a different year, all else being equal.

Recalls and what they cover

NHTSA records 23 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.

1 of these carry a severe advisory — NHTSA's do not drive or park outside warnings, which the agency applies only when it considers the risk immediate. If you own one of these vehicles, that is the first thing to check by VIN.

The campaigns cluster around the fuel system (5), latches and locks (4), the transmission and driveline (3). Repeated recalls against the same area of the car generally mean the first remedy did not fully resolve the underlying problem.

Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.

Reported severity

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 16,709 complaints against this generation:

Crashes
536 (3.2%)
Fires
89
Injury reports
301
Fatality reports
12

These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.

Documented problems

Transmission (dps6 Powershift Dual-Clutch) 2012–2018 (2012–2016 covered by settlement)

Dry dual-clutch transmission shudder, slipping, hesitation on take-off, bucking and loss of motive power, caused by dry clutch friction material degradation and input shaft seal leakage contaminating the clutches. The Vargas v. Ford class action settlement covered 2012-2016 Focus (and 2011-2016 Fiesta), with buyback and cash remedies; later suits allege the defect persisted into 2017-2018 cars.

Transmission Control Module 2012–2016

DPS6 transmission control module failure causing sudden loss of transmission engagement or unintended movement; subject of an NHTSA recall covering 2012-2016 Focus.

Door Latches 2012–2015

Door latch pawl spring tab can break, allowing a door to appear closed but open while driving; NHTSA recall covering 2012-2015 Focus.

Fuel System / Evaporative Emissions 2012–2018

Canister purge valve can stick open, drawing vacuum on the fuel tank, deforming it and causing stalling or no-start; recall and extended coverage issued.

Engine (2.3l Ecoboost, Rs Only) 2016–2017 RS

Head gasket failure on Focus RS caused by use of a Mustang-specification cylinder head, allowing coolant loss and white exhaust smoke; Ford replaced heads and extended warranty coverage.

By model year

Complaints by model year
YearComplaintsWith mileage
20124,9774,053
20132,9182,315
20143,6282,681
20151,327846
20161,566996
20171,181674
20181,112550

Recalls (23) — is your car included?

Recalls are fixed free of charge at any dealer, for any owner. Check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The text below is NHTSA’s own wording.

  1. Jul 2026 · 2012–2018 · Fuel System, GasolineAn engine that stalls while driving increases the risk of a crash.

    The 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.

    What can happen. An engine that stalls while driving increases the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 26V369000, reported 2026-07-29.

  2. Aug 2025 · 2016–2018 · Engine and Engine CoolingA loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. A loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 23V905000, reported 2025-08-11.

  3. Jul 2020 · 2012–2015 · Latches/Locks/LinkagesA door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury…

    The 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.

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 20V331000, reported 2020-07-27.

  4. Aug 2019 · 2012–2018 · Fuel System, GasolineThe excessive vaccuum may result in an engine stall while driving, without warning and without the ability to…

    The 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 18V735000, reported 2019-08-19.

  5. Jul 2019 · 2012–2017 · Fuel System, GasolineThe excessive vacuum may result in an engine stall while driving, without warning and without the ability to…

    The 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 19V515000, reported 2019-07-29.

  6. Jan 2019 · 2016–2018 · Power TrainA transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 18V845000, reported 2019-01-17.

  7. Aug 2018 · 2015–2016 · Power TrainA transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Fusion vehicles equipped with a 1.6L GTDI engine and 6-speed manual transmission and 2015-2016 Ford Focus vehicles equipped with a 1.0L GTDI engine and 6-speed manual transmission. Also included are four 2017 Ford Focus vehicles that had clutch replacements with potentially affected parts. The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Focus vehicles with software that detects and prevents prolonged clutch slip, and will replace the clutch, as necessary, free of charge. Owners of Fusion vehicles will have their clutch assembly replaced free of charge. The recall began August 3, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S07.

    NHTSA campaign 18V169000, reported 2018-08-03.

  8. Oct 2017 · 2017 · SeatsThe reduced seat back strength may increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

    The defect. 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."

    What can happen. The reduced seat back strength may increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 17V528000, reported 2017-10-10.

  9. Mar 2017 · 2016 · StructureImproperly welded apron joints may reduce the front-end structural integrity of the vehicle, increasing the…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 Focus and C-Max vehicles. The floor pan may have improperly welded left-hand apron joints.

    What can happen. Improperly welded apron joints may reduce the front-end structural integrity of the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the apron joints, repairing the vehicle, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 8, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S03.

    NHTSA campaign 17V052000, reported 2017-03-08.

  10. Jan 2017 · 2012–2015 · Latches/Locks/LinkagesA door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury…

    The 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.

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 16V643000, reported 2017-01-27.

  11. Nov 2016 · 2013–2017 · Latches/Locks/LinkagesWith only a single press needed, the driver may accidently unlatch the hatchback, increasing the risk of…

    The 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."

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 16V698000, reported 2016-11-16.

  12. Jan 2016 · 2013–2014 · Electrical SystemThe incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a…

    The 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).

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 15V813000, reported 2016-01-07.

  13. Jul 2015 · 2015 · Electrical SystemIf the engine does not turn off as expected, someone could move the transmission shifter out of park and the…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 1, 2014, to June 12, 2015, Ford Focus vehicles manufactured June 17, 2014, to June 12, 2015, and Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured April 22, 2014, to June 12, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the engine may continue to run after the key or the START/STOP engine button is turned to off. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

    What can happen. If the engine does not turn off as expected, someone could move the transmission shifter out of park and the vehicle may move unintentionally, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. The recall began on July 27, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C06.

    NHTSA campaign 15V436000, reported 2015-07-27.

  14. Feb 2015 · 2014 · Fuel System, GasolineIf the fuel pump fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on January 8, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 15, 2014, to May 8, 2014, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured April 21, 2014, to May 15, 2014. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 45,505 vehicles, including certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Transit Connect vehicles manufactured November 11, 2013, to August 29, 2014, 2014-2015 Ford Fiesta vehicles manufactured April 10, 2014, to June 17, 2014 and 2014 Ford Edge vehicles manufactured April 30, 2014, to M

    What can happen. If the fuel pump fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began on February 27, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S30.

    NHTSA campaign 15V005000, reported 2015-02-27.

  15. Nov 2014 · 2014 · Steering do not driveThe incorrectly manufactured steering gears may cause impaired steering, including the loss of steering…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 Focus and C-Max vehicles manufactured August 8, 2014, to August 15, 2014. The affected vehicles may have steering gears that were incorrectly assembled.

    What can happen. The incorrectly manufactured steering gears may cause impaired steering, including the loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gears, free of charge. The recall began on November 11, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S18.

    NHTSA campaign 14V514000, reported 2014-11-11.

  16. Oct 2014 · 2013–2014 · Electrical SystemThe incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a…

    The 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).

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 14V495000, reported 2014-10-06.

  17. Sep 2014 · 2014 · Fuel System, GasolineA reduction in fuel pressure may result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Focus vehicles manufactured May 1, 2014, to May 24, 2014, 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured on June 6, 2014, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured June 4, 2014, to July 7, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack between the filter body and the filter cap, possibly resulting in low fuel pressure.

    What can happen. A reduction in fuel pressure may result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S20.

    NHTSA campaign 14V525000, reported 2014-09-15.

  18. Aug 2013 · 2012–2013 · Exterior LightingWithout the proper illumination of the side maker lamps, the vehicle may be less visible in night time…

    The 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."

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 13V335000, reported 2013-08-16.

  19. Mar 2013 · 2013 · Latches/Locks/LinkagesThe operator may incorrectly believe the child lock is engaged.

    The 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 13V085000, reported 2013-03-27.

  20. May 2012 · 2012 · VisibilityWater or other contaminants may accumulate in the connector, resulting in an intermittent or inoperative…

    The defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2012 Focus vehicles manufactured from august 1, 2010, through october 18, 2011. A seal in the wiring harness connector to the passenger side wiper motor may be missing.

    What can happen. Water or other contaminants may accumulate in the connector, resulting in an intermittent or inoperative passenger side wiper motor, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and as necessary, clean and properly seal the passenger side wiper motor connector. Any inoperative wiper motors will be replaced. This service will be provided free of charge. The safety recall began on may 21, 2012. Owners may contact the Ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.

    NHTSA campaign 12V149000, reported 2012-05-21.

  21. 2015–2018 · Power TrainA transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. Dealers will update the software, 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.

    NHTSA campaign 26V376000, reported —.

  22. 2016–2018 · EquipmentAn electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

    The defect. 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.

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

    The free fix. 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 Identificatio

    NHTSA campaign 26V012000, reported —.

  23. 2013–2018 · EquipmentAn electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

    The 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.

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

    The free fix. 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 b

    NHTSA campaign 26V011000, reported —.

What owners reported

the contact owns a 2012 Ford Focus. The contact stated that pressure was applied to the accelerator pedal and the vehicle lost power and began jerking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times for the failure. The dealer reprogrammed the electronic computer for the transmission but the failure was…

2012 · Transmission and driveline

the contact owns a 2012 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while sitting at a stop sign on a hill, the vehicle began to roll backwards until he engaged the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the transmission control module needed to be reprogrammed. The failure recurred. The…

2012 · Throttle and speed control

Parking aid malfunction error: while driving 65 MPH on a 3 lane hwy, the parking aid malfunction error appeared which caused the car to completely shutdown. Fortunately i was able to coast to the side of the road with no power steering, no power brakes without engine power. Pam message kept appearing and car would not…

2012 · Electrical system

When driving on the interstate the vehicles transmission malfunctions. It displays a warning stating the transmission is overheating and must be serviced. The vehicle looses all power and when going 65 MPH (if it ever reaches that) all of a sudden cars have to swerve around me because the car has no power to continue.…

2012 · 2 miles · Transmission and driveline

Built from 12,115 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-08-18 · open data · reproduce this page

Other generations