2014 Ford Focus Transmission Problems [7 Common Issues]
In one of my previous articles, I explained the common problems with the 2013 Ford Focus. Now, we’ll look at the 2014 Ford Focus.
Whether you’re looking to get the 2014 Ford Focus and want to know if it has a problematic transmission system, or you already own one and are suspecting the transmission is failing, this post is your go-to resource.
Keep reading to learn about the common issues with the 2014 Ford Focus transmission, causes, and solutions.
2014 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
1. Transmission Not Shifting Properly
If you start experiencing loud noise during a gear change, or a harsh shift from one gear to another, your Ford Focus transmission needs to be checked.
A decline in fuel economy is another sign that your transmission is not shifting properly. If you experience any of the above, you want to get your transmission checked before it fails.
Incorrect transmission shifting in the 2014 Ford Focus is usually caused by a faulty automatic transmission range sensor, faulty output speed sensor, hydraulic fluid leaks, etc.
Fixing this problem may require replacing the faulty automatic transmission system and output speed sensor, or performing a hydraulic fluid flush and changing the clutch packs and bands.
Your mechanic will need to inspect the car to know the exact cause of the shifting issue and replace the faulty component.
2. Transmission Slipping
This is another common problem with the 2014 Ford Focus transmission. Some signs that point to transmission slipping issues include delayed gear change, difficulty in engaging gears, and loud clunking noise when changing gears.
Transmission slipping can be caused by poor quality transmission fluid, insufficient transmission fluid, or when your Ford Focus reaches 100,000 miles. A faulty transmission module or powertrain control module could also be the culprit.
Depending on the cause of the problem, you may have to flush out the transmission fluid and refill it with the recommended fluid. Also, cleaning or replacing dirty transmission fluid might help.
Your mechanic will need to check your car to determine what could be causing your Ford Focus transmission to slip before you apply the recommended fixes.
3. Transmission Fluid Leaks
Another problem reported by the 2014 Ford Focus users is transmission fluid leak.
If your transmission fluid leaks, it reduces the level of the fluid required for optimal functionality. This can cause your Ford transmission to slip (see details about transmission slipping above).
If you see some fluids leaking underneath your vehicle, check your transmission fluid.
A faulty transmission pan, loose bolt, or damaged gasket could be the reason your transmission fluid leaks.
Depending on where the transmission fluid leaks, you can fix this problem by replacing the transmission pan gasket, rubber gasket, and transaxle seal. Tightening loose bolts could also help.
You may need a mechanic to handle this if you’re not sure how to go about it.
4. Grinding Noise When Shifting Gears
If you hear grinding noises while shifting gears, it’s a sign that your transmission is faulty.
A noisy transmission while shifting gears is usually caused by faulty clutch packs or loose bolts on the transmission bell housing.
Clutch packs may go bad when affected by transmission fluid leaks. So, fixing this issue may require replacing any leaking seals. You should also tighten all loose bolts on the transmission bell housing.
However, you want to have a mechanic check properly to confirm the cause of the grinding noise.
5. Transmission Overheating
Another problem with the 2014 Ford Focus transmission is overheating.
If your fuel economy keeps declining, especially during hot weather conditions, your transmission may be overheating. Fluid leaks underneath your Ford Focus also show your transmission is overheating
If you also notice that the transaxle overheats after driving at highway speeds for a few minutes, your transmission is overheating.
For this issue, a faulty radiator fan, clogged transmission fluid, or low coolant levels could be the cause. A bad thermostat or faulty cooling fan could also be the culprit.
Some of the troubleshooting steps you can try include refilling the transmission fluid, cleaning/replacing the dirty transmission fluid filter, or replacing the faulty thermostat or radiator fan.
If you’re refilling the transmission fluid, make sure to get the recommended fluid for Ford Focus.
Your mechanic should help you handle this.
6. Transmission Hesitates When Shifting Gear
This is another notable problem with the 2014 Ford Focus model. If you notice your car hesitates when shifting gears, you should get it checked immediately as this could cause other issues, such as improper acceleration, jerking, and shuddering.
Changing your transmission fluid or replacing faulty solenoids could help resolve this problem. But you don’t want to risk it as this is a serious issue.
So, get your mechanic to inspect the transmission and see what is causing the hesitation when shifting gears.
Do not keep driving your Ford Focus with this issue as it could lead to total transmission collapse.
7. Unpredictable Shifting
Is your Ford Focus shifting unpredictably from one gear to another? If so, your transmission is not in order and you need to have it checked as soon as possible.
If your car suddenly changes the way it shifts from one gear to another or skips gears, your transmission requires some servicing.
This problem is usually caused by internal damage to some components (such as solenoids) in the transmission system.
Sometimes, transmission fluid could be the culprit. You’ll need to get an experienced mechanic to check your car and fix the problem.
Tips to Prevent Transmission Problems in Your 2014 Ford Focus
Though the 2014 model of the Ford Focus has several transmission issues, you can prevent them by following these tips:
- Check your transmission fluid regularly and refill it if needed.
- Only use the transmission fluid recommended by the manufacturer.
- Check your car (underneath) for transmission fluid leaks. If you notice any leaks, check and fix faulty components (seals, gaskets, and loose bolts).
- Do not drive your car if the transmission fluid is low or dirty.
- Flush and refill your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles.
Take your car to your mechanic to service the transmission at least once a year.
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Wrapping Up
Like other Ford Focus models (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, etc.), the 2014 Ford Focus has transmission problems. However, the good thing is, the problems don’t occur without early signs.
You should get your car checked if you notice any sign of a failing transmission and apply the recommended fixes.
Check your transmission fluid regularly and refill/change it if it’s dirty. Also, check and tighten all loose bolts.
You may also need to replace faulty parts components sometimes. The cost will vary depending on where you’re getting them.