2017 Ford Focus

The 2017 Ford Focus is a compact car available in sedan and hatchback configurations. Engine options include a 1.0L EcoBoost I3 engine producing 123 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L Ti-VCT I4 engine producing 160 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engine producing 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, available only on the RS trim. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT), known as the PowerShift transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Focus’s fuel efficiency, agile handling, and available technology features. Common complaints revolve around the reliability of the PowerShift transmission, particularly in earlier model years, and concerns about overall build quality.

Engine

1.0L EcoBoost I3

• No Issues Found

2.0L Ti-VCT I4

• No Issues Found

2.3L EcoBoost I4 (Focus RS)

• Cylinder Head Cracking/Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, potential engine failure. Primarily affects engines manufactured before July 2017.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head. Ford issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) to address this issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed PowerShift DCT (Dry Clutch Automatic)

• Shuddering/Hesitation/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The most common issue with the 2017 Focus, particularly those equipped with the DPS6 PowerShift transmission. Symptoms include shuddering during acceleration, hesitation when shifting gears, and overall rough or jerky shifting behavior. This is often more pronounced at lower speeds and in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: PCM reprogramming, clutch replacement, or in some cases, full transmission replacement. Ford extended the warranty on certain components of the transmission to address these issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the required repair and whether it’s covered under warranty or extended program.
  • Recalls: Multiple recalls related to the PowerShift transmission, including: 19S01 (Reprogram PCM), 17S03 (Clutch Durability), 19V088000 (Transmission Case Crack)

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure or excessive drain on the battery.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws. Replace battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• SYNC 3 Freezing/Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 3 infotainment system can experience freezing, lagging, or other malfunctions. This can include unresponsive touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, or navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In other cases, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the solution

Summary

The 2017 Ford Focus, while generally a fuel-efficient and enjoyable compact car, has several notable issues. The most prevalent and concerning issue is the PowerShift transmission, which can lead to costly repairs. Focus RS models can also have issues with cylinder head cracking, which may require expensive engine repairs. Electrical issues such as battery drain and infotainment malfunction are also present, but these are less common and typically less costly to repair.