Fiesta Recall Worries

"Xyl0c41n3" (i-am-xyl0c41n3) 12/12/2014 at 10:34 • Filed to: Fiesta, Ford recall, Fiesta recall

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Just a little over two years ago, I bought a 2013 Fiesta. An automatic (dons FiST fan flame suit). Not long thereafter, I experienced something many others have, as well: a transmission shudder that most often occurs in low gears. My dealer assured me my vehicle wasn't subject to any recalls. Too, online research showed that the Fiesta's automated manual is prone to quirks, so I chalked it up to that and went about my way. Now, two years later, I'm back at the beginning...

Ford sent a very polite letter informing me my car may need to be taken in for service on said transmission. I may have a leak dirtying up my clutch, or my transmission software may need updating. Or, the shudder could just be part and parcel of "the PowerShift 6-speed Automatic Transmission [which] is designed for fun-to-drive performance and exceptional fuel efficiency," as the letter states just before it describes the exact and narrow situations when that shudder is not intentional.

But this is not a recall! Or at least, not as far as the letter is concerned. Nowhere in the letter is the word "recall" used. Nowhere is there mention that this could be a potentially serious issue that, in some of its worst instances, !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! No hint of how Ford is facing a class action lawsuit over this known and !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . The closest the letter comes to admitting this may be a bigger headache than they're letting on is in the vague wording about how awesome they're being in extending the warranty "on the clutch and transmission input shaft seals as well as the transmission software calibration" all "in the interest of [my] satisfaction." How magnanimous! How reminiscent of the commercials of a certain brand of prophylactic. Fiesta: now shudders for her pleasure! Color me nonplussed and unimpressed.

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

So, today I called the dealership again to schedule the repair. Scheduling conflicts between me and their only transmission guy means I can't get it in any time soon, but I will be dropping it off early Saturday morning anyway for them to drive it and confirm it needs the repair in the first place. (Dudes in the service shop: it does. I've been driving it for two years. I think I'd know). And also so that, once confirmed, they can jump start the parts-ordering process so when I finally can leave it for repair, it goes quicker. But, by the by, how does this dealership only have one guy to work on transmissions?! Especially when this issue affects the Focus, as well. And judging by my purely anecdotal observation, the Focus and Fiesta are two of the most popular cars 'round these here parts.

Anyway, that's the story so far, Oppo. Anyone else out there experiencing or has experienced this? I figured there won't be too many since Oppo is all about saving the manuals, but, it doesn't hurt to ask. I'll post an update if and when I have one. In the meantime, here's another shot of my baby, which I really do love, and which really is a fun little car to drive. (Seriously, I love my Fiesta).

Brian Silvestro > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 21:44

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This post needs needs all the views. Not enough attention is paid to how bad these transmissions really are. I hear of so many people having problems with them.

ttyymmnn > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 21:46

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Don't ever be ashamed of your automatic transmission! It sounds like Ford is doing a "quiet" recall. They'll fix it for free if it needs it or if it breaks, but they won't fix every single car prophylactically. VW did a similar thing with my Golf and the bum plastic window mounts on the regulator. When my driver door window broke, they fixed the broken one for free but wouldn't replace the same questionable part in the pax window. Keep after them. Demand that they fix it. Or find another dealership if possible. Good luck!

Nisman > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 21:47

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I'm not gonna give you a hard time for not buying a FiST. I'm sure you had... Practical reasons. I'm not going to give you a hard time for buying an automatic, because... Well, I'll be nice. But, honest question here, why on earth did you buy the sedan over the hatchback?

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 21:52

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this is why you need to buy the Manuél car i just sent you

you'll have Manuél hatch and 2+2 coupe

life will be complete

Xyl0c41n3 > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 21:53

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Ha! Thanks! So far (knocks on wood), I've been lucky. It does shudder, mostly when coming out of stops, and only a couple of times has it shuddered bad enough that I've been afraid it would stall, but it hasn't done the jerky, unpredictable acceleration that has caused other drivers to crash. A couple of times, though, it's shuddered while downshifting, which, for some reason, is a little more unnerving to me.

Manuél Ferrari > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 21:54

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Automatics scare the shit out of me now. I changed my username because I've sworn off all forms of automatics for good.

I nearly got stranded in downtown LA Sunday night because my DCT went bonkers.

The only good transmission is a Manuél transmission. Oppo has won me over. I am 100% on the stick shift only bandwagon now.

Brian Silvestro > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 21:54

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Yeah that does seem concerning. My dad just got a Focus with the same transmission, so I hope his fairs well enough until Ford actually does something about it.

Manuél Ferrari > ttyymmnn 12/11/2014 at 21:55

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i'm ashamed of my automatics

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 21:55

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You didn't send me anything!!2!

Xyl0c41n3 > ttyymmnn 12/11/2014 at 21:58

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Thanks, ttyymmnn ! Yeah, on the phone earlier today the tech was already starting to give me that certain tone of voice that's used to "explain" things to the "lady" on the phone who must be uninformed and needlessly worrying about the scary letter she got in the mail. I disabused him of that BS fairly quickly, though. ^_^

Like I just commented to Brian , though, I'm kind of fortunate that the shudder doesn't seem to be as bad as other cases I've read about. Hopefully, it gets sorted out soon.

Xyl0c41n3 > Nisman 12/11/2014 at 21:59

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Simple: I hate hatches. And I like trunks. And I like putting lots of junk in my trunk. ^_^

TheHondaBro > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 22:00

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*inb4 Honda transmissions*

Fortunately I got mine after the transmission fiasco, so I didn't have to deal with all that. I can't imagine what it would be like to deal with all that flak.

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:01

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i didn't? i must have sent it to the wrong brian!

here it is:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ferrari-45…

nicest Manuél 456 I've EVER seen

i sent to Evan too and he had a crisis. it looks brand new

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:03

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OMG so CLEAN

but I prefer the facelifted look tho

still fucking beautiful

So how is it living the Doug DeMuro life? Are your costs anything like his?

Xyl0c41n3 > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:05

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I noticed the issue within days of driving the car off the lot. I did some research and learned that the computer takes a while to set itself up and learn a driver's habits. When the problem persisted past those initial 1,000 miles, I looked into recalls and contacted the dealership, too. They said there was no issue, even though then-current "recalls" were affecting vehicles manufactured at the plant and same time period my car was. Now here we are, and my gut was right two years ago (before I even knew what Oppo was!). If your dad experiences any of this, tell him not to hesitate to take it in. Good luck!

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:06

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i didn't realize there was a facelifted one. i am ashame. i have much to learn

i don't know what you mean. but if i did know what you mean i would reply by saying that i don't actually drive anything but the 997

E90: is having gremlins

E46: STILL waiting on a new airbag that won't kill me

997: the car that God designed. always works. zero creaks or rattles. as fast as the first day i got it

mystery car: doesn't exist, would be too scary to drive if it did

Brian Silvestro > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 22:09

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Thanks! I think they started to overthink this economy car transmission when it does things like try to change gears according to your driving habit. I tell him to let me know if anything happens.

Xyl0c41n3 > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:10

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I don't know how good a manual would be for me (a Manuel , on the other hand... mmmrowr! *wink*) considering I already like to pretend I'm a race car driver on the wide open Texas highways which seem to lend themselves so perfectly to speed as it is. But, yeah... next car? Just might be a manual anyway...

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:10

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lol who is Doug DeMuro ANYWAY RIGHT AHAHAHA LOL

sell all cars, get S65 Coupe, daily

ly2v8-Brian > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 22:13

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ly2v8-Brian > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 22:14

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Contrary to what some may say, driving an automatic doesn't make you less of a car person. you may take the flame suit off.

Manuél Ferrari > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 22:16

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Hahahaha :D

You should definitely go Manuél next time. All automatics are ticking time bombs. They eventually fail. And if you keep a car a long time then fixing the transmission could cost half what the car is worth!

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:19

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S65 coupe comes in Manuél?

I did not know!

It must cause you know my new rule. I can't buy anymore automatic cars, or I'm not the bastard grandchild of Enzo Ferrari

It really sucks cause I think I want to trade the bimmers for a Macan S one day. But no Macan Manuél so it would break my rule. And the next best thing would be an AWD 335i wagon de Manuél. But we in the US are NOT allowed to have that car. (cryingdoge.jpg)

Xyl0c41n3 > ly2v8-Brian 12/11/2014 at 22:22

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Hey, that bike rack holding my bike up in the second photo has to go somewhere...

Xyl0c41n3 > ly2v8-Brian 12/11/2014 at 22:23

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Good, because it's still too hot in Texas to be wearing fabric that doesn't breathe. Thanks!

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:24

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Just get a first gen Cayenne GTS bro

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:26

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People that have actually driven the Cayenne Manuél say that it's terrible

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:30

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;_; did not know that

wait

why don't you get a 456

perfect 4 seater GT

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:34

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I WANT TO

If there was no need to be practical I'd trade the E90 for one

I also have a theory - everyone should start buying regular TRs as investment pieces. 512TRs are already too expensive.

I need to save as much as possible so I can sock TRs away at work. I don't need to pay for maintenance. Just store for 15 years, sell, and be rich as fuck

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:38

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then DO IT

Just get one, and buy a FiST for daily duties.

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:42

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or one TR to daily and other TRs sit, haha

everyone needs a TR

flat 12 all the things

gas is cheap!

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:44

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DO IT

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:47

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you TOO

graduate early

get high paying job

buy 12 cylinder cars

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:49

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I wish lol, but you can ACTUALLY do it instead of just talking about it

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 22:50

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lol

also you can't graduate early

because

.

.

.

lazy

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/11/2014 at 22:57

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Yes, now you're getting it.

JGrabowMSt > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 23:12

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So this is what you were mentioning last night.

Worries are completely understood. From what I could tell you, it's possible that the dealer doesn't particularly have a trans person, but a trans specialist is scheduled to come in on a certain day for availability. I probably would have handed the keys right back to the dealer though. If it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. If it isn't right, it needs to be fixed. Dealer can say whatever they want, but it's recalled now, so you just need to fight for your fix. I know it's trouble to be without a car (no car since thursday night for me, and wont get probably for another week), but it's far better than having some failure occur while limping it around

Trans issues are best left to the professionals though. From experience, my Neon went through 2 transmissions, and was totaled with trans #3 (a brand new mopar unit with under 40k on it). The first two transmissions had syncro issues (manual trans), and it got me familiar enough with what the problems sound like, but due to sheer complexity, I'm totally satisfied handing the keys to a transmission shop. I'll do a fluid change or a filter change, hell, even a pan gasket change. On the NAG1 in the wagon I'd even do the valve body, but anything beyond that is work for someone else. Transmissions are a magical thing that I just don't understand.

Some luxury brand took apart an automatic a long time ago, tightened the tolerances, put it in a car, and it didn't work. That alone is enough reason for me to be completely willing and happy with handing the keys away.

Because of the trans issues, I suggested my sister look at Sonics, and then as luck wouldn't really have it, we both total our cars on the same day. My wagon's in the shop, but just yesterday she finished with putting money down on a 2013 Sonic hatchback with a 5spd. I haven't been in it yet, but eventually I'll get there. Just need a few more goddamn days for my motor to arrive. Engine builders do magical work, but they should really hire extra help if it takes so long to button one up.

But like many others are saying, don't be ashamed of an automatic. My wagon and SL are both automatic, and only available as such. It wasn't really a tough choice to grab either car, despite the slushbox, because they're jalop as hell just as they are. Besides, you can use it as an excuse to do a full manual swap in 15 years, and score major jaloppo bonus points in the process.

Good luck!

TheVancen- In Pursuit of a Greater Payday and Car Parts > Xyl0c41n3 12/11/2014 at 23:16

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I should record the horrid noise my mums '05 Focus makes when you have the car in neutral with the clutch out. Between the throw out bearinngand valve train noise, you can hardly hear any of the three exhaust leaks. Or the wavy tire and broken sway bar end links. But you may notice the bashed in hatch from where the flat bed tow truck backed into it, and the buggered passenger rear door and quarter panel where the grey hound bus peeled all the paint off. But you wont be able to see any of that because the poorly applied window tint is peeling and wavy, and the left headlight only illuminates about six inches of pavement in front of the car and the right has a thing for star gazing.

No rust at all oddly enough.

Mother does not care about cars.

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/11/2014 at 23:44

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laziness awareness intensifies

Dusty Ventures > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 00:11

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I won't flame you for getting an automatic, but I might poke at you for choosing the sedan over the hatch :p

#GloriousHatchMasterRace

Xyl0c41n3 > Dusty Ventures 12/12/2014 at 00:15

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Everyone's a critic. :-P

I just don't like hatches. Haven't met one I liked. I hope this doesn't mean we can no longer be friends, though. ^_^

Dusty Ventures > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 00:32

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But dat versatility doe! All the cargo space! And the ability to carry large and oddly-shaped items! Plus the option of dropping the seats and having a makeshift sleeping area (this has happened).

Don't worry, you sedan-loving weirdo, we're still friends :-D

bryan40oop > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 00:50

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(Dudes in the service shop: it does. I've been driving it for two years. I think I'd know).

Yeah....no.

That's not how it works. A certified trans tech has to verify clutch shitter concern. With a test drive while monitoring P.I.D.S.

Then....

1. The tech checks for leaks at the input shaft. Essentially on some dsp6 trans the gear box is leaking causing clutch slippage during gear changes.

2.If it is leaking then it has to have the seal replaced and the clutches cleaned. Not replaced, cleaned.

3. Put everything back together, update pcm / tcm to latest calibration and perform adaptive drive cycle.

4. Release vehicle, inform cust they may experience odd gear changes for the next 500miles.

If there is no leak and you're not experiencing any trans drivability concerns. Then no work performed.

If you do have a drivability concern and there is no leak then they have to verify your concern. Since there is no leak then they will check for codes and perform test drive while monitoring P.I.D.S. if the clutches are in range then update to latest calibration, perform adaptive drive cycle. And inform customer the may experience an odd shift for the next 500 miles.

Sweet Trav > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 05:53

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If this TSB is in the interest of your satisfaction, ensure you drive the car after to make sure you are satisfied with the results. If you are not take it back with the letter and demand they try again. Call the regional customer service guy if you are not satisfied.

The key thing is if Ford is bringing the car in for your "satisfaction" make sure you are satisfied when this is over.

boxrocket > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 06:28

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Manuel: Convey instruction.

boxrocket > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 06:32

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I've experienced the issue on Fiestas and Focuses (Foci?), but yesterday I got to drive a 2014 or 2015 (mild cosmetic tweaks, blue dashboard lights YAY, nicer-feeling controls, though I miss the giant rotating knob for the climate control, the new one feels almost ratchet-like) and didn't notice the issue. That said, the same feeling seems to be there on damn near every DCT I've driven, from lowly Fiestas and Golfs up to a 911 PDK. YMMV.

pip bip - choose Corrour > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 07:12

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should've bought a manual!

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 08:14

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lol, I can say the same to you, because NO FXXKING POST

Nisman > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 09:21

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That's as good of an argument as any!

Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:36

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Why u no hatch?

Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:39

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You can get hatch mounted bike racks, although I think it's tougher.

Xyl0c41n3 > Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. 12/12/2014 at 10:44

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Because me no likey.

yamahog > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 10:45

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97 XJ, 250k miles on a 4spd auto, only just now getting stuck in OD from time to time, fixable by shifting into low.

New TCC solenoid + filter + gasket = all of $90

I'm budgeting a whole lot more for shredded clutches on my next purchase.

Xyl0c41n3 > Sir_Stig: and toxic masculinity ruins the party again. 12/12/2014 at 10:47

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The rack I'm using in the bottom photo would actually work with the hatchback version of the Fiesta. I just don't like hatches.

MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:47

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A buddy of mine at work is dealing with this on his Focus. They only used these auto transmissions in the Focus and Fiesta and they all break. Call Steve Lehto!

RamblinRover Luxury-Yacht > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 10:48

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A friend got a new V6 Camaro with an auto, and it developed a cooler line leak in the first 10k miles... possibly either a bad hose from factory or a service thing, I don't remember. Anyway, with no way to check/top off fluid, it destroyed itself. Under warranty, but seriously?

jariten1781 > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:49

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But, by the by, how does this dealership only have one guy to work on transmissions?!

This is normal. It's not that one dude only can do transmission work, it's that one guy has been through the certification to officially diagnose major transmission issues. The dealers who don't have that guy have to have a OEM guy make a trip out before the diagnosis is official and parts can be ordered, work done (even if they have excellent techs who know exactly what's wrong). There's a long history behind it, but basically back in the 70s unscrupulous dealers would do full transmission swaps regularly for minor or no issues and the manufacturers got tired of being burned.

And yeah, the power-shift appears to be a dog. It'll be like the 90s Chrysler transmissions or the mid-2000s Nissan CVTs. A lot of cars are going to go to the crusher with 90% good mechanicals due to the tranny weak link.

Mercedes Streeter > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:50

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Could be worse, my smart's transmission clunks when entering Reverse (and sometimes completely doesn't even engage the gear). Sounds like cogs scraping each other then a big loud bang (that even a crappy phone camera very easily catches).

Dealership says "Could not replicate problem".

Well of course, your brilliant techs only take the car on a test drive around the block. There's absolutely no reverse driving in their test at all. Now I'm well out of warranty and they don't care.

This is the nightmare you have to go through to get anything fixed under warranty on a Mercedes product in Chicagoland.

Best of luck with your baby!!! Fight them until your car gets fixed. And there's nothing wrong with a Fiesta sedan...looks like an adorable little escape pod...

RamblinRover Luxury-Yacht > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:50

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I wonder how much is which issue. A leak that makes the trans run low for a while could definitely cause shudder, but if it's a programming thing as well?

themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 10:53

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Meanwhile all the other fiesta owners on oppo are like

.......Transmission problems?

Ooooooohhhhh see if you can get an ST loaner while they're doing the repair work! Talk up considering an "upgrade" so you can get the keyfob to something awesome. :D Hopefully Ford just rushes you into the repair process so it can get fixed and be back on the road soon.

Xyl0c41n3 > RamblinRover Luxury-Yacht 12/12/2014 at 10:56

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My guess is if there is something that warrants fixing to begin with (as opposed to just "normal" shuddery quirks that are typical for this transmission) it's going to be a programming issue. I'm guessing that because it's a problem I've experienced pretty much from day one of owning this car, back when it was too soon for it to have had a leak.

Sweet Trav > yamahog 12/12/2014 at 10:57

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You hope it fixes the issue.

Your transmission has been to the moon and back...

I am not optimistic.

yamahog > Sweet Trav 12/12/2014 at 10:58

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False, it has only been to the moon, and it is still working on the return trip.

RamblinRover Luxury-Yacht > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 11:01

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My guess, for efficiency reasons the computer tries to lock up as fast as possible most of the time, including some situations in which fluid pressure won't hold a lock or the clutch speed difference is dissimilar in a way that makes it vibrate. Or it could be way more stupid than that.

Sweet Trav > yamahog 12/12/2014 at 11:07

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At least its more Apollo 13 than Apollo 1

Sweet Trav > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 11:09

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I wholeheartedly disagree with this. While I do prefer a manual,

Toyota (aisin and Aisin/Warner) builds fantastic Autos, As does GM Hydramatic

Ford builds some pretty bad automatics along with Chrysler.

All DCT/SMG and dry clutch autos are junk though.

Sweet Trav > yamahog 12/12/2014 at 11:12

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Should I start looking up T-56 rebuild kits as well?

ihm96 > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 11:28

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Pretending your a race car driver becomes so much more fun when you have manuél. There's nothing like apexing an on ramp onto the highway while banging your way through the gears on your run up to 60

Xyl0c41n3 > ihm96 12/12/2014 at 11:32

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60? Try 90. Well, ok, usually just around 80-85. This is Texas, after all. ^_^

ihm96 > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 11:36

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In philly we usually do 80-85 but I was just being politically correct :)

burntartichoke > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 12:09

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You're not the only one, its a problem that affects the Focus too.

http://oppositelock.jalopnik.com/my-wifes-2012-…

Even with the problems the wife and I still love the car though lol.

Xyl0c41n3 > burntartichoke 12/12/2014 at 12:29

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Yep. Both the Fiesta and Focus boast the exact same 6-speed auto(mated manual) under the hood. It's not a bad little car to drive, and like you and your wife with your Focus, I still love my Fiesta. ^_^

Manuél Ferrari > Sweet Trav 12/12/2014 at 14:28

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I know some autos are great

I'm just still scared of them now because of my experience

And because 99% of the people on Oppo tell me to only go stick, haha

Manuél Ferrari > RamblinRover Luxury-Yacht 12/12/2014 at 14:32

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OMG

Brand new Camaro?

That SUCKS!

I would be so sad, even with warranty fixing it

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 14:33

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laziness level: life threatening

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 14:34

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;_;

Manuél Ferrari > yamahog 12/12/2014 at 14:37

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That is awesome! Best auto ever?

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 14:38

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i kind of want an E91 328 x drive Manuél wagon

yamahog > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 14:47

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We'll see how this repair goes this weekend... As you can tell, Travis isn't too hopeful.

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 15:00

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Why do you want xDrive? That car is amazing, please get one.

Manuél Ferrari > yamahog 12/12/2014 at 18:14

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But dat GIF helps because funny!

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 18:17

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I dunno. I guess because I've never had anything but RWD. So AWD sounds different and interesting. And because I would want to use it on snowboarding trips. And here in CA the highway patrol makes you put on chains if it's snowing hard and you don't have 4WD or AWD. They don't trust us with RWD or FWD.

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 18:23

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lol they shouldn't trust people who've never seen snow like that. But yeah, they're relatively easy to find.

So you should own one 100%.

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 18:30

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yes they have ZERO trust

most californians only see snow when they go to the mountains

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 18:31

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and this is why NY is cooler

Manuél Ferrari > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 18:32

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haha this is ONE thing you have on us

you have way less non rusted Alfas though

Brian Silvestro > Manuél Ferrari 12/12/2014 at 18:33

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*cries*

Xyl0c41n3 > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 18:54

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Get a room, you two! ^_~

Brian Silvestro > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 18:54

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you don't know the half of it

Xyl0c41n3 > yamahog 12/12/2014 at 19:01

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That's exactly what I was thinking. I had my cavalier for just under 10 years and put somewhere around 275K miles on that little 115HP engine. When it finally went to that endless highway in the sky, it wasn't the automatic transmission that killed it.

Xyl0c41n3 > Dusty Ventures 12/12/2014 at 19:04

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D'awwwwww! Dat gif!!! It gives me the warm and fuzzies! Thanks, Dusty! ^_^

Xyl0c41n3 > Mercedes Streeter 12/12/2014 at 19:06

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I think it looks like a teeny, tiny jelly bean. ^_^ But yes.... escape pod! That's actually a pretty perfect description, because it really does serve that purpose in my life, heh.

Xyl0c41n3 > JGrabowMSt 12/12/2014 at 19:09

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Eeeeep! Sorry to hear about your car... and your sisters! That totally sucks. I hope things get sorted out sooner rather than later.

When I was shopping around for a new car, I took a look at the Sonic. Since I had (and was very happy with) my little Cavalier, they were the first things I looked at. I really wanted to stay with Chevy. But, I just couldn't get into them. Aesthetically, they didn't make my heart sing as much as the Fiesta did. And, they were a little pricier with less options that the Fiesta. But that was at the tail end of 2012... maybe they've improved since then. I haven't really looked. Aside from this transmission issue, though, I'm in love with my Fiesta. I don't know that I'll have it for 15 years, but I will have it for as long as I can.

Xyl0c41n3 > themanwithsauce - has as many vehicles as job titles 12/12/2014 at 19:12

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Ha! I didn't even think about loaners, since this is supposedly a "one day" fix. And the whole point of me taking it in for a test drive tomorrow is so that they can order the parts and have them ready for the day both the transmission guy and I can be there at the same time. They're hoping that will expedite the repairs and keep it a one day operation. But... now you've got me thinking loaners... now I may not mind them having my car.... Hmmm. Thoughts... lol.

Xyl0c41n3 > Sweet Trav 12/12/2014 at 19:13

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We Texans are a persistent bunch, and this car is my baby, so you can be sure I'll be on this til it's fixed. :-)

Xyl0c41n3 > boxrocket 12/12/2014 at 19:15

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It's such a random thing to notice, but I love that giant rotating climate control knob, too ! Lol. But blue lights on the instrument cluster?!?! OMG, now I am jealous. I didn't like the red and white scheme this one has, but it's grown on me. But man... I love blue lighted instrument clusters....

Xyl0c41n3 > bryan40oop 12/12/2014 at 19:27

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I'm wondering if there's a specific reason you decided to list in painstakingly specific detail all the minutiae involved in the repair diagnostic process as if I am totally oblivious to how things work. I'm wondering if any of that has to do with the word "Girl" in my handle.

Because, bruh, I know the service shop isn't just going to take my word for it over the testing of their own technicians. Or even over the evidence of the thousands of Fiestas and Focuses outfitted with these DCT engines that have been experiencing this very same problem in varying degrees for over three years now. I know they have to independently examine the vehicle and make any repair determinations for themselves. But you know what else I know, and what else actually is a valid variable to take into consideration? The performance experiences I've had while driving this car almost every day for the past 2 years.

It wouldn't be the first time my observations have pointed a mechanic in the right direction on repairs made to my car(s). Hell, here on Oppo, it's pretty widely accepted that a driver's experiences can help inform repairs. Yet, this is the first time I've ever seen one opponaut explain to another in the most pedantic of ways the most glaringly obvious of facts.

This isn't my first time at the rodeo, y'know. But thanks for treating me like it is. You have a nice day now, ya hear? :-)

JGrabowMSt > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 20:48

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In the end, happy is important. My sister was half-foolish regarding the Sonic, mainly in that she made a bunch of naive mistakes when dealing with the salesman, but I wasn't able to go with her or help her out with any of that. So far she's happy with it though. The Honda she just wrecked was a DX model, which is as base as base models get. Manual everything, door locks, windows, no alarm, no keyless entry, the radio the dealer sold it with was aftermarket (presumable to replace the shitty unit that was in it)...it was just no bueno. I mean, the car was not a bad car, but comparatively, the Neon that got smashed up had power locks, front power windows, keyless entry and a CD player. She just called me "Mr Moneybags" over it. Now I get to call her Ms Moneybags because her car has more features than my Magnum (despite having half the engine, and being pretty small.

But otherwise, I'm a hatch/wagon person myself, I think the back of the Fiesta sedan has a bit of a funny look to it, not unlike the old Toyota Echo. Just a funny profile to look at for me. Did you look at hatches at all? I will say that the longer I look at the Fiesta/Focus the more I like them, I'm just not personally much for Fords unless it's from the muscle car era. Even though I own a Mopar, I have a real big soft spot for GM products.

Also, I see that bike on the back, do you cycle a lot? I've got a Motobecane Grand Record triathlon bike that I blast around on in warmer weather, and I try to take it on vacation with me as well when possible.

bryan40oop > Xyl0c41n3 12/12/2014 at 21:59

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"I'm wondering if there's a specific reason you decided to list in painstakingly specific detail all the minutiae involved in the repair diagnostic process as if I am totally oblivious to how things work. I'm wondering if any of that has to do with the word "Girl" in my handle."

Honestly, never noticed that. Nor could I care less.

I wasn't trying to be dickish. But I was, just towards FoMoCo. Not you.

The reason for the lengthy rant is because I used to work for Ford. I'm not happy with Ford.

I felt sorry for the focus / fiesta customers I had, still do. Ford is putting a bandaid on them instead of repairing them as they should. They did a similar thing with the 1.6 ecoboost engine vehicles that were catching fire......

The clutches need replaced, most of the time they will not be replaced until your 2nd - 4th comeback visit about the same concern. Because that's the way Ford has set this up.

Fords cleaning process? doesn't work. I wish I had a picture of all the wear material after the cleaning process. It's a joke, but if they're within spec, they have to be re-installed. Otherwise the dealer has to send them back to ford. Ford inspects them, if they pass the dealer doesn't get paid for the warranty repair.

The techs get paid very little for any of the repairs listed. Warranty time < actual time for repairs. So many techs could care less about your concern. Considering most certified techs are commission it's almost impossible to get them to actively work on a DSP6 job. Because they're losing money. I honestly can't blame them.

As far as updates, cleaning, replacements, blah blah blah. The only customers that did not return were the vehicles in which the clutch assembly was replaced with associating components. And that has to have prior approval from Ford. And dear god I hope the parts aren't on national backorder anymore.

It's not really the dealers fault. Ford has specific guidelines on these repairs. If they're not meet, they're not paying. They're complete nazi's about these dsp6 repairs, Sieg fucking heil and all. You only get 2 cans of brake cleaner (which is no where near enough) to clean the affected components from the leaking seal. Cheapskate shit.

Which is why I went into such detail.

This may be a lengthy process for you to have your car repaired. But it's just the way ford has chosen to do this. It's not the dealers or tech's fault.

You should of had a warranty extension to 6yr / 100k miles i think on the clutches and seal.

If not, and they only clean the clutches, try and have Ford give you a further warranty extension. Unless you already have a Ford ESP then there isn't much point.

Hopefully you won't have any problems. But as you said, it's a common issue, and most DSP6's we seen, were definitely affected.

I've lived this hell. I'm just trying to help others get their cars properly fixed.

bryan40oop > Brian Silvestro 12/12/2014 at 22:07

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The DSP6 transmission isn't bad really.

Most customers we seen didn't return after we replaced the clutches for anything other than general preventative maintenance. Eventually though that got us in trouble with good ole' FoMoCo's warranty auditors.