Ford Focus transmission hesitation between 2nd and 3rd gears with sputtering and stalling issues on Ford Focus

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Ford Focus owners report experiencing transmission hesitation between 2nd and 3rd gears, along with sputtering and stalling issues. These problems may be indicative of transmission slipping, where the vehicle hesitates before moving forward or unexpectedly changes gears. Additionally, some owners experience delayed shifting, which can stem from worn clutch plates, low transmission fluid, or a faulty solenoid. Rough shifting is another concern, often linked to a dirty transmission filter, low fluid levels, or valve body issues. Furthermore, jerking and shuddering may occur due to dual-clutch design flaws and software glitches in the transmission system. Low transmission fluid levels can also contribute to these symptoms. It is recommended that owners experiencing these issues have their transmission system inspected by a qualified mechanic to accurately diagnose and resolve the underlying problems.

1 person reported this problem
0 comments
Schedule Repair

Ford Focus vehicles with this problem

0 model year affected

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your Ford.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts