Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: The 2018 Ford Focus has been the subject of numerous complaints and issues, particularly concerning its transmission, engine, and electrical system. Owners have reported a variety of problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to significant safety concerns.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued three recalls for this vehicle for issues that can seriously impact drivers’ safety, two of which affect the engine, and the other affecting the vehicle’s transmission.
Continue reading to learn more about the common problems affecting the 2018 Ford Focus and how these issues might impact your vehicle.
Common 2018 Ford Focus Problems
- Transmission: Overheating; Stalling; Jerking; Shuddering
- Engine: Bogs down during acceleration; Check engine light frequently turns on; RPM surges when in park; Engine stalling while driving; Oil pump issues causing turbo damage
- Electrical System: Battery issues; Backup camera image display errors; Infotainment system failures (screen going black or not turning on); Total system shutdown; Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) failures
2018 Ford Focus Transmission Problems
The 2018 Ford Focus appears to be prone to transmission issues; one of the most common problems reported is improper or difficult shifting, which can occur even at relatively low mileage. This issue can make driving the vehicle quite challenging and uncomfortable.
Clutch issues are another frequent complaint. Owners have reported leaking or fracturing of the clutch, which, if not addressed promptly, can lead to the need for a full clutch replacement.
This can be a costly and inconvenient repair. Some owners have also experienced complete transmission failure, resulting in the car being stuck in one gear or not shifting at all. This severe issue can render the vehicle undrivable and necessitate extensive repairs.
On November 28, 2018, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued Campaign Number 18V-845 for transmission clutch slip and fluid leak.
In the presence of an ignition source—such as hot engine or exhaust components—a transmission fluid leak raises the fire risk.
A 2020 Ford PowerShift Transmission class action lawsuit against Ford involves allegations that the company concealed defects in the PowerShift transmissions used in certain Focus models.
Plaintiffs claim these transmissions are plagued by issues like jerking and overheating, leading to serious powertrain problems.
Internal documents suggest that Ford was aware of these defects but continued to sell the vehicles without addressing the issues.
The lawsuit builds on previous claims and settlements related to similar defects, and Ford continues to face scrutiny for its handling of the problem.
Consumers affected by these issues may need to consider individual lemon law claims or participate in a class action lawsuit to seek compensation.
2018 Ford Focus Engine Problems
Common engine problems with the 2018 Ford Focus include issues with the fuel system, such as faulty oxygen sensors, fuel pump issues, or fuel injector issues. In online forums, Ford Focus drivers frequently mention the check engine and oil lights turning on.
Some drivers have also experienced RPM surges when the car is in park. There have also been instances where the engine stalls while driving, which can be quite dangerous.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it might be a good idea to have your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic.
The 2018 Ford Focus has been recalled due to an issue with the engine oil pump drive belt, which can cause the engine to lose oil pressure.
The problem lies in the engine oil pump drive belt tensioner arm, which may fracture or separate from the tensioner backing plate.
Symptoms of this problem include a loss of engine oil pressure, which can cause the vehicle to lose engine power and power braking.
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 NHTSA’s Campaign Number for this engine oil pump failure is 23V-905.
Another recall, issued on October 22, 2018, under NHTSA Campaign Number 18V-735, addresses a stuck canister purge valve that may cause the engine to stall.
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.
2018 Ford Focus Electrical System Problems
One of the most alarming issues reported by drivers in the 2018 Ford Focus is a total system shutdown.
This complete electrical failure can occur unexpectedly, posing a significant danger if it happens while driving. Another common problem involves the infotainment system.
Owners have reported instances where the screen goes black or the system fails to turn on altogether. Such failures can be inconvenient and disrupt the driving experience.
The rearview camera in the 2018 Ford Focus has been known to malfunction intermittently. This issue can be particularly problematic when reversing, as it compromises both the driver’s visibility and safety.
The Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM), which controls various electronic functions, is another component prone to failure in the 2018 Ford Focus’ electrical system. When this module fails, it often requires costly replacements.
Battery and alternator issues have also been noted. Symptoms of these battery and module issues include the battery light turning on and alternator malfunctions, which can lead to further electrical problems if not addressed promptly.
Real Ford Focus Owner Complaints
“Engine failure warnings, overheating, and car loss power slowed down to 5 miles per hour. The engine was replaced four times; head gasket replaced three times. I have had the car for three years, and it has been out of service for more than 190 days with the same problem. I have pleaded and begged Ford Motor Company and the dealership to take the car back and give me a refund.”
“Before Ford issued the recall, our 2018 Ford Focus engine seized up and stopped working while we were driving it. We had it towed eventually to the Ford dealer in Shakopee, MN and they said the engine was shot from the issue it was finally recalled for in February of 2024. We bought the car in August of 2018 and this happened in August of 2021 with less than 80,000 miles on it. We ended up replacing the engine which cost $6585.44 for a new engine. We reached out to Ford and they told us it was not their problem. That was until February of 2024 when we received a letter with a safety issue regarding that problem. Now the new engine is also having this problem. Ford would not reimburse us for the new engine. We want to put in an official complaint that they actually ignored this problem even as we googled at the time and saw that it was happening. They’re still not equipped to deal with it. We want our money back from the new engine we paid for.”
“The clutch assembly was recalled and fixed once then it went again after 6 months, the power train started to fail right outside of the 60,000 miles power train warranty the power train started to go before that but Ford never fixed it because it was all in my head. Then once the factory power train warranty ran out Ford service the head mechanic there told me that I should have known about the power train defects and purchased the extended power train warranty. Ford knows about the defects but won’t do anything about it… Don’t buy stay away like the plague and like your life depends upon it because it does.. If you smell burning rubber in your engine just remember you drove over a plastic bag and it got stuck in the muffler. It has nothing to do with a bad clutch assembly because we replaced the clutch assembly due to a recall but it has nothing to do with it being faulty.”
Your 2018 Focus and the Lemon Law
Depending on the Lemon Law statutes in your state, you could be entitled to a refund, a replacement vehicle, or cash compensation for your defective vehicle.
Be aware that the manufacturer might deduct a usage fee for the time the vehicle was operational from any refund or replacement. If you opt for a replacement vehicle, you may also need to cover any difference in price.
One significant advantage of pursuing a Lemon Law claim is that, in many states, the vehicle manufacturer is required to cover your legal fees and costs if you win the case.
This means you can seek justice without incurring out-of-pocket expenses for legal representation. This makes it a practical and financially sensible option to address ongoing issues with your 2018 Ford Focus.
If you believe your vehicle qualifies under the Lemon Law, you should consult with a legal expert specializing in consumer protection and Lemon Law cases to help ensure that your rights are fully protected.
Work with the Lemon Law Experts!
If you’re experiencing repeat warranty issues with your 2018 Ford Focus, the Lemon Law Experts are here to provide the specialized assistance you need.
Since 2009, our team has secured significant settlements for thousands of clients facing vehicle defects, focusing on Lemon Law and warranty violations.
We offer tailored legal services to address your specific situation, ensuring you receive the compensation or resolution you deserve. Contact the Lemon Law Experts today to learn more.
