Shudder when accelerating from a stop — 2015 Ford Focus automatic

Yes — this is the infamous DPS6 PowerShift dual-clutch transmission that Ford used in the Focus and Fiesta from 2012-2018. It's one of the most well-known transmission problems in modern cars. The issue is the dry dual-clutch design. The clutch packs wear out prematurely and the TCM (transmission control module) can't adapt fast enough. Ford extended warranties and faced class-action lawsuits over it. **Your options:** 1. **Check if you're still covered** — Ford extended the clutch warranty to 7 years/100k miles (and sometimes 10 years/150k for the TCM). At 68k/2015, you might still be covered. 2. **Clutch replacement** — new clutch pack + throw-out bearing + reprogram TCM. About $1,500-2,000 at the dealer, but may be covered. 3. **TCM reprogram** — sometimes just updating the transmission software helps for a while 4. **Sell it** — honestly, these transmissions have a finite life. Many owners get 2-3 clutch replacements over the car's life. Check the [2015 Focus repair guides](/repair/2015/Ford/Focus) for more details on the DPS6 service procedures.

I went through 3 clutch packs on my '14 Focus before I sold it. Each time it was covered under the extended warranty. Call your local Ford dealer and give them your VIN — they'll tell you immediately if you're covered. Also: DO NOT go to an independent shop for this. The dealer is the only one who can reprogram the TCM properly after a clutch swap, and that reprogram is critical.

Tips to extend clutch life while you have it: - Avoid holding the car on a hill with the brake (use the parking brake) - Come to a complete stop before shifting from R to D - Avoid creeping in traffic — brake or go, don't ride the clutch zone These won't fix the design flaw but they'll slow the wear.