DPS6 PowerShift Transmission Rebuild & Repair in Glendale, AZ (Ford)

Sun West Transmissions — Glendale, AZ. Free estimates, honest diagnosis and a 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty on qualifying rebuilds and replacements.

The Ford DPS6 PowerShift is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission used in the Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta during the 2010s. Unlike a conventional automatic, it has no torque converter. Instead, it uses two dry clutches, one for the odd gears and one for the even gears, and a computer-controlled actuator system that shifts the gears much like an automated manual. It was designed for fuel economy, but many owners know it for shudder, hesitation and rough low-speed behavior.

Sun West Transmissions in Glendale diagnoses and repairs DPS6 PowerShift transmissions for West Valley drivers. Because this unit works so differently from a regular automatic, the right diagnosis is critical.

Vehicles with the DPS6 PowerShift

• Ford Focus with the automatic transmission (third-generation, roughly 2012 to 2018)
• Ford Fiesta with the automatic transmission (roughly 2011 to 2019)

The Focus Electric and performance models such as the Focus ST and RS did not use the DPS6. If you are not sure what your car has, we will verify it.

How a Dry Dual-Clutch Transmission Works

Inside the DPS6 there are two input shafts, each with its own clutch. While one gear is engaged, the computer pre-selects the next gear on the other shaft, then swaps clutches for a fast shift. The clutches are dry, meaning they do not run in fluid, so they behave much like a manual transmission clutch. Smooth operation depends on the clutch surfaces, the clutch actuators, the shift forks and the transmission control module working together. Our page on dual-clutch transmission repair covers the basics.

Common DPS6 PowerShift Problems

Shudder on Takeoff

The most common complaint is a shake or judder when pulling away from a stop or creeping in traffic. It often comes from clutch contamination or worn friction surfaces. Stop-and-go traffic on Bell Road or Glendale Avenue is exactly the kind of driving that brings it out.

Input Shaft Seal Leaks

If the input shaft seals leak, gear oil can reach the dry clutch and contaminate it. A contaminated clutch slips and shudders, and replacing the clutch without fixing the seals usually means the problem returns.

Clutch Actuator and Shift Fork Issues

The clutch and shift actuators are electric motors that move the clutches and forks. Worn or failing actuators can cause delayed engagement, missed shifts, clunks or a transmission warning message.

TCM Faults

The transmission control module is mounted on the transmission and has a history of failures on some vehicles. A TCM fault can cause a no-start in gear, loss of drive, neutral engagement or a flashing warning. Replacement modules must be programmed to the car. See our TCM programming page.

Hesitation and Rough Shifts

Delayed response from a stop, rough 1-2 shifts and clunks while slowing down can come from clutch wear, actuators, software or adaptive values that need to be relearned.

How We Diagnose a DPS6

We scan the transmission module, review stored codes and clutch adaptation data, check for leaks around the input seals, inspect the actuators and road test the car in the conditions where the problem appears. Some complaints improve with software updates and a clutch relearn. Others require clutch replacement, seals, actuators or module replacement. It is also worth checking with a Ford dealer whether your vehicle is covered by any manufacturer service program or extended coverage, since Ford has issued bulletins on this transmission.

DPS6 Repair Options

• Software update and clutch relearn for mild shudder or shift-quality issues
• Clutch replacement with new input shaft seals to prevent repeat contamination
• Actuator or shift fork repair when engagement or shifting is erratic
• TCM replacement and programming for module failures
• Transmission replacement when internal gear or bearing damage is present

We will recommend the repair that fits the car, its mileage and your plans for it. Our rebuild vs. replace guide explains how to weigh the decision.

Cost of DPS6 PowerShift Repair

Cost depends on whether the issue is software, clutches, seals, actuators or the module, and on what we find once the transmission is opened. We do not quote numbers before diagnosis. Call for a free quote, and ask about financing if needed. For comparison with other transmission types, see our transmission replacement cost guide.

Driving Tips for DPS6 Owners

Dual-clutch cars do not like creeping. In traffic, leave a little space and either stop fully or move with purpose instead of riding the brake. Avoid holding the car on a hill with the throttle, and use the brake instead. These habits reduce clutch heat and wear. Our transmission problems page lists other warning signs worth watching for.

DPS6 PowerShift FAQ

Is the DPS6 a CVT?

No. It is a dual-clutch transmission with fixed gears. It shares more with a manual transmission than with a CVT or a traditional automatic. See CVT vs. automatic for the differences.

Will new clutches fix my shudder?

Often, but only if the cause is the clutch and any leaking seals are also fixed. Actuators and software can cause similar symptoms, so diagnosis comes first.

Is it safe to drive with a DPS6 warning message?

If the car loses drive, will not engage or behaves unpredictably, stop driving it and have it checked. Losing power in traffic is a safety risk.