Resetting Your Ford Focus Transmission

If you notice your Ford Focus having issues with its automatic transmission – like unpredictable shifting, gear slippage, or jerky accelerations – you may want to try resetting the transmission computer before you take it into the shop or pay for a repair. Resetting the transmission control module can often resolve these types of transmission problems, at least temporarily.

A transmission reset is an easy do-it-yourself procedure that essentially clears out the transmission’s adaptive memory and allows it to relearn proper shifting behaviors. Read on to learn when to try a transmission reset, what’s involved in the process, and how to get the most out of this trick.

When to Reset Your Ford Focus Transmission

Some of the most common signs that your Focus may benefit from a transmission reset include:

• Rough or delayed gear shifts. If you notice the gears harshly clunking into place or slipping between shifts, a reset can help the computer properly readjust.
• Acceleration problems. Sluggish acceleration or unwanted jerking as you speed up signals issues with the transmission that a reset may address.
• Check engine light illuminations related to transmission problems like solenoid or clutch errors.

Resetting tends to work best if the transmission problems are relatively new or intermittent. If you already have a fully degraded transmission or consistent drivability problems, a reset likely won’t cut it.

Preparing for a Ford Focus Transmission Reset

Resetting the transmission computer in a Focus requires an OBD2 scanner that can access transmission control functions. You can purchase an affordable basic scanner just for this purpose if you don’t already have one. Aside from the scanner, you’ll also need:

• Floor jack & jack stands – Safely lifting the Focus provides access to the transmission control module where you’ll reset the computer.
• A ratchet or wrench set – Depending on the model year, you may need to remove a small transmission cover panel.

Make sure to check for any loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair if working around rotating tires. Take proper precautions any time you raise a vehicle.

Performing the Ford Focus Transmission Reset Procedure

Follow this straightforward process to reset your Focus transmission computer:

1. Safely jack up the front of the Focus and secure it on jack stands per the owner’s manual guidance.
2. Locate the transmission control module, usually bolted to the transmission housing near the bottom of the engine compartment. Consult a repair manual for exact placement if needed.
3. Connect your OBDII scanner to the port under the dash and access the function menu. For some scanners, a transmission submenu may need to be enabled first.
4. Select the reset transmission option from the available choices. Approval messages will be displayed.
5. Follow the scanner’s on-screen instructions as it performs the reset procedure. This usually involves turning the ignition on and off.
6. Once complete, clear any lingering error codes. The check engine light may briefly turn on and then off.
7. Safely lower the Focus, disconnect the scanner, and take it for a short test drive. Avoid aggressive driving at first to allow the transmission time to relearn.

The transmission should now function more smoothly for a while. The computer resets its adaptive memory using parameters from this new test driving period.

Driving Your Ford Focus After a Transmission Reset

After performing a transmission reset, take it easy on those first few drives. Accelerate gently, avoid hills, and don’t tow or haul anything at first. This allows the transmission computer to re-adjust shifting points appropriate for your normal driving.

Expect the first couple of days of driving to feel a little different than what you’re used to as the transmission relearns. Any residual rough shifting or acceleration issues should smooth out. If problems persist after a week, however, that likely indicates an underlying mechanical or electronic transmission issue in need of professional diagnosis.

A reset Ford Focus transmission can buy you some time before a bigger repair is necessary. Just keep in mind it’s not fixing the problem long-term – eventually, those problems will return or worsen. How long the reset lasts varies widely based on driving habits, mileage, and how much wear is inside the transmission.

FAQs About Resetting a Ford Focus Transmission

How many times can I reset my Ford Focus transmission?

You can safely perform a transmission reset procedure multiple times. It’s generally recommended not to do it more than once a month at the very most. Too frequent resets can potentially cause transmission damage over a long enough timeline.

Will a transmission reset damage my Ford Focus further?

When done properly using an OBDII scanner, a reset does not risk immediate damage or have adverse effects. As mentioned, however, continually resetting the adaptive memory without addressing underlying problems can shorten the transmission’s lifespan somewhat.

The check engine light came back on after I reset the transmission – what should I do?

Don’t panic if the check engine light or transmission error codes reappear shortly after a reset. The codes may need to be fully clear. Try the reset again if drivability problems persist. Schedule transmission work if issues continue beyond that, as that indicates an unresolved problem.

Resetting your Ford Focus transmission computer can seem scary but truly poses little risk. Combined with attentive test drives afterward, it’s an easy way to potentially get your transmission back into shape. Just be prepared to have underlying problems fixed eventually for a lasting resolution.