The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Focus and 2013-2016 Fusion vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 18V169 and 18V845. The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.
The risk
A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix
Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Additionally, dealers will inspect Focus vehicles and replace the clutch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were October 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S43. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6,2026.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 26V-376 (26V376000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 26S43 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Power train › Manual transmission |
| Report date | June 9, 2026 |
| Owners notified | October 15, 2026 |
| Vehicles affected | 5,252 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
- 2015 Ford Focus transmission problems 559
- 2016 Ford Focus transmission problems 674
- 2017 Ford Focus transmission problems 455
- 2018 Ford Focus transmission problems 319
- 2013 Ford Fusion transmission problems 281
- 2014 Ford Fusion transmission problems 235
- 2015 Ford Fusion transmission problems 145
- 2016 Ford Fusion transmission problems 311
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 26V-376 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Additionally, dealers will inspect Focus vehicles and replace the clutch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were October 16, 2026.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 5,252 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.