My wife bought a 2018 2.0 certified pre-owned, and I thought the transmission was covered for the lifetime of the car. Is that not true? People on this forum keep saying the transmission failing is just a matter of time and to save up for a replacement. Can someone explain what’s actually covered?
Ford doesn’t offer a lifetime warranty. Some dealers might throw in a third-party ‘lifetime’ warranty, but those usually come with a ton of fine print. The manufacturer doesn’t provide one.
Did she get the blue or gold warranty? The blue one is only 3 months/12k miles, while the gold is 7 years from the original purchase or 100k miles. If the first owner bought it in late 2018, the gold warranty would last until late 2025. If it was purchased in early 2018, it’s likely already expired.
2018 models had fewer issues but still had the clutch shudder problem. Highway driving and pushing the car hard occasionally can help delay the wear. Unfortunately, 2018s aren’t covered under the separate TCM recall. Powertrain warranties do cover the clutch, TCM, and transmission, but it might not be valid much longer for your car. To be honest, older Focus models don’t hold much value now. My 2018 SE hatchback was valued at $11k when I hit a deer, and that was with only 113k miles.
@Walker
She has the 7-year/100k-mile warranty. Thanks for confirming. We’re trying to decide whether to keep my Elantra or her Focus when she upgrades, but it’s looking like neither is a great choice.
Ivy said:
@Walker
She has the 7-year/100k-mile warranty. Thanks for confirming. We’re trying to decide whether to keep my Elantra or her Focus when she upgrades, but it’s looking like neither is a great choice.
If you trade in the Focus, you won’t get much… maybe $5k if the mileage isn’t too high. Focus models don’t retain value well. Trucks or SUVs are a better bet since they hold value longer. Avoid compact SUVs like the Chevy Trax or Ford EcoSport—they’re not great either.
@Walker
Yeah, both cars were our college rides. We’re just trying to keep something affordable for now. Both have over 100k miles. Appreciate the advice.
Ivy said:
@Walker
Yeah, both cars were our college rides. We’re just trying to keep something affordable for now. Both have over 100k miles. Appreciate the advice.
No problem. Keep an eye out for deals if you’re looking to upgrade. Sometimes you can find a solid used SUV or sedan for a decent price.
Ivy said:
@Walker
She has the 7-year/100k-mile warranty. Thanks for confirming. We’re trying to decide whether to keep my Elantra or her Focus when she upgrades, but it’s looking like neither is a great choice.
One thing people haven’t mentioned: Ford’s Gold Cert warranty is 7 years/100k miles, whichever comes first. If your car is a 2018, the warranty is likely about to expire, even if the mileage is under 100k. Also, the PCM issue isn’t covered under powertrain, and the clutch is considered a wear item. Getting Ford to cover any big repairs might be a long shot.
Certified usually just means the factory warranty is still valid for a few years when the car is resold, and repairs must use factory parts. I’ve never heard of a lifetime warranty unless you bought an extra one.