Transmission controls

The automatics in the Focus change transmission conditions - like all automatic transmissions - without interrupting traction under load. It consists of three functional groups:

• I - hydraulic power transmission (hydrodynamic torque converter with torque converter lock-up clutch);
• II - mechanical planetary gear sets with four forward gears plus overdrive function (boosting) transmission and reverse gear;
• III - automatic switching with electronic control.

Shift points between sets of planetary gears are controlled by a separate control module (ESSC) in the EEC-V Focus electronic engine control unit. With the central selector lever, you can activate six shift positions (P-R-N-D-2-I) and the side button - the overdrive function. The ESSC module cooperates with the engine management and, based on data from 18 different sources of information in the engine and gearbox, calculates the most appropriate shift strategy for each case.

In selector lever position D, the side overdrive button can have additional influence on the automatic shifting rhythm: it locks fourth gear or prevents reverse shifting to third gear. The failure of electronic components is compensated by the program of emergency operation of hydraulics in a limited amount of movement programs.