P0735 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
2 Ford models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $900-$3,500 repair
P0735 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Ford Fiesta equipped with the DPS6 PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission is one of the most complained-about vehicles in recent history. The dry dual-clutch design causes severe shuddering, jerking, hesitation, and complete loss of power during acceleration. The clutch plates overheat and wear prematurely, often before 50,000 miles. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) software frequently fails to adapt properly, causing delayed shifts, harsh engagement, and rollback on hills. Ford faced a class-action lawsuit involving nearly 1.5 million vehicles and a federal settlement was reached.
Common Symptoms
- Violent shuddering or bucking during acceleration from a stop
- Transmission slipping and RPMs flaring without acceleration
- Harsh or jerky shifts between 1st and 2nd gear
- Hesitation or delayed engagement when pressing the gas pedal
- Vehicle rolls backward on hills even with foot on gas
- Grinding or chattering noise from transmission area
- Wrench warning light or transmission malfunction message
How to Fix
Check if your vehicle is covered under Ford's extended warranty or class-action settlement — many Fiestas qualify for free clutch and TCM replacement. If out of warranty, have the clutch assembly and TCM reprogrammed or replaced ($1,500-$3,500). Some owners have had success with multiple TCM reflashes to improve shift quality. As a last resort, some owners have converted to a manual transmission. Avoid the PowerShift entirely when purchasing a used Fiesta — manual transmission models are far more reliable.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Transmission Clutch KitCross-refK70564-01
Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.
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Sources for this issue (2)
A very common failure on third- and fourth-generation Explorers with the 5R55W/5R55S automatic is wear in the overdrive and intermediate servo bores inside the transmission case. As the bores wear, hydraulic pressure leaks past the servo pistons, leading to 2-3 flare, 3-5 flare, slipping, harsh engagement, and delayed or missing reverse. This issue is widely documented in owner complaints, transmission repair communities, and Ford service literature addressing shift flare and servo-related repairs.
Common Symptoms
- 2-3 shift flare
- 3-5 shift flare
- delayed reverse engagement
- slipping during acceleration
- harsh shifting
- transmission warning light
- loss of reverse
How to Fix
Diagnosis usually includes confirming flare or slip during the 2-3 or 3-5 shift, checking line pressure, scanning for ratio/performance codes, and inspecting servo operation. A lasting repair typically requires installing oversized servo bore sleeves or a remanufactured valve body/case repair kit; fluid changes alone rarely fix worn bores once symptoms are established. If clutch damage has already occurred, a full rebuild may be necessary.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0735 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0735 mean on a Ford?
P0735 stands for "Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio." This code means the Transmission/Powertrain Control Module detected an incorrect gear ratio in 5th gear. By comparing input shaft speed to output shaft speed, the module verifies each commanded gear; when the 5th-gear ratio is wrong, P0735 is stored. This typically means the transmission is slipping or failing to lock into 5th gear due to fluid, friction, or solenoid issues. Drivers may notice slipping at highway speeds, RPM flare, poor fuel economy, or limp mode. On Ford it is documented across 2 models: Fiesta, Explorer.
What are the most common causes of P0735?
The most common causes of P0735 are: Low or degraded/burnt transmission fluid, Slipping clutch packs or worn friction elements in 5th gear, Stuck or faulty shift solenoid, Valve body / internal hydraulic leak or restriction, Worn or failing torque converter, Faulty input or output speed sensor, Internal mechanical wear inside the transmission. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0735 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $900 to $3,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0735 on a different make?
View P0735 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.