Skip to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.
Ford Owners Club - Ford Forums

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.



Join the Independent Ford Owners' Club

Our community has been built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, and proudly run by Ford owners' for over 18 years. As an independent, non-official club, everything you’ll find here, advice, support, and opinions, comes directly from members with genuine Ford ownership experience.

Join our friendly community... it's Free!

 

Changing Down Gears

joelwool
joelwool
in Ford Focus Club

Featured Replies

I can't find anything about this on the net, and it has never happened to me in another car.

Is it normal for my car not to let me select 1st gear, until the car has slowed down to 5mph or less, it physically will not let me select 1st gear at any speed over 5mph.

this is when I am changing down obviously.

2005 petrol ford focus.

  • Quote


    Why would you need tho?

  • Quote

    That is quite normal...1st gear is for moving off

    Sent from my SM-P600 using Ford OC mobile app

  • Quote

    perfectly normal.... as mentioned above 1st really only needed for pulling away from a standstill

  • Quote

    My mk2 is exactly the same.

    There is a definite notch in the gear shift stopping first being engaged at any speed that could cause damage to the gearbox.

    It is totally normal.

    Sent from my S5

  • Quote

    Iirc my old saxo used to do that. Haven't tried it in my Focus though.

    Sent from my S5

  • Quote

    Quite likely it uses a solenoid to mechanically prevent you selecting reverse or first above a certain speed. My Focus has one on the shifter mechanism, I've just never tried it seeing what speed or gears it affects.

  • Quote

    • Latest Deals

    Ford UK Shop for genuine Ford parts & accessories

    Disclaimer: As the club is an eBay Partner, The club may be compensated if you make a purchase via the club

    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

    Guest
    Reply to this topic...
    Go to topic listing

    The "Digestive"

    • The Digestive Forum Roundup (31st May - 7th June 2026)

      Steve ·
      The Digestive Forum Roundup (31st May - 7th June 2026) We hope you’re all enjoying your week and finding time for some time enjoying your Ford! This week, our vibrant forum has been buzzing with discussions that touch on a diverse range of Ford models, from the Mondeo to the Fiesta and Focus. Here’s a recap of some key conversations that might pique your interest. Starting with the Mondeo, user Frenchspanner shared a particularly frustrating issue relating to a 'Immobiliser Active' message appea
      Steve
      Steve
      • 57 views





    Background Picker
    Customize Layout

    Account

    Navigation

    Search

    Search

    Configure browser push notifications
    Chrome (Android)
    1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
    2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
    3. Adjust your preference.
    Chrome (Desktop)
    1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
    2. Select Site settings.
    3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.