2016 Ford Focus - Flexplate

Automatic Transmission Flexplate Replacements

The flexplate connects the engine crankshaft and torque converter on vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, taking the place of the transmission flywheel found on vehicles with manual transmissions. The flexplate is a thin piece of stamped steel located on the end of the crankshaft, and is bolted at its outer edge to the transmission's torque converter to transfer engine power. Its design also features geared teeth around its outer edge that engage with the starter to turn the engine over on startup. Over time, a flexplate can suffer wear, crack, or suffer damage, especially if subjected to high levels of stress, an out-of-balance engine, poor or incomplete starter engagement, or if the engine has experienced severe vibrations while driving. It's also possible for the teeth around the edge of the flexplate to break off, causing issues with starter engagement in certain positions. If the starter is activated while the engine is running, this can also cause damage or wear to the flexplate teeth. If a flexplate is damaged, it can lead to improper torque converter engagement, rough idle or vibrations, or even crankshaft damage that could cause catastrophic engine failure. If you experience a knocking noise when the transmission shifts, feel extreme vibrations when driving, or if you notice clunking, rattling, chirping, or grinding noises while your engine is idle, Park, or Neutral, the flexplate may need to be replaced. For your next flexplate repair, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts, where we carry new flexplates for a complete repair.