Ford F-150 Trucks Investigated Over Potential Transmission Issue
Federal safety regulators are investigating a potential issue affecting almost 1.3 million Ford F-150 pickup trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched the probe after receiving more than 100 consumer complaints regarding unexpected downshifts in the vehicles.
The complaints allege that the trucks’ transmissions shift to a lower gear without warning. This sudden downshift can cause the vehicle to decelerate rapidly, according to the NHTSA. Some complaints further indicate that this action can lead to the rear wheels temporarily locking up, seizing, or skidding, thereby increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The investigation specifically targets 2015-2017 F-150 models equipped with a 6-speed transmission. Ford Motor Company spokesperson Maria Buczkowski stated that the automaker is “working with the agency to support its investigation.”
Ford has also been dealing with additional recall issues.
The NHTSA is currently conducting a preliminary evaluation to determine if the “scope and severity” of the safety issues warrant an official recall.
In related news, the company recently recalled around 50,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. These recalls relate to potential problems with backup cameras that were improperly repaired under a previous recall. The backup camera video output may fail in select models, increasing safety risks for drivers.
Additionally, Ford issued two recalls for vehicles that had incorrect fixes applied during earlier recalls. Nearly 13,000 Bronco Sport models from 2021 to 2024 and Maverick models from 2022 to 2023 may have body and powertrain control modules that can fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge. Furthermore, over 2,250 Edge vehicles from 2021-2022 have been recalled because their rearview cameras may display distorted images. Dealers must update software in those vehicles without charge; notification letters will be mailed by April 24.
