Ford 10 Speed Transmission Problems To Be Aware Of

Sandy B
Jan 26, 2021

Ford is a well-respected name of vehicles with a long history of producing reliable products. Yet, even these vehicles, like F-150 and Focus, can have problems. That includes concerns with specific components such as the 10-speed transmission. It’s important potential buyers know about these risks.

Are there concerns with the Ford 10-speed transmission?   

Yes, there have been a number of problems with the Ford 10-speed transmission, including:  

  • Erratic movements and jerking 
  • Vehicle lunging forward 
  • Loss of acceleration  
  • Rough shifting  
  • Slipping into neutral  

Ford Logo Closeup

There are a lot of concerns about the Ford 10-speed transmission problems. That is why we will break down what is wrong with this vehicle and what you should know about it. Remember to always check the Vehicle History of your Ford before you buy.

The 10-Speed Transmission from Ford

The Ford F-150 is one of the vehicles that has had a significant amount of trouble with the 10-speed transmission. The problems have led to a class-action lawsuit against the company as a result.

In one example, the lawsuit states truck occupants can suffer whiplash as a result of the transmission shifts in this vehicle because they are so significant.

Whether or not that is true, there are numerous claims against this transmission. The problems have impacted the 2017 through 2020 F-150 trucks.

Not all of these vehicles are impacted — just those with the 10-speed transmission. The class action lawsuit claims the transmission has serious defects that create safety risks for drivers.

This vehicle promises to offer improved overall performance because of this upgraded transmission (previous models were 6 or 8 speed). It also was supposed to offer improved acceleration while also offering a low to mid-range of power band.

This was designed as the SelectShift automatic transmission. In all of the marketing materials for this truck, the claims were clearly to offer a better product that is more responsive as well as offering better performance.

Ford Issued a Transmission Service Bulletin for Vehicles

Car Transmission Closeup

Ford issued more than one technical service bulletin for technicians for this transmission. The bulletins exist for the 2017 and 2018 model years for this vehicle.

They note that the transmission can show signs of a harsh or bumpy upshift or downshift. It also notes technicians should look for engagement problems.

In the bulletins to technicians, Ford notes that the vehicles have a unique adaptive transmission that has a different shift strategy. This allows the truck’s computer system to learn the transmission’s unique parameters and then improve overall shift quality.

While this is not very specific in terms of what is wrong, and it does not offer any specific recommendations for why problems exist, the bulletin did provide additional info.

It told technicians to consider resetting the adaptive strategy. By doing this, the transmission and computer will start to re-learn the process again.

That should allow for a firmer and more normal upshift and downshift in the vehicle. It also notes that this generally will only last for a few days.

The results here required dealerships working on the vehicle to reprogram the powertrain control modules.

Outcome of the Lawsuits

Though there are still some pending lawsuits at the time of this writing (September of 2020), Ford has not issued any relief for customers. This includes not offering any support through a warranty extension on the transmission. It also has not issued any type of recall on the vehicle’s transmission.

It is important to know this is not the first time that Ford has had issues and lawsuits against its powertrain vehicles. As of February of 2019, there were three recalls on the 6-speed transmissions.

These recalls impacted more than 1.5 million vehicles, including the 2011 through 2013 Ford F-150 vehicles. The problems there include concerns with shifting problems.

Additional Customer Complaints Regarding the 10-Speed Transmission

It takes just a few minutes to find numerous complaints about the 10-speed transmission. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also notes 47 official complaints about the powertrain on the 2017 Ford F-150.

While the 10-speed transmission is a key component of this due to its unique shifting methods, there are other concerns with the vehicle. Some drivers reported leaking transmission fluid in their new trucks, which has not been explained by technicians.

Other drivers report problems with the F-150 10-speed not just when it is shifting, but when it is in lower gears and being used at a low speed. Some drivers noted that they lost all ability to accelerate the vehicle when they were traveling at a high speed on the highway.

This created a safety hazard for the driver, leaving them unable to maintain speed.

Still, other consumers report the vehicle simply stalls out randomly. The transmission shifting is still the biggest concern for drivers, but there are numerous other factors buyers should consider.

Should You Buy a Ford With a 10-Speed Transmission?

It is important to do your homework. If you are thinking about purchasing a vehicle with a 10-speed transmission from Ford, be sure to do some research. Visit the NHSTA website for starters.

Enter the vehicle’s VIN or the make, model, and year. Then, read through the customer complaints related to these vehicles, especially those that relate to the powertrain.

You can also look deeper. Should Ford issue a recall for the 10-speed transmission — many people believe a recall would be due to the class action lawsuit — it will be listed on this page.

Also, note any technical service bulletins related to the vehicle. This information will give you insight into what is currently occurring with these vehicles and transmissions.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Robert Callard on April 1, 2022
New, 2022 F150 Hybrid Owner , 1,600 miles
1. Transmission. Stays in higher gears at stops. When starting out it barely moves in response to gas pedal increase. At about 3,000 RPMs it engages and jerks violently ahead. After this happened several times I noticed the transmission gear light was in a higher gear at stop, like 7th gear. Therefore the motor had to rev up to 7th gear speed before it would move adequately. Has to be hard on the transmission when this happens, also embarrassing and very dangerous should you have to cross a busy roadway quickly. It also downshifts suddenly all the way from a high gear to 1st when slowing for an intersection at about 30 MPH. This produces a severe jerk, like slamming on the brakes and a very loud clunk. These conditions occur randomly but when they do occur, they often happen several times in a row then might not happen for a week. There are 1585 miles on the truck. Has been at the dealer for 4 days, call today , April Fools day, claim can't find any problem. Told them I don't want the truck back until it's fixed. Check the internet, talk to other Ford dealers, go up the chain in Ford. They have to be aware of the problem based on internet complaints. This problem does not "throw a code", so they can't believe the customer? I say bulls. I will be cking the lemon laws in my state and filing an official complaint with the Nat. Highway, Traffic Safety Division. I have zero confidence in this vehicle at this time! Sold a 2018 Chevy to get it. It was a club cab and I really wanted a crew cab plus the mileage reviews were great for the Ford. Also, Carvanna gave me almost $36,000 for my low mileage chevy, which always got 20-24mpg when not towing.
accountCircle Mike on September 8, 2023
2019 F-150 10 speed transmission issues
I've been dealing with shifting issues since about 80,000 miles. Now i'm at almost 96,000 miles. Had a trans flush done to try to fix the issue with jumping gears noticably and nothing got better. Not long after i was driving on highway with shoulder closed and the trans went crazy on me. I was going over 60 mph and it suddenly felt like the truck was in neutral, losing speed, then bam! It shifted into gear and then back to neutral again. The wrench indicator for powertrain came on and everything. I somehow got to where i was going for work but was an hour away from the office so i got towed back. Come to find out the trans shop only re-set the computer. It's only acted up since then, quickly. Our fleet mgr opted to put a new transmission in and within a day the problem happened again with the hard shift at highway speed. Only drove it 3 days and went on vacation. The week after vacation the gear came on again by the end of the week. The truck had issues downshifting from 10 to 9 speed and hit neutral for a couple seconds, slammed into 10th gear and the wrench indicator light flashed on. This time i had the code checked and it dealt with 10th gear. Took the truck back to the trans shop. They said they had a different code than the one i got and re-set the computer and test drove it. I got it back and my first drive was home and the indicator light came on again, same issue. Its back in the shop. I'll probably be selling it next week or shortly thereafter, It's sad but probably not buying another Ford until they acknowlege the trans issue and come up with a better product. Not happy. I'm at almost 97,000 miles now.
accountCircle Crushing guy on August 6, 2023
2018 f 150 5.0L Transmission upshift problems
My truck was working very well until i took it in for recommended transmission drain and flush which was well beyond due (2018 with approx 300,000 kilometers at that time October 2022). I wished i had never done that and just drove on. The saga that ensued included the dealer blaming the catalytic converters, Getting those changed was another saga itself as i am on my third set which the OE set that was finally put in are not seemingly throwing the P04020 and P04030 as the other "foreign" ones. The transmission will still not upshift after 6 months and going back to the dealership 3 times. This last time i have lost all faith in Ford and have driven Ford pickups for work in some of the harshest environments for the past 30 years - never a problem and always proved easy and cost effective for a working man to maintain. This truck is now useless as a fleet or working persons truck and should only be relegated to dazzling liberal urbanites who think they need a truck in the city to get their groceries. Truck now has 392,400 kilometers and just out of the shop again this week and i am now being told its the engine not the transmission. I am certain it is not the engine. The 5.0 liter engine is a staple. Mechanical failures are always cause / change and effect and Ford should have never changed to this transmission. Very dangerous not being able to accelerate and transmission stays in 4th gear under hard acceleration.
accountCircle Greg on September 26, 2021
F150 2wd 5.0,10speed 30K
This is a truck, it’s not gonna drive like a car. Typically nobody writes positive things about a product. Well I’m tryingThis is a truck, it’s not gonna drive like a car. Typically nobody writes positive things about a product. I’m trying to give some balance. This truck runs fantastic I’ve exercise all of the driving modes from trying to hyper mile, to drive like the rest of the idiots on the road that want to race from stoplight to stoplight. The shiftingThis truck runs fantastic I’ve exercise all of the driving modes from trying to hyper mile, to drive like the rest of the idiots on the road that want to race from stoplight to stoplight. The shifting on my truck is superb. And I’m averaging over 22 to 24 miles to the gallon with 80 to 90% of my driving city it’s amazing! My research is only turned up that the fluid this transmission uses needs to run between 190 and 220°. I am looking to do preventative maintenance, and flush my transmission way earlier than 100,000 mile mark possibly within the next 5000 miles.
accountCircle Amanda on November 10, 2023
2020 Ford Expedition- Vehicle Crash
Ok so has anyone been in an accident due to the sudden loss of power, or jumps in the transmission? I had a similar occurrence 3 weeks ago, and immediately called our guy at Ford. They told us it would be 3-4 weeks before they could get it in for the transmission. 11 days later, my car is totaled, and I am lucky to be alive. I was traveling on the interstate in the early morning, and it was raining, so the roads were wet. I was going 73mph (the last time I looked) on the toll road when the transmission disengaged and jerked me so hard that the auto-start stop activated and my car shut down completely. I was unable to avoid colliding with the barrier on the toll road, and my car is more than totaled. We are engaging a personal injury attorney, but I wanted to see if anyone else had experienced anything similar. Thank God my children were not with me. I was lucky to even walk away from the accident. I'm going to be out of work for a bit, but luckily, I am alive. This could have ended much worse.
accountCircle Klein J on August 29, 2023
2018 Expedition 10 speed
Piece of Junk. Purchased as a 3 year lease return from dealership. 4 month as owner and Ford says cam phaser recall. 2 weeks at dealer as they couldn't get all the parts. 300kms after pick up - all lights and bells ring. Call ford and they says its a sensor and keep driving. 300km further and we are getting towed to dealership -dead on highway. Thanks for the FORD Found Dead on Road (joke) Dealership takes blame and keeps truck for 2 moths. Tie rods bent, and destroyed that side of my motor. Pick up vehicle and Check Engine light on. Dealership surprised. WTF 3 months of back and forth to dealership they finally replace seal on heads and determine that must have bent that on original install. Drove nice 1 year., Then jerking, high RPMs, kinda stalling out All exact same as other 10 speed people report. FORD says I need a new Clutch Assembly and essentially a tranny rebuild. Currently sitting at dealiership with under 90,000KMS and no warranty.
accountCircle Jay on December 30, 2021
Shifting concerns
I have a 2019 F150 with the 2.7 and a 10 speed transmission. I bought it used at 39,000 miles. I didn't notice anything or the first month or two. If I accelerate slowly and it shifts through all of the gears it will high rev in 3rd then jump into 4th. If I am holding speed anywhere from 55-75 (maybe higher and lower but those are my normal speeds) via cruise control and come up to a hill it will drop from 10 to 9 but I feel a clunk. I am assuming that it is coming from the transmission, the U joints, or the rear diff. When I had my last oil change and tire rotation I brought this up to the service manager. He looked it up online and said there were a bunch of TSB's for this transmission but they wouldn't know if it would be covered by the factory warranty, the extended warranty, or possibly neither until they dug into it. I'm neutral on this for the time being but have an appointment on 11JAN2022. Wish me luck!
accountCircle K63 on February 18, 2022
2020 EXPEDITION MAX
Purchased a 2020 Expedition Max (California Edition), from beginning kept telling technicians something is not right about the transmission. Daughter purchased a 2021 Explorer, driving her to pick it up, traveling 70 MPH on highway, transmission shoots to 10,000 RPM, dash panel lights up with errors, scared me to death. Of course, left lane, was able to get off highway, could not do anything with transmission. It was dead, would not engage in any gear. 4 1/2 hours, 4 attempts to get road side assistance, was a disaster. Great service by local Ford dealership tow truck, but had bad experience at dealership. After getting car back, was told to be only person to drive it for awhile. What do families do that have kids and parents may need to switch vehicles?? Within days, similar jerking, shifting issues. Need to make a decision.
accountCircle James on February 13, 2023
Junk
I bought a 2019 F150 XLT new. I have to say a big mistake. First was the rear window defrost only half the window would defrost. Then I had the dash replaced twice because of separating at the defrost outlet. The 10 speed transmission is terrible never knows where it is at. Re programmed twice still bad . Brought it in to dealer because I was hearing a noise. They checked it out bad tie rod with 19000 miles. Than less then 20000 miles had to have the cam phasers replaced. Still having the noise coming from the rear only after driving about 30 miles when first taking off from a stop. Dealer has no clue why, checked suspension and lubed leaf springs. Does not help at all. Getting ready to dump this thing.I hate to say it but probably the worse truck I ever owned. I had two fords before this and this will probably be my last.
accountCircle James on February 13, 2023
Junk
I bought a 2019 F150 XLT new. I have to say a big mistake. First was the rear window defrost only half the window would defrost. Then I had the dash replaced twice because of separating at the defrost outlet. The 10 speed transmission is terrible never knows where it is at. Re programmed twice still bad . Brought it in to dealer because I was hearing a noise. They checked it out bad tie rod with 19000 miles. Than less then 20000 miles had to have the cam phasers replaced. Still having the noise coming from the rear only after driving about 30 miles when first taking off from a stop. Dealer has no clue why, checked suspension and lubed leaf springs. Does not help at all. Getting ready to dump this thing.I hate to say it but probably the worse truck I ever owned. I had two fords before this and this will probably be my last.
accountCircle Craig S. on May 22, 2022
Transmission stuck in 8th gear at stop
Transmission stays in 8th gear at a stop. Happens usually within 5 minutes of a cold start but not always. Happens when accelerating to 40 ish mph and getting to gear 8 then coming to a stop. When in 8th gear at a stop will barely creep forward then slam into 3rd after about 5-7 sec. This is a 2022 F150 Limited and has had this problem since day 1. Happens about every 7-10th time the car is used. Been to the dealer 2 times with reset of adaptive module and recycle some sort of transmission solenoid, no codes were thrown. Neither attempt solved the issue. Mileage now at 5000 and will take in again soon. This is a dangerous situation as when you need acceleration and don't have it you are left hanging in the road, which is not a good feeling as you have to rely on cross traffic to see you are having an issue
accountCircle Jeff on April 28, 2023
2021 Expedition Max
All the symptoms/problems listed above just started to happen a month ago and progressed DRAMATICALLY. It would happen spontaneously which almost caused an accident. It is now 4/28/23, It has been at the Ford dealership for 2 1/2 weeks and they are so backed up, I got a notice that it "might' get looked at next week. This is our primary vehicle. We are in a bind and all we get is the generic text/email reply of "the next available technician will be looking at your vehicle. The Diagnostic will cost $200 to proceed". Full and extended coverage, knowing they are having problems but still want to charge the fee that may eventually be refunded?? After dealing with the "may cause a fire issue and had to park it away from the house, now this? How isn't the news all over the this? Beyond mad
accountCircle Wilbert Ramos on December 13, 2023
2017 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5 v6 ecoboost..
I purchased a 2017 ford f-150 xlt with the 10spd transmission it had 100k miles this is my 2nd yr with it the transmission light turned on so I took it to the ford dealership they did the transmission fluid service it worked good for 2 days after the 2nd day the transmissionlight turned on again & it started shifting hard slipping gears & I took it back is going to cost me 8,000 for a replacement i say stay away form the 10spd transmission isn't worth it once I get it fixed I'm getting rid of my 2017 ford f-150 I will never ever buy another ford f150 I'd rather purchase a chevy or a Ram pickup until ford doesn't fix this issue there's no need to buy a pickup isn't going to last long is very sad & unfortunate that ford doesn't want to fix this 10spd transmission issues
accountCircle Tanya K Ward on June 10, 2022
Serious Transmission problem almost got us killed
I had noticed car shutters between 20 and 30 mph took to dealer said that’s normal for that vehicle Noticed it shifts really hard asked dealer again said yea it’s leaning how you drive it’s normal. Well today my car lunged forward almost got me in accident . This is serious problem . Very dangerous . Will be taking mine into dealer and getting in touch with ford . I know I will have hard time getting thru because they never return calls and have a folks working at call center who know nothing . Been there done that with the cam phasers which now that I had all that Redone we still have noises and rattling after they kept for 2 weeks to repair . Not dealerships fault Ford is crape sorry but they have let us down .
accountCircle J. Young on December 3, 2022
2018 f150 10 speed has me wishing I kept my 2012 f150.
I purchased my 2018 f150 lariat with 59,000 miles on it. 1st through 5th gears are awful. It jerks, sometimes shift’s itself into neutral and engine revs but goes nowhere. I have almost been hit several times because of this. I have to reset the ignorant adaptive learning and try to limp it around for a few days until it gets better. But does it again after 1000 miles. I wish I kept my 2012 f150 every day. I am (or was) a Ford fan, but now I steer companies towards purchasing Dodge or Chevy fleet vehicles. I have owned the 2018 for 4 months. I own three Fords for personal use, but manage fleets of vehicles. I plan on switching our fleets from Ford due to the 10 speed not being properly handled by Ford.
accountCircle Ed on October 30, 2021
2017 ten speed tranny
Problems with mine started at about 100,000 miles. Shifts between 7th and 1st at random. Hard shifts into 3rd, 5th and 8th all the time. Sometimes will stay in 7th gear even when coming to a full stop, causing the engine to lug. Has a tendency to stall the shift between gears for 3 to 4 seconds when pulling out from a stop with the engine racing and then suddenly slam into gear. Ford replaced the transmission solenoid block a week ago. No change in how the transmission operates. This is my 6th Ford truck and most likely the last. Looking at a Chevy now. The Ford truck has been a disaster for 4 years now. One thing after another. Maybe someday Ford will employ real engineers. Not holding my breath though.
accountCircle Jean on May 10, 2023
Life or Death
We purchased a 2021 Ford Expedition because it had the full middle seat and fits our family. There were a lot of pros. Now after a few months we started with the transmission issue our vehicle lunging forward, loss of acceleration and rough shifting. I was told to take my foot off the gas so that it can think. I would do that and it would slow me down and the vehicles behind me did not know what was going on. Very unsafe and uncomfortable feeling. We are finding out these 10 speed transmissions are junk and Ford knows it. They are telling their customers to drive the vehicle till it breaks. I will protest and let everyone know not to buy this vehicle. I want to go under like Bud Light.
accountCircle Doug Stump on May 4, 2022
22 f150 stx4x4 3.5 Ecoboost
I bought this truck in January if this year. At 300+ I noticed it acting weird. The truck had a hestation from 35 to 70. It felt like it was a miss fire. Then I noticed a rough idle and missed second gear on up shift and down. Took to dealer and they told me that the transmission is designed to miss second for fuel economy but it gets all the rest. Then the rough idle is the fuel economy s**t again and the feeling of miss fire could be yup...fuel economy. The service writer told me to drive it like i stole it. It's under warranty. Now it's over 7000 miles and still does it. I feel this transmission is the biggest POS ever. Very upset with the response from the dealer and the quality.
accountCircle Robert K on December 11, 2021
2018 f150 XLT 10 speed transmission
Just purchased my super cab on December4 2021. Only 52,889 miles. Gold certified 5.0 engine is shifting from 1st right to 3rd skipping 2nd every time. 3rd to 4th is jerking almost like a trailer hitch effect. At first I thought might be the suspension bouncing but my 2014 F-150 super cab didn't make this feeling. Both trucks are 4x4 v-8 . Had to buy another truck due to an accident. This 2018 is shifting eradicated up the gears and when coasting in say 8th it seems to stay there until I'm going around 30, then it jumps down and shudders. It's not the road being bumpy. With only 6 days owning it I'm worried I made a very bad decision. I'm lost on what to do.
accountCircle Steve Klein on June 12, 2022
10 speed transmission is the worst tranmission ever!
Don't buy this truck unless you want problems, Ive had my 2019 F150 limited in 2 times and as of 6-13-22 its going into dealership again. Here's the problems... Shifting from 3rd or 4th into 5th truck bogs down, banging into second at times, slipping between gears (motor revs out) then banging into gear, at highway speed when accelerating truck loses power (practically stalls), low speed panic acceleration stalls. I was going to my fathers funeral about an hour and a half drive with three other people in my truck and had everything I listed above happen on this trip, at one time I had to pull over because I though transmission was going out.
accountCircle Fed up with Ford on August 4, 2023
10 speed transmission nightmare 2018 F-150
Bought truck used from Langdale Ford, Valdosta. Needed a reliable truck for my husband to commute to work weekly. Had the truck about 8 months when it started jumping out of gear. Very dangerous when going through intersections, it would just jump into neutral. Truck been in transmission shop for 6 months now. It won’t go at all. Bad thing is we put 10k down in this truck and have spent over 5k on transmission rebuild and still walking. Ford really should do something about this, but they won’t. If we can EVER get this truck driving again, we are getting rid of it and buying a Toyota! Farewell Ford…you’ve really done a number on us.
accountCircle Bob on May 14, 2022
2022 F250 10 spd - hard shifts and sticky gears
2022 F250 7.3 King Ranch Tremor - 5th gear is especially bad going uphill - it shifts hard and gives a kick in the butt. 7th does it a little bit as well. Going downhill the truck will get stuck in low gear (might be hill descent control) but then when you hit the flat and drive a few hundred feet it still stays stuck in low gear, regardless of how you accelerate; youll be up to 3-4,000 RPM in the 7.3 V8 in 3rd or 4th gear then suddenly itll shift into 7th and drop 1500rpm... It just makes no sense. Ford dealer reproduced the issues and are going to take a look at it next week.
accountCircle Josh on February 5, 2022
2019 Ford F-150 3.5 platinum 4x4 36,000
To all the reviews that have not read your manual, the transmission learns to skip gears to save on fuel, although I don’t see much point of skipping a gear, it’s programmed to do this. I recently traded in my 2015 with 86,000 miles on it with a 6 speed transmission and never had any problems with it. To me the 2019 feels so much heavier and I don’t know if it’s the 4x4 that makes it feel that way but it does. Also the acceleration isn’t as good as my 2015 but claims has more horsepower and torque. I am hoping the 2019 lasts as long as the 2015 but we shall see.
accountCircle Jessica Schluppenbaum on July 1, 2023
2018 Ford Expedition Max on 3rd transmission
At 99k my transmission started slipping gears then it redlined the heat and dropped all the fluid when I was on the highway. New transmission was installed under warranty and 3 months later same thing happens. New transmission was installed and one month later same thing! I will never buy a FORD again. Such an expensive vehicle that dies at 99k! Ford now wants me to pay them 8k to install the new warranty replacement (since they didn’t install the other two). No way!! I’m probably not going to get that much on a trade in now. Class action lawsuit needs to happen!
accountCircle Patrick Williamon on October 30, 2023
Terrible transmission and even worse assistance from Ford
Transmission is having major issues when a cold start and will not shiftand go up to 4000 rpms without the gas in touched going from 1st - 3rd gear. Went to Ford stated they are aware of issue but not covered or a recall. Called Ford customer service and did not get responses at all for many days saying "we will call you right back"; get someone on the phone and say they are working with me now but no direct help. They should be able to something to help loyal customers when they have known issues and not willing to take responsibility for them
accountCircle Mark c on June 11, 2023
Never again
I have a 2019 Ford F150, XLT 4 x 4 with 90k highway miles. I’m gentle with the truck and and almost never heart accelerate. Wow, accelerating to 80 to pass won the transmission does a hard shift and smoke starts coming out the backand almost never heart accelerate. Wow, accelerating to 80 to pass and one the transmission does a hard shift and smoke starts coming out the back of my truck. The transmission starts to overheat and I am forced to pull over. There is transmission oil all over the transmission and I can’t do over 70 mph.
accountCircle Kathy on June 21, 2023
2020 expedition max trans
My 2020 expedition is currently sitting at a Ford dealership with a transmission problem. Same complaints as others. I was driving and switching lanes, when all the sudden loss all power, and sounded like a bunch of metal was clunking around under the truck. This happened 2 other times but without noise just loss of power. I also got an error message on dash this time that said, “system failure”. Scary and definitely a serious SAFETY issue!!, when you can get out of the way because you have lost all power!! Ford please fix this.
accountCircle Rick D. on January 25, 2023
2020 F150 FX4 Transmisson Failed at 50,000 miles, under warranty.
I was having many of the same problems with the transmission as stated previously by others. The day before a scheduled appointment, the transmission failed completely and had to be towed there. The transmission was completely destroyed with metal pieces everywhere. If that was not the worst part, it has now been 43 days in the shop with no ETA on when a transmission will be delivered more less installed. Ford should be ashamed to sell a vehicle they can't service in a timely manner. Are others having this same problem?
accountCircle James T. Jenkins on January 1, 2022
Jtjenlol41@aol.com
2020 F250 4x4, leaving a red light it will like stall out ,then pick up and take off. It shifts gears a lot on the road, Cruise control drives me nuts it's constantly shifting back and forth between gears. Sometimes when you put it in gear, there's a loud noise like something just stripped out, but then it drives ok. Don't know what that is and neither does the dealership. Every time you take it in for service, they say everything is good, within specs. I like the truck and the engine, but not the transmission.
accountCircle I’m never buying a Ford again on November 21, 2021
Horrible
I bought a 2019 F150 with the 3.5L and 10 speed transmission. It was the worst decision ever. I kept it a year and went back to a Ram. The shifting was horrible, absolutely horrible. It sounded like the truck was coming apart sometimes when it would shift. I took it to the dealer to reprogram the transmission, that only lasted for a few days and then it was back to slamming into gear. You never knew if it was going to down shift or up shift. Stay away from the 10 speed transmission.
accountCircle Dustin on January 4, 2022
2018 f150 5.0l
76,000 km with cam phaser issues. Also an odd ratcheting sound after warm-up when touchng the accelerator. The transmission went into 7th on a cold morning when putting in drive. I eventually got it to stay in 1st. Gotthe phasers replaced 2 weeks ago,engine still sounds like an old chrysler with 300k on it. Now this morning i can't get it out of 7th again. Had to drive it in 4wd low tomy doctor appointment. Sucks because I love the truck. Everything new is computerized junk.
accountCircle george rose on December 10, 2021
Gprose1957@gmail.com
I have a 017 f150 xlt that has hard up & down shift on the 10 speed transmission.Dealer reset module but was back to same problem within a week.Also had cam phasers replaced in 019 before recall came out in 020 & needs replaced again.Was told by Dealer that Ford will now only pay 60% of cost due to total mileage accrued.This is how they rip off owners from dragging out recall notices.Still no recall for problematic 10 speed transmission. Where's the TRANSPARENCY!!!
accountCircle Brad on November 23, 2021
Jenkins
My 2018 F150 started to downshift rough at 6th gear down to first with a lot of noise at just shy of 48,000 miles. The techs reflashed the transmission first and the problem didn’t change. They are now replacing the entire transmission under warranty. Overall I really like the truck but all the issues everyone is having including the guys that have the transmission in their GM trucks doesn’t give me a lot of confidence in the longevity of these transmissions.
accountCircle David Sommers on March 15, 2022
Dave_sommers@yahoo.com
2018 F150 transmission problems. Started shifting erratically and o the way to the dealership went into limp mode. It's take 2 weeks just to get it into their transmission shop and now has been there for 2 more weeks. Truck has 62K mile on it and everyone I talk to with the same transmission seems to having similar issues. When it works it's wonderful but it it need to be fixed the dealerships all seem to be backlogged by at least 2 weeks.
accountCircle Thomas Laishley on October 3, 2021
Tom.laishley@outlook.com
2017 F-150 10 speed transmission. The shift module in the truck caused the transmission not to shift gears. Required a replacement of the whole assembly. This cost $500 for the part $30 gasket and $65 for filter. Ford could not get to it for 2 months. Bill of $3000. I had it done on outside for less. Ford is now telling me that if I change my transmission fluid there is a good chance the transmission would not work. Rock ad a hard spot.
accountCircle RS on July 11, 2022
2018 FORD F-150 WITH 10 SPEED TRANSMISSION
I had the the transmission worked on at 53,000 electronic psm update then again at 81,000 all under extended warranty. At 110,000 they now say the transmission needs replaced(outside of the warranty) I called Ford Costumer service and they are not interested in helping at all even though they know the transmissions are junk. I have bought Ford vehicles for years but this will be the last one.
accountCircle Mike on October 29, 2021
Trans issue
2020 Roush F150 vibration issue since the day I got it. Been to dealership five times for it and they say its the wheels/tires and blame roush.Each time its been to the dealership they also "updated" the trans to get rid of the erratic shifting problems I told them about. Would get stuck in 2nd then slam into 3rd, hard shift from 4th to 5th and 7th to 8th. Total piece of c**p!
accountCircle Mark on December 9, 2023
Erratic shifting
My 2019 F 150 super crew 4x4 is experiencing all the afore mentioned issues. It shifts hard, Skips gears, up shifts, down shift's, and even goes into neutral at ant given time. I had a near accident on a highway when the truck went from 10th gear to 1st at 50mph. It has been to the dealership repeated times. I’m not a happy ford owner
accountCircle Ray on June 16, 2022
2017 F150 XLT 10 speed transmission is JUNK
I've owned this truck since new and the transmission has always been a problem. Dealership refuses to do anything because it doesn't throw any codes, and if the computer doesn't see it the technicians don't know what to do. THEY KEEP TELLING ME IT'S A LEARNING CURVE FOR THE COMPUTER !!!!! I'll be trading this in for a Chevy.
accountCircle JON MASON on April 6, 2022
Jmasoncc@gmail.com
Yes another positive review. This is my fourth F-150 over 20 years. A 2021 XLT with Powerboost 22-24 mpg city and highway, I do have the rough shifting problems but I am confident Ford will make it right. With almost zero problem with my first (3) F-150's. My fist one a 2001 is still on the road with zero major problems.
accountCircle Philip Braybrook on October 21, 2021
Pbraybrook@hotmail.com
2020 Ford Lariat Eco Boost 3.5 with a 10 spd transmission. When cold the shift from 3 to 4 is very hard. Once it warms up the problem seems to vanish, however, shifting up and down is not sequential and it skips. Seems to be better under heavy load. Dealer has not recognized any problem at this time.
accountCircle FARAON on February 22, 2022
Lawton373@gmail.com
I WAS A CHEVROLET AND I JUST CHANGE AFTER TWELVE YEARS ANY REAZON OR COMPLAIN ABOUT IT JUST CHANGE FOR ANOTHER AMERCAN..NOW I HAVE F150 RAPTOR 2020 FROM SECOND TO THIRD GEAR SCARY LOUD JERK AND BANG...CHECKED IN DEALER THEY SAID EVERYTHING WAS OK...STILL DOING IT....EVERYTHING ELSE IS SUPER FINE.
accountCircle Scott on January 16, 2023
F350Trucks
We purchased 3 F350 with the 10 speed transmission. All 3 needed to be replaced with 65,000 Miles. It appears that 2 are under warranty and one of them had 65,000 miles. Ford was unwilling to help with the truck with 65,000 miles (just out of warranty). 10 speed transmission is garbage.
accountCircle Keith Clayton on November 12, 2021
Owner
F150 2018, trans lunging while pulling unloaded feather lite trailer, went to dealer three times before warranty was up, was told everything checked normal limits. Dealt with the 5.4 3 valve before this, with a loss! They have pushed my limits, this2018 is a piece of garbage. Tennessee
accountCircle Mat on February 4, 2023
Slipping gears , poor engineeringat low speed
When first start driving my truck slips geargoing from 1st to whatever the gear it's trying to shift (2nd or 3rd?). Basically a motor revs up but no power like in neutral then bangs into the shift. I will never buy a Ford again. Such a poor quality.the vehicle only has 24k miles.
accountCircle Mnepit@hotmail.com on January 18, 2022
2017 3.5 10 Speed
I've had problems since about 10k miles. Harsh upshifts and downshifts. It will also not move if it sits over over night. Been back repeatedly and still not repaired. Now at 50k miles and I feel like I'm getting rear ended when it downshifts. Should have kept my 2014 FX4.
accountCircle Mike in TN on November 5, 2022
Transmission clunk
Love the truck no consistent problems But at least a half dozen times on the hwy at 65-70 mph with steady easy running it has banged hard like a violent downshift and then go right back to steady running in 10th gear like nothing happened What the heck is up with that
accountCircle Wayne on January 25, 2022
F150 owner with 10 spd
When you back off your speed for a stop light or intersection and step on the gas again it reves way up or jerks, I don't know how the u joints can hold up.. A one star rating is overrated...... Sometimes when you start the engine the hole powertrain torques up.....
accountCircle Mark on February 18, 2022
2022 Lariat 3.5 Junk pile
950 miles on my 22 F150 Lariat. HORRIBLE shudder in 9-10 gears locked up converter. Feels like horrible engine miss. Dealer has it now. Says NORMAL!! I can’t even stand to be in it. Feels like 2-3 cylinders are misfiring. It’s transmission. I want to sue Ford.
accountCircle Eric on March 28, 2022
Driver/owner
It's not just "trucks". My 2020 Escape has issue shifting too. Going from R to D there is a hard shift and when decelerating, there is a noticeable lurch at ~30 MPH. If you decelerate from a higher speed, like 70 MPH, the lurch can be pretty irritating.
accountCircle Brad Young on February 12, 2022
Expedition 2021 STX
5000 miles and have already had it to the dealer for the transmission shifting issue. Fine on the highway but is a true task to drive in town at low speeds. The jerky, clunky transmission is ridiculous on a new vehicle. Should have bought a Toyota
accountCircle David on October 4, 2021
Owner
2019 Ford F-150 lariat turned 30,000 miles and refused to accelerate onto the interstate. Gas pedal to the floor revving 4500 rpm and going 30 mph. Had it serviced and told me the problem was fixed but after 1 week it is starting again. Not cool
accountCircle James Madison on August 16, 2022
Stop complaining
This trans is a little jerky sometimes yes, but that'swhat you get when you have a transmission like this. A soft smooth transmission typically will burn clutches faster. Thisis a solid and firm shifting trans for a reason, you bought a truck!
accountCircle Tim Baily on July 10, 2022
2022 f350 jerky shifts under load
New f350, 6.7 l and 10 speed transmission When pulling a fifth wheel the transmission shifts hard and jerky through about 4 gears. It doesn’t do this when not pulling anything. It does it innormal or toy/haul mode. Dealer has no answers
accountCircle dan chrisman on January 20, 2023
2018 f150 fx4
So my transmission started with all the symptoms noted and a service light came on.i took the truck to the dealer and they say they trans needs replace.120,000 and they are hitting me with a $9000 repair bill to replace this junk trans.
accountCircle Scott on September 29, 2021
Buy a Tundra
Buy American, they say. Built FordRough. Then why does my transmission jump between 7 and 8? Why did I just replace the cam phasers at 60K. Why did I have to replace the touch screen module? Hate to say it boys…get a Yoda or a Chevy.
accountCircle ARTIE DECECCO on December 7, 2021
Mustang GT OWNER 2021
I have a 2021 Mustang GT 10SPD Won,t shift down in low gears when leaving a stop sign or drag racing off the line. On the road doesn.t know what gear it wants, Worst trans I have ever owned, Lucky the engine has not blowed up/
accountCircle Branden Burke on July 21, 2023
Stuck shifter
I have a new 2023 F150 that now has 1100 miles on it. I have yet to figure out the reason, but sometimes the truck refuses to come out of park. Other times (most often when reversing) the vehicle will refuse to go into park.
accountCircle Jose Juan Cebollero on November 21, 2021
Loss off acceleration
My F150 2019stx 4x4 it won’t accelerate but revs up 4500 won’t pass 45 and know don’t want to start it only have run 22000 the worst part it the service they told me the don’t have transmission mechanics
accountCircle David on September 14, 2021
2018 F150
Bangs into gear, then will try to start off in 7th or 10th gear, then will just die at red light. Jumps all over the place on gears will go from 1 to 7 back to 4 then to 10 then maybe 1st.
accountCircle 6294 on January 13, 2022
Mr
I was a religious Ford guy all the way. But this new tranny really sucks! Just paid $6000 to replace it. Never ran proper from day one. Would like to put a 2016 tranny in my new coyote
accountCircle Philip Braybrook on October 5, 2021
Pbraybrook@hotmail.com
I have a 2020 F-150 Lariat the transmission has a very hard shift from 3rd to 4th. The dealer was informed and said, "Just allow the truck to warm-up." Really!!!
accountCircle Russ on December 22, 2021
New Transmission at 13,000 Miles. Same issue at 25,000
Major shifting issues and jerking. Swapped transmission at 13,000. At 25,000. Happening again. Pissed? Yes. Tired of constantly taking my truck to the dealer.
accountCircle John P. on January 24, 2024
Transmission problems
2019 F 150 transmission likes to hug 8-9th gear in cold weather. Many times it will take miles before it hits 10th gear. Not really a big fan of this.
accountCircle Robert mappus on November 20, 2021
Retired
As being a 30 year tech for ford autos now retired. Vehicles are not built like they were in the 70s and 80s. You be your own judge on this statement.
accountCircle peggy t. on January 9, 2022
Ford 2020 truck
Had it in the shop from 10,000 klms the tranmission is rug from 3 to 4 and 6 to 7 the shop say it was me .. Ford should be recalling these trucks
accountCircle Chris S. on January 12, 2022
2021 F150 2.7 XLT
My transmission took a dump today. Driving on interstate and felt a big clunk and transmission fluid dumped onto the road. Only has 7500 miles.
accountCircle Tom TRusnik on September 24, 2021
Owner
Transmission gets stuck in 8th gear at stop will not move when pushing on gas pedal all of a sudden will slam into 1st gear and than takeoff
accountCircle Miguel Mendez on September 3, 2021
2017 Ford F150 Transmission issue
I have had issues with Jerking and trouble shifting. It is now to the point where 2 and 10 are skipped not a Happy camper.
accountCircle GERALD SZYMANSKI on August 24, 2021
Owner
Ford f150. Transmission. Does not shift smooth.Makes a noticeable sound and jerking activity especially at 8 gear
accountCircle Jwlev on September 1, 2021
Rough shifts, jerking acceleration
20/20 f150 STX same problem transmission shifts rough, also jerks suddenly. In all the settings the above occurs
accountCircle POS on January 23, 2022
NEVER AGAIN!! POS!!
FIRST FORD I'VE OWNED...V8, 10 SPD...FOR THE COST OF THIS POS., MY NEXT WILL DEFINITELY NOT BE A FORD.
accountCircle terry owens on September 1, 2021
10 speed transmission
Only 336 miles on this new F150 Lariat 4x4 and I’m Not liking the shifting! Not smooth!
accountCircle Charlie on January 13, 2023
10 speed transmission bad idea.
2020 f150 has been in the shop 4 months this time. POS! 0 stars!
accountCircle Jc on December 11, 2021
2018 f150xlt
M10 transmission.no good.
avatar Sandy B
Sandy B. has written for The New York Times, Cleveland Magazine, and many online publications. She long-ago ditched the minivan life for the off-roading Ford Explorer (and hoping to restore a Shelby Mustang!)
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