The Ford F-150, one of America’s best-selling pickup trucks, is currently under investigation by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) due to a potential transmission issue. This Ford F-150 Investigation involves nearly 1.3 million trucks from the 2015-2017 model years, all equipped with a 6-speed transmission.
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Understanding the Ford F-150 Investigation
The NHTSA launched the probe after receiving 138 consumer complaints regarding sudden and unexpected downshifting. Owners of the affected Ford F-150 trucks reported that their vehicles randomly shift to a lower gear, causing rapid deceleration. This issue increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and potential damage to the vehicle’s powertrain.
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Some complaints also mention that the transmission problem causes the rear wheels to lock, seize, or skid, further elevating the danger of losing control while driving.
In response, Ford has stated that they are cooperating with the NHTSA to determine the full scope and severity of the issue.
Potential Risks Associated with the Transmission Issue
The primary concern in this Ford F-150 investigation is the safety of drivers and passengers. The sudden downshift problem could lead to:
- Abrupt vehicle slowdown, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Loss of traction, especially on wet or slippery roads.
- Increased wear and tear on transmission components.
- Unexpected skidding, which could lead to loss of control.
While no official recall has been issued yet, the preliminary evaluation by the NHTSA will determine whether Ford must take further action.
Ford’s Response to the Investigation
Ford Motor Company has acknowledged the Ford F-150 investigation and is currently working closely with regulators. Ford spokesperson Maria Buczkowski stated that the company is providing full support to the NHTSA to address consumer concerns effectively.
This is not the first time Ford has faced scrutiny over transmission problems. Several past recalls and fixes for transmission-related issues have already affected multiple Ford models, raising questions about long-term reliability.
Previous Ford Recalls Related to Safety Concerns
While the current Ford F-150 investigation is ongoing, Ford has recently recalled several other vehicles due to safety concerns. Some of these include:
Backup Camera Failure in Ford and Lincoln Vehicles
Nearly 50,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles have been recalled due to a faulty backup camera. The affected models include:
- 2020-2023 Ford Explorers
- 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviators
- 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsairs
The backup camera video output may fail, causing the display to go blank or distorted, increasing the risk of collisions while reversing.
Incorrect Recall Fixes in Bronco Sport & Maverick Models
Ford also issued recalls for nearly 13,000 vehicles, including:
- 2021-2024 Bronco Sport
- 2022-2023 Maverick
The body and powertrain control modules in these vehicles may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge, potentially leading to unexpected vehicle shutdowns.
Ford Edge Rearview Camera Issues
Over 2,250 Ford Edge vehicles (model years 2021-2022) have been recalled due to incorrectly repaired rearview cameras. Affected vehicles may display a blank or distorted image, leading to potential safety hazards.
What This Investigation Means for Ford F-150 Owners
Owners of the 2015-2017 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with 6-speed transmissions should remain vigilant about any transmission irregularities. While the Ford F-150 investigation is still in its early stages, concerned owners should:
- Monitor for transmission issues: Pay attention to unexpected downshifting, skidding, or sudden deceleration.
- Report problems to the NHTSA: If you experience any issues, filing a report helps regulators assess the severity of the problem.
- Stay informed about potential recalls: If a recall is issued, Ford will notify affected customers with repair instructions.
- Schedule a professional inspection: Having a Ford-certified mechanic check your transmission could help identify potential risks before they become severe.
Possible Outcomes of the Ford F-150 Investigation
The NHTSA’s evaluation will determine whether the Ford F-150 investigation will lead to an official recall. If Ford is required to issue a recall, the following steps may be taken:
- Software updates: Some transmission issues can be fixed with electronic control module updates.
- Hardware replacements: If a mechanical defect is found, affected vehicles may require transmission component replacements.
- Extended warranty or compensation: In some cases, Ford may offer extended warranty coverage for affected vehicles.
Final Thoughts on the Ford F-150 Investigation
The Ford F-150 investigation is a significant development for owners of 2015-2017 models with 6-speed transmissions. With nearly 1.3 million trucks potentially affected, the NHTSA’s findings could lead to major recalls or mandatory fixes.
For now, Ford F-150 owners should remain cautious and report any issues to federal regulators. The investigation is a reminder that even the most popular vehicles can experience manufacturing defects that compromise safety.
As Ford continues to work with the NHTSA, consumers should stay updated on official announcements and be prepared to take action if necessary. The safety of drivers and passengers remains the highest priority, and this Ford F-150 investigation highlights the importance of rigorous quality control in the automotive industry.