Ford Recalls 1.4 Million F-150 Trucks Over Unintended Downshift Issue
Ford is recalling about 1.4 million F-150 pickups in the U.S. from model years 2015–2017 after federal regulators identified unexpected downshifts linked to worn transmission range sensor connections and reported two injuries and one crash. Dealers will deploy a powertrain control module software update to fix the gearshift issue, and Ford’s shares rallied over 4%.
1. Recall Scope and Cause
Ford initiated a recall of approximately 1.4 million F-150 pickups equipped with the 6R80 transmission after reports of unexpected downshifts during operation. The issue is believed to stem from electrical connections wearing down over time due to heat and vibration, causing signal loss from the transmission range sensor.
2. Regulatory Investigation
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary evaluation in March 2025 following numerous complaints on F-150 models from 2015 to 2017. Investigators cited two potentially related injuries and one accident as part of their ongoing probe into the gearshift malfunctions.
3. Remedy and Market Reaction
Ford dealers will update the powertrain control module software to correct the downshift problem at no cost to owners. In response to the recall announcement, Ford’s F-Series shares climbed more than 4%, and the F-Series remains America’s bestselling vehicle line.