NHTSA Investigating 1.27 Million More F-150s With Transmission Issues
We’ve already covered Ford’s recall for 668,000 F-150s with impromptu downshifts to first gear. Well, it looks like a ton of later trucks may have a similar issue. Ford drivers will definitely want to watch this space. Here are the details.
Regulators at the NHTSA are opening an investigation, which will include hands-on testing, of F-150s. They’re investigating the 6R80 six-speed automatic transmissions installed in 1.27 million trucks during model years 2015-2017. One reported problem they’re investigating is similar to the earlier recall: unwanted downshifts. Another problem is the truck potentially popping out of reverse and into neutral—a serious malfunction while backing uphill.
The supposed cause of these issues is a sensor failing—thanks to a rapidly deteriorating wiring harness–just like the last 6R80 recall. Because it’s a different sensor this time, it wouldn’t be an expansion of the past recall. But the result would still be nearly two million 6R80s recalled for remarkably similar failures.
Obviously, a few owners experiencing this problem doesn’t mean it’s actually an issue for 1.27 million trucks are guaranteed to suffer. We’ll have to wait for the results of the NHTSA testing to find out how bad things look.
If you’re curious about other recalls that might affect your Ford, you can always call your local dealership with your VIN number handy. You can also punch your VIN in at NHTSA.gov.
