Top News

Ford recall explained: Ford Motor Company has issued a safety recall for 1,392,935 F-150 pickup trucks in the United States due to a defect that could lead to unintended downshifting and increase the risk of a crash, according to a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

What Models Are Affected in the NHTSA's Ford F-150 Recall

The recall affects 2015–2017 model year F-150 vehicles equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, built between March 12, 2014, and August 18, 2017. Ford said the affected vehicles were identified through plant records and are not produced in VIN order.

Why Ford Is Recalling Over 1.39 Million Pickup Trucks

According to the safety report, some vehicles may experience an intermittent signal issue between the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This could result in a temporary and unintended downshift into second gear. Regulators warned that such a sudden downshift may cause an abrupt reduction in wheel speed, potentially leading to rear tire slippage and loss of vehicle control in certain conditions, as per the NHTSA report.

Safety Risk: How Sudden Downshifts Can Cause Crashes

The issue has been linked to degradation of electrical connections in the transmission lead frame caused by thermal cycling and vibration over time. This degradation can result in incorrect TRS signal detection by the PCM, triggering unintended gear changes.

Dashboard Warning Signs Drivers Should Not Ignore

Drivers may notice warning signs such as an illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL) or a wrench light on the dashboard if the issue occurs.

Ford F-150 Recall: Reported Injuries, Complaints, and Field Data

Ford said it is aware of 444 warranty claims, 121 field reports, 105 customer service reports, and 316 vehicle owner questionnaires potentially related to the issue, covering 891 vehicles. The company also confirmed two injuries and one accident that may be linked to the defect.

NHTSA Investigation: Timeline and Key Developments

The investigation began after NHTSA provided Ford with vehicle owner complaints in October 2024. The issue was later escalated from a preliminary evaluation to an engineering analysis in January 2026. Following further review, Ford’s Field Review Committee approved a recall action on April 7, 2026.

Ford’s Solution: Software Update and Lead Frame Replacement

To address the problem, Ford will update the powertrain control module software in affected vehicles at no cost. In cases where certain diagnostic trouble codes were previously detected, dealers will also replace the transmission lead frame under an extended warranty program.

Ford Recall Schedule: Notification Dates for Owners and Dealers

Dealers are expected to be notified on April 15, 2026, with owner notification letters scheduled to be mailed between April 27 and May 1, 2026. A second round of letters regarding the remedy is expected to be sent between July 13 and July 17, 2026.

FAQs

Why is Ford recalling F-150 trucks?

Due to a defect that can cause unintended downshifting and increase crash risk.

When will owners be notified?

Initial letters will be sent between April 27 and May 1, 2026.