NHTSA Probes 1.3 Million Ford F-150 Trucks Over Sudden Downshifts

NHTSA investigates nearly 1.3M Ford F-150 trucks from 2015-2017 over sudden downshift issues linked to the 6R80 transmission. Ford confirms cooperation.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a preliminary investigation into nearly 1.3 million Ford F-150 pickups from the 2015–2017 model years. The probe follows numerous complaints from owners about sudden and uncontrolled downshifts from sixth to first gear while driving at highway speeds. According to drivers, these incidents often result in rear wheel lock-up and momentary loss of control.

NHTSA documents confirm 138 official complaints, including one filed in 2023 by an Ohio driver who reported, "The truck automatically shifted from 6th gear to 1st, nearly throwing me through the windshield." Some drivers described rear wheel lock-up or skidding during the abrupt deceleration, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.

The investigation focuses on F-150 models equipped with the 6-speed 6R80 automatic transmission, paired with the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, 2.7L EcoBoost V6, and 5.0L V8 engines. A Ford spokesperson confirmed the probe applies specifically to these 6-speed units and stated the company is cooperating fully with NHTSA.

Notably, a similar issue was previously linked to the failure of the output shaft speed (OSS) sensor, prompting a large recall of more than 550,000 F-150 trucks from the 2014 model year. That defect caused the powertrain control module to misread vehicle speed, triggering a dangerous downshift to first gear. The fix involved reprogramming the module’s software.

The 6R80 transmission has also been involved in recalls affecting other Ford models, including the 2012–2013 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator, both facing similar OSS-related issues. Additionally, the 2011–2013 Ford Mustang experienced transmission range sensor problems, although involving different failure modes.

Ford's record on recalls remains under scrutiny. In 2024, the company filed 67 recalls in the U.S., second only to Stellantis. By February 2025, Ford had already led the industry with 10 recalls.

The next step for NHTSA is to conduct an engineering analysis, which will determine whether a large-scale recall of nearly 1.3 million F-150s is necessary. The timeline for this process remains uncertain and could extend for several months or longer. However, the potential financial and reputational risks for Ford are clear. Ongoing transmission reliability concerns may impact resale values and deepen buyer hesitation in the used truck market.