The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently investigating older Ford F-150 pickup trucks due to incidences of unexpected transmission downshifts, raising safety concerns among owners. Over 138 complaints have been lodged by truck owners, some detailing frantic scenarios where their vehicles spontaneously shifted gears, sometimes locking the rear wheels at highway speeds.
The preliminary investigation, launched on March 21, 2025, involves around 1.3 million Ford F-150 units from model years 2015 through 2017. The NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation is looking into these complaints, which may indicate serious issues with the vehicle's transmission system. In some cases, affected drivers reported a jarring experience at highway speeds, with one driver declaring, “the truck automatically shifted from 6th gear to first gear nearly throwing me through the windshield,” when cruising at 70 mph (approximately 110 km/h).
Drivers describe a particularly alarming phenomenon: sudden deceleration and loss of control as the vehicle’s transmission unexpectedly shifts to a lower gear. With their rear wheels locking or skidding, owners fear for their safety. The NHTSA is yet to determine if there is a direct correlation between these transmission issues and any accidents, but the potential risks are significant enough to warrant an investigation.
This issue is not isolated to the 2015-2017 model years. Transport Canada has a recall on record for certain 2014 F-150 models due to similar transmission problems, showing a pattern of concerns regarding the vehicle's transmission performance. The recalls, however, have been largely focused on ensuring safer driving conditions by rectifying defects linked to the output shaft speed sensor, which may contribute to the transmission's erratic behavior.
Previously, Transport Canada also recalled F-150 models from 2021 over similar transmission control issues, particularly those affecting vehicles not equipped with auto start-stop technology. A recent recall was issued in mid-March 2025 for about 49,399 vehicles which had previously received repairs for problems with rearview cameras but were still reported to have faults.
Despite the scrutiny from the NHTSA, Ford did witness a modest gain in their stock, rising nearly 2% shortly after the investigation was made public, indicating investor confidence in the company’s ability to manage the situation. Analysts on Wall Street maintain a Hold consensus rating for Ford’s stock as they evaluate the implications of the ongoing inquiry.
Particularly troubling is the frequency of these complaints, with drivers expressing trepidation about using their trucks during highway driving. The NHTSA will continue its investigation to decide the necessary steps moving forward, which may include a recall of the affected vehicles.
In light of recent events, the automotive community has been closely watching Ford for further updates, especially those pertaining to the automatic transmission's software, which may require updates to address potential flaws in the system. Addressing these transmission defects will be vital not just for the safety of drivers but also for maintaining Ford's long-standing reputation as a trusted manufacturer.
As the investigation unfolds, drivers are advised to report any unusual transmission behavior to the NHTSA and ensure timely maintenance checks at dealerships to mitigate potential safety risks. The safety and functionality of automotive systems should always be prioritized, reflecting an overall trend towards accountability and improvement in the automotive industry.
