Ford Recalls 1.4 Million F-150 Trucks Over Transmission Defect

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has upgraded its investigation into a potential transmission issue affecting 1.4 million Ford F-150 pickup trucks. The agency has determined that a signal loss to a sensor can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift several gears, potentially leading to the rear wheels locking up and increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall covers certain 2011-2013 model year F-150 vehicles equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions. Ford has acknowledged the issue and will be notifying owners to bring their trucks to dealers for a free software update to address the problem.

According to NHTSA, the transmission defect has been linked to at least five crashes and one injury. The agency initially opened a preliminary evaluation into the matter in 2019 after receiving over 120 consumer complaints about the issue. The investigation has now been elevated to a recall, requiring Ford to take action to remedy the safety concern.