Ford has announced a safety recall affecting approximately 144,000 F-150 trucks in Canada. The recall is due to a gearshift issue that could affect drivers’ control of the vehicle. The problem specifically impacts F-150s with six-speed automatic transmissions manufactured between 2015 and 2017. In the U.S., nearly 1.4 million vehicles are affected, including some from the 2014 model year.
The issue stems from degraded electrical connections within the transmission lead frame, leading to a signal problem from a transmission sensor. This can result in an unexpected downshift to a lower gear while the vehicle is in motion. According to a Ford spokesperson, this issue could cause a brief reduction in wheel speed, potentially causing the rear tires to slide until the vehicle slows down.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall report highlights the risk of accidents due to this issue, with Ford being aware of two injuries and one accident that could be linked to the problem. To address the issue, Ford dealers can update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software in affected vehicles, resolving the gearshift problem. Alternatively, if a vehicle had previously shown specific diagnostic trouble codes related to the sensor, Ford will replace the transmission lead frame at no cost.
F-150 owners can check if their vehicle is part of the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number on Ford’s recall webpage. This proactive step can help ensure the safety and proper functioning of the affected vehicles.
