2011 Ford F-150

Above average

Owners filed 2,194 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 6 times.

Avoid One of the Ford F-150 years to avoid: 2.6× the complaints of a typical F-150 year. Which Ford F-150 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
71,000 milesMedian miles at failure

1,816 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2011 Ford F-150 problems

653 of the 2,194 complaints (30%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train · transmission643
603
Engine395
512
Steering362
313
Electrical System156
585
Service Brakes · brakes155
1216
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration78
400
Visibility/Wiper · wipers67
010
Unknown or Other66
010
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control38
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system25
000

2011 Ford F-150 transmission problems

30% of all complaints

653 of the 2,194 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash20% · 132
  • turns on the check engine light11% · 73
  • shifts hard, late or not at all10% · 65
  • loses power9% · 58
  • jerks, lurches or bucks8% · 51
  • slips or will not engage a gear4% · 29

Share of the 653 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
105,000 mi
median of 485 reports
Peak year of filing
2018
94 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
6 · 1 · 3
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
“The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle experienced a slight loss of motive power, and the transmission failed to shift in synchronization with the engine. The check engine warning light and the service vehicle soon warning light illuminated. A diagnostic scanner retrieved transmission code 6R80.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 19, 2026 at 225,000 miles
“The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the transmission independently downshifted from sixth gear into second gear. In addition, several warning lights illuminated. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure; however, no assistance was provided.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 27, 2026 at 351,072 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2010: 0 complaints, 0 about the transmission'102011: 18 complaints, 7 about the transmission2012: 75 complaints, 13 about the transmission'122013: 201 complaints, 25 about the transmission2014: 188 complaints, 15 about the transmission'142015: 241 complaints, 15 about the transmission2016: 226 complaints, 55 about the transmission'162017: 193 complaints, 44 about the transmission2018: 267 complaints, 94 about the transmission'182019: 233 complaints, 92 about the transmission2020: 105 complaints, 36 about the transmission'202021: 70 complaints, 25 about the transmission2022: 91 complaints, 50 about the transmission'222023: 86 complaints, 56 about the transmission2024: 97 complaints, 59 about the transmission'242025: 69 complaints, 44 about the transmission2026: 34 complaints, 23 about the transmission'26Recall 10V659000 (body and frame)Recall 11V128000 (electrical system)Recall 11V582000 (transmission)Recall 12V190000 (headlights)Recall 16V248000 (transmission)Recall 19V075000 (transmission)NHTSA investigation RQ17010NHTSA investigation EA15006NHTSA investigation PE15026NHTSA investigation PE13018
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2011 F-150 peaked in 2018, with 267 filed that year. Owners had filed 6 complaints about the transmission before the first recall that covers it, 11V582000 in December 2011; 647 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 34 so far.

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (tcm/Pcm/Tecm)19V075000
Filed Feb 11, 20191,263,051 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The transmission may unexpectedly downshift into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.

Risk. Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began March 4, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S07.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission16V248000
Filed Apr 27, 2016153,581 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford F-150 trucks, 2012 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and Ford Mustang vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with an automatic transmission that may unexpectedly downshift to first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.

Risk. An unexpected downshift into first gear can cause the vehicle to slow down suddenly without warning and the rear tires may slide or lock, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module with updated software, free of charge. The recall began on September 19, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S19.

Exterior Lighting › Back Up Lights12V190000
Filed May 3, 201210,500 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 FORD F-150, 2012 EXPEDITION AND LINCOLN NAVIGATOR, AND 2012-2013 MUSTANG VEHICLES, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NOS. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT" AND 108 “LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.” THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR (TRS) THAT WAS CALIBRATED OUT OF SPECIFICATION FOR REVERSE GEAR.

Risk. IF THIS CONDITION EXISTS, THE TRANSMISSION MAY NOT GO INTO REVERSE OR WHEN THE DRIVER PUSHES THE SHIFT LEVER IN THE REVERSE “R” POSITION AND THE VEHICLE’S TRANSMISSION DOES GO IN REVERSE, THE “R” MAY NOT ILLUMINATE ON THE DASHBOARD OF THE F-150, EXPEDITION, OR NAVIGATOR MODELS AND/OR THE BACKUP LAMP ON THE REAR OF THE F-150, EXPEDITION, NAVIGATOR, OR MUSTANG VEHICLES MAY NOT ILLUMINATE. THESE CONDITIONS INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH OR A PEDESTRIAN BEING STRUCK DUE TO THE VEHICLE’S NOT SIGNALING IT IS IN REVERSE.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE TRS AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 11, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission11V582000
Filed Dec 8, 201116,091 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 F-150 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 9, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22, 2011, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 F-250, F-350, F-450 AND F-550 HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 12, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22, 2011. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 114, “THEFT PROTECTION.” THE TRANSMISSION CAN BE SHIFTED OUT OF THE PARK POSITION WITHOUT PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL DUE TO BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK SWITCH PROBLEM.

Risk. THIS WILL ALLOW THE OPERATOR TO INADVERTENTLY SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR INJURY TO A NEARBY PEDESTRIAN.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK SWITCH FUNCTION AND REPLACE THE SWITCH IF NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

Electrical System › Software11V128000
Filed Feb 24, 20118,022 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 FORD F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, EDGE, AND LINCOLN MKX TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 25, 2010, THROUGH NOVEMBER 20, 2010. THESE VEHICLES WERE INSPECTED USING INTEGRATED DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (IDS) THAT HAD A CUSTOM SOFTWARE ROUTINE TO READ THE SUSPECT BODY CONTROL MODULE (BCM) SERIAL NUMBER. BASED ON THE SERIAL NUMBER THE BCM WAS EITHER NOT AFFECTED OR REPLACED. THE CUSTOM SOFTWARE ROUTINE WAS NOT READING THE CORRECT SET OF CHARACTERS, AND WAS NOT ABLE TO IDENTIFY A BCM THAT REQUIRED REPLACEMENT AFFECTED BCMS MAY HAVE THE POTENTIAL FOR AN INTERNAL SHORT.

Risk. IF AN ELECTRICAL SHORT DEVELOPS, AN OVERHEATING CONDITION MAY OCCUR WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy. DEALER WILL INSPECT THE BODY CONTROL MODULE AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE IT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 7, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

Structure › Body10V659000
Filed Dec 29, 201014,737 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, EDGE AND LINCOLN MKX VEHICLES. DURING A SIX-DAY PRODUCTION PERIOD, THE SUPPLIER OF THE BODY CONTROL MODULE MANUFACTURED MODULES THAT MAY HAVE THE POTENTIAL FOR AN INTERNAL SHORT.

Risk. IF AN ELECTRICAL SHORT DEVELOPS, AN OVERHEATING CONDITION MAY OCCUR WHICH CAN RESULT IN AN UNATTENDED VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy. DEALER WILL REPLACE THE BODY CONTROL MODULE IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 11, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 4 name the 2011 F-150.

Unexpected Transmission DownshiftRecall query RQ17010Closed
Opened Dec 25, 2017Closed Oct 22, 2019Led to recall 19V075000transmission

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of transmissions unexpectedly downshifting to a lower gear without input from the driver on model year (MY) 2011-2013 Ford F-150, Expedition and Navigator vehicles. ODI has received 455 unique reports related to the alleged problem that were not covered under a previous recall for this issue (16V-248).Expedition and Navigator complaint rates are lower than F-150 complaints. Of those 455 reports, 34.7% claimed that the rear wheels locked up when the transmission downshifted. There were 4 accident …

Brake Vacuum Pump FailureEngineering analysis EA15006Closed
Opened Oct 16, 2015Closed Apr 28, 2016brakes

On February 15, 2016, Ford Motor Company initiated Customer Satisfaction Program 15N05 to extend warranty coverage for the electric vacuum pump in certain model year (MY) 2011 through 2012 Ford F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines.The program extends coverage for up to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, all vehicles are eligible for the program through July 30, 2016 regardless of mileage.Ford's program covers all repairs related to electric vacuum pump (EVP) malfunctions including excessive noise, vibration, or change in brake …

Brake Vacuum Pump FailurePreliminary evaluation PE15026Closed
Opened Jun 22, 2015Closed Oct 19, 2015brakes

On June 22, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE15-026 to investigate incidents of increased brake pedal effort at cold start and extended stopping distance while driving in traffic, resulting from failures of the electric brake vacuum assist pump in model year (MY) 2011-2012 Ford F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR) for PE15-026, Ford provided ODI with 396 complaints and field reports relating to incidents of increased brake pedal effort or malfunctions in the electric vacuum pump …

Reduced power during hard accelerationPreliminary evaluation PE13018Closed
Opened May 22, 2013Closed Apr 7, 2014engine

On May 22, 2013, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE13-018 to investigate 95 complaints alleging incidents of reduced engine power during hard accelerations in model year (MY) 2011 through 2013 Ford F-150 trucks.ODI was aware of three technical service bulletins (TSBs) issued by Ford for a condition that was related to moisture accumulation in the Charge Air Cooler (CAC) for the turbochargers.A Preliminary Evaluation was opened to gather information to assess whether the subject vehicles contain a safety related defect.The subject vehicles are powered by Ford?s 3.5L EcoBoost …

Technical service bulletins

120 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2011 F-150. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 29transmission 23equipment 14electrical system 9body and frame 7suspension 7visibility 6equipment adaptive/mobility 5
16N02-S1Warranty extensionAug 17, 2021transmission

This program extends the warranty coverage of the automatic transmission molded leadframe to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. This is a one-time repair program.

19N01-S4Warranty extensionAug 17, 2021transmission

This program extends the warranty coverage of the automatic transmission molded leadframe to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. This is a one-time repair program.

19N01-S1Service campaignJun 25, 2019transmission

Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01: Certain 2011 - 2013 Model Year F-150 and 2012- 2013 Model Year Expedition/Navigator Vehicles Equipped With A 6R80 Transmission - Transmission Molded Leadframe Extended Coverage

15N05-S1Service campaignJul 11, 2016equipment

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 15N05 - SUPPLEMENT #1: CERTAIN 2011-2012 MODEL YEAR F-150 VEHICLES WITH 3.5L ECOBOOST ENGINE - ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP EXTENDED COVERAGE

TSB 22-2219Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 21, 2022transmission

Some 2003-2020 Expedition/Navigator and 2006-2020 F-150 (non-Raptor) vehicles equipped with 4WD may exhibit grinding/clicking/ratcheting noise from the front wheel area. This may be due to partial engagement of the integrated wheel ends (IWE). To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure to remove and cap the vacuum supply line or to reprogram …

SSM 47976Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 10, 2019transmission

On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be greased with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A even if grease was not applied from the factory. Also verify that the engine/transmission alignment dowel pins are present as well as the engine crankshaft dowel pin, if equipped, when installing the …

19N01Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 4, 2019transmission

Certain 2011 - 2013 Model Year F-150 and 2012- 2013 Model Year Expedition/Navigator Vehicles Equipped With A 6R80 Transmission - Transmission Molded Leadframe Extended Coverage

Showing the newest 6 of 23 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Power Train
Filed Oct 26, 2026NY

Ford issued a recall for the Lead frame. Recall ID 19so7 & 16s19. My truck has experienced the issues associated with this recall. Last night it was more severe. The truck shifted from 5th to 1st gear unexpectedly. I have already tried to remedy this with ford. I made the appointment on their website to have this fixed in the beginning of spring this year. I was told when i brought it in that it wasnt covered anymore because its over 10 years old and over 150,000 miles. This should not matter when we are talking about a serious safety issue. The truck is in good shape and this is the only issue I've had. Now, im afraid to drive it at all. It never downshifted like thos before. The most it did was, all of a sudden, the "wrench symbol" would appear and my speedometer would stop working and it wouldnt shift properly. I'd pull over and it wouldnt go into first. If I restarted the truck it would reset and work again. But this would happen from time to time. Then yesterday it did exactly what the recall states it would do. Ford denied it was a recall to me and said it was a "customer satisfaction program" instead. But clearly its a recall and a huge safety issue.

Power Train
Filed Oct 19, 2026225,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle experienced a slight loss of motive power, and the transmission failed to shift in synchronization with the engine. The check engine warning light and the service vehicle soon warning light illuminated. A diagnostic scanner retrieved transmission code 6R80. A dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train). The failure mileage was 225,000.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Oct 16, 2026165,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the transmission erroneously downshifted, causing the vehicle to abruptly reduce speed. The contact indicated during the incident that the transmission shifter switched from Drive (D) to the first gear independently. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train), which the contact associated with the failure. The failure mileage was 165,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 2, 2026TN

My truck will just abruptly downshift no matter how fast im going and it's quite concerning

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Sep 25, 2026GA

I was parking the vehicle and turned off the engine when the speakers gave out a loud noise. I turned the truck on to see if it would continue but there was no music and smoke began coming out around the radio. I moved the truck away from building and retrieved the fire extinguisher from the back seat. I noticed the "door ajar" warning was on even when the doors were closed. The smoke subsided and I did some quick research online. I was able to find a lot of information about the wire harness between the driver's side rear door and door frame being damaged, producing these symptoms. I disconnected the battery and removed the sheath from the wiring harness. Three wires were severed and several were frayed. (see attached photos) I contacted the local Ford dealership and they explained how it could be replaced at the wire connector in the door frame. Most trucks have a connector in the door frame, this truck does not so the Ford tech offered to solder the wires together. I am experienced in wiring and auto mechanics so I completed the repairs myself as he described.

Power TrainCrash
Filed Sep 20, 2026NC

I bought this truck used about one year ago. Since then I have not had much time to use it. In the last three months I have had some time to drive it. Three times in those months this issue has occurred. Luckily they all occurred on my property and no damage happened except to the truck. First time it happened an exterior mirror was knocked off, a running board was bent, scratches and dings to the to the paint, and a tailight was damaged. This all happened in reverse due to a gate opening I was going through. The motor all of a sudden had a massive spike in RPMs and a violent lunge and slide of the vehicle. I learned later that it was due to a flawed part in the transmission called a molded lead frame. Transmission is Fords 6R80 6-speed automatic. Last time it happened was on 09/16/2026. It has not been inspected by any entity because apparenty I live too far in the "boonies" for anyone to come this far but the vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

Power Train
Filed Aug 27, 2026351,072 milesGA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the transmission independently downshifted from sixth gear into second gear. In addition, several warning lights illuminated. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included in a recall associated with the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by a dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 351,072.

Power Train
Filed Aug 24, 2026110,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50–60 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to third gear. The contact stated that the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH while accelerating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with leadframe sensor failure. The contact was informed that the leadframe sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Power Train
Filed Aug 19, 2026150,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at speeds above 50 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, causing the vehicle to suddenly decelerate. During the failure, the WRENCH icon was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was turned off and restarted, and the failure was self-corrected, but the failure persisted. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 150,000.

Power Train
Filed Aug 19, 2026218,000 milesKY

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear. The contact stated that there was smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The contact stated that smoke was covering the roadway. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact stated that while inspecting the vehicle, there was oil leaking around the manifold. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while driving to the dealer for a scheduled recall repair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V248000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 218,000.

Power Train
Filed Aug 10, 2026159,599 milesOH

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. While driving 50 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted into first gear and the rear wheels locked up. The contact stated that while in third gear, the vehicle shifted to fourth gear unexpectedly. The transmission failed to shift above fifth gear. The contact stated that the transmission failed to shift out of first gear. After turning off the vehicle, the vehicle resumed normal operation. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and the wrench symbol was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the failure was associated with the sensor. The transmission sensor was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The failure persisted over time. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case and confirmed that the vehicle was previously repaired in 2017 under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V248000 (Power Train). The manufacturer declined to provide any additional assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 159,599.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 23, 2026TX

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle or while driving at various speeds, the instrument panel intermittently went blank. The contact used an OBD machine to retrieve a fault code related to the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor. The contact was informed that the OSS sensor needed to be replaced. The dealer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Power Train
Filed Jul 14, 2026300,000 milesKS

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted into low gear, and the rear wheels locked up. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle lost traction and slid uncontrollably before coming to a stop on the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the rear differential needed to be replaced. The VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train); however, the vehicle was not repaired because the manufacturer required that the owner pay out-of-pocket for the rear differential replacement, even though the rear differential failure was directly associated with the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 300,000.

Power Train
Filed Jul 14, 2026CO

Transmission software safety recall was identified due and performed by Phil Long Ford Pro team. Following the software update they vehicle 2011 F150 Raptor [XXX] developed shifting issues 4th-5th gear and 5th-6th gear shifting. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 13, 2026120,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while his fiancé was stopped at a stop sign, the vehicle accelerated violently after depressing the accelerator pedal, and the driver lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle continued accelerating while depressing the brake pedal. The contact stated that the vehicle crashed through a yard, into a road sign, before crashing into the rear of a parked vehicle, where the vehicle came to a stop. The contact stated that the air bags failed to deploy upon impact. The driver sustained whiplash and soreness in various parts of the body but had not sought medical attention. A Police report was filed. The road sign was damaged. The driver coasted the vehicle back to the residence before the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. A diagnostic test was performed on the vehicle; however, the mechanic was unable to determine the cause of the failure or duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided a case number. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Jul 8, 2026MO

Made a complete stop and vehicle accelerated at a high rate of speed and could not stop.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jul 8, 2026TN

While driving at highway speed my f150 justdown shited to third gear after stoopping it wouldn't take off.Ihad to shut engine off to get back to first gear .

Electrical SystemCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 9, 2026MD

I am having a lead frame issue. At various speeds, the vehicle will just down shift, locking the tires and causing a hazard for other drivers which could be a very dangerous situation. I was impacted from the rear due to this occurrence. It causes extreme jerkiness when doing this which is also injurious to my back and neck and shoulders.

Electrical System
Filed May 16, 2026MI

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? “We lost power while driving, along with a weird downshift today, 5/16/2026. This is happen one other time, however not as bad.” How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? “It could have been way worse, lucky there was a left turn lane that avoided us being rear ended by the vehicle behind us.” Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? “Not for this time, but it will be going in first thing Monday. We did have it looked at back in April when it did a weird downshift while driving, but they couldn’t find an issue then.” Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? “No, but it will be after this incident.” Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? “No warning lights, just loss of power and an intense downshift. The first time the downshift thing happened was back in April, but nothing more. We had a mechanic look at it, but nothing happened for him then.”

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 11, 2026CA

I contacted ford about my molded lead frame because my truck has a issue with the transmission and they denied my coverage to repair the problem and it’s is expired so the won’t fix the issue.

Electrical System
Filed May 11, 2026MI

My vehicle has abrupt unintended downshifts straight down to first gear at fast speeds, which is causing rear-wheel lockage near heart attack and near-loss of control spinout. The sudden downshifting causes a loud violent high extreme RPM engine over rev. sounding as if it is about to blow up or an internal explosion. This is occurring at highway speeds up to 70 mph. At these speeds, is an immediate risk to me and others! Causing a fatal high-speed rollover or a multi-vehicle collision due to this malfunction! This was a recall 19S07 for my year of truck but my Vin was somehow was not on the list which I guess makes me not qualified unless I get into a crash and then have a lawsuit.

Power Train
Filed May 11, 2026MO

I've sent earlier not sure if it went through transmission dropingvout of gear at any time putting my. Life in danger, and family, hope I don't end up needing a lawyer if a major fatality happens

Power Train
Filed Apr 26, 2026WV

When taking off the vehicle will shift into 5th gear trying to take off then hard shift down to 1st then up to 3rd and violently jerk forward. When pressing the brake pedal at a stop light it will jerk forward. When going uphill the vehicle will struggle in 5th gear and then downshift to 4th and loose power and gain power and doesn’t move unless at high rpm’s ( 3000-4000). When on the interstate it will start to move and then loose power then gain power over and over. It will be moving fine then but when taking off it will be stuck in 1st gear and refusing to shift which will then cause dangerous situations with going through intersections

Power Train
Filed Apr 22, 2026TN

I am writing to formally report a dangerous safety failure on my Ford F-150 that persists after having the recommended recall service (19S07) performed. While traveling at highway speeds, my vehicle experienced an uncommanded downshift from 6th gear to 1st gear. This caused an immediate and violent deceleration, nearly resulting in a high-speed rear-end collision. This exact failure is the core safety issue addressed by Ford's powertrain control module (PCM) recall, yet the "fix" provided has failed to protect the vehicle from this life-threatening defect. I took the truck to Bolivar Ford in Tennessee for resolution. However, the dealership refused to perform any further repairs under the recall. They stated that because of my current mileage, the recall coverage has "expired." Furthermore, they diagnosed the issue as a faulty lead frame sensor—the very component linked to these downshift events—and quoted me $2,500 just to begin the repair process. A safety recall is intended to permanently rectify a defect that poses a risk to life and limb. The fact that the vehicle is still performing this dangerous maneuver after the recall was "accomplished" suggests the initial remedy was insufficient or the underlying hardware remains defective. I am requesting that Ford Motor Company intervene to ensure this vehicle is repaired at no cost to me. Given the severity of the safety risk, I do not believe mileage should disqualify a customer from having a documented, lethal defect correct

Power Train
Filed Apr 21, 2026150,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted from second gear to first gear. The contact almost lost control of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated during the failure; however, an unknown warning light illuminated several days later. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where an unknown recall repair for the computer was performed but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the vehicle remained with the dealer for several days. The dealer informed the contact that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Power Train
Filed Apr 21, 2026TX

I was driving 70mph and my truck went from sixth gear down to first gear. I almost wrecked. The odometer went to zero and a little wrench showed up on the dash. I had to pull over and turn off the vehicle.

Power Train
Filed Apr 8, 2026TX

The range sensor Clunk into reverse Down shift sometimes The light on dash cuts off when put into reverse and the wrench light comes on. Only has 137k miles. Just replaced the motor now transmission Other years f150 have recalls why isn’t this year ??

Power Train
Filed Mar 11, 2026OK

Approximately one month ago, I noticed that the vehicle would not accelerate the way it normally does. A error code came on. I took the vehicle to Auto Zone for error code check. I was informed that the powertrain control module speed sensor had gone bad. I looked this up and found that Ford had a recall on 2011 Ford F-150s for similar issues. I disconnected the battery, as recommended on an internet site, and the vehicle began to operate normally. About one week later, I noticed that the vehicle would not shift above third gear and was accelerating very sluggishly. On further investigation I fount that the vehicle would not shift out of third gear (up or down). I again disconnected/reconnected the battery, and again it began operating normally. I contacted the local Ford dealership and they said that I should have received a letter in May 2019 about the PCM recall. I didn't recall receiving the letter, but Ford Motor Co. Customer Service says the PCM was actually reprogrammed on March 29, 2019 to repair the issues related to the recall. My concern is that the PCM speed sensor is malfunctioning again even after the repairs were supposedly performed by Ford. I am concerned that the vehicle may again be potentially unsafe to operate at highway speeds. I wanted to make NHTSA aware of the potential for ongoing safety issues with this vehicle even after Ford's proposed fix.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 28, 2026CA

Preliminary don’t want it to happen to my truck.

Power Train
Filed Feb 20, 2026TX

The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 250,000.

Power Train
Filed Feb 9, 2026VA

Trans mission input shaft speed sensor. Transmission is downshifting and going into limp mode while driving.

Power Train
Filed Feb 6, 2026OH

I faced an unexpected transmission downshift that came without warning or driver input. Transmission 6R80. The same problem that is being investigated for the 2015 - 2017 Ford F-150. The truck only had 105,904 miles. I was almost hit in the rear when this happened. This happened in November 2025

Power Train
Filed Jan 31, 2026OH

The truck will randomly downshift from 4th or 5th gear to 1st gear. I was driving around 64 miles per hour and the truck downshifted into first gear. It made me swerve out of my lane on the highway and sounded terrible on the engine. It’s very dangerous and is going to cause a wreck or ruin the engine. Ford had an extended warranty for up to 150,000 miles on the molded leadframe and my truck has 156,000. Ford refused to fix this issue and I feel as if they should replace the faulty part.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 1, 2026OR

BostonMA2266United States1/1/2026"Are LED manufacturers trying to destroy my country, or pushing the slightly less nefarious agenda of stimulating auto-wreck insurance companies and Lens Crafters? It's unbelievable how so many people keep wanting to go back down an old, broken road."

Electrical System
Filed Dec 23, 2025HI

Orchid Isle Ford in Hilo has replaced the electronic power steering rack and pinion already once but now it’s gone bad again.I don’t understand why because I hardly drive my truck and it has only 40 something thousands miles on it

Steering
Filed Dec 13, 2025VA

Driving about 10 mph when steering lockup Shop replaced rack opinion

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 6, 2025WI

Steering became stiff and difficult, brakes fell off the vehicle. No breaks. Heard/felt a pop and steering became loose. No steering, steering wheel was not turning the tires. Operated as a toy steering wheel without any temsion/control. I was stopped at a stop sign when the incident happened going 0mph.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 5, 2025FL

The first indication of problems came when I tried to put the truck in gear and I noticed that the reverse light didn't come on and it wouldn't engage into the gear then as I was traveling down a three-lane highway in the middle lane the car started jerking and like it didn't want to go and then I got to a red light and the truck would not move so I was stuck in the central lane but after engaging the gear several times I managed to get the vehicle into a gas station parking lot where I call the dealership after finding out that I had the trouble code that was referred in the recall and the vehicle was towed to Duval I mean it was told to Hogan forward on Atlantic boulevard .where it's now under inspection.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Dec 3, 2025NM

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to decelerate and come to a complete stop while the brake pedal was depressed. No warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that excessive force was needed, or the brake pedal needed to be pumped several times to start operating as needed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where the brake master cylinder was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was also taken to several other local dealers, where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.

Power Train
Filed Nov 25, 2025SC

P072200-68, CMDTC, Output Shaft Sensor Circuit No Signal. There has reportedly been multiple recalls for the 2011 Ford F-150's 6-speed automatic transmission related to an issue with the molded lead frame that can cause an unexpected downshift into first gear.

Power Train
Filed Nov 17, 2025OH

TRUCK HAS INTERMITTENT OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR CAUSING TRANSMISSION TO ABRUPLTY DOWNSHIFT AND LOCK REAR END UP. FORD IS AWARE ACVORDING TO FORD TSB 13-6-8. MOLDED LEAD FRAME NEEDS REPLACED. I GAVE OBD CODES P0720 AND P0722 INDICATING THIS FOR WANTS 2000.00 DOLLARS TO FIX A KNOWN REPAIR. CALLED FMC IN DEARBORN...PRETTY MUCH TOLD ME ITS MY PROBLEM.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Nov 7, 202521,704 milesOH

The contact owns 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the rearview camera was glitching and had displayed a blank image. The message “Camera Unavailable” was displayed. Neither an independent mechanic nor a dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to a recall that did not include the year, make and model of the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 21,704.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 7, 2025TX

Was starting to accelerate out of a toll booth a vehicle and was about 60mph when suddenly the engine shut off. Electrical worked. Got mechanical symbol and then oil pressure low warning. It started to down shift and slow rapidly in traffic. Managed to get to side of road but almost got hit. Got it towed to dealer and the fuel pump fuse had melted. Shutting off the fuel pump.

Power Train
Filed Nov 5, 2025200,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that after the dealer had reprogrammed the PCM under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train), the vehicle started to experience failures. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle downshifted to first gear unintendedly. The powertrain warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The contact resumed driving; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the residence. Additionally, the contact stated that the brake lights, the hazard lights, the turn signal lights, and the infotainment system and the A/C system became inoperable after the recall repair. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure might be related to the electrical system. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 31, 2025IA

After a short drive on the highway, upon slowing down to turn off, automatic transmission was erraticly changing gears. kept switching from 1st to 2nd gear. really jerky with tires locking up. pulled to side of the road, shut off truck and restarted. seemed to work fine for the 2 mile drive to my destination. when leaving to head home it shifted ok but i noticed some weird shifting patterns. then upon slowing to a stop off the highway again, when i left the stop sign it repeated the process off shifting back and forth from 1st to 2nd gear again. shut off truck started again. drove home ok. i am dropping it off to be looked at today. i really do not feel safe driving this pickup not knowing when and where this could happen again. no warning lights

Power Train
Filed Oct 21, 2025136,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, and DTC: P0720 was retrieved, which indicated a failure with the output shaft speed sensor. The contact was informed that the output shaft speed sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under any unknown recall. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with rack and pinion failure. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that neither repair was covered under the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 136,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 21, 2025AZ

Any time I’ll driving my truck down hill the transmission drops into 1st gear while traveling 65 miles per hour almost causing an accident every time this happens

Power Train
Filed Oct 3, 2025OK

Going down the highway at 60mph. Car went from 6th gear to 1st gear and tires locked up and I started sliding. I could smell the tires burning. I threw it into neutral and the tires unlocked. I dropped back down to 40 mph and went back into drive. No issue after.

Power Train
Filed Oct 3, 2025MD

I was driving in the morning car was started to lag on accelerating and shifting gears slightly. My dashboard and gps system flickered on and off when this happened. The truck putted as well. On my way home the car had trouble accelerating and dropped from 5th gear all the way to first causing me to almost lose control of the vehicle. It continued hard shifting and loss all acceleration. It continued flickering everytime it would sputter and slip gears, Gps and dashboard would flicker. They gears were going haywire. I could not accelerate with the pedal all the way to the floor, and was hard to turn steering wheel. Almost like the Truck was coasting. When we took it to the mechanic they stated it was a transmission range switch which is an issue and many F150's of my year, make and model. My vehicle was not listed as a recalled vehicle yet has the same issue as the other recalled ones. Total repairs are going to cost around $2000. I have not driven my vehicle since the incident and I am frightened after almost losing control from the hard shifting. Prior to this the vehicle ran great. It was an out of nowhere issue. the truck has been maintained well, with all oil changes, and regular maintenece. there is less the 96,000 mile son the truck as well.

Steering
Filed Sep 3, 2025TN

The power steering goes out randomly. While driving forward , backing up, parking, turning. Very dangerous to drive.

Complaints 1-50 of 2,194, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20270300Routine
202612800Routine
20251091440Routine
20241951140Routine
20234181340Above average
20226042370Above average
20211,0422940Do not drive
20207421140Above average
20191,345970Above average
20182,32719333Fatalities reported
20171,46518210High concern
20162,09314250High concern
20151,74614133Fatalities reported
20141,5398161Do not drive
20132,9943354Fatalities reported
20121,7844142Fatalities reported
2011 — this page2,1946190Above average
20108431350High concern
2009324280Above average
20083691122Fatalities reported
20074887131Fatalities reported
200658514181Fatalities reported
20051,11214292Fatalities reported
20042,02916406Fatalities reported
200342311371Fatalities reported
200282110950High concern
20011,236192487Fatalities reported
20001,075173431Fatalities reported
19991,044186911Fatalities reported
19981,38118911Fatalities reported
19972,7582626214Fatalities reported
19963247752Fatalities reported
199562671142Fatalities reported
1994676131010High concern
199358613211Fatalities reported
19924709395Fatalities reported
19913046410High concern
19902755320High concern

Compare every F-150 year →

2011 Ford F-150: questions buyers ask

Is the 2011 Ford F-150 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the F-150 years to avoid: owners filed 2,194 complaints, 2.6 times as many as a typical F-150 year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (30%).

What is the most common problem with the 2011 Ford F-150?

The transmission: 653 of the 2,194 complaints (30%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (20%), turns on the check engine light (11%) and shifts hard, late or not at all (10%). The typical report comes at 105,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2011 Ford F-150 have?

6 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Feb 11, 2019. The largest, 19V075000, covered 1,263,051 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2011 Ford F-150 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 71,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 105,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2011 Ford F-150?

Yes, 4 times. The latest, RQ17010 ("Unexpected Transmission Downshift"), was opened Dec 25, 2017 and closed Oct 22, 2019.

Are there service bulletins for the 2011 Ford F-150?

The manufacturer filed 120 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (29), the transmission (23) and the electrical system (9). They include a warranty extension, 16N02-S1, filed Aug 17, 2021. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 11, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.