2016 Ford F-150

High concern

Owners filed 2,093 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 14 times.

Avoid One of the Ford F-150 years to avoid: 2.5× the complaints of a typical F-150 year. Which Ford F-150 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
46,000 milesMedian miles at failure

1,147 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2016 Ford F-150 problems

527 of the 2,093 complaints (25%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train · transmission524
706
Service Brakes · brakes290
16011
Engine245
141
Unknown or Other180
510
Structure › Body · body and frame175
212
Electrical System139
2147
Visibility/Wiper · wipers92
022
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system43
000
Steering42
100
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration35
101

2016 Ford F-150 transmission problems

25% of all complaints

527 of the 2,093 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash32% · 167
  • turns on the check engine light14% · 72
  • loses power13% · 68
  • shifts hard, late or not at all9% · 48
  • jerks, lurches or bucks7% · 36
  • drops into neutral6% · 31

Share of the 527 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
105,000 mi
median of 201 reports
Peak year of filing
2026
209 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
7 · 0 · 6
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
“The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the failure occurred after the recall repair. While starting the vehicle, the transmission started out at 5th gear with the engine revving, and while driving at various speeds, the transmission slammed into gear before accelerating.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 26, 2026 at 163,000 miles
“The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, the rear wheels locked up, and the vehicle decelerated. The wrench icon was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the engine compartment.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 26, 2026 at 116,500 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2016: 153 complaints, 3 about the transmission'162017: 152 complaints, 7 about the transmission'172018: 191 complaints, 9 about the transmission'182019: 207 complaints, 9 about the transmission'192020: 155 complaints, 8 about the transmission'202021: 142 complaints, 10 about the transmission'212022: 154 complaints, 28 about the transmission'222023: 186 complaints, 43 about the transmission'232024: 190 complaints, 71 about the transmission'242025: 253 complaints, 130 about the transmission'252026: 310 complaints, 209 about the transmission'26Recall 16V110000 (airbags)Recall 16V475000 (seats)Recall 17V331000 (door locks and latches)Recall 17V526000 (seat belts)Recall 18V568000 (seat belts)Recall 18V894000 (engine)Recall 19V278000 (engine)Recall 20V098000 (engine)Recall 20V332000 (brakes)Recall 21E027000 (suspension)Recall 22V150000 (brakes)Recall 26V237000 (transmission)NHTSA investigation EA26001NHTSA investigation PE25002
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2016 F-150 peaked in 2026, with 310 filed that year. Owners had filed 379 complaints about the transmission before the first recall that covers it, 26V237000 in April 2026; 148 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 310 so far.

14 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Power Train › Automatic Transmission26V237000
Filed Apr 14, 20261,392,935 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150 vehicles. A loss of signal between the transmission range sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into second gear.

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

Remedy. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S28. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 15, 2026.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder22V150000
Filed Mar 11, 2022195,864 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.

Risk. A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. An interim owner notification letter notifying customers of the safety defect were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed April 29, 2022. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-332. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S11.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Upper Ball Joint21E027000
Filed Apr 12, 20212,394 vehiclesTenneco Automotive

Defect. Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) is recalling certain MOOG K500359 ball joints, for aftermarket installation on 2015-2018 Ford F-150 trucks. The ball joint may have a misaligned dust boot and may be missing alignment hole and installation warning tag, which may lead to improper alignment of the ball joint.

Risk. An incorrectly installed ball joint may cause the ball joint stud to break, which can compromise front wheel control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. DRiV will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary replace the ball joint, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 5, 2021. Owners may contact Tenneco Automotive customer service at 1-877-489-6659.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder20V332000
Filed Jun 8, 2020292,311 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2017 F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may leak brake fluid into the brake booster.

Risk. A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel and feel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, possibly requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and inspect the brake booster, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners an interim notification on June 30, 2020. The recall began on October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S31.

Engine20V098000
Filed Feb 21, 202013,854 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2016 F-150 pick-up trucks equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines and block immersion heaters that were potentially relocated from their originally installed location. The incorrect location could put the heater too close to hot engine components, possibly resulting in a damaged cable.

Risk. A damaged cable could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the block heater's location and its cable, replacing components as necessary, free of charge. If the replacement parts are not available, dealers will disable the existing block heater cable from being used until parts become available. The recall began April 9, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S08.

Engine19V278000
Filed Apr 8, 2019131,068 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater and previously remedied under recall 18V894. During the previous repair, the block heater cable's splice connector may have been damaged.

Risk. A damaged cable could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the engine block heater from being used. When replacement cables become available, a second notice will be mailed and dealers will replace the engine block heater cord, free of charge. The recall began May 31, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S11.

Engine18V894000
Filed Dec 18, 2018410,289 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater. Water and contaminants may get into the block heater cable's splice connector causing corrosion and damage.

Risk. When the heater is plugged in, prolonged corrosion could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring which can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the block heater cable, free of charge. Once parts are available, Dealers will replace the engine block heater cable, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S45.

Seat Belts › Pretensioner18V568000
Filed Aug 31, 20181,619,112 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Regular Cab and SuperCrew Cab vehicles. If a front seat belt pretensioner deploys as the result of a crash, the sparks may ignite materials such as carpeting or insulation within the B-pillar area.

Risk. A vehicle fire could result if materials ignite inside the vehicle.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the B-pillar insulation material and wiring harness tape, and install heat resistant tape, free of charge. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S27.

Filed Nov 29, 2017177,264 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash.

Risk. In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tightness of the power seat track upper pivot link bolt, either applying threadlocker or replacing the lift link and hardware, free of charge. Interim letters are expected to go out January 15, 2018. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S40.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch17V652000
Filed Oct 16, 20171,101,107 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ford F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty trucks. The doors on these vehicles may have a bent or kinked actuation cable or the door latches may freeze after water gets into the latch. Either condition can result in the doors opening while driving although they appear to be closed.

Risk. A door that opens while driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the door latch actuation cables and repair if necessary, and install water shields over the door latches, free of charge. The recall began October 12, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S33.

Seat Belts › Rear/Other17V526000
Filed Aug 28, 2017117,423 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250 and F-350 trucks equipped with a crew cab. The left rear inflatable seat belt buckle assembly may be inadequately attached to its mounting bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."

Risk. If the left rear inflatable seat belt buckle separates from it's mounting bracket, the seat occupant may not be adequately restrained, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the seat belt assembly, replacing the attaching rivet as necessary, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed October 18, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C12.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch17V331000
Filed May 22, 201714,410 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles originally produced with black or body colored exterior door handles that may have been subsequently equipped with a chrome exterior door handle cover accessory kit purchased from a Ford dealer. These accessory door handle covers may cause the doors to unlatch in a side impact collision. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."

Risk. If the doors unlatch and open in a side impact collision, the occupants have an increased risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the accessory covers and refund the purchase price. The recall began July 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for the recall is 17C09.

Seats › Front Assembly › Recliner16V475000
Filed Jun 28, 20165,280 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat. The seat back frame may have insufficient welds which may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."

Risk. The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall begin on August 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 16C11.

Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification16V110000
Filed Feb 25, 20162,894 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 F-150 trucks manufactured April 27, 2015, to November 22, 2015, and equipped with Multi-Contour Seats (MCS). The front passenger seat Occupant Classification System (OCS) that calibrates the air bag deployment level may incorrectly classify an adult as a child when the seat massage feature is activated.

Risk. If an adult is incorrectly classified as a child, the passenger frontal air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Classification System Module (OCSM) with new software, free of charge. The recall began on March 11, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S05.

All 14 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 2016 F-150.

Unintended Transmission Downshift and Rear Wheel Lock-upEngineering analysis EA26001Open
Opened Jan 30, 2026Led to recall 26V237transmission

On March 21, 2025, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25002) to investigate instances of unexpected transmission downshifting without driver input in model year (MY) 2015-2017 Ford F-150 vehicles (subject vehicles) manufactured by Ford Motor Company (Ford). The complaints allege that, without warning or driver input, the subject vehicles experienced a sudden and rapid deceleration often accompanied by temporary rear wheel lockup, seizure, or skidding, resulting in a loss of vehicle control that increases the risk of crash and injury to all …

Unintended Transmission Downshift and Rear Wheel Lock-upPreliminary evaluation PE25002Closed
Opened Mar 21, 2025Closed Jan 30, 2026transmission

On March 21, 2025, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE25002) to investigate instances of unexpected transmission downshifting without driver input in model year (MY) 2015-2017 Ford F-150 vehicles (subject vehicles) manufactured by Ford Motor Company (Ford). The complaints allege that, without warning or driver input, the subject vehicles experienced a sudden and rapid deceleration often accompanied by temporary rear wheel lockup, seizure, or skidding, resulting in a loss of vehicle control that increases the risk of crash and injury to all …

Seatbelt Pretensioner FirePreliminary evaluation PE18008Closed
Opened Aug 3, 2018Closed Dec 17, 2018Led to recall 18V568000seat belts

On June 18, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-008) to investigate complaints alleging post-crash fires at the B pillar in the area of the seat belt pretensioners on MY 2014-2018 Ford F-150 Regular Cab, and Super Crew Cab Vehicles. On August 24, 2018, Ford Motor Company recalled (FSA 18S27 - NHTSA #18V568) the affected population. Ford's investigation found that some front seat belt pretensioners may generate sparks during deployment in excess of Ford's specification. Sparks in the pretensioner exhaust gases inside the lower portion of the …

Brake Master Cylinder FailureRecall query RQ16001Closed
Opened Sep 28, 2016Closed Jul 5, 2020Led to recall 20V332000brakes

On June 8, 2020, Ford Motor Company issued a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 20V-332) of 292,311 model year (MY) 2014-2017 Ford F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines and built from 9/1/2014 to 8/1/2016. Ford stated that the causes of brake fluid loss in the master cylinder are brake fluid contamination that can interfere with rear cup seal function, and rolling of the rearmost cup seal.Prior to total loss of the front brakes, depending on the amount of brake fluid loss in the master cylinder, the driver may receive an audible chime, message center alert and red brake warning …

Technical service bulletins

283 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2016 F-150. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 74electrical system 57engine 49body and frame 19transmission 16door locks and latches 13visibility 9equipment adaptive/mobility 9
26N04Service campaignJul 9, 2026transmission

Customer Satisfaction Program 26N04 Certain 2015-2017 Model Year F-150 Vehicles Equipped with a 6R80 Transmission Transmission Molded Leadframe Replacement

25N17Service campaignMar 25, 2026backup camera

Advance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer Evaluation

21M06 S1Service campaignNov 17, 2022unknown or other

Certain 2015-2020 Model Year F-150 Vehicles Equipped with a Power Release Tailgate - Unintended Tailgate Opening REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Parts ordering information and full repair instructions are now available to support completion of this customer satisfaction program.

20N03Warranty extensionApr 3, 2020door locks and latches

This is a one-time repair program for vehicle owners that report unintended tailgate opening.Affected vehicles are eligible for this repair through April 3, 2030 or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. If a vehicle has already exceeded the mileage limit, this extended warranty coverage will last through October …

SSM 54366Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 12, 2025transmission

Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this …

SSM 52314Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 1, 2024transmission

During service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the timing gear breaking and engine damage. Replacement of the bolt is critical to the repair and accurately following the …

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 …

TSB 21-2076Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 18, 2021transmission

Some 2013-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with electronic shift on-the-fly (ESOF) 4-wheel drive (4WD) may exhibit an intermittent grinding noise while driving in 2-wheel drive (2WD) mode most commonly on acceleration. ESOF can be identified as it does not have a 4WD AUTO (4A) position on the mode selector switch (MSS). This may be due to a loss of vacuum to …

TSB-20-2060Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 9, 2020transmission

Some 2015-2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 6R80 transmission may experience an intermittent loss of reverse engagement, loss of the ability to shift into reverse or a neutral state when performing a specific shift pattern during manual shift events with no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This may occur after shifting from MANUAL 1 or MANUAL 2 to REVERSE …

Showing the newest 6 of 16 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 27, 2026AL

I am filing this complaint on behalf of myself in regards to Fords customer service team. I submitted the paperwork to receive a refund for this repair on August the 5th and they denied it on October the 23. I have since obtained the missing documentation they requested and no one at the Ford customer service dept will let me speak to a supervisor regarding this issue or give me any further update on how to appeal or the appeal timeline other than to remail the documents. This is ridiculous and I have now went over 80 days without reimbursement for a documented issue.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 27, 2026NC

Back windshield spontaneous combustion Overheating back shield

Power Train
Filed Oct 27, 2026NC

I am filing this complaint regarding a serious transmission safety issue with my son's 2016 Ford F-150, which is subject to Ford Safety Recall 26S28 / NHTSA Recall 26V237 and is also within the scope of NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26001 concerning unintended transmission downshifts. The truck was operating normally before the recall repair. Ford notified us that the vehicle was affected by the transmission recall and instructed us to take it to a Ford dealer. The recall remedy involved reprogramming the powertrain control module with updated software intended to address the transmission-range-sensor problem and prevent unintended downshifts. We took the truck to a Ford dealer and had the recall software update performed. Immediately following the software update, the truck developed severe and abnormal transmission behavior and became essentially undrivable. Among the problems experienced were the truck attempting to start in an incorrect gear, including fifth gear, and extremely abnormal shifting while driving, including an apparent shift from sixth gear directly to first gear – ironically the same type of dangerous and unpredictable transmission behavior that the recall was intended to prevent. ***These problems did not exist before Ford performed the "recall repair."*** The Ford dealer subsequently diagnosed the transmission molded leadframe as needing replacement. Ford has refused to authorize the leadframe replacement under its applicable program/recall coverage because

Engine
Filed Oct 26, 2026AL

My truck was driving fine since I bought it 9 years ago. Ford sent me a letter saying to come in for a recall (Recall 26S28). I went to my local Ford dealership for the recall work, and after that my truck started driving very poorly. The transmission would shudder, and studder at all RPMs (unsafe at highway speeds). I called the dealership and was given the run around. I was told by the dealership that the 'transmission learning' was reset and that it was fine now. Their fix didn't do anything and the truck still had transmission problems. I then found out that the recall that was performed on my truck was 'paused' due to it causing 'issues'. Ford refuses to tell me why the recall was paused, and insists that the recall did not break my truck (even though it was obviously paused for a reason). After driving it for a few months and it getting worser and worse, I called another branch of the dealership. They told me that my transmission was basically broken now, and that it would be $9000 to replace it. The truck has 72000 miles on it. The truck ran perfectly fine for almost a decade and now the transmission fails after the transmission recall work was done. I read of other F150 owners who had the recall done, and their trucks spontaneously missed a shift on the highway which is very unsafe. The Ford dealership told me to call the Ford help line, which is basically a black hole with a rep reading from a script. Ford has made my truck unsafe, nearly undrivable and unsellable, a

Power Train
Filed Oct 26, 2026163,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the failure occurred after the recall repair. While starting the vehicle, the transmission started out at 5th gear with the engine revving, and while driving at various speeds, the transmission slammed into gear before accelerating. The vehicle then went into LIMP Mode with the transmission and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the lead frame and PCM were normal, but the transmission might need to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 26, 2026TX

My 2016 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 has experienced repeated failures involving the transmission gear-position system and inability to start. During the most recent incident, I was stopped at a traffic light when a wrench warning illuminated on the dashboard and all transmission gear-position indicators disappeared. The vehicle remained operational but exhibited significantly reduced performance when accelerating. Concerned about the malfunction, I turned off the ignition to attempt a restart. The vehicle would not restart, leaving me stranded. This failure created a serious safety concern because the vehicle could have become disabled in active traffic. Previously, the vehicle experienced a similar no-start condition. An independent repair facility replaced the starter, negative battery cable, and shift lever. Although the vehicle initially operated normally, the problem returned. The repair facility subsequently reproduced the failure and retrieved diagnostic trouble codes consistent with Ford's transmission-related safety recall. The underlying defect remains unresolved. The vehicle is currently undrivable and located at an authorized Ford dealership, where it is available for inspection. Ford customer service informed me that the recall remedy has been paused because the existing fix is ineffective. The dealership cannot perform its own diagnostic evaluation until December. Despite the vehicle being undrivable due to a suspected recall-related defect, both Ford corporate customer

Power Train
Filed Oct 26, 2026116,500 milesNY

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, the rear wheels locked up, and the vehicle decelerated. The wrench icon was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by telephone. The failure mileage was approximately 116,500.

Suspension
Filed Oct 24, 2026CA

I purchased my truck in XXX. Shortly afterwards as I was driving at approx 45 mph, the rear end just locked up and felt like something had snapped inside the transmission or transfer case. I had an extended warranty which Ford took full advantage of claiming that the rear end had locked up due to a bad 4 wheel drive switch and I knew I was being lied to. They got the extended warranty to pay for they're transmission leadframe recall that they didn't fix. They also added 4 degree pinion angle shims under my leaf springs and claimed that I put them on my truck and I did not, they did. They also lied to me and said they hadn't removed my transmission yet I could see fresh tool marks on every bolt on my transmission. They installed a thermal bypass valve in my transmission, I believe so that they could claim that I had installed aftermarket parts therefore ford isn't liable. Not long after Corning ford rebuilt my rear differential that had been destroyed due to the rear end lock up, I got a check engine light for turbine speed sensor fault. Corning ford denied any recall however bomarito ford in [XXX] confirmed that there was a recall for the lead frame that was issued 1 year after the truck was manufactured. Which is false because I bought the truck from a Chevrolet dealer in [XXX] and we went over all recalls and carfax online together and they printed everything. NO RECALL FOR LEAD FRAME OR TRANSMISSION. Corning ford employees were rude and had horrible attitudes towards me fr

Electrical System
Filed Oct 24, 2026CA

Ford finally sent me a recall notice just this year in May. I have called multiple dealers and Bomaritto ford in [XXX] told me 2 and a half years ago to bring my truck in and they'll replace the Lead frame free of charge however any dealerships I contacted in [XXX] denied any such recall. When I received the recall letter from ford it stated the transmission lead frame would be covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles. The truck was already 10 years old when I finally received a notice from ford. I ended up rebuilding the whole transmission myself and it cost me over $1500.00 in parts, not to mention I was without a vehicle for approx 2 months waiting on all the back ordered parts. The lead frame I installed was not a ford oem part. The service team in [XXX] told me either way, fird has to replace it with oem parts. I took it to crown ford in [XXX] and they refused to replace the Lead frame which had a check engine code as well. They claimed it was a software update was the problem. I believe that they deleted it from the tcm and ecu. Ford has done everything they possibly could to cover this up and they got the extended warranty to pay for the damaged rear differential which they used the old axle housing that was bent from the lock up and I have spent thousands of dollars in parts and alignments and the vehicle will not stay in alignment because of the damaged rear axle housing. The transfer case was never repaired or replaced also. They treated me completely horrible and lied

Power Train
Filed Oct 22, 2026NC

Driving on highway lost power to gas pedal truck dash flashed and turned off. Bunch of lights and a gear turned on. I drove to dealership immediately and left the truck there. Was later told I have a 4 serious safety hazard recalls and one that is paused and because of this can’t be fixed and leaves the truck unusable. Leaving me without a vehicle and risk of job loss for the last 3 weeks going on 4 now

Electrical System
Filed Oct 21, 2026WA

The truck continuously went into limp mode upon acceleration. Numerous warning lights wrench, I have a 2016 2.7 with 159k miles that is stalling, loosing all power, stuttering and showing these codes on heavy acceleration. When I turn off the ignition and restart all codes go away.

Power Train
Filed Oct 21, 2026124,800 milesMA

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted and the power train warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact stated that the following day, while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle started. In addition, the power train warning light was no longer illuminated. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that parts were unavailable for the repair. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 124,800.

Power Train1 injured
Filed Oct 21, 2026TX

While driving in normal conditions at approximately 40 mph the transmission shifted to 2nd gear and the PRND began flashing erratically. Afterward the transmission stayed in 5th gear until I was able to park. This caused a great deal of fear and physical pain from the sudden jolt.

Power Train
Filed Oct 20, 2026CO

Truck occasionally downshifts at high steady speed ~70mph, with a wrench. About 4weeks ongoing, now daily and check engine light is on. Codes are P0720 and P0722. Despite well documented issue, and lead frame assembly recall, Ford refuses to repair. 124k miles.

Power Train
Filed Oct 18, 2026IN

Had the recall done at a dealer and now the the software update didn't solve the problem it is now having the wrench and is downshifting periodically with no notice

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 14, 2026NV

My Ford F150 is part of the recall 26S28 for the PCM transmission reprogramming and the transmission lead frame recall . There is now a current pause on the recall according to my Ford dealership. My truck was scheduled for replacement and now it’s been cancelled. My truck is experiencing surges like I’m being hit from behind and also gear shifts changing. I am now afraid of loosing control of my vehicle. I don’t know what to do next

Power Train
Filed Oct 14, 2026TX

2016 F150 with 6R80 transmission problem it had got worse after Ford 26S28/NHTSA 26V237 was done at Ford Dealership just days before Recall we put on hold and Ford then was recommended it not to be done.Safety risk is transmission down shifts hard and sometimes delays in shift commands.After recall done on 9/23/2026 it also derates,goes to limp mode in intersections and freeway.Check engine and wrench lights comes on.It’s been at dealership since 10/08/2026 because it is unsafe to drive in my opinion.Dealership has driven it and verbally told me over the phone,they drove it and my details and complaints are there.The dealership is telling me they have to get a specific code to replace components under the Customer Satisfaction Program 26N04, which their saying is not there.Even though all the symptoms and problems and unsafe drivability is there even after Recall 26S28 was done and was even put on hold because in my opinion made it a lot worse.Check engine light on because of transmission problems and wrench light on because of transmission problem.I have a letter stating if after Recall was done and problems still exists to contact Dealership and Ford RAC Center,which I did.The letter says replace part because of codes if present, but also says if vehicle exhibits conditions dealers are to replace the transmission molded Leadframe after Safety Recall 26S28 has been completed, but dealership says it can’t do, even after the day I drove home after having Recall 26S28 all exhib

Power Train
Filed Oct 14, 2026TX

Erratic shifting, sudden down shifts while at highway speed, and transmission suddenly stuck in 3 or 5th gear, ford currently has customer satisfaction program 26n04 covering certain 2015-2017 ford f150 trucks but specifies only certain codes to flag the need to fix the problem by changing the molded lead frame which is the defective part. Unfortunately my truck is not tripping those codes but it is showing codes p0715,p0717,p0720 that all call for the molded lead frame to be changed. The problem is codes, p0720,0722, where covered in previous recall 24S37, for f150 tucks made in 2014 with the exact same transmission and molded lead frame. So my problem is why in the previous recall where these codes acceptable and all of the sudden now there not

Power Train
Filed Oct 13, 2026106,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly downshifted from sixth gear into third, second, or first gear. The yellow wrench warning light illuminated. The failure was recurrent. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where a software update was performed, but the failure persisted. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 13, 2026PA

Our 2016 F-150 experienced a dangerous transmission sensor failure (Ford Service read code P0722). Ford's 26S28 safety update was performed prior to this, but the physical lead frame has now failed. Ford Corporate (Case #CXH-09620415) is refusing to replace the defective safety component under companion program 26N04 because the vehicle threw code P0722 instead of the four codes arbitrarily listed on their bulletin, leaving a known mechanical defect active on the road. In this case we pulled out from a driveway onto a road and the truck stayed stuck in 1st gear or was in limp mode and the check engine (wrench icon) lit. Had this been a busy intersection we could have been hit by another vehicle. With this part failing, which is known to cause other similar problems, the truck can shift erratically or get stuck in one gear or downshift or suddenly go into limp mode from any speed. Any problems associated with the defective lead frame should be fixed not just those that throw certain codes.

Power Train
Filed Oct 12, 2026TN

I responded to recall 26V237 by bringing my F150 into our local Ford dealership, Lenoir City Ford, in Lenoir City, Tennessee, on [XXX]. At the time the truck was dropped off for the recall fix, it was running and operating normally, without any issues. I picked up my truck on [XXX] after the dealership applied the reprogramming fix. As soon as I pulled out of their parking lot onto the main road, the truck started acting up: erratic shifting, delayed shifting, spontaneous downshifting, lack of response from acceleration, and loud rattling noises. I immediately returned to the dealership and had the service technician ride in the vehicle with me. She asked me to turn around immediately and had the service manager ride in the vehicle. He also immediately told me to turn around and return to their parking lot, saying the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The only way to got the vehicle back to the parking lot was to use the manual shift mode and shift with the paddles. As of the date of this filing, the truck remains in the possession of Lenoir City Ford and is undriveable. The Ford dealership has completed all troubleshooting requirements with Ford Motor Company. It has been determined that the transmission needs to be replaced. Ford Motor Company is refusing to make the necessary repairs to the vehicle that their software fix created. The dealership continues to try to resolve this through their channels, and I keep reaching out to Ford Motor Company to resolve it. I have a case fi

Power Train
Filed Oct 11, 2026FL

The vehicle is covered by Safety Recall 26S28 (NHTSA 26V237) for a transmission range sensor signal fault causing unintended downshift. Before the recall, the truck was slipping, shifting improperly, and downshifting unexpectedly. Dealer (Wayne Akers Ford, Lake Worth, FL) solicited the recall by text on [XXX] and performed the PCM reprogramming on [XXX] (RO [XXX]) at 201,991 miles. The repair order shows no DTC scan before or after the reflash, no road test, and identical mileage in and out. The same symptoms returned the day of pickup. Owner returned promptly and was told the dealer was too busy to accept the truck. The condition worsened to a sudden unintended downshift and deceleration while driving in traffic, after which the owner parked the truck for safety. Owner reported the worsening condition by text on or before [XXX] and brought the truck in on [XXX] where he was told a diagnostic fee would be required to look at the recall condition. The dealer now says the codes are “similar but different” from the recall codes, that the condition is outside coverage, and quotes about $6,500, with no written diagnosis, code list, estimate, written denial, or SSSC submission under Program 26N04. No crash, fire, or injury. Vehicle remains unrepaired at the dealer. The owner reports this because the 26V237 remedy performed did not correct the unintended downshift condition, and the dealer’s process may have cleared the codes that would have qualified the truck for no-cost leadframe

Power Train
Filed Oct 11, 2026NJ

1.The component that is failing & causing a safety hazard is the vehicle transmission. 2.The transmission shifts violently at highway speeds & causes partial loss of control by the driver & potential additional damage to the powertrain; dashboard wrench light (powertrain warning light) goes on when this happens. 3.The problem has been confirmed by Ford Motor Vehicle Customer Satisfaction Program 26N04 (safety recall notice) the vehicle owner received in a written letter from Ford in July 2026. 4. The Ford Dealership at Liccardi Ford, 1615 Route 22 West, Watchung, NJ 07066 908-561-7500, arranged for a mobile repair on 07-21-26 (Recall Repair 26S28). The repair was made but the condition was not corrected. 5. The vehicle was brought into Liccardi Ford dealership on 09-13-26 for further service to correct the powertrain fault consistent with the Safety Recall Notice (customer Satisfaction Program 26N04). 6. The Dealership did nothing to correct the problem and in part, stated on their work order, "PERFORMED DIAGNOSIS RETRIEVED CODE PO219 ENGINE OVERSPEED CONDITION, PO61A INTERNAL CONTROL MODULE TORQUE PERFORMANCE, PO722 OUTPUT SHAFT SPEED SENSOR - NO SIGNAL - NOT RELATED TO 26N04 - NEEDS FURTHER DIAGNOSIS. 7. The vehicle owner was told by the Ford Dealership that they would not correct the safety recall problem (evident by the powertrain failing in a manner consistent with the recall notice and the powertrain warning light) without further diagnosis at a cost to the vehicle owne

Power Train
Filed Oct 9, 2026TX

My 2016 Ford F-150 experienced an unexpected downshift into second gear at approximately 45 mph. I also experienced warning lights and an occasion when the truck would not move in Drive until I shifted again. The dealership documented P0705 and P0706 before performing a PCM software update. I retained the repair order showing those codes. After the update, the truck registered P0720. The dealership diagnosed an output speed sensor circuit fault and recommended replacing the molded leadframe for approximately $2,000. I was told replacement would not be covered unless specified transmission range sensor codes returned after the update. I am concerned that a physical defect remains in the leadframe assembly despite the software update. I request review of the safety issue, the effectiveness of the recall remedy, and Ford’s handling of my documented diagnostic history. I cannot establish whether the original range sensor faults and subsequent speed sensor fault share the same cause.

Power Train
Filed Oct 8, 2026NV

In mid-September 2026, I had safety recall 26S28 (NHTSA 26V-237) performed on my 2016 Ford F-150 at Corwin Ford Reno in Reno, NV. The recall remedy was a powertrain control module software update intended to prevent unexpected transmission downshifts. Before the recall repair, the vehicle had no drivability problems of any kind. About three days after the recall repair, the truck began repeatedly losing acceleration while driving at highway speed. The vehicle would stop responding to the accelerator, and the wrench warning light came on in the instrument cluster. This happened on multiple occasions over several days. Losing acceleration in highway traffic creates a serious risk of a rear-end collision. This is the same type of loss-of-control hazard the recall was meant to address, and the condition appeared only after the recall software was installed. I contacted the dealer right away to report the safety problem. Over two days I called at least six times and left multiple messages that were not returned. When I reached the service department, they would not inspect the vehicle until the following week, and a service manager offered the same delay. I also contacted Ford customer service and received no help. The vehicle has been at the dealer since September 30, 2026. As of October 7, 2026, there is still no diagnosis or repair. I believe the recall 26S28 remedy either failed to correct the defect or introduced a new powertrain fault that causes loss of motive power at spee

Power Train
Filed Oct 8, 2026OH

Ford sent me a recall letter stating there was a remedy for my truck. I took the truck to a ford service center and was informed that the remedy they had in place to fix the recall does not resolve the problem. They also informed me that they have no idea when the new remedy will be out to fix my truck. Seeing that there is no remedy or any timeline of when I’m getting my truck back I called ford customer support to ask for a loan vehicle. They told me they was unable to give me one. Seeing that it is a transmission problem and even having in the letter it increases the risk of an accident. I feel unsafe to drive the truck in my 60 mile commute to work or in general

Power Train
Filed Oct 7, 2026PA

The automatic transmission has experienced repeated unexpected downshifts and other abnormal gear-selection behavior. Before the recall repair, the vehicle experienced multiple unexpected downshifts, including a shift from 4th to 2nd gear. Safety Recall 26S28 was performed on July 20, 2026, consisting of a PCM software update. The problem continued after the recall repair. Approximately one week later, while operating in 3rd gear, the transmission momentarily shifted into 1st gear and then returned to 4th. On August 31, while operating in 5th gear, it again momentarily shifted directly into 1st and then returned to 4th. The vehicle was returned to an authorized Ford dealer in September for evaluation. The dealer road-tested the vehicle three times and scanned the PCM but could not duplicate the condition and found no diagnostic trouble codes. The dealer contacted Ford regarding the condition, but no additional repair was authorized because no qualifying codes were present. The problem has continued. I have manually limited the selectable transmission range to 4th gear in an effort to reduce the possibility of another unexpected downshift. On multiple occasions, without any driver input, the selected maximum transmission range has changed from 4th back to the full 1-6 range. On October 3, 2026, the vehicle experienced a hard shift into 4th and then shifted back and forth between 5th and 6th. During this event, the transmission range display went blank and subsequently returned

Power Train
Filed Oct 5, 2026MD

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted; however, the contact denied the repair for being insufficient. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Power Train
Filed Oct 5, 2026180,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. While the contact's mother was driving 20 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. The power train and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 5, 2026GA

Component Affected: Power Train / Electrical System / Transmission Description of Incident: My 2016 Ford F-150 was taken to a licensed Ford dealership to resolve Safety Recall 26S28 / NHTSA Campaign 26V237000 (PCM software update to prevent sudden downshifts). Prior to the recall, the truck drove fine with no issues. Immediately after the software update was performed, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic, uncommanded downshift from 4th gear into 1st gear while traveling at highway speeds. This caused the rear wheels to violently lock up, mimicking a sudden slam on the brakes in active traffic and nearly causing a severe rear-end collision. Diagnostic scans show codes P0720 and P0722, indicating a failure of the Output Speed Sensor, which is integrated into the transmission molded lead frame assembly. The recall software remedy actually caused this life-threatening downshift, and the vehicle remains entirely unsafe to drive. The manufacturer's remedy did not resolve the safety defect. Ford has refused to repair this safety issue and say that it only qualifies for free repair if it throws codes P0705, P0706, P0707.

Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Oct 4, 2026TN

On XXX, I parked my 2016 Ford F-150 in a Kroger parking lot, in [XXX] around 5 pm. I placed the transmission selector in PARK, exited the vehicle, and went inside the store. The vehicle was unattended. When I came back outside, I discovered that the truck had rolled from where I had parked it, traveled across the parking lot, and struck another vehicle. A police report was filed regarding the incident. I believe there may have been a failure of the vehicle's parking mechanism, transmission, shift linkage, transmission range sensing system, or another component responsible for preventing the vehicle from moving while in PARK. The current answer is UNKNOWN. The incident created a serious safety risk because the unattended vehicle was able to roll freely through a public parking lot where pedestrians and other vehicles were present. Fortunately, to my knowledge, no one was injured, but the vehicle did strike another vehicle and caused property damage. At this time, the problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by a Ford dealer or independent repair facility. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Ford to determine the cause of the rollaway. Police responded to/documented the incident and a police report was completed. I did not observe any warning lamps or warning messages indicating that the vehicle was not properly in PARK before exiting the vehicle. I had no indication that the vehicle would move after I exited it. I am reporting this incident because the vehicle unexpe

Power Train2 injured
Filed Oct 2, 202631,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted and the vehicle decelerated to approximately 15 MPH. The powertrain warning light was illuminated during the failure. Occasionally, the vehicle was coasted over to the side of the road, and the contact attempted to turn off the vehicle, but the vehicle occasionally remained running. The contact waited for several minutes before continuing to drive. During the failure, the occupants inside the vehicle lunged forward. The contact stated that a niece's head struck the windshield, leaving a bruise, and the contact’s partner lunged forward and struck her head on the side door handle bar, which left a bruise. The failure had occurred more than 25 times. The vehicle was taken to four certified mechanics, and the lead frame and all the sensors were replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train). The dealer performed the update of the powertrain control module software; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed the VIN was no longer under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 31,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 2, 2026150,000 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop, the vehicle failed to shift into first gear unless the accelerator pedal was released for up to thirty seconds, after which the transmission shifted hard into second gear. The check engine and power train warning lights illuminated after the hard shift. Additionally, the vehicle only shifted between third and fifth gears while driving. The contact stated that the failure was a recurring failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train) and contacted the dealer by phone; however, the dealer informed the contact that the recall repair could not be performed because the manufacturer had placed a pause on the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Power Train
Filed Sep 30, 2026KY

My vehicle was covered under recall 26N04 and 26V237 that addressed a violent unexpected downshift in the transmission while driving. The Ford dealer reprogrammed the PCM and stated that is all that could be done. This did not fix the violent unexpected downshift while traveling at highway speeds. My vehicle has done so several times since the 'fix'. Truck was taken back to Ford dealer and checked again. I was advised that Ford would not be fixing this issue because my truck did not have the correct code on their diagnostic exam. The lead frame is faulty and Ford refuses to fix even though they admit in their recall that the lead frame may be faulty.

Power TrainCrash
Filed Sep 30, 2026123,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to first gear. The contact stated that there was a ten-second delay prior to the transmission downshifting. The vehicle was uncontrollable, and the vehicle crashed into a ditch before coming to a stop. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while the contact's wife and two minor grandchildren were inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had occurred after an unknown recall repair was performed. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The manufacturer was contacted by phone, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 30, 2026TX

I had my 2016 Ford F-150 turned in for a recall notification on my transmission. I had no problems on my transmission before the Ford dealership updated the recall notice. After the update, my truck was downshifting and changing gears in a different way. I turned in the truck again and the dealership looked at it again and decided that Ford was not responsible for the issue. Now, my truck is having major issues with the transmission and it is still not fixed. The dealership did the recall update but something was done that made my transmission work differently and they will not fix it unless I pay.

Power Train
Filed Sep 28, 2026142,000 milesNC

The contact's husband owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted into first gear. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where a PCM software update was performed under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the failure worsened following the recall repair. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced due to a possible internal clutch failure. The contact was informed that leadframe replacement was not covered under extended warranty coverage because the necessary DTC were not retrieved. However, the contact stated that the PCM software update had cleared the codes. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 28, 2026SC

What Happened MY 2016 Ford F-150 Platinum, equipped with a rear/360-degree camera system, has failed and displays a blue screen instead of providing a usable rearward image. This blue screen was confirmed by the Lugoff Ford Service Department (authorized Ford dealership) around June/July 2026. What I did to correct the problem I took the 2016 F150 Platinum to my local authorized Ford dealership (Lugoff Ford, Lugoff, SC). The Lugoff Ford dealership inspected the vehicle, confirmed the blue-screen rear camera failure, and determined that the camera requires replacement under the Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17. The repair work would be in October 2026. Repair status In September 2026, I got an oil change service at Lugoff Ford. I asked about the status of the recall for the inoperable backup camera and was told that parts and an advanced software update have been changed and will now be available in February 2027. Safety As you are aware, an inoperable backup camera is a safety concern because it does not provide the driver with the rearward view expected from the vehicle's factory-installed camera system. When reversing, the driver cannot rely on the camera to identify pedestrians, vehicles, objects, or other hazards located behind the big F150 Platinum. Manufacturer Contacted I contacted Ford Motor Company's Customer Relationship Center twice to request assistance with an expedited repair, a formal Ford case, and/or a dealer-to-dealer parts search. I was unable to ob

Power Train
Filed Sep 28, 2026150,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission warning light illuminated and the transmission unexpectedly downshifted into a lower gear, causing the vehicle to hesitate while accelerating. The contact pulled over and waited before restarting the vehicle to correct the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that the recall repair was on hold by the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Power Train
Filed Sep 28, 2026112,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to second gear. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was confirmed that the failure was associated with a previous recall repair. The contact was informed that the remedy was a temporary fix and that the engineers were developing a new remedy. In addition, the contact was informed that there was no remedy yet available for the repair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was contacted by phone and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.

Power Train
Filed Sep 24, 2026NC

2016 Ford F-150, 5.0L, 6R80 transmission, 112,083 miles. Safety Recall 26S28 was performed on 08/05/26 at an authorized Ford dealer. The wrench/powertrain warning recurred on 08/15/26. On 08/20/26, at 111,998 miles, the dealer found DTCs P0720 and P0722 (output shaft speed sensor) and stated in writing that the transmission molded leadframe must be replaced. Ford denied coverage under Customer Satisfaction Program 26N04 because those codes are not on the program's list. The transmission then failed on two consecutive days, within about 85 miles of driving since the dealer visit. On 09/23/26, while I was accelerating across two lanes of traffic, the engine revved abnormally high during an upshift, as if the transmission failed to engage a gear. It then stayed in 3rd, and I had to make a left turn from a stop at an intersection in 3rd gear with greatly reduced power. On 09/24/26, after crossing a four-lane highway intersection, the warning appeared while I was accelerating uphill. The transmission stayed in 3rd at a complete stop and would not downshift to 1st. Shifting through Park and using manual mode did not restore 1st gear; only an engine restart did. In both events the warning light cleared itself while the fault continued, so the dashboard gave no indication of the problem. Turning left across oncoming traffic and pulling away from stops near highway traffic with reduced power is a safety risk. The recall remedy did not prevent this failure, and the repair the dealer sa

Power Train
Filed Sep 23, 2026OH

I am reporting that the Corporate Ford Company is knowingly requiring a software update that minimizes a safety hazard instead of eliminating a safety hazard (NHTSA Recall 26V237). Here are the facts: ---Lebanon Ford service said that they cannot tell me what the software update 26S28 will do to fix the danger of driving my vehicle. The mechanic (Michael) said that the software update is meant to fix the transmission molded lead frame, but that it does not. My research about this software update states that the truck will unexpectedly downshift to 4th gear (instead of downshifting to 1st gear without the update). This downshifting issue poses a danger to people driving on the highway! Consider trucks suddenly downshifting to 4th gear in front of you on the highway (some towing)! Ford Recall: 26N04 is a fix that will eliminate danger, but Ford is NOT fully implementing it! Molded Lead Frame Failure The Issue: The internal wiring harness (the lead frame) holds the speed and temperature sensors. When it fails, it sends bad data to the computer. Symptoms: Erratic shifting, a wrench light on the dash, or a check engine light with speed sensor codes. Unexpected Downshifts (Recall 26V-237) --THIS IS THE SOFTWARE UPDATE THAT DOES NOT SOLVE THE DANGEROUS RISK. On XXX, Ford did NOT complete the Recall 26N04 (Ford #), only the NHTSA 26V237 software update, which does not eliminate dangerous driving on the highway. I am attaching the event information that I gave to Lebanon Ford at the t

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 22, 2026OR

I am filing an emergency complaint against Ford Motor Company for failure to provide a safety recall remedy within a reasonable timeframe under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301. My vehicle has an active safety recall (Recall 20S31) for a compromised brake master cylinder, making it entirely unsafe to operate. The vehicle is currently grounded and inoperable at my residence. Ford Corporate has kept the required repair parts on a national backorder for over 3 months. On August 18th, Ford Corporate sent me a formal written denial explicitly refusing to provide a rental vehicle or alternative transportation while my truck sits stranded. Ford is forcing me to choose between driving a vehicle with known catastrophic braking failure or having no transportation, actively violating federal recall compliance guidelines.

Power Train
Filed Sep 21, 2026MS

XXX: I scheduled an oil change online and selected the open transmission safety recall. [XXX] Ford executed Recall 26S28 (PCM Programming) under verification code RGLKT7MASIPIJ. The truck had absolutely no shifting issues prior to this flash. XXX: Within two weeks of the software update, the truck began experiencing the exact erratic shifting and violent gear-dropping safety hazards described in the recall. I returned the truck to the dealer. XXX: After days of complete silence, I had to initiate contact. First by phone, then by physically walking into the service desk on XXX to get answers because the dealer ignored my vehicle. Mid-XXX: After the truck sat on their lot for three weeks, they finally scanned it and retrieved code P2701. The dealer stated the recall wouldn't cover it and immediately quoted me $8,000 to rebuild or $10,000 to replace the transmission. They claimed they would submit the case to Ford Corporate. XXX: Having heard nothing, I returned to the dealership in person. I was told they still had no response from corporate. The Paperwork Contradiction: The technician's notes on Page 3 explicitly state: "No update so that one recall cannot be performed, must been updated at some point." This proves the technician failed to look at their own shop's service history from XXX (Page 2), where they signed off on completing the update. Furthermore, they condemned the entire transmission based strictly on a digital code scan; they never dropped the pan or performed an

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Sep 19, 2026MD

The component that failed is the Back Up Camera Screen. It is all blue. It is available for inspection upon request. My safety or the safety of others is at risk because I can't see directly behind my truck without this camera. I could end up hitting a child or small item directly behind my truck. We will be contacting the dealer about this problem. My vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance or others at this time. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of this problem occured prior to the failure. This problem first occured on Saturday, September 19, 2026 I don't know what the cause of this problem is.

Power Train
Filed Sep 18, 2026FL

I participated in Safety Recall 26V237 -2016 F-150 Ford Truck transmission issues. Under the recall, Ford completed a transmission programming update to resolve the safety concerns. The campaign DID NOT resolve the transmission issues. The truck is still a hazzard to drive & needs further repairs or transmission replacement. Please do not allow Ford to remain unaccountable for the failure to correct the issue.

Power Train
Filed Sep 18, 2026OK

There is currently a recall on 4 of the sensors on the same rail n the transmission due to it locking in 3rd or 5th gear. When I took the truck in they pulled the codes and it was not one of the 4 so Ford does not have an active recall. There was another person in line in front of me who had the same issue on the same two codes.

Power Train
Filed Sep 18, 2026100,000 milesOR

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, and the vehicle lost motive power and decelerated. Additionally, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the vehicle with the power train warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure was confirmed. The contact was informed that an unknown PCM software update was completed. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Engine
Filed Sep 17, 2026NE

Driving down Highway 6/34. Cruise set at 65 mph. The truck on its own Shifted into 2nd gear and revving up the engine caused the vehicle to slow uncontrollably, which is very unsafe driving. The 2016 has a safety recall to prevent this from happening. I am writing this to report that my truck has had the recall done, and this still happened. I will park the truck until Ford can fix it. But they are trying to get out of fixing this safety issue with all these trucks. At 65 mph, I lost control of the truck, and thank goodness there were no other vehicles on the road around me

Power Train
Filed Sep 16, 2026UT

Performance Ford in Utah falsified a federal safety recall completion for Recall 26S28/19V446000 on my 2016 F-150. They only performed a software flash, manually wiped the transmission's safety fault codes from the memory cache, and joyrode my vehicle for 200 unauthorized miles. They returned the vehicle to me unrepaired, where it immediately suffered an erratic downshifting hazard and engine limp mode, endangering my safety.

Complaints 1-50 of 2,093, 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
2016 — this page2,09314250High concern
20151,74614133Fatalities reported
20141,5398161Do not drive
20132,9943354Fatalities reported
20121,7844142Fatalities reported
20112,1946190Above 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

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2016 Ford F-150: questions buyers ask

Is the 2016 Ford F-150 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the F-150 years to avoid: owners filed 2,093 complaints, 2.5 times as many as a typical F-150 year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (25%).

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Ford F-150?

The transmission: 527 of the 2,093 complaints (25%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (32%), turns on the check engine light (14%) and loses power (13%). The typical report comes at 105,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2016 Ford F-150 have?

14 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 14, 2026. The largest, 18V568000, covered 1,619,112 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2016 Ford F-150 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 46,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 105,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2016 Ford F-150?

Yes, 4 times. The latest, EA26001 ("Unintended Transmission Downshift and Rear Wheel Lock-up"), was opened Jan 30, 2026 and is still open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2016 Ford F-150?

The manufacturer filed 283 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (57), the engine (49) and the body and frame (19). They include a service campaign, 26N04, filed Jul 9, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

A high number of complaints describe fires or crashes.

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: Apr 14, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.