Did Ford fix the automatic transmission?

Yes. Ford has largely addressed the most serious automatic-transmission problems through recalls, warranty extensions, and hardware/software updates, and newer models use more reliable automatic gearboxes. However, experiences vary by model year, and some legacy PowerShift-equipped vehicles may still experience issues.

Background: a history of transmission concerns and a shift in strategy

The spotlight fell on Ford's PowerShift dual-clutch transmissions in several small- to mid-size models during the 2011–2016 period, with drivers reporting shuddering, hesitancy, and abrupt shifts. This prompted recalls, service campaigns, and consumer inquiries that pressured Ford to rethink its transmission strategy. In response, Ford moved toward conventional automatics in many newer vehicles and improved software and hardware in existing ones.

Ford's response to the problems

Ford implemented multiple measures to address the issues, spanning recalls, service campaigns, warranty coverage, and redesigns of transmissions.

• Recall campaigns targeting PowerShift-equipped vehicles in North America and Europe to perform software updates, clutch improvements, and, in some cases, replacement transmissions.


• Warranty extensions for PowerShift transmissions, offering coverage beyond standard terms in order to reduce consumer cost and frustration.


• Software updates and revised fault-detection logic intended to improve shifting behavior and reliability.


• Partial or full transmission replacements in select vehicles under service campaigns or warranty coverage.


• A pivot away from PowerShift in favor of conventional automatics (6-, 8-, and 10-speed designs) in many newer models, particularly in trucks and crossovers.

These actions collectively reduced the frequency and severity of reported transmission problems in newer model years. However, owners of older PowerShift-equipped vehicles outside current coverage may still experience issues, underscoring the importance of model-year and VIN-specific information when evaluating reliability.

Current state: what Ford uses today and how reliable it’s perceived

Modern Ford transmissions by model year

The majority of Ford’s current lineup relies on traditional automatics rather than dual-clutch systems. The company has widely adopted 6-, 8-, and 10-speed automatics across trucks, SUVs, and crossovers, which generally offer smoother operation and proven reliability. Notable trends include:

• F-Series trucks and larger SUVs commonly use 10-speed automatics, favored for efficiency and towing capability.


• Many mid-size and compact SUVs employ 8-speed automatics, with some offering 10-speed options for refined highway performance.


• Smaller cars that previously used PowerShift have largely transitioned to conventional automatics or have been redesigned with different drivetrains.

Ford continues to issue software updates and recall actions when new concerns are identified, reflecting an ongoing effort to keep transmissions reliable across its lineup.

What owners should do if they suspect transmission issues

If you own a Ford vehicle and notice shudder, slipping, harsh or delayed shifts, or warning lights related to transmission, take these steps:

• Check for open recalls on Ford's owner portal or the NHTSA database using your VIN.


• Contact a Ford dealer to schedule a diagnostic check; document symptoms and any service actions taken.


• Ask about software updates and whether your vehicle is covered by any PowerShift or other transmission-related warranty extension.


• Keep maintenance records and seek prompt repairs, as unresolved issues can affect drivability and resale value.

While Ford has generally improved transmission reliability in newer vehicles, owners of older PowerShift-equipped models should verify current coverage and potential remedies with authorized dealers.

Summary

Ford has taken concrete steps to fix automatic-transmission problems in many of its vehicles, primarily through recalls, warranty coverage enhancements, and software/hardware updates. The shift away from problematic PowerShift dual-clutch systems toward traditional automatics in much of its lineup has reduced widespread complaints, though owners of older models may still encounter issues. For buyers and current owners, checking recall status and warranty coverage remains essential, along with staying informed about model-year-specific transmission configurations.

Did Ford ever fix the PowerShift transmission?

Yet Ford has repeatedly denied systemic problems even to their own dealerships, instead directing them to replace the transmission over and over even though it was never truly fixed. Ford Thailand agreed to buy back about 200 Ford Fiesta and Focus models with faulty PowerShift transmissions.

Is there a recall on the Ford transmission issue?

Ford has issued recalls for several vehicle models due to transmission-related issues, including a 2025 recall for remanufactured 10R80 transmissions that may not hold the Park position, and a 2022 recall for about 3 million vehicles (2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2015-2018 Edge, 2013-2021 Transit Connect) with a shifter cable bushing that can degrade, causing rollaway risk. Other recalls involve issues like unexpected downshifts in some F-150 trucks and a missing roll pin in a 2018 model year recall. You can check if your specific vehicle is affected by visiting the Ford Support website and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by using the Ford app.
 
This video explains a Ford recall for F-150 trucks due to a transmission issue: 31s10 Tampa BayYouTube · Jun 25, 2024
2025 Remanufactured Transmission Recall

• Vehicles affected: 2017-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles that had a remanufactured 10R80 automatic transmission installed as a service part. 
• Issue: A missing T10 bearing during the remanufacturing process can cause the transmission to fail to hold the Park position, leading to a rollaway risk. 
• Fix: The dealer will install the correct component. 

2022 Shifter Cable Bushing Recall

• Vehicles affected: Approximately 3 million vehicles, including 2013-2019 Ford Escapes, 2013-2018 Ford C-Max, 2013-2016 Ford Fusion, 2015-2018 Ford Edge, and 2013-2021 Ford Transit Connect. 
• Issue: The bushing connecting the shifter cable to the transmission can degrade or detach, preventing the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear and risking rollaway. 
• Fix: Dealers will replace the bushing and add a protective cap, free of charge. 

Other recent recalls

• 2018 F-150, Expedition, Mustang, and Navigator: Some vehicles had a faulty clip that could cause the transmission to shift out of the driver's selected gear. 
• 2014 F-150 trucks: Some trucks were subject to a recall because a sudden downshift to first gear could lead to a loss of control. Dealers will update the powertrain control software for free. 

How to check if your vehicle is affected

• Visit the Ford Support website: and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• Use the Ford app: to check for recall alerts.
• Contact your local Ford dealer: to schedule a service appointment if your vehicle is included in a recall. 

Has Ford fixed their transmission problems?

No, Ford has not completely fixed its transmission problems, as issues continue to be reported, particularly with the 10-speed automatic transmission found in many of its newer trucks and SUVs. While Ford has made updates, such as redesigning the CDF drum and releasing software updates for the 10-speed transmission to address shifting problems and safety concerns, many consumers report that these fixes are not always effective, and problems like harsh shifting and failures persist. The older PowerShift dual-clutch transmissions also remain a significant issue for models from 2011-2016.
 
10-speed transmission issues 

• Problem: Early versions of the 10-speed transmission (2017-2023 models) have issues with harsh shifting, clunking, and complete failure, often due to a faulty CDF drum and related components. 
• Ford's response: Ford has issued recalls for safety issues and updated the CDF drum design in newer transmissions (starting around 2023 model year) and released software updates. 
• Consumer feedback: Many owners report that the fixes are insufficient and that problems like harsh shifting, hesitating, and unexpected gear changes continue to occur, says Houston Engines. 

PowerShift transmission issues

• Problem: The PowerShift dual-clutch transmission in older models (2011-2016 Fiesta and Focus) is plagued by shifting problems and failures. 
• Ford's response: Ford has offered repairs, warranty extensions, and in some cases, replacement of the transmission control module or the entire unit. 
• Consumer feedback: Many owners have reported that there is no single "fix," and dissatisfaction remains high, according to Fordtransmissionproblems.com. 

Overall status

• Unresolved issues: Despite Ford's efforts, many consumers believe the problems are not fully resolved, and ongoing legal action and customer complaints indicate that the issues persist, according to Lemon Law Help. 
• Mixed reliability: While newer versions of the 10-speed have improvements, ongoing reports of problems lead to questions about the long-term reliability of these transmissions, notes Autolist. 

What years did Ford have transmission problems?

Ford Models Most Affected By Transmission Issues
Many owners have reported gear slipping, shuddering, and loss of power while driving. Lawsuits and recalls have also been issued related to these models, especially in earlier versions released between 2011 and 2016.