Do 2020 Ford Expeditions have transmission problems?

Yes, some owners report transmission problems in the 2020 Ford Expedition, including shifting irregularities and related symptoms, but the issue is not universal and many vehicles operate reliably with proper maintenance and updates. Ford has issued software updates and service advisories aimed at addressing common concerns.

What drivers are seeing

Here are the most commonly reported symptoms by owners and reviewers.

• Rough shifting or a noticeable shudder between gears, particularly at light throttle or low speeds


• Delayed or sluggish acceleration followed by a sudden or hard shift


• Transmission slipping or failing to engage or stay in gear


• Unusual noises such as clunking or whining coming from the transmission area


• Warning lights (check engine/transmission) or diagnostic trouble codes related to the drivetrain

These symptoms have appeared in some 2020 Expeditions but are not universal, and many owners report normal performance with regular maintenance and proper care.

What might cause the issues

Several factors can contribute to shifting irregularities in modern 10‑speed automatic transmissions, including the Expedition's powertrain control systems. Common considerations include:

• Software calibration and communication between the engine and transmission control modules


• Torque converter behavior or wear within the automatic transmission


• Transmission fluid quality, level, or type (though many modern Ford transmissions are designed to be sealed and maintenance-guided)


• Wear or malfunction of internal components such as the valve body or clutches


• Driving conditions and load, such as frequent towing, heavy payload, or stop-and-go traffic

Understanding these factors can help diagnose whether a symptom is a normal variation or something that needs attention from a dealer.

Ford's responses and official actions

Ford has addressed reports of transmission-related symptoms for the Expedition and other models equipped with the 10‑speed transmission by issuing software updates and service bulletins. Owners should verify recalls and service actions for their specific vehicle by checking their VIN with official sources. As of mid‑2024, there was no widely publicized, model-wide safety recall solely focused on the 2020 Expedition transmission, but many vehicles may be covered by related campaigns.

Automakers’ standard response includes updating the transmission control software, performing adaptive learning resets, and conducting dealer diagnostics to confirm whether updates or repairs are needed under warranty or service plans.

For any ongoing issue, it's advisable to work with an authorized Ford dealer to confirm the current software level and service history and to ensure all applicable updates have been applied.

What to do if you own or are buying

If you own a 2020 Expedition or are considering a used purchase, take the following steps to address or avoid transmission problems.

• Check for open recalls on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or Ford's owner portal using your vehicle’s VIN, and have any applicable recalls completed promptly


• Have a qualified Ford technician diagnose any shifting symptoms to determine if software updates or hardware service is needed


• Ask the dealer to perform a transmission adaptation reset and verify the latest transmission software version installed


• Discuss maintenance options with the dealer, including any recommended transmission fluid services or filter checks if applicable to your vehicle


• When buying used, obtain a full vehicle history and request a pre-purchase inspection focused on the transmission’s condition and any service bulletins or recalls

Taking these steps helps ensure your Expedition operates with the latest improvements and reduces the risk of unexpected transmission issues.

Summary

In summary, while some 2020 Ford Expeditions have experienced transmission-related symptoms such as rough shifting or hesitation, these problems are not universal. Ford has issued software updates and service advisories to mitigate common shifting issues, and owners should verify recalls and ensure that their vehicle has the latest updates. For potential buyers, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and confirmation of updated software can provide peace of mind. As with any complex drivetrain, timely diagnosis and maintenance are key to keeping the transmission running smoothly.

Is there a recall on Ford transmissions in 2020?

There have been multiple recalls for 2020 Ford vehicles, including one for certain F-250 to F-600 Super Duty trucks with a 10R140 transmission, due to a potentially failing planetary needle bearing that can cause rough shifts and other performance issues. Another recall was issued for select 2020 F-150, Ranger, and Expedition models regarding a faulty gearshift cable clip that could allow the vehicle to roll away. Additionally, a smaller recall affected some 2020 Super Duty diesel pickups due to a brittle torque converter damper plate. 
Affected vehicles
This video discusses a Ford Super Duty transmission recall: 55sBigBoyToyzYouTube · Apr 26, 2021

• 2020 Ford F-250 to F-600 Super Duty: Models with the 10R140 transmission, built between February 28, 2019, and August 10, 2020 (Kentucky Truck Plant) or April 3, 2019, and July 31, 2020 (Ohio Assembly). 
• 2020 Ford F-150, Ranger, and Expedition:
  • F-150: Built between February 18 and March 19, 2020, at the Dearborn Truck Plant or between February 21 and March 19, 2020, at the Kansas City Assembly Plant. 
  • Ranger: Built between February 28 and March 18, 2020, at the Michigan Assembly Plant. 
  • Expedition: Built between March 3 and March 19, 2020, at the Kentucky Truck Plant. 
• 2020 Ford Super Duty (F-250, F-350, F-550) diesel pickups: Affected by a separate recall for the torque converter damper plate. 

What year do expeditions have transmission problems?

Many owners of 2021-2025 Ford Expedition models report transmission issues, particularly with rough shifting, delayed gear engagement, and transmission slipping. In some cases, these transmission problems affect performance and safety, with multiple repair attempts often failing to resolve the issues.

Is there a recall on the Ford Expedition 2020?

Recalls for the 2020 Ford Expedition include issues with the battery junction box (potential fire risk), seat belt retractor pretensioners (inadvertent deployment), Pre-Collision Assist (software issues), and a transmission (potential for unintended movement). Owners should check their vehicle's VIN on the Ford Safety Recall Checker or another safety recall checker to see if it's affected and to schedule a free repair at an authorized dealer.
 
Key recalls

• Battery Junction Box:
  • Issue: Electrical shorts can occur in the battery junction box, potentially leading to a fire even when the vehicle is off. 
  • Affected Vehicles: Some 2020 Expeditions built between November 17 and December 1, 2020. 
  • Action: Ford is advising owners to park these vehicles outside and away from structures. Dealers will inspect and repair or replace the battery junction box. 
• Seat Belt Retractor Pretensioner:
  • Issue: The front seat belt pretensioners can deploy inadvertently, causing the seat belt to lock up unexpectedly. 
  • Affected Vehicles: 2018–2020 Expeditions. 
  • Action: Dealers will inspect and replace the seatbelt retractors as necessary. 
• Pre-Collision Assist:
  • Issue: The Pre-Collision Assist feature was not enabled due to incorrect module coding in some vehicles. 
  • Affected Vehicles: Certain 2020 models equipped with the camera-only system. 
  • Action: Dealers will apply a software update to enable the feature. 
• Transmission:
  • Issue: A defect may cause the transmission to not match the indicated gear selection, which can lead to unintended vehicle movement if the parking brake isn't applied. 
  • Affected Vehicles: An unspecified number of 2020 Expeditions. 
  • Action: Schedule a free repair with a dealer. 

How to check for recalls

• Use the VIN on the Ford Safety Recall Checker or another safety recall checker to see if your vehicle is affected. 
• If you received a recall notice in the mail, bring it with you to the dealer. 
• Recall repairs are free of charge at an authorized Ford dealer. 

What transmission is in the 2020 Ford Expedition?

The 2020 Ford Expedition is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission that includes SelectShift manual control. While generally considered smooth, common issues reported by owners include hard shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping gears, which can sometimes lead to a complete failure or the need for a new transmission. 
Transmission features

• Type: 10-speed automatic
• Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6
• Shifting: Includes SelectShift capability for manual control
• Towing feature: Has a "progressive range select mode" to lock out upper gears when towing 

This video shows how to check and fill the transmission fluid in a 2020 Ford Expedition: 49sTheGrayMechanicYouTube · Oct 30, 2023
Common issues

• Hard shifting and delayed engagement: Often occurs with high mileage and can be caused by worn transmission fluid or failing solenoids. 
• Slipping gears: May happen when accelerating, especially on the highway. 
• Fluid leaks: Can indicate a need for a fluid change or a more serious issue with a hose, gasket, or other components. 
• Grinding or strange noises: Can be a sign of low lubricant or other internal problems. 
• Warning light: A "transmission warning light" illuminates when there is a problem. 

This video discusses the 10-speed transmission problems in a 2020 Ford Expedition Max: 1mFix-it-TribeYouTube · Aug 26, 2024
Potential fixes and maintenance

• Check the fluid: Low or dark/burnt transmission fluid is a common cause of shifting problems. Check the fluid level and condition. A transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may help. 
• Inspect solenoids: Electrical faults in the solenoids can cause erratic gear changes. 
• Software update: A transmission control module (TCM) reset or software update may be necessary. 
• Professional diagnosis: If symptoms persist, a transmission specialist can diagnose the issue, which may require repair or replacement. 

This video demonstrates how to remove the transmission from a 2020 Ford Expedition: 53sTheGrayMechanicYouTube · Oct 30, 2023