Does the 2017 F-150 have transmission problems?
Yes—some 2017 Ford F-150 pickups experienced transmission issues, especially with the new 10-speed automatic transmission. While many trucks operated without problems, a notable number of owners reported rough shifts, shuddering, hesitation, or transmission warnings. Ford responded with software calibrations and service campaigns, and reliability generally improved in later model years.
The 2017 F-150 marked a shift for Ford, introducing a more widely deployed 10-speed automatic in several trims and powertrains. The change was aimed at improving acceleration and fuel economy, but it also meant the transmission technology was newer for the lineup. As with any major drivetrain update, early production encountered some teething problems, which prompted manufacturer updates and owner-focused recall actions.
What changed for the 2017 F-150 transmission
The 2017 model year brought Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission (often referred to by its internal designation 10R80) to the F-150 lineup, replacing older 6- and earlier 6/7-speed configurations on many configurations. The broader gear spread was designed to smooth power delivery and improve efficiency across EcoBoost and other engines. With a new control system and more moving parts, early production saw reports of shifting irregularities, especially during certain driving conditions or cold starts.
Key points about the 10-speed introduction
The 10-speed transmission aimed to optimize torque delivery and fuel economy, but its new electronics and calibration meant some owners encountered imperfect shifts or brief transmission hesitation as production continued and software matured.
- Harsh or delayed upshifts or downshifts in some driving scenarios
- Shuddering or vibration during gear changes, particularly at certain speeds
- Occasional loss of power or irregular RPM behavior during shifts
- Transmission warning or check-engine indicators in a subset of affected vehicles
These issues were not universal; many 2017 F-150 owners reported normal shifting and reliable performance. The identified problems tended to cluster in early production examples and were often resolved with updates or routine service.
Ford’s response and fixes
When complaints surfaced, Ford’s response centered on software and calibration updates, as well as service campaigns to address hardware components where needed. In some cases, technicians performed Transmission Control Module (TCM) recalibrations or replaced specific transmission components under warranty, aimed at reducing or eliminating shifting irregularities. Public-facing recalls or service bulletins guided dealers on applying the updates and inspecting related systems.
- Software/calibration updates to the transmission control system
- Diagnostic checks and, where necessary, component replacement under warranty
- Recall or service bulletin actions to ensure updated software and proper transmission behavior
In practice, many owners who received the updates reported improvements in shift quality and overall drivability. For prospective buyers and current owners, confirming that the vehicle has the latest software updates and a documented service history is a prudent step.
Reliability and what to look for if buying used
Industry analyses and owner feedback over time suggest that reliability around the 10-speed transmission improved as Ford released updates and refined calibration. For a used 2017 F-150, potential buyers should:
- Check the vehicle’s service history for transmission software updates and any recall/service campaigns
- Ask about any history of rough shifting, shuddering, or warning lights, and whether they were addressed
- Have a pre-purchase inspection that includes a road test focusing on shifting behavior in different speeds and loads
- Verify warranty coverage or goodwill repairs in case the vehicle experiences post-purchase transmission issues
Overall, while the 2017 model year did introduce a new transmission architecture that carried some early issues, Ford’s corrective actions and the maturation of the 10-speed design contributed to improved long-term reliability in subsequent years.
Bottom line
The 2017 Ford F-150 can exhibit transmission problems, particularly related to the new 10-speed automatic in its early years. However, many affected vehicles were improved through software updates and proper dealer service. If you’re buying a used 2017 F-150, prioritize documentation of updates, service campaigns, and a thorough test drive to gauge current transmission performance.
Summary
The 2017 F-150 introduced Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering efficiency and performance gains but also bringing some early shifting and reliability concerns for a portion of owners. Ford responded with software updates and service actions that addressed many of these issues, and reliability has generally improved in later model years. For buyers, the best approach is to review the vehicle’s service history, confirm updated software, and conduct a comprehensive test drive to assess shifting behavior.
