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Has Ford fixed its 10 speed transmission problems?


Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission, introduced in collaboration with General Motors, has been a topic of discussion among car owners and enthusiasts due to recurring issues reported over the years. As an experienced auto service provider, I’ll break down the current state of these problems and whether Ford has addressed them effectively.


Understanding the Issues with Ford's 10-Speed Transmission


The 10-speed transmission, known as the 10R80, was designed to improve fuel efficiency and performance. However, many owners of vehicles equipped with this transmission, such as the Ford F-150, Expedition, and Mustang, have reported problems. Common issues include:



  • Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between lower gears.

  • Transmission slipping or hesitation during acceleration.

  • Unusual noises, such as clunking or grinding.

  • Fluid leaks and overheating.

  • Premature wear of transmission components.


These problems have led to frustration among drivers, with some even filing lawsuits against Ford. The company has issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) and recalls to address specific issues, but the question remains: has Ford truly resolved these problems?


Steps Ford Has Taken to Address the Problems


Ford has acknowledged the concerns and taken several measures to improve the reliability of its 10-speed transmission. These include:



  • Releasing software updates to improve shifting behavior and reduce harshness.

  • Redesigning certain components, such as the valve body and torque converter, to enhance durability.

  • Providing extended warranties for affected vehicles in some cases.

  • Offering repairs or replacements for transmissions under warranty.


While these steps have helped mitigate some issues, reports of problems persist, particularly in older models. Newer vehicles equipped with the 10-speed transmission, such as the 2023 Ford F-150, appear to have fewer complaints, suggesting that Ford has made progress in refining the design and manufacturing process.


What Should You Do If You Own a Vehicle with a 10-Speed Transmission?


If you own a Ford vehicle with a 10-speed transmission and are experiencing issues, here are some steps you can take:



  • Check if your vehicle is covered by any recalls or TSBs by visiting Ford's official website or contacting your local dealership.

  • Ensure your transmission fluid is at the correct level and has been replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

  • Schedule a diagnostic appointment with a trusted auto repair shop to identify and address any underlying issues.

  • Consider extended warranty options if your vehicle is no longer under the factory warranty.


Conclusion: Has Ford Fixed the Problem?


While Ford has made significant strides in addressing the issues with its 10-speed transmission, it’s clear that the solution is not perfect. Newer models show fewer complaints, indicating that improvements have been made, but older vehicles may still experience problems. If you’re considering purchasing a Ford vehicle with this transmission, it’s wise to research the specific model year and consult with a trusted mechanic to ensure you’re making an informed decision.


At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your transmission concerns. Whether you need diagnostics, repairs, or advice, our experienced team is ready to assist. Contact us today to keep your vehicle running smoothly!


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ford still having problems with the 10 speed transmission?


In summary, Ford 10-speed automatic transmission vehicles face continuing issues with harsh shifting, hesitation, acceleration problems, and potential safety hazards based on thousands of complaints. Multiple lawsuits allege Ford concealed innate defects while failing to issue adequate fixes over the past five years.



Is the Ford 10 speed transmission the same as GM?


The Ford–GM 10-speed automatic transmission is part of a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and General Motors to design and engineer two transmissions: a longitudinal 10-speed transmission and a transverse 9-speed trans-axle.



Is Ford fixing transmission problems?


Despite Ford's efforts through software updates, reprogramming, and recalls to address Ford transmission problems, recent consumer feedback and ongoing legal actions suggest that problems persist.



How reliable is the Ford 10 speed transmission?


Q: Is the Ford 10R80 a good transmission? A: Known as a less-than-reliable unit, the 10 Speed Ford 10R80 transmission is a fertile breeding ground for a variety of problems. This includes but is not limited to: Valve body crossleakage, burnt clutches, damaged clutch hubs, stripped shells and much more.



What year is the bad transmission in the Ford?


Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.



What year is the bad Ford transmission?


These transmission defects have resulted in thousands of lawsuits against Ford across the United States. Today, in California alone, there are at least 800 current individual lawsuits against Ford Motor Company for issues with the PowerShift Transmissions on the 2011-2015 Ford Fiesta and 2012-2015 Ford Focus.



Is the Ford 10-speed transmission the same as GM?


The Ford–GM 10-speed automatic transmission is part of a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and General Motors to design and engineer two transmissions: a longitudinal 10-speed transmission and a transverse 9-speed trans-axle.



What year Ford 10 speed transmission to avoid?


Which Models Have the 10R80 Transmission Problems?

Vehicle ModelProduction Dates
2022-2023 Ford MustangDec 01, 2022 – Jan 05, 2023
2022-2023 Ford ExplorerNov 13, 2022 – Jan 27, 2023
2022-2023 Ford BroncoNov 14, 2022 – Jan 12, 2023
2023-2023 Lincoln AviatorNov 15, 2022 – Jan 26, 2023



Is there a recall on Ford truck transmissions in 2024?


Ford Recalls Over 550,000 Pickup Trucks Because Transmissions Can Suddenly Downshift to 1st Gear. June 25, 2024, at 6:56 a.m. DETROIT (AP) — Ford is recalling more than 550,000 pickup trucks in the U.S. because the transmissions can unexpectedly downshift to first gear no matter how fast the trucks are going.



What year Fords have bad transmissions?


Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.