Has Ford fixed the 10 speed transmission problems?
Yes. Ford has rolled out software updates and hardware revisions, plus service campaigns, to address the 10-speed automatic transmission problems that have affected models such as the F-150 and Mustang since 2017. The fixes have generally reduced the frequency of complaints, but issues persist for some early builds and under certain driving conditions.
What Ford did to address the 10-speed transmission
The following items summarize Ford's primary responses to the problem, including software calibrations, hardware revisions, and production updates.
- Software calibrations to the transmission control module (TCM) to smooth shifts and improve lockup behavior
- Revised hydraulic control/valve body calibrations to reduce harsh shifts and shudder
- Hardware upgrades in later production years (such as torque converter components) to improve overall reliability
- Implementation of service bulletins and software updates across affected model years
- Ongoing data-analysis and rollout of calibrations to newer builds to prevent recurrence
Taken together, these actions reflect a multi-pronged approach aimed at improving shift quality, responsiveness, and long-term durability of the 10-speed lineup.
Current status and reliability signals
In the years since Ford began implementing fixes, reviews and owner reports have generally shifted toward improved reliability for many 10-speed-equipped vehicles, especially newer model-year examples. Nevertheless, some drivers with older builds or under certain conditions still report shifting quirks, hesitation, or occasional shudder. Reliability can vary by model year, trim, and usage patterns.
For prospective buyers and current owners, this means verifying that the vehicle has the latest calibrations and any applicable service campaigns completed, and understanding that warranty coverage and goodwill assistance may vary by market and individual case.
- Check that the vehicle’s software is up to date with the latest transmission calibrations
- Ask the dealer to verify any open recalls or service campaigns related to the 10-speed transmission
- Document any symptoms (shudder, hard shifts, lag time) and obtain diagnostic results if issues recur
- Consult warranty terms and inquire about goodwill coverage or extended service options where available
- Compare experiences across model years to gauge whether a specific vehicle has benefited from the fixes
Overall, Ford’s ongoing updates and hardware refinements have moved the 10-speed transmission issues toward resolution for many vehicles, but owners of older builds should remain attentive to symptoms and service history.
Model-by-model notes
Ford F-150 and related trucks
The 10R80-equipped F-150 and related heavy-use trucks garnered the most attention during the outbreak of complaints. Updates rolled out over several years aimed at smoothing shifts and improving reliability under load. Many owners report improvements after updates, though occasional issues persist for some 2017–2019 models or in challenging driving conditions.
Mustang and other SUVs
Mustang models with the 10-speed and some Lincoln SUVs using the same 10R80 transmission followed a similar update path. While reliability generally improved post-update, owners in certain cases still experience sporadic shifting concerns, especially on older builds or with high mileage.
Summary
Ford has taken a multi-pronged approach to the 10-speed transmission problems, combining software updates, hardware revisions, and service campaigns. The result has been notable improvements in many vehicles, particularly newer model-year examples. However, the issue has not been entirely eliminated for all 10-speed applications, and outcomes vary by model year, vehicle, and driving conditions. Buyers and current owners should verify up-to-date calibrations, review service history, and understand the available warranty or goodwill options in their region.
Will Ford recall the 10R80 transmission?
Ford Recalls Select 10R80 Transmissions Over a Rollaway Risk https://www.ford-trucks.com/articles/ford-recalls-select-10r80-transmissions-over-a-rollaway-risk/
What year did Ford upgrade the 10 speed transmission?
2017
By 2017, Ford rolled out the 10R80 in its best-selling models: 2017+ F-150.
What years did Ford have bad transmissions?
Ford's PowerShift dual clutch transmission was used in 2010. Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford 10 speed transmission?
Q: What is the lifespan of a 10 Speed Ford 10R80 Transmission? A: Although there are many variables, the 10 Speed Ford 10R80 transmission lasts an average of 100,000 to 150,000 miles in unmodified trucks with average applications.
