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Is Ford 10 speed transmission good?


The Ford 10-speed transmission has garnered significant attention since its introduction, particularly for its performance and efficiency. As an auto service expert with years of experience, I aim to provide a comprehensive overview of this transmission system, discussing its advantages, potential drawbacks, and overall reliability.


Advantages of the Ford 10-Speed Transmission


The Ford 10-speed automatic transmission, developed in collaboration with General Motors, offers several benefits that enhance the driving experience:



  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: The additional gears allow for better optimization of engine RPMs, which can lead to improved fuel economy, especially during highway driving.

  • Smoother Shifting: With more gears, the transmission can shift more smoothly and seamlessly, providing a more comfortable ride.

  • Enhanced Performance: The 10-speed transmission allows for quicker acceleration and better power delivery, making it ideal for performance-oriented vehicles.

  • Versatility: This transmission is designed to handle a wide range of driving conditions, from towing heavy loads to navigating city traffic.


Potential Drawbacks


While the Ford 10-speed transmission has many advantages, there are some concerns that potential buyers should consider:



  • Complexity: With more components and electronics involved, the transmission may be more prone to issues compared to simpler systems.

  • Cost of Repairs: If repairs are needed, the complexity can lead to higher repair costs, which is something to keep in mind for long-term ownership.

  • Initial Teething Problems: Some early models experienced issues with shifting and responsiveness, although many of these problems have been addressed in subsequent updates.


Overall Reliability


Overall, the Ford 10-speed transmission has proven to be a reliable option for many drivers. It has been well-received in various Ford models, including the F-150 and Mustang, and has shown improvements in both performance and efficiency. Regular maintenance and timely servicing can help mitigate potential issues, ensuring that the transmission continues to perform optimally over time.


In conclusion, the Ford 10-speed transmission is generally considered a good choice for those seeking a blend of performance and efficiency. However, as with any automotive component, it's essential to stay informed about maintenance and potential issues to ensure a positive ownership experience.


Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the 10 speed transmission for Ford?


General Motors
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 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.



Who builds Ford 10 speed transmission?


General Motors
Production. The 10R 80 was first produced at the Ford Livonia Transmission Plant in Livonia, Michigan, and the Hydra-Matic 10L 80 is made at the General Motors Romulus Powertrain Plant, in Romulus, Michigan.



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 is the benefit of a 10-speed transmission?


Closer ratios and small gear steps.
The 10-speed transmission's more practical wider ratio spread allows individual gear spacing to be fairly close. According to Norris, the average rpm drop during a shift is only 20%, compared to 25% in the ZF eight-speed found in vehicles across the industry.



Has Ford fixed the 10 speed transmission issues?


Ford's inability to permanently resolve these defects after multiple software updates and part replacements has led to escalating legal claims. Now a series of new 2023 lawsuits put Ford on the defensive over this transmission.



Are the Ford 10 speed transmissions any good?


The 10 speed is actually a really good transmission. It is so widely used that statistically, it will have a few people who report issues. But in terms of reliability and performance it is really good. The GM 10L80 (and as a result, the 10L60 and 10L90) is based on the same design as the Ford 10R80.



What are the disadvantages of a 10 speed transmission?


Below are some of the most frequent complaints:

  • Problem #1 Harsh Shifting.
  • Problem #2 Slipping Gears.
  • Problem #3 Shuddering/Vibrations.
  • Problem #4 Delayed Engagement.
  • Problem #5 Transmission Noise.



How long does a Ford 10 speed transmission last?


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. Trucks with larger tires, tuning, emissions delete systems and other aggravating factors usually fail much sooner.



Who builds Ford 10-speed transmission?


General Motors
Production. The 10R 80 was first produced at the Ford Livonia Transmission Plant in Livonia, Michigan, and the Hydra-Matic 10L 80 is made at the General Motors Romulus Powertrain Plant, in Romulus, Michigan.


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.