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What is the lawsuit on the Ford MT82?

There isn’t a single nationwide lawsuit titled “Ford MT-82.” Instead, there are multiple filings in various jurisdictions that accuse the MT-82 six‑speed manual transmission—used in some Ford vehicles—of defects. Plaintiffs have alleged problems such as gear grinding, difficult or failed engagement, and premature wear that necessitate costly repairs.


To understand what’s happening, it helps to know what the MT-82 is and why it’s become a focal point for consumer litigation. The MT-82 is a Getrag-manufactured 6‑speed manual transmission used in certain Ford models during the 2010s. While Ford has defended the transmission’s quality and reliability, some owners say the design or manufacturing tolerances lead to early failures or subpar shifting, prompting legal action in some markets. The status of these cases has varied widely by jurisdiction, with some actions dismissed, others settled, and several still active. Ford has also issued recalls and service bulletins in some cases to address specific failure modes.


What is the MT-82?


The MT-82 is a 6‑speed manual transmission developed for Ford by Getrag. It was deployed in several Ford passenger and performance models in the 2010s to deliver a lighter, more efficient manual shift experience. Advocates and critics alike point to reports of wear within the synchronizers and other internal components, which may result in gear grinding or hard shifts for some drivers.


Models and years that used the MT-82


In the 2010s, Ford rolled the MT-82 into a range of vehicles in different markets. The exact model mix varied by region, with some Ford passenger cars and performance variants equipped with the MT-82 during that period. End-user experiences and forum reports have highlighted shifting and wear concerns in certain configurations, contributing to the litigation landscape.


Lawsuits and legal actions in the MT-82 context


Below is an outline of the kinds of legal actions that have involved the MT-82, rather than a single, consolidated case. The landscape varies by country and over time.



  • Allegations commonly raised by plaintiffs include premature wear of internal synchronizers, grinding gears, difficulty selecting gears, and occasional complete transmission failure leading to expensive repairs.

  • Some filings have sought class-action relief or individual damages for owners of Ford vehicles equipped with MT-82 transmissions, accusing the automaker of design or manufacturing defects, misrepresentation, or warranty shortcomings.

  • Outcomes across cases have ranged from dismissals to settlements and ongoing litigation, depending on jurisdiction and the specifics of each claim.


In several jurisdictions, Ford has argued that the MT-82 meets applicable standards and that reported failures can be caused by factors such as improper maintenance, modifications, or misuse. The company has also offered recalls or service actions in some markets to address particular failure modes or warranty coverage, while denying systemic liability.


What owners should know and do


Owners of vehicles equipped with the MT-82 who experience transmission issues should consider the following steps as part of their due diligence in dealing with potential defects or legal claims:



  • Document all issues with dates, mileage, symptoms (noise, grinding, difficulty shifting), and any dealer or shop notes or repairs.

  • Check for active recalls or service bulletins related to the MT-82 in your country or region and contact a Ford dealer for inspection or warranty guidance.

  • Consult with a consumer-law attorney if you are considering a legal route or seeking redress for defects; gather your documentation before speaking to a lawyer.

  • Keep records of maintenance, part replacements, and any third-party repairs that could bear on the issue or its potential causes.


Note: The status of MT-82-related lawsuits is fluid, with new filings, settlements, and court rulings occurring over time. For the most current information, review recent court dockets, official statements from Ford, and consumer legal resources in your jurisdiction.


Summary


In short, there isn’t a single, definitive “Ford MT-82 lawsuit.” Instead, a collection of complaints and filings across jurisdictions have alleged defects in the MT-82 6‑speed manual transmission used in some Ford vehicles. The cases vary in their allegations and outcomes, and Ford has pointed to standards-compliance and context-specific explanations, including recalls and service actions where warranted. Drivers and owners should stay informed about recalls and document any transmission issues if they seek remedies or pursue legal options.

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.