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What year did the Ford F250 get the 10 speed transmission?

The Ford F-250 first received a 10-speed automatic in the 2020 model year.

The question asks when Ford’s heavy-duty pickup adopted a 10-speed transmission, replacing the older six-speed setup on the Super Duty line. The change came with the 2020 refresh of the F-Series, bringing a modern 10-speed gearbox to F-250 and its heavy-duty siblings and signaling a shift toward improved towing performance and highway efficiency.

Context: transmission history in the F-Series Super Duty

Before 2020, the F-250 and its Super Duty relatives primarily used a six-speed automatic in most configurations. In 2020, Ford introduced a 10-speed automatic across the Super Duty lineup, aiming to deliver smoother shifts, better gearing for heavy loads, and improved highway efficiency while maintaining strong payload and torque capabilities.

What changed in 2020

The 2020 refresh for the Ford Super Duty lineup introduced a 10-speed automatic across F-250 and F-350, replacing the previous six-speed automatic. The new gearbox was designed to provide smoother shifts, improved towing performance, and better overall drivability under demanding conditions.

Below are the core updates and implications of the new 10-speed in the F-250.

Smoother shifts and improved low-end response during towing and acceleration

More optimal gearing for heavy loads, with closer gear spacing to keep the engine in its power band

Potential improvements in highway fuel economy due to a broader overall gearing range

Calibration and performance tuning that accommodates both gasoline and diesel engine options

The net effect is a more refined driving experience when hauling or cruising at highway speeds, along with improved overall capability for the Super Duty lineup.

How to verify a specific F-250 has the 10-speed

To confirm whether a particular F-250 uses the 10-speed automatic, check the vehicle’s documentation and specification details. Useful steps include:

Review the window sticker or build sheet for the transmission specification

Decode the vehicle identification number (VIN) or consult Ford’s official VIN lookup to confirm the transmission code

Ask the dealer for confirmation of the model year and transmission type, especially for used trucks around the 2020 model-year transition

If you’re shopping used, prioritize 2020 or newer models to ensure the 10-speed upgrade is present, and verify through documentation rather than relying on appearance alone.

Summary

The Ford F-250 adopted the 10-speed automatic with the 2020 model-year update, moving away from the older six-speed setup and delivering smoother shifts, improved towing performance, and better highway efficiency. For buyers, verifying the exact transmission through official documentation ensures you’re getting the updated drivetrain.

What year to stay away from F250?

Years to avoid for the Ford F-250 include 2002, 2006, and 2017 due to major issues like steering problems, engine failures, and the "death wobble". Other problematic years are 2008 and 2011, which also have significant reports of death wobble, and 2005, which had a high number of recalls. The 2017 model year is frequently cited as the worst due to a high volume of complaints.
Specific years to avoid

2002: Dangerous steering failures and spark plugs ejecting from the engine.
2005: Has a high number of recalls.
2006: Unexpected stalling, steering issues, and potential throttle body problems.
2008: Known for brake failure and the "death wobble".
2011: Suffers from the "death wobble" and transmission issues with abrupt shifts.
2017: Widely considered one of the worst years, with numerous complaints about steering and suspension, including the "death wobble".
2018: Also part of the 2017-2022 generation with issues related to steering and suspension.

Other years to be cautious about

2019: While often cited as a good year for the F-350, the F-250 in this year had reported issues with its 10-speed transmission.
2020: Had problems with its 10-speed transmission.
2015-2017: Had issues with the first-year aluminum body and the 10-speed transmission.

Important note

Be aware of which engines are in the model years you are considering. For example, the 5.4-liter Triton engine from 2002-2008 is particularly problematic.

What year did Ford go to 10 speed transmission?

Ford introduced its first 10-speed automatic transmission in the 2017 F-150 model year. The 10R80 transmission, which was co-developed with General Motors, was made available on certain models for the 2017 model year and became standard on many more vehicles in subsequent years.

First introduction: The 10-speed transmission debuted in the 2017 F-150, specifically with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine.
Co-development: The transmission was a joint project between Ford and General Motors, which started in 2013.
Vehicle availability: After its launch in the 2017 F-150, its availability expanded to other Ford vehicles like the 2018 F-150s (on more trim levels) and the 2018 Mustang.
Production: The 10R80 transmission was first produced in the Ford Livonia Transmission Plant in June 2016.

Is the Ford Super Duty 10 speed transmission reliable?

The reliability of the Ford Super Duty 10-speed transmission varies, with some models, particularly pre-2022 versions with the 10R140, experiencing issues like the sliding CDF drum bushing, which can cause shifting problems and pressure loss. However, later versions and updated parts have shown improved reliability. Heavy-duty use, such as constant towing or modifications, can lead to accelerated wear on internal components.
This video explains the reliability of the Ford 10-speed transmission from an owner's perspective: 57sGreat Lakes PowerstrokeFX4YouTube · Mar 19, 2025
Common problems

CDF drum bushing: The most frequently reported issue, especially in earlier models, is the CDF drum bushing sliding out of place. This disrupts hydraulic fluid flow and can lead to hard shifts, slipping, and other serious problems. Ford has since updated this component.
Valve body issues: The valve body can malfunction, leading to incorrect clutch engagement, harsh shifting, and other issues. Metal debris from internal failures can also contaminate the valve body and cause it to stick.
Internal wear: High-mileage vehicles or those subjected to heavy towing may experience wear on components like the F-clutch reaction shell or E-clutch drum, causing chattering and other performance issues.
Planetary gear failure: Some Super Duty 10R140 transmissions have experienced planetary gear failures, particularly in the front planetary, which can result in heat-related damage and metal shavings.

This video illustrates the most common problems found in Ford Super Duty 10-speed transmissions: 55sFlying WrenchesYouTube · May 14, 2025
Improving reliability

For a used truck: When buying a used Super Duty with a 10-speed, check if the CDF drum has been updated or replaced.
Regular maintenance: Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule is crucial. A complete transmission service every 30,000 miles is recommended, and some sources suggest a complete valve body upgrade can improve longevity.
Driving habits: Avoid aggressive driving or modifications that put extra stress on the transmission, such as large tires or engine tuning, which can cause failures to occur sooner.
Fluid: Ensure the transmission fluid is at the correct level and quality. Low or old fluid can contribute to shifting problems.

When did Ford put 10 speed in F250?

Ford introduced the 10-speed automatic transmission in the F-250 for the 2020 model year. This new transmission was paired with the updated 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and the new 7.3L gasoline V8 engines.

2020: The 10-speed TorqShift automatic transmission became standard on the Super Duty lineup, including the F-250, for the 2020 model year.
Engine pairings: It was mated to the new 7.3L "Godzilla" gas V8 and the upgraded 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine.
Improvement: This was a significant upgrade from the previous 6-speed transmission, offering better acceleration, responsiveness, and fuel economy.

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.