When did Ford start using 10R80?
Ford began using the 10R80 10-speed automatic with the 2017 model year, with production of the new transmission starting in 2016 to equip the 2017 lineup. Since then, the 10R80 has been deployed across multiple Ford and Lincoln models, replacing older 6-speed units in many applications.
Overview of the 10R80 introduction
The 10R80 is Ford’s 10-speed automatic designed to improve both acceleration and highway fuel economy for light trucks and SUVs. It was introduced ahead of the 2017 model year, with production ramping up in 2016 to supply the new F-150 lineup. Over the late 2010s, Ford extended the transmission’s use to other vehicles in its lineup.
Models that adopted the 10R80
Here are the primary Ford and Lincoln models that began using the 10R80 as part of the 2017–2020s refresh cycle.
- Ford F-150 — adopted with the 2017 model year (production began in 2016)
- Ford Expedition — adopted with the 2018 model year
- Lincoln Navigator — adopted with the 2018 model year
These early adopters illustrate Ford’s rollout pattern: start with the flagship light-truck platform and extend to large SUVs in the following year, with broader usage expanding across the product line in the late 2010s and into the 2020s.
Technical highlights and what changed with 10 gears
To understand why Ford moved to a 10-speed setup, it helps to know the core advantages the 10R80 offers over prior transmissions. The following points summarize the key aspects and benefits that Ford highlighted during the rollout.
- Ten speeds provide a wider gear ratio spread, improving both response and efficiency
- Electronic control with adaptive shift logic optimizes performance over time and across different towing loads
- Updated clutch packs and hydraulic systems for smoother shifts and improved durability in trucks and SUVs
- Better integration with EcoBoost engines and other powertrains to balance power delivery and fuel economy
In practice, these features contributed to crisper acceleration, smoother highway cruising, and better overall efficiency in Ford’s larger vehicles, compared with the older six- and eight-speed units previously used.
What this means for owners and the market
Since its introduction, the 10R80 has become a cornerstone of Ford’s drivetrain strategy for trucks and full-size SUVs. For prospective buyers, the 10R80 often translates to improved towing capability, steadier highway efficiency, and a smoother driving experience across diverse road conditions.
Summary
Ford kicked off the 10R80 rollout with the 2017 model year, initiating production in 2016 for the F-150 and then expanding to other models such as the Expedition and Navigator in 2018. The 10R80 brought a 10-speed architecture to Ford’s lineup, delivering a broader gear range and advanced electronic control to enhance performance and efficiency across trucks and large SUVs. The transmission has remained a standard feature in many Ford and Lincoln vehicles through the 2020s, marking a significant shift from earlier transmissions.
Which Fords have the 10R80 transmission?
The Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission is found in numerous Ford and Lincoln models, including the F-150 (starting in 2017), Mustang GT (starting in 2018), Expedition (starting in 2018), Ranger (starting in 2019), and the Lincoln Navigator (starting in 2018). It's also used in the Ford Transit and Bronco models.
- Ford F-150: 2017 and newer
- Ford Mustang: 2018 and newer (GT models)
- Ford Expedition: 2018 and newer
- Ford Ranger: 2019 and newer
- Ford Bronco: 2021 and newer
- Ford Transit: 2017 and newer
- Lincoln Navigator: 2018 and newer
When did Ford fix the 10 speed transmission?
Ford began fixing its 10-speed transmission problems with a redesigned CDF drum that was introduced in late 2022, which became standard in vehicles starting with the 2023 model year and continuing with the 2024 and 2025 model years. However, the fix addresses the internal CDF drum issues and other complaints, while earlier models may have had software updates and potential recall fixes for separate issues, like the park lock.
Redesign and fixes
- CDF drum redesign: A new CDF drum with a lip to secure the bushing was introduced in late 2022. This is considered a core fix for the internal failure that affected vehicles from model years 2017 up to 2023.
- Newer models: Vehicles from the 2023 model year onwards should be equipped with this improved transmission.
- Software and other fixes:
- Ford also introduced software retuning in late 2022 to mitigate harsh shifting.
- Recalls were issued for other issues, such as some transmissions that would not stay in park, and other recalls have targeted issues like unintended forward movement in neutral and reverse.
What this means for owners
- Older models: If you own a 2017-2023 model with shifting issues, a dealer may perform a software reflash, but the internal mechanical fix is for the CDF drum. You can ask for the redesigned part to be installed.
- Newer models: Vehicles from model year 2023 and newer are expected to have the "fixed" transmission hardware.
- Continued issues: Despite the fixes, some users still report issues, possibly due to differences between transmission models or separate problems with other components.
When did Ford introduce the 10R80 transmission?
2017
The result was the 10R80, first introduced in 2017 in the Ford F-150 and has since been incorporated into a range of other vehicles. Key features of the 10R80 transmission include its compact design, lightweight construction, and advanced electronic control system.
What year did Ford start using the 10R80 transmission?
Ford first installed the 10R80 10-speed transmission in model year 2017 vehicles that went on the market in late 2016. Shortly after its release, drivers began experiencing serious issues with gear shifting.
