Which Fords have transmission problems?
Several Ford models have been known to experience transmission issues over the years. The most commonly reported problems include premature transmission failure, delayed gear engagement, and unexpected shifting behavior. While Ford has made efforts to address these concerns, some of their vehicles continue to face transmission-related challenges.
Ford Vehicles Affected by Transmission Problems
The Ford models that have been most frequently associated with transmission problems include:
- Ford Fiesta (2011-2016) - Reported issues with the dual-clutch automatic transmission, including delayed gear engagement, shuddering, and premature failure.
- Ford Focus (2012-2016) - Similar transmission problems to the Fiesta, with the dual-clutch automatic transmission being the primary source of complaints.
- Ford Fusion (2010-2016) - Some models equipped with the 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission have experienced issues like delayed shifting, harsh engagement, and transmission slippage.
- Ford Escape (2013-2019) - Certain Escape models with the 6F35 transmission have reported problems like delayed acceleration, shuddering, and transmission failure.
- Ford F-150 (2013-2019) - Owners of the F-150 have reported issues with the 6R80 and 10R80 automatic transmissions, including delayed shifting, harsh engagement, and premature failure.
It's important to note that not all vehicles within these model years and trims have experienced transmission problems, and the severity of the issues can vary. Ford has issued various technical service bulletins and recalls to address transmission-related concerns in some of these vehicles.
Causes and Symptoms of Ford Transmission Problems
The transmission problems in Ford vehicles can be attributed to a few key factors:
- Design and Manufacturing Defects - Some of the transmissions used in Ford models, such as the dual-clutch and 6F35 units, have been prone to design and manufacturing flaws that can lead to premature failure.
- Lack of Durability - The transmissions in certain Ford vehicles may not be robust enough to withstand the demands of everyday driving, resulting in premature wear and tear.
- Software and Programming Issues - Faulty transmission control module programming can cause shifting problems, delayed gear engagement, and other transmission-related issues.
Symptoms of Ford transmission problems may include:
- Delayed or jerky gear changes
- Transmission slipping or failing to engage gears
- Unexpected or erratic shifting behavior
- Transmission overheating or fluid leaks
- Grinding, whining, or other unusual noises from the transmission
If you own a Ford vehicle and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's recommended to have the transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to identify and address the underlying issue.
Has Ford fixed the transmission problems?
Ford has made improvements to the 10-speed transmission, and many issues have been addressed through hardware and software updates, particularly in later models and through service bulletins. However, problems like harsh shifting and other issues continue to be reported, and some critics argue the fixes have not fully resolved the underlying issues, says this article from Houston Engines.
How Ford has addressed the problem
- Hardware updates: A redesigned CDF drum with a lip to hold the bushing in place was introduced in late 2023 and is standard in 2024 models to prevent a common failure mode. Other internal parts like the outer drive shell have also been improved.
- Software updates: Ford has issued software updates to improve shifting quality.
- Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): TSBs have been issued to dealerships, which include instructions for repairing the transmission, sometimes with the option to replace the entire unit under certain conditions.
- Recalls: Ford has issued recalls for specific issues, such as a recall for a software glitch that could cause the transmission to shift into neutral unexpectedly.
Why some owners still experience problems
- Persistent issues: Despite the updates, some owners of newer models report issues with shifting quality.
- Unresolved issues: Critics argue that the fixes may not have resolved the core problems, states this article from Houston Engines and some legal observers believe the issues are still unresolved, notes this article from Houston Engines.
- Older models: Vehicles from earlier model years are more likely to be affected by the original problems, as they have not benefited from the later hardware and software improvements.
- Inconsistent effectiveness: The effectiveness of the updates and repairs can be inconsistent, and some owners have experienced the same problems after repairs were made, notes this article from Houston Engines.
What car brand has the most transmission problems?
Nissan and the combination of Ford/GM are frequently cited for having the most transmission problems, due to their use of problematic Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) in many Nissan models and the 10-speed automatic in Ford and GM trucks. Early to mid-2000s Nissan CVTs (especially in models like the Altima, Rogue, and Sentra) and Ford/GM's 10-speed automatics (found in F-150, Silverado, and Sierra trucks, among others) have a reputation for failure, shuddering, and harsh shifts.
Nissan
- CVT Issues: Nissan's long history with Jatco CVTs has earned it a reputation for poor transmission reliability.
- Affected Models: Models like the Altima, Rogue, Sentra, and Pathfinder from roughly 2006-2015 are particularly notorious.
- Symptoms: Common complaints include jerking, shuddering, overheating, delayed acceleration, and complete failure.
- Risk: These issues can occur before 75,000 miles and often result in expensive replacement costs, as the transmissions are not typically rebuilt.
Ford and GM
- 10-Speed Automatic Problems: Ford and GM's co-developed 10-speed automatic (the 10R80 for Ford and 10L80 for GM) has been the source of numerous complaints.
- Affected Models: This transmission is found in their full-size trucks and SUVs, including the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, primarily from 2017 onward.
- Symptoms: Owners report harsh shifting, clunking noises, loss of power, and catastrophic failure.
- Risk: These problems have led to multiple recalls and costly repairs, with some vehicles requiring transmission replacement.
What years did Ford have transmission problems?
Ford Models Most Affected By Transmission Issues
Many owners have reported gear slipping, shuddering, and loss of power while driving. Lawsuits and recalls have also been issued related to these models, especially in earlier versions released between 2011 and 2016.
What Ford cars have transmission problems?
Manufacturing Defects: Some Ford models, such as the Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta, have been known to experience transmission defects due to faulty design in dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Lack of Regular Maintenance: Neglecting fluid changes and transmission servicing can lead to internal damage and overheating.
