general problems of the 2015 Ford F-150 - part 1

I am writing to formally report a dangerous safety defect involving my 2015 Ford F-150 XLT supercrew cab. While operating the vehicle, I experienced a sudden and total loss of control. Without warning, the gas pedal lost all tension, the truck abruptly downshifted and went into limp mode, and both the check engine and wrench warning lights illuminated on the dashboard. This loss of control while driving created an immediate and severe safety hazard. My investigation into this failure reveals a widespread pattern of similar incidents involving the transmission molded leadframe. It appears that the failure of this component frequently causes an output shaft speed sensor malfunction, leading to the exact dangerous loss of power I experienced given the high frequency of these reports from other owners. This loss of control while driving created an immediate and severe safety hazard. Upon experiencing these symptoms, I promptly scheduled an appointment at my local Ford dealership. Despite the service department confirming that the transmission lead frame is failing, Ford refused to perform the repair citing that my specific trouble codes are not currently approved under their policy. This is unacceptable, as these symptoms are identical to those addressed in recall 26s28 and Ford has previously acknowledged that these specific codes are directlv related to this component's failure in other mode years. My investigation into this failure reveals a widespread pattern of similar incidents involving the transmission molded leadframe given that my vehicle exhibits all the symptoms described in the existing recall, it is clear that this is a systemic manufacturing defect that Ford is failing to adequately address. I request that the NHTSA investigate this issue and Ford's restrictive repair criteria, as this defect poses a significant risk to myself and the public on the road.

Just over a month ago, I had my local dealership's mobile service come to perform the covered warranty reset on the powertrain module. Last week, while driving apx 40mph, vehicle went into what I now know was "limp mode" 3 times within a few minute span -- felt like vehicle shifted into neutral, wrench light came on, but did not stay on for more than a few seconds. Had a diagnostic appointment yesterday, and was informed that the molded leadframe and oss sensor need replaced, at a cost of over $1600, including the $233 I paid for diagnostics. Today I found my letter from July regarding customer satisfaction program 26n04. Everything in the letter matches my vehicle's issues, but I am being told by Ford that because my vehicle is not displaying the "correct" code per the service bulletin, it is not eligible for free warranty repair. How is it not eligible? this is a confirmed problem with the entire part, but they don't want to fork over the money to repair a cheaply made component, so they are offering bandage fixes, and paring down the eligibility criteria so narrowly that nobody qualifies to have the problem addressed. This seems predatory and negligent.

While driving on the [xxx], close to [xxx], throttle response was lost on the vehicle. Immediately put the hazards on, turned them off momentarily to indicate a turn off to the shoulder, traffic was right behind me, with some fast movers. “hill start assist not available” was displayed on the main panel and “trac off”/ traction control. Below approx 10 mph the vehicle started shaking violently and we came to a stop. Turned the vehicle off and started looking in the manual and online for associated issues. Was able to restart the vehicle with no annunciated issues and continued driving at a cautious speed. A few minutes later the same issue arose. Had to pull over and reset the vehicle. By this time we had committed to taking the vehicle to the Ford service center on the interstate and made it there after occurring 4-5 more times where we had to pull over during the worst time of day, avoiding traffic on the on/off ramps. We had to use heavy braking once as we were disabled and there was another disabled vehicle also pulled over and we had to stop before them with enough safety clearance. We made it to Ford. According to sb 16b32b, our truck qualifies for an expired recall based on the [xxx] plant and the production date. Ford produced p2112 code for throttle body issues. We paid for the repairs. Requesting a re-inquiry of sb 16b32b. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I was driving on a 2 lane highway at approximately 50 mph and my truck started blowing white smoke and suddenly decelerated to 5 mph and a wrench appeared on my dashboard. I luckily was able to limp the vehicle to a parking lot. I then called aaa for a tow to my certified mechanic. He informed me the next day that the transmission line to the cooler failed. He replaced the cooler lines ($250). I definitely feel this problem should have a safety recall issued. If my wife and I were on a freeway when this happened- the outcome could have been a lot worse. Safety should be paramount for me and the drivers behind me!.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that an engineer was sent from the dealer to the residence and the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); however, after the recall repair, the message that the top speed of the vehicle was limited to 80 mph was displayed. Additionally, the transmission was shifting roughly while shifting gears. The contact stated that the failure started after the recall repair was performed. The dealer was contacted after the recall repair due to the failure but stated that over time the transmission would shift better. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Vehicle will downshift from 6th gear to 3rd gear at highway speed (55 mph+).

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

The vehicle was previously taken to an authorized Ford dealership to complete safety recall 26s28 (NHTSA campaign 26v237000) for unintended transmission downshifts. The dealer applied the mandated software patch. However, this safety remedy has completely failed.   while driving at highway speeds, the vehicle experienced severe mechanical gear grinding and twice suffered sudden, unprompted downshifts into a lower gear. This caused an immediate and dangerous spike in engine rpms and a sudden deceleration, creating a high-risk highway crash hazard and a potential loss of vehicle control.   the physical hardware defect (the molded transmission lead frame) is actively failing and bypassing the software safeguard. The authorized dealer, nielsen Ford of morristown, is currently refusing to replace the defective hardware under the safety mandate without a permanent dashboard code, despite the vehicle displaying clear, dangerous physical symptoms of a failed recall remedy.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 55 mph, the transmission downshifted from 5th to 4th gear, and the vehicle decelerated to 35 mph. The failure reoccurred, and the transmission downshifted from 3rd to 1st, and the vehicle lost automotive power. The message “service vehicle soon” was displayed and the check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the cooler lines had snapped due to corrosion on the quick-connect clamp. Additionally, the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The cooler lines were replaced; however, the transmission was not replaced, and the vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 79,236.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train). After retrieving the vehicle, the contact discovered that the parking brake was activated, and the vehicle failed to respond while attempting to reverse. The local dealer was not yet notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 100,000.

The contact's wife owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 24v444000 (power train), and the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the recall repair was performed; however, the contact immediately began to experience intermittent transmission downshifts without warning. The dealer was notified of the failure, and the contact was made aware of customer satisfaction campaign: 26n04. The dealer stated that the campaign was placed on the vehicle to address the failure experienced; however, the program only applied if a specific error code was retrieved. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the error code was not displayed. The vehicle remained unrepaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was given the same information as the dealer provided. The contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 60 mph, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear, causing the vehicle to abruptly decelerate. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The dealer was contacted and offered a software update as the repair. The contact stated that after the software update, the failure worsened. The dealer stated that if the wrench warning light was not illuminated, the manufacturer would not pay for the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 183,000.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced under NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); but a failure occurred. The vehicle unexpectedly decelerated abruptly with a related warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

The contact's parents own a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted from sixth gear to second gear, causing the vehicle to jolt and the wheels to lock up. The brake pedal was depressed, but the wheels remained locked, causing the vehicle to crash into the rear of another vehicle, which then struck a second vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The air bags failed to deploy, and no injuries were reported; however, emergency personnel responded to the scene and evaluated an infant occupant of the second vehicle. A police report was filed. All three vehicles were driven away from the scene. The contact received notification for NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); and contacted the dealer. The contact was referred to the manufacturer to determine whether the crash was caused by the recall. The manufacturer was unreachable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 71,700.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced under NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); however, after the recall repair was performed, the vehicle started experiencing failures associated with the recall. The contact stated that after the recall repair, while driving 60 mph, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear and the vehicle swerved in the middle of the highway. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and was diagnosed with transmission failure. The leadframe was installed on the vehicle, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 210,265.

Underwent Ford safety recall 26s28 on 7/27. After safety recall, check engine light remained on. Mobile service returned on 7/29, and tech stated that "engine relearn process" was not completed. He stated that he completed the recall. One hour later (next time I drove the truck) while going over 70 mph on the interstate, truck shifted down and revolutions shot up. Loud bang from under the truck. Had 3 of my young children in my truck at the time.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the accelerator pedal was depressed, there was an abnormal clunking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); but the failure persisted. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but referred the contact back to the dealer for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 179,000.

Safety recall 26s28/26v237 was unable to be installed on my 2015 Ford f150. After receiving a "check engine light" and a "wrench symbol light", I took my truck to 3 different dealerships and all three could not perform the safety recall. At the first 2 dealerships, no solutions were tried. They called me to pick up the truck because they could not install recall. I took the vehicle to a 3rd dealership after recommendation from the 2nd dealership, and after 3 weeks they notified me as well that they could not perform install. A case number was created for this issue. I am still waiting for a solution from Ford to install this safety recall that is required by law to be installed.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate. The contact stated that the transmission had seized in first gear. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train). The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The contact stated that the failure had occurred after the recall repair was completed on July 23, 2026. The failure occurred while leaving the dealer. The vehicle was left at the dealer. The contact was informed that the ecm was not communicating with the transmission. The contact was informed that no failure codes were displayed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the failure was not present prior to the completion of the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 205,000.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); however, the vehicle experienced a failure after the recall repair was performed. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stopped in third gear, the speedometer was at zero while the rpm was at 5,000 rpm. The check engine and transmission warning lights were illuminated. The contact retrieved dtc: p0715 (input/turbine speed sensor "a" circuit malfunction). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,016.

After receiving recall#26s28/NHTSA rcall#26v237, I made appointment for the transmission module remedy upgrade. After getting upgrade, I didn't go a mile when it stuck in 3rd gear and wrench light came on. . I took truck back to Ford garage and had to leave it there. A few days later I picked truck up and made it about 5 miles. I took it back ,as they wanted to drive it and try to get correct codes to come up, but all it did was keep coming up as a different code that wasn't warranted. . . We had a rejection from Ford on a conference call between Ford,Ford garage, and myself. . . They would only replace "lead frame"if the down shifting code came up. . . Well, they already upgraded that but will not replace "lead frame" that shows a bad realy molded on it. . . I have truck back after 2 weeks sitting at their shop, but cannot drive it . When I take off from a stop it will do a hard shift into 3rd, wrench light and tranny fan comes on and I have to find a spot to pull over as it will not shift higher. Once shut off, I can restart and continue, but it usually does it several times before I can continue and shifting returns to normal. . . Recall from Ford shows if software upgrade doesn't rectify problem, they will replace "lead frame"- Ford garage wants me to drive it until code comes up that they need to warranty "lead frame", but its not safe to drive as it now has up-shifting problem.

Took my 2015 Ford f150 XLT 4x4 to peoria Ford for safety recall, they requested 30000 mile maintenance. I agreed. Upon picking up vehicle service advisor informs me engine light was on, it was safe bring it back when I have more time. They had my vehicle from July 13, 915am till that July 15, 545pm, closing at 6pm. On the way home almost had an accident,truck still shifting down bad and powertrain light came on. Made it home tried calling, they were closed. Reported incident to bbb and attornet general.

Vehicle suffered a violent, un-commanded highway-speed downshift due to NHTSA campaign 26v237000 / Ford recall 26s28. The tachometer was redlined during the incident. The mechanical overspeed immediately damaged the engine's cam phasers. Eide Ford in mandan, nd, applied the recall software patch after the structural failure already occurred, cleared the diagnostic trouble codes without providing a copy to the owner, and is refusing to replace the lead frame or cover the resulting valve train damage, demanding $7,200 out-of-pocket.

I was driving on the highway at 70mph when the truck started jerking and downshifting from 6th gear to 1st gear erratically. I pulled off the highway and the gears continued shifting all over the place and then the wrench light see manual warning came on and the truck stopped completely. I had it towed to the dealership who said they would complete the fix for the recall but that the transmission cooler line also needed fixed which would cost $1226. 00. They said I probably ran over something, which I did not. I believe the sudden and violent downshifting which is the recall caused this to break and should be included. This was a terrifying situation where I was almost in a car accident. The truck is not drivable and I have also had to pay for two tows now because this is also not covered in the recall.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. In addition, the power train warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure was persistent. The contact stated that the failure had occurred immediately after being repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 26v369000 (power train). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

Pulling into traffic the truck suddenly shifts from fifth gear to second causing the vehicle to suddenly slow which makes getting slammed in the rear by another vehicle highly likely. At high speeds on the highway it becomes dangerous to change lanes and expect the truck to maintain speed. This problem is occurring frequently now so an accident is likely to occur. I want a loaner until Ford fins and makes the fix available.

The vehicle has a documented, active transmission failure code p0720 relating to recall 26s28 (NHTSA campaign 26v237). Per pages 3 and 4 of Ford's official part 573 safety recall report, dealers are explicitly required to bypass the software wait and replace the physical lead frame hardware if a vehicle exhibits this code prior to the software's release. The local franchise dealership (mccombs Ford west in san antonio, TX) and Ford corporate customer relations are both actively refusing to honor this hardware safety remedy directive, forcing the vehicle to be grounded on the dealer lot due to the severe risk of high-speed rear-wheel lockup, while denying mandated alternative transportation support. Furthermore, the dealership has failed to execute the safety remedy for open brake master cylinder recall 20s31 (NHTSA campaign 20v332000), which presents an immediate risk of a sudden loss of braking pressure.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed uphill, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the transmission was operating at a high speed, but the vehicle operated at a low speed. Within seconds, the speed independently increased, and the vehicle became uncontrollable. The vehicle rolled backward into an embankment and then into a concrete-lined ditch, bouncing out the other side. In addition, the contact noticed smoke coming from the tailpipe. The vehicle was driven to a nearby friend's residence. A police report was filed. The contact was taken to a local medical center, having sustained a bruised forehead, a bruised left ankle, and a bruised left knee. The contact was receiving continued treatment for the left ankle and left knee injuries. The insurance company did not inspect the vehicle, and the contact stated that the vehicle was only covered under liability insurance. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA campaign number: 26v237000 (power train); however, the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 183,115.

The one recall for VIN # [xxx] is "an unexpected downshift to a lower gear may occur and cause an abrupt wheel speed reduction for a short duration," reported in April 2026. On the NHTSA website, it states; "if the manufacturer has failed or is unable to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle in a timely manner, please contact the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline 1-888-327-4236 or tty: 1-888-275-9171 or file an online complaint with NHTSA. " can you please tell me what is considered "in a timely manner. " we are going on almost 3 months since this recall was reported. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

While driving (end of June 2026) at 55 mph, my truck downshifted and slowed immediately cause the tires to lose traction before shifting back and regaining control. My truck was brought to a local shop as it was unsafe to drive. The shop said the lead frame needed to be replaced and we did. I then received recall information for NHTSA recall 26v237. I attempted to be reimbursed for the lead frame replacement, but was declined due to using a third party shop before I had info on the recall.

Transmission is making a grinding noise in gear from 5 to 6 and sometimes from 3 to 4.

I was driving my f150 and all of a sudden it downshifted with a bang into 5th gear. I slowed down and noticed my transmission wouldn't downshift into any other gear. I had to stop truck with it stuck in 5th gear and transmission cooling fan sounded like a turbo fan. There was a wrench light that displayed and when I checked the codes it came up with p0720/p0721/p0722. All pointed to transmission issue. Shortly after they came out with the safety recall and after the "fix" my truck thru p0722 code again. Then the customer satisfaction program sent out letter said they would replace the lead frame at no cost even if you had over 150k. I paid over $400 dollars and multiple trips to dealer, and they stated that the truck didn't display Fords specific dtc codes. My codes were identical to recall in 2014, and deadbeat Ford won't replace my lead frame even though it's the same issue since 2011. When will the NHTSA step in an require Ford to fix a well-known issue with this transmission?.

The contact owned a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power while approaching a stop. The contact depressed the brake pedal; however, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated and crashed into a Chevrolet tahoe. The wrench symbol warning light was illuminated. There were no reported injuries. The air bags deployed as intended. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The insurance company towed the vehicle to the total loss yard, where the vehicle was deemed a total loss. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 310,000. The VIN was not available.

Prior to this incident, the vehicle had no unusual noises, warning lights, or other indications of a drivetrain problem. On 06/18/2026, while driving under normal city driving conditions at approximately 45 mph, we suddenly began hearing a clunking noise coming from the vehicle. We did not know where the noise was coming from at the time, but because it was unusual and appeared to indicate a serious mechanical problem, we drove approximately three miles to our home. The vehicle was then transported on a trailer to a Ford dealership for inspection. The Ford dealership diagnosed a failure of the rear differential/rear axle assembly. According to the dealership's diagnosis, the rear differential bearings had failed, the ring and pinion gears were making noise and required replacement, and the driver-side carrier bearing had come apart, damaging the rear axle housing. The dealership recommended replacement of the rear axle housing and related differential components. I contacted Ford motor company and requested goodwill assistance regarding this failure. My request was documented under case # cxh-08638079-h7c5f4; however, Ford denied the goodwill assistance request. I have photographs documenting the condition of the failed components and can provide those photographs if requested. I am concerned that a sudden failure of a major drivetrain component without prior warning could create a safety risk by causing a loss of vehicle mobility, unexpected vehicle behavior, or leaving occupants stranded in traffic or another unsafe location. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can document the failure and determine whether similar incidents have occurred with 2015 Ford F-150 vehicles.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission was shifted abnormally. The transmission unexpectedly downshifted and upshifted. The contact stated that occasionally the transmission was stuck in fifth gear. In addition, there was an abnormal clucking sound coming from the vehicle, and the power train warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with an unknown sensor failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact later received notification of customer satisfaction program: 26n04. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the repair was completed. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that four days later the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer. The contact was informed that the required failure codes were not present during the diagnostic test. The dealer submitted a request for repair to the manufacturer on behalf of the contact; however, the request was denied. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.