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Ford F-150 won't shift problems

888 of the 38,399 owner complaints about the Ford F-150 describe stuck in gear or won't shift, most of them for the 2013 model year.

owner complaints
888
worst model year
2013
typical repair cost reported
$1,500
typical mileage
83,000
Is there a fix? There are 27 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

Often reported together

Check engine light 132Loss of power 101Harsh shifting 74Jerking 67Transmission failure 46Stalling 44Slipping 33Adaptive cruise 29

Trouble codes mentioned

P0722 26P0720 26P2112 24P0707 10P0706 10P1702 8P0721 6P0705 4P1921 3P0717 3

What owners say

Filed Nov 5, 2026 · Transmission · AZ

My 2018 Ford F-150 is a regular-cab, long-bed pickup with a 10-speed automatic transmission and approximately 115,000 miles. The transmission frequently delays or misses both upshifts and downshifts. At times, the truck feels as if it goes into neutral for two to three seconds before the next gear engages. At low speeds, around 5 to 15 mph under light acceleration, the engine RPM rises and gear engagement is delayed. This happens under load and during ordinary driving without a trailer. The symptoms have worsened over the past several weeks. AutoNation Ford North Scottsdale inspected the truck and reproduced the problem. The transmission software has been reprogrammed twice. The repair order states that after reprogramming and clearing the adaptive settings, the technician road-tested the truck and found that it would not shift into second gear. The technician recorded findings indicating an internal transmission failure and recommended transmission replacement or teardown for inspection. A service warning light also came on during service at the dealership. The truck still does not shift properly. The delay in gear engagement makes acceleration unpredictable. If the truck briefly loses drive while I am merging or crossing traffic, I may be unable to accelerate when needed, putting me and other road users at risk. I am asking the federal safety agency to investigate the delayed and missed shifts and the temporary loss of drive.

Filed Nov 3, 2026 · Transmission · 132,000 miles · NC

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode, and the rear wheels locked up. The contact stated that the “Power Train” warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted and returned to normal operation. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. 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 failure by telephone. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.

Filed Oct 29, 2026 · Transmission · 89,820 miles · OK

The contact owns a 2017 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly failed to operate as intended while attempting to shift into first gear. The contact stated that the vehicle intermittently went into LIMP Mode. On one occasion, the transmission warning light illuminated during the failure. The contact stated that the transmission failure had occurred after the dealer completed a software update associated with the transmission. The contact stated that a service center confirmed the transmission failure by telephone. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by telephone and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was 89,820.

Filed Oct 27, 2026 · Transmission · 65,000 miles · TN

The contact owns a 2013 Ford F-150. While the contact's son was driving approximately 30 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted and remained stuck in first or second gear. In addition, the engine revved while the accelerator pedal was not depressed, and the speedometer was inoperable. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with transmission lead frame failure. The contact was informed that the lead frame needed to be replaced. The vehicle was scheduled to be repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the warranty extension associated with the failure had expired. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

Filed Oct 26, 2026 · Transmission · NY

Ford issued a recall for the Lead frame. Recall ID 19so7 & 16s19. My truck has experienced the issues associated with this recall. Last night it was more severe. The truck shifted from 5th to 1st gear unexpectedly. I have already tried to remedy this with ford. I made the appointment on their website to have this fixed in the beginning of spring this year. I was told when i brought it in that it wasnt covered anymore because its over 10 years old and over 150,000 miles. This should not matter when we are talking about a serious safety issue. The truck is in good shape and this is the only issue I've had. Now, im afraid to drive it at all. It never downshifted like thos before. The most it did was, all of a sudden, the "wrench symbol" would appear and my speedometer would stop working and it wouldnt shift properly. I'd pull over and it wouldnt go into first. If I restarted the truck it would reset and work again. But this would happen from time to time. Then yesterday it did exactly what the recall states it would do. Ford denied it was a recall to me and said it was a "customer satisfaction program" instead. But clearly its a recall and a huge safety issue.

Filed Oct 26, 2026 · Transmission · 138,000 miles · TX

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle revved abnormally while shifting from 5th gear to 1st gear and nearly completed the downshift. The contact stated that on several occasions, while driving, the vehicle shifted into 5th gear, and when the contact depressed the accelerator pedal, the transmission downshifted within 10 seconds. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle unexpectedly went into LIMP Mode. The vehicle was taken to a service center, where it was diagnosed and determined that the lead frame had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact later received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Several dealers were contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealers confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The approximate failure mileage was 138,000.

Filed Oct 26, 2026 · Transmission · 163,000 miles · MD

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); however, the failure occurred after the recall repair. While starting the vehicle, the transmission started out at 5th gear with the engine revving, and while driving at various speeds, the transmission slammed into gear before accelerating. The vehicle then went into LIMP Mode with the transmission and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the lead frame and PCM were normal, but the transmission might need to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.

Filed Oct 21, 2026 · Electrical · WA

The truck continuously went into limp mode upon acceleration. Numerous warning lights wrench, I have a 2016 2.7 with 159k miles that is stalling, loosing all power, stuttering and showing these codes on heavy acceleration. When I turn off the ignition and restart all codes go away.

Filed Oct 21, 2026 · Transmission · NC

Hello. I recently went in for fords recall regarding 2015-2017 6R80 Transmissions and their limp mode and sudden downshift issues. I got the recall done July 31st (if memory serves) But the fix did not work. I came back in September 3rd to complain and ask them to diagnose and asked if they would fix it this time under the same recall. After 3 hours of waiting they said that my code “P0722-00” does not qualify for lead frame replacement nor did they attempt another fix. I believe this is entirely unprofessional and borderline dangerous. Not everyone can afford a 1200$ repair, especially not for something that should’ve been fixed under the recall. I’ve heard of other potential reports just like this one and wanted to make our voices known. This took place at the Ford dealership in Eden NC. (Tri city ford) But there is one major thing I’d like to add. The staff was extremely professional and welcoming and explained everything thoroughly, just simply nothing they could do at this level. I do not want anyone to be fired or anything like that. I simply want my truck to be safe to drive again, since they claim it can suddenly downshift and break the wheels lose. It is my only car.

Filed Oct 19, 2026 · Transmission · 144,000 miles · CT

The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the transmission suddenly downshifted, causing the vehicle to abruptly stop in the middle of the road. During the failure, the wrench warning light illuminated, and the vehicle entered Limp mode. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence, where a code reader retrieved a DTC indicating the torque converter was stuck in the off position. The vehicle was later towed to a local dealer, where the contact was informed that the transmission overheated and required replacement. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact received a recall notification for the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train), which confirmed the VIN was included. The contact associated the failure with the recall. The failure mileage was 144,000.

Related recalls

Power train: driveline: differential unitReported September 9, 2026 · 37 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 F-150 vehicles. Incorrect rear axle tail bearings may have been installed, which can result in rear wheel lock-up or driveshaft separation.
Risk
Rear wheel lock-up can result in a loss of vehicle control. Driveshaft separation can result in a loss of drive power, or a vehicle rollaway if the vehicle is parked without the parking brake applied. Either of these situations can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the rear axle tail bearing, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S63. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on beginning September 14, 2026.

Recall number 26V576000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmissionReported June 24, 2026 · 741,195 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.
Risk
Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on June 26, 2026.

Recall number 26V402000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported June 9, 2026 · 44,963 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V444. A loss of signal between the transmission output shaft speed sensor and the powertrain control module (PCM) can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into first gear.
Risk
Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2026. Owners may contact customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S45. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on on July 6, 2026.

Recall number 26V378000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported June 9, 2026 · 10,742 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 17V669. Quickly moving the shift lever from Park to Drive may cause a loss of gear indication on the instrument cluster display and a momentary selection of an unintended gear, such as Reverse or Neutral.
Risk
Unintended gear selection may cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction, increasing the risk of crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 9, 2026. Owners may contact customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S42. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on on July 6, 2026.

Recall number 26V375000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmissionReported April 14, 2026 · 1,392,935 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150 vehicles. A loss of signal between the transmission range sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into second gear.
Risk
Unexpectedly downshifting into second gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S28. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on April 15, 2026.

Recall number 26V237000 · Recall details

Power train: axle hubsReported August 8, 2025 · 103,174 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2025 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy duty axle with a 3/4 float axle design. The rear axle hub bolt may fatigue and break, which can result in damage to the axle hub splines.
Risk
Damaged axle hub splines can result in a vehicle rollaway when in park without the parking brake applied or cause a loss of drive power. Either of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the left and right rear axle shaft assemblies, free of charge. This is a phased recall. Ford owners will receive letters in multiple phases, beginning August 2025 through Winter 2025. Phase 1 will include 2023 F-150 model year vehicles. Phase 2 will include 2025 F-150 model year vehicles and Phase 3 will include 2024 F-150 model year vehicles. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed August 22, 2025. Owner notification letters were mailed August 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S82. This recall expands previous the federal safety agency recall number 23V896.

Recall number 25V512000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported March 14, 2025 · 567 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 22V‑188. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure may falsely activate and cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.
Risk
An unexpected shift into neutral will cause a loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S24.

Recall number 25V169000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: fluid/lubricant: valves/valve bodyReported March 14, 2025 · 269 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Bronco, 2024 Ranger, 2025 Mustang, Explorer, and Aviator vehicles. The transmission valve body may have been machined incorrectly, which can cause reverse gear failure, or unexpected forward movement in reverse or neutral gear.
Risk
Unexpected vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the transmission main control valve body, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S19.

Recall number 25V164000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported June 17, 2024 · 552,188 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 F-150 vehicles. A loss of signal between the transmission output shaft speed sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.
Risk
Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S37.

Recall number 24V444000 · Recall details

Power train: axle hubsReported December 22, 2023 · 112,965 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy duty axle with a 3/4 float axle design. The rear axle hub bolt may fatigue and break, which can result in damage to the axle hub splines.
Risk
Damaged axle hub splines can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied or cause a loss of drive power. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the left and right rear axle shaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 9, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S65.

Recall number 23V896000 · Recall details

Questions about the Ford F-150 won't shift

Which Ford F-150 years have stuck in gear or won't shift problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2013 (195 complaints), 2011 (97 complaints) and 2015 (91 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix stuck in gear or won't shift on the Ford F-150?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $1,500 (median of 70 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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