Ford is recalling nearly 1.4 million F-150 pickup trucks in the United States due to a gearshift issue. The recall follows an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration into reports of unexpected downshifts, which may lead to drivers losing control of their vehicles and increasing the risk of a crash.
The recall affects F-150 light trucks equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission produced between March 12, 2014, and August 18, 2017. According to safety reports, an intermittent selection signal from the transmission range sensor to the powertrain control module may cause an unintended downshift into second gear. This can result in an abrupt reduction in wheel speed, potentially causing rear tires to slide until the vehicle slows down.
Ford has identified two injuries and one accident possibly related to the issue, along with 444 warranty claims and 105 customer service reports. Vehicle owners will be notified by mail and advised to bring their trucks to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have their powertrain control module calibration updated at no cost.