NHTSA opens investigation into Ford F-150 and Ford Expedition for unexpected transmission downshifts

Ford transmissions that suddenly downshift are under investigation in nearly 1.4 million 2011-2013 Ford F-150, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the transmissions can unexpectedly downshift to 1st gear without warning, something that has caused at least two crashes.

NHTSA says in their investigation report:

In March of 2016 Ford Motor Company launched safety recall 16V-248 to address unexpected transmission downshifts to 1st gear occurring on certain model year 2011-2012 Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator and Ford Mustang vehicles. An unexpected downshift to 1st gear can cause the vehicle to slow down suddenly and without warning. This can also cause the rear tires to skid or lock up, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford recalled vehicles built between certain production dates to address this defect.

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 123 reports concerning the automatic transmission unexpectedly downshifting into a lower gear without input since the launch of 16V-248 on model year 2011-2013 Ford F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. Many reports claim the vehicle was not covered under 16V-248 despite having the same symptoms. Additionally, some reports indicate that the remedy was not effective. ODI has received 2 reports of crashes and no injuries.

ODI has opened this investigation to further analyze the scope, frequency and consequence of the alleged incidents. 

A link to the investigation opening report is here.

If you’ve taken your Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, or Lincoln Navigator to a dealership for issues relating to poor shifting, transmission issues or downshifting (or any other concern), we can help you…. AT NO COST TO YOU!  Valero Law, APC is a California consumer protection firm dedicated to protecting the lemon law rights of California consumers and ALL cases are taken on a contingency basis, meaning if there is no recovery, there is absolutely no fee to you!  Feel free to call at 424-299-4447 for a free case evaluation!