Biplab Das 
Ford Motor Company has announced a significant recall of over 550,000 pickup trucks in the United States. The recall addresses a critical issue where the transmissions of these vehicles can unexpectedly downshift to first gear, regardless of the current speed. This problem poses a significant safety risk as it can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, substantially increasing the likelihood of crashes.
The recall specifically targets certain 2014 model year F-150 pickups. Ford’s F-Series pickups are the best-selling vehicles in the United States, making this recall particularly noteworthy. The issue was highlighted in documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Tuesday, detailing the potential hazards and the scope of the recall.
Root cause and investigations
The problem originates from a lost signal between a transmission speed sensor and the powertrain control computer. This malfunction can result from issues such as corrosion and problems with connector pins. When the signal is lost, the truck’s transmission may abruptly shift to first gear, causing the rear wheels to lock up and the driver to lose control.
The NHTSA began investigating the issue in March following multiple complaints. More than 540,000 Ford pickup trucks from 2014 were scrutinised for the abrupt downshifting problem. This investigation aimed to determine whether these vehicles should have been included in previous recalls addressing similar issues.
Historical context and previous recalls
This recall is not the first of its kind for Ford. Certain F-150 pickups from the 2011 and 2012 model years were recalled in 2016 for the same downshifting problem. The recall was later extended to include 2013 models. Despite these previous actions, the issue persists in the 2014 models, prompting the latest recall.
Customer and dealer actions
Ford has reported 396 warranty and field reports and 124 customer complaints related to this issue, encompassing 482 trucks. Additionally, 130 complaints were made to the government, with 52 incidents alleging that the rear wheels locked up or the drivers lost control. Ford has acknowledged two reported injuries and one crash that could be attributed to the transmission problem.
To rectify the issue, Ford dealerships will update the powertrain control software at no cost to the owners. Ford will notify affected owners via letters, expected to be sent out in early July.
Official statements and future steps
Maria Grazia Davino, Ford’s top executive in the UK, emphasised the company’s commitment to resolving the issue. “Ensuring the safety of our customers is our top priority. We are working closely with NHTSA to support their investigation and to implement the necessary fixes,” she said.
Ford is taking proactive measures to address this recurring problem and is collaborating with NHTSA to ensure all affected vehicles are identified and repaired. The automaker’s efforts to work with regulatory authorities demonstrate its commitment to maintaining safety standards and customer trust.
Impact on the market and safety
This recall underscores the importance of vehicle safety and the need for ongoing vigilance in monitoring and addressing potential hazards. The abrupt downshifting issue not only affects vehicle performance but also poses a significant risk to driver and passenger safety. By taking decisive action, Ford aims to mitigate these risks and prevent further incidents.
The automotive industry continues to face challenges as it balances innovation with safety. Recalls such as this one highlight the critical need for robust quality control measures and responsive customer service. As Ford moves forward with its recall and software updates, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and reliability of its vehicles on the road.
