Ford has announced a safety recall affecting around 144,000 F-150 trucks in Canada due to a gearshift issue that could affect driver control. The problem specifically impacts models with six-speed automatic transmissions produced between 2015 and 2017, with nearly 1.4 million vehicles in the U.S. affected, including some 2014 models.
The issue stems from degraded electrical connections within the internal transmission lead frame, potentially causing a signal problem from a transmission sensor. This could result in an unexpected downshift to a lower gear while the vehicle is in motion, according to Ford. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall report warned that this could lead to a temporary reduction in wheel speed, potentially causing rear tire sliding until the vehicle slows down.
Ford has reported knowledge of two injuries and one accident that could be linked to this issue. The automaker has outlined two solutions: updating the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software at dealerships or replacing the transmission lead frame at no cost for vehicles that previously showed specific diagnostic trouble codes related to the sensor issue.
F-150 owners can check if their vehicle is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number on Ford’s recall webpage.