Ford Recalls Nearly 668,000 F-150 Models Due to Transmission Issues

Ford recently initiated a recall for all 2014 Ford F-150 models with rear-wheel drive, which includes over half a million Ford F-150 models worldwide, with about 552,000 trucks in North America alone. Ford has also recalled vehicles from 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, and 2019 (about 1.5 million vehicles) for transmission problems in the past.

This 2014 Ford F-150 recall was issued due to vehicles unexpectedly downshifting into first gear, which can lead to a loss of control or rear-wheel lockup. The problem arises when the signal between the transmission sensor and the powertrain control computer is lost. Corrosion and problems with the connector pins may also be related to the issue. The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an official investigation into this transmission issue in March 2024. Ford began notifying 2014 Ford F-150 owners via mail this month and will update the powertrain control software, free of charge. Ford’s number for the recall is “24S37.”

Ford and NHTSA have worked together to keep consumers updated on the recall. As of right now, Ford is aware of 300 warranty reports, 96 field reports, 124 customer complaints, and two injuries related to unexpected transmission downshifting. Additionally, Ford knows of 130 complaints to the government, with at least 52 alleging the rear wheels locked up or that drivers lost control of the trucks. NHTSA has reported one crash where the driver experienced an unexpected downshift, causing the truck to hit a concrete barrier and another vehicle. Both drivers were injured in the accident.

Drivers will see a malfunction indicator light on the dashboard just before the truck downshifts. The lost signal can sometimes be restored while the truck is moving and can be driven normally. However, in other cases, drivers may need to stop the vehicle and restart the engine to make the transmissions work properly.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident with a 2014 Ford F-150 downshifting into first gear, please contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling 713-222-7211 or toll free at 1 800-870-9584.