Owners have filed 348 complaints
about the 2021 Ford F-150 Hybrid with NHTSA between 2021 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 5 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 96
Against the median year of the Ford F-150 Hybrid. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 30
5.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 91
53% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2021 compares with every other Ford F-150 Hybrid
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
930.0%
Tv/Radio/Speakers
620.0%
Adaptive Cruise Control
516.7%
Integrated Trailer Brake Control
413.3%
Automatic Emergency Braking
310.0%
Sensor/Sending Unit
13.3%
Software
13.3%
Latch Plate
13.3%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1023.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
716.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
920.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
49.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
511.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
716.3%
150,000+ miles
12.3%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jun 2021peak 23Sep 2026
Complaints that involved harm
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
South Wellfleet, MAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My Ford F150 was traveling on I95 North in Maryland when an emergency notice on the dashboard told be to pull over. The truck would not restart and had to be towed to a Ford dealer. I have since been told a controller module caught fire and damaged the hybrid battery and both would need to be replaced at a cost of over $10,000. This is a know issue and other Ford F150 Hybrid trucks as well as other Ford cars have already been recalled. Ford claims that my VIN was not included in the recall even though I experienced exactly what the recall was suppose to prevent. My wife and I could have been killed while traveling on the highway at 70 MPH and the vehicle was on fire without our knowledge.
NHTSA complaint #11702253 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Litchfield, CTFire
POWER TRAIN
3.6.2021 - Ford F150 purchased at Battlefield Ford (Ourisman Ford), Manassus VA / registered in CT 7.27.21 – inspected by Torrington Ford, Torrington CT for rubbing sound front left side, nothing found / 6,325 miles 2.10.22 – inspected for same issue / nothing found / 16,000 miles 7.27.22 – inspected for same issue / nothing found / 24,000 miles 12.24.2022 – “Catastrophic failure” of front differential / 34,369 miles. On Christmas Eve 2022 myself, husband and son were driving to family in NY when the truck very quickly started to make a severe grinding sound, became unable to steer, loss of control, and started to produce smoke & fire under the hood. We immediately stopped and got out unharmed. Fire was dripping out of the bottom of the truck and smoke/fire under the hood. We were lucky. Firetrucks came but were unable to do anything. The truck's wheels completely seized up - the tow truck had to skid it onto the flatbed. Repaired at Simmons-Rockwell Ford, Hallstead, PA. Complete new front differential and damaged parts in proximity to the failure (pinion gear, axle shaft, etc). 12.16.2023 – Again hearing a sound in front left side while driving; bring to the shop for inspection. Shop confirms front differential is failing again, per Torrington Ford, (where all maintenance and repairs were completed, except for the first failed front differential in PA). Advise not to drive for safety reasons. 52,922 miles. With both front differential failures - no warning lights or messages. Symptoms - a slight rubbing/grinding noise in the front left side of vehicle; “rough” sound while driving. 1st front differential – inspected at 6,000 miles, 16,000 miles, and 24,000 miles. Failed at 34,369 miles. 2nd front differential – inspected at 52,922 miles, failing differential, advised not to drive. Dec 2023 – Buy-back claim filed with Ford Motor Co. Denied - "outside of the 18-month warranty period for VA Lemon Law". Clearly, safety is not a guiding tenet for Ford Motor Co.
NHTSA complaint #11562339 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Litchfield, CTFire
STEERING
3.6.2021 - Ford F150 purchased at Battlefield Ford (Ourisman Ford), Manassus VA / registered in CT 7.27.21 – inspected by Torrington Ford, Torrington CT for rubbing sound front left side, nothing found / 6,325 miles 2.10.22 – inspected for same issue / nothing found / 16,000 miles 7.27.22 – inspected for same issue / nothing found / 24,000 miles 12.24.2022 – “Catastrophic failure” of front differential / 34,369 miles. On Christmas Eve 2022 myself, husband and son were driving to family in NY when the truck very quickly started to make a severe grinding sound, became unable to steer, loss of control, and started to produce smoke & fire under the hood. We immediately stopped and got out unharmed. Fire was dripping out of the bottom of the truck and smoke/fire under the hood. We were lucky. Firetrucks came but were unable to do anything. The truck's wheels completely seized up - the tow truck had to skid it onto the flatbed. Repaired at Simmons-Rockwell Ford, Hallstead, PA. Complete new front differential and damaged parts in proximity to the failure (pinion gear, axle shaft, etc). 12.16.2023 – Again hearing a sound in front left side while driving; bring to the shop for inspection. Shop confirms front differential is failing again, per Torrington Ford, (where all maintenance and repairs were completed, except for the first failed front differential in PA). Advise not to drive for safety reasons. 52,922 miles. With both front differential failures - no warning lights or messages. Symptoms - a slight rubbing/grinding noise in the front left side of vehicle; “rough” sound while driving. 1st front differential – inspected at 6,000 miles, 16,000 miles, and 24,000 miles. Failed at 34,369 miles. 2nd front differential – inspected at 52,922 miles, failing differential, advised not to drive. Dec 2023 – Buy-back claim filed with Ford Motor Co. Denied - "outside of the 18-month warranty period for VA Lemon Law". Clearly, safety is not a guiding tenet for Ford Motor Co.
NHTSA complaint #11562339 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Litchfield, CTFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3.6.2021 - Ford F150 purchased at Battlefield Ford (Ourisman Ford), Manassus VA / registered in CT 7.27.21 – inspected by Torrington Ford, Torrington CT for rubbing sound front left side, nothing found / 6,325 miles 2.10.22 – inspected for same issue / nothing found / 16,000 miles 7.27.22 – inspected for same issue / nothing found / 24,000 miles 12.24.2022 – “Catastrophic failure” of front differential / 34,369 miles. On Christmas Eve 2022 myself, husband and son were driving to family in NY when the truck very quickly started to make a severe grinding sound, became unable to steer, loss of control, and started to produce smoke & fire under the hood. We immediately stopped and got out unharmed. Fire was dripping out of the bottom of the truck and smoke/fire under the hood. We were lucky. Firetrucks came but were unable to do anything. The truck's wheels completely seized up - the tow truck had to skid it onto the flatbed. Repaired at Simmons-Rockwell Ford, Hallstead, PA. Complete new front differential and damaged parts in proximity to the failure (pinion gear, axle shaft, etc). 12.16.2023 – Again hearing a sound in front left side while driving; bring to the shop for inspection. Shop confirms front differential is failing again, per Torrington Ford, (where all maintenance and repairs were completed, except for the first failed front differential in PA). Advise not to drive for safety reasons. 52,922 miles. With both front differential failures - no warning lights or messages. Symptoms - a slight rubbing/grinding noise in the front left side of vehicle; “rough” sound while driving. 1st front differential – inspected at 6,000 miles, 16,000 miles, and 24,000 miles. Failed at 34,369 miles. 2nd front differential – inspected at 52,922 miles, failing differential, advised not to drive. Dec 2023 – Buy-back claim filed with Ford Motor Co. Denied - "outside of the 18-month warranty period for VA Lemon Law". Clearly, safety is not a guiding tenet for Ford Motor Co.
NHTSA complaint #11562339 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Reedsville, WV1 injured
POWER TRAIN
This is the 4th time since purchasing the truck that this event has happened with time having the most severe results. When shifting from reverse to park the shifter goes into park and jumps back into reverse. First event (after exiting the truck) the truck rolled into a shipping dock breaking a taillight and buckling the rear bumper. Next two I had one foot on running board and one foot in the truck ant was able to hit the brake stopping the truck. This fourth event one foot was on the running board and one on the ground. As truck went back the door flattened me to the ground and the front tires rolled over both of my legs. The truck rolled up an inclined parking lot, across a busy road and down a bank. I was driven by ambulance to the hospital and then transferred and airlifted to trauma center at Ruby Memorial Hospital. After the second event the local Ford dealer said they could not duplicate the event. The brakes do not hold even though they are depressed and set when the shifter is shifted.
NHTSA complaint #11537888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Reedsville, WV1 injured
ENGINE
This is the 4th time since purchasing the truck that this event has happened with time having the most severe results. When shifting from reverse to park the shifter goes into park and jumps back into reverse. First event (after exiting the truck) the truck rolled into a shipping dock breaking a taillight and buckling the rear bumper. Next two I had one foot on running board and one foot in the truck ant was able to hit the brake stopping the truck. This fourth event one foot was on the running board and one on the ground. As truck went back the door flattened me to the ground and the front tires rolled over both of my legs. The truck rolled up an inclined parking lot, across a busy road and down a bank. I was driven by ambulance to the hospital and then transferred and airlifted to trauma center at Ruby Memorial Hospital. After the second event the local Ford dealer said they could not duplicate the event. The brakes do not hold even though they are depressed and set when the shifter is shifted.
NHTSA complaint #11537888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
South Lyon, MI
POWER TRAIN
Experiencing total stop of acceleration in two occasions: 1) when putting the car in reverse and pressing the accelerator and 2) when making a left or right turn after a yield or stop. And when I say loss of acceleration, I don’t mean hesitation, reduced power, or sluggish acceleration. I mean absolutely ZERO acceleration. I’ll press the accelerator and nothing happens. The engine stays basically at idle, and the truck will not accelerate for roughly 5-10 seconds, regardless of how much accelerator I’m giving it. Then suddenly power comes back and the truck drives normally again. This happens with normal operating temps while driving most of the day. It got to a point where it happened once every day. Very scary stuff when you're pulling out into traffic - major safety concerns with oncoming traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11763923 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Lyon, MI
ENGINE
Experiencing total stop of acceleration in two occasions: 1) when putting the car in reverse and pressing the accelerator and 2) when making a left or right turn after a yield or stop. And when I say loss of acceleration, I don’t mean hesitation, reduced power, or sluggish acceleration. I mean absolutely ZERO acceleration. I’ll press the accelerator and nothing happens. The engine stays basically at idle, and the truck will not accelerate for roughly 5-10 seconds, regardless of how much accelerator I’m giving it. Then suddenly power comes back and the truck drives normally again. This happens with normal operating temps while driving most of the day. It got to a point where it happened once every day. Very scary stuff when you're pulling out into traffic - major safety concerns with oncoming traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11763923 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Lyon, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Experiencing total stop of acceleration in two occasions: 1) when putting the car in reverse and pressing the accelerator and 2) when making a left or right turn after a yield or stop. And when I say loss of acceleration, I don’t mean hesitation, reduced power, or sluggish acceleration. I mean absolutely ZERO acceleration. I’ll press the accelerator and nothing happens. The engine stays basically at idle, and the truck will not accelerate for roughly 5-10 seconds, regardless of how much accelerator I’m giving it. Then suddenly power comes back and the truck drives normally again. This happens with normal operating temps while driving most of the day. It got to a point where it happened once every day. Very scary stuff when you're pulling out into traffic - major safety concerns with oncoming traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11763923 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Falls Church, VA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Hi, I have been trying to get Ford to address the recall 23V896 for over a year and they have been claiming that they dont have parts. They keep providing a different day that they are supposed to receive the parts but when the date comes they provide a different time. I need your assistance with getting this recall implemented.
NHTSA complaint #11762421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sandy Springs, GA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I have replaced spark plugs and coil packs due to code saying severe misfiring. However, the root cause of this is the continued open recall of the fuel pump. This has effected the way I can drive my vehicle on daily activities, such as going to work, doing family things, and other things while driving this truck.
NHTSA complaint #11762449 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Blanc, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
On XXX, my 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost, VIN [XXX], stalled while I was turning from [XXX] onto [XXX]. My wife and daughter were in the vehicle. The engine lost all power in the intersection. No collision occurred. This is the exact failure described in open safety recall Ford 25S75 / NHTSA 25V455 (low-pressure fuel pump). I had already reported the unrepaired recall to NHTSA on XXX. I took the truck to LaFontaine Ford in [XXX] the same day. As of XXX, Ford still has no released remedy or parts, the dealer had not completed an inspection, and Ford Customer Care refused a courtesy vehicle. I am submitting a separate 49 C.F.R. Part 557 petition asking NHTSA to hold a hearing on Ford’s failure to remedy this recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11762188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fishers, IN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Rear camera has blue screen when backing. Has happened twice today.
NHTSA complaint #11761061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Beach City, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
My vehicle experienced significant transmission shift issues, skipping gears, stuck in gears, going to wrong gears, and inability to shift, that left me disabled in intersections multiple times. The situation worsened over time and had to have the transmission replaced. The failure was diagnosed as a CDF coupling failure.
NHTSA complaint #11760385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
rio Linda, CA
ENGINE
My 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost, VIN [XXX], is included in Ford recall 25S75 / NHTSA recall 25V455. The vehicle has stalled more than five times and is experiencing the same dangerous condition described in the recall. The Ford dealer told me I can bring the truck in, and they will diagnose the problem and repair it if they can. However, I must pay all costs upfront and then request reimbursement after Ford releases the official recall remedy. I should not be required to pay out of pocket for the diagnosis and repair of a known safety defect covered by an active recall. There is also no clear timeline for when a remedy will become available or when I would be reimbursed. I cannot reasonably be expected to pay now and potentially wait years to recover my money. This vehicle repeatedly stalls and creates a serious crash risk. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate Ford’s delay and require Ford to provide an immediate, no-cost diagnosis and repair or provide safe alternative transportation until the recall remedy is available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11756814 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
rio Linda, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost, VIN [XXX], is included in Ford recall 25S75 / NHTSA recall 25V455. The vehicle has stalled more than five times and is experiencing the same dangerous condition described in the recall. The Ford dealer told me I can bring the truck in, and they will diagnose the problem and repair it if they can. However, I must pay all costs upfront and then request reimbursement after Ford releases the official recall remedy. I should not be required to pay out of pocket for the diagnosis and repair of a known safety defect covered by an active recall. There is also no clear timeline for when a remedy will become available or when I would be reimbursed. I cannot reasonably be expected to pay now and potentially wait years to recover my money. This vehicle repeatedly stalls and creates a serious crash risk. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate Ford’s delay and require Ford to provide an immediate, no-cost diagnosis and repair or provide safe alternative transportation until the recall remedy is available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11756814 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Colleyville, TX
POWER TRAIN
I am filing a safety complaint regarding a recurring, hazardous transmission failure during highway and incline driving (specifically experienced on mountain highway passes in Arkansas). While driving at highway speeds on uphill inclines, the transmission severely hesitates and struggles to downshift under load. When it finally engages, it violently slams into gear. During these episodes, the truck experiences a sudden loss of motive power and acceleration lag, accompanied by an engine RPM flare of over 400+ RPM. And most recently, I have Live diagnostic data captured during operation revealed a downshift delay of over 3 seconds where the powertrain control module commanded 8th gear, but the transmission physically remained stuck in 10th gear due to severe internal hydraulic pressure loss. This defect presents a severe safety risk on high-speed roadways. Sudden, unexpected loss of power while climbing grades or merging into traffic creates an immediate risk of rear-end collisions from surrounding vehicles. This issue directly correlates with Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB 26-2287, which identifies axial movement/slippage of the CDF clutch cylinder sleeve as the root cause of internal fluid leaks and gear failure. Because this internal hardware failure causes unpredictable power delivery and driveability loss at highway speeds, I request that the NHTSA investigate the 10R80/10R80-MHT transmission CDF drum sleeve defect as a critical safety hazard. Finally, Ford motor company, and most cases refuses to repair this known defect under warranty, many owners are experiencing this dealership pushback leaving them with a critical safety issue.
NHTSA complaint #11754598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Running Springs, CA
POWER TRAIN
I am reporting a safety-related transmission problem I experienced with my 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10R80 automatic transmission. While driving normally, the transmission suddenly has lost propulsion and RPMs flare while driving steadily uphill. This occurred while merging onto a fast moving highway and while traveling at a steady speed going uphill, creating a potentially dangerous situation because the truck did not respond as expected when I needed predictable acceleration or propulsion. I believe this incident may be related to the known 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve problem. Ford technical information identifies axial movement of the CDF sleeve that can cause hydraulic-circuit leaks and harsh or delayed engagement and shifting. This condition can result in slipping, RPM flares, delayed engagement, unexpected gear changes, harsh downshifts, lurching, or loss of propulsion. This is a safety concern, not merely a transmission quality or reliability issue. Unexpected loss of propulsion or unpredictable shifting while merging, accelerating into traffic, crossing an intersection, turning, or traveling at highway speed can create a collision hazard. Because I personally experienced this unexpected transmission event, I request that NHTSA investigate the 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve condition in Ford F-150s. Please review Ford warranty claims, dealer repair records, transmission replacements, consumer complaints, and field-failure data to determine whether this is a safety defect requiring a recall. I believe owners should not have to wait for a potentially dangerous transmission failure before this known condition is addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11754238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dunbarton, NH
POWER TRAIN
Ive noticed that the electric motor sometimes doesnt want to disengage quickly when I step on the brakes. In this incident I had to make a hard brake because someone pulled out in front of me. I had the cruise control on. When I slammed on the brakes the vehicle did not stop fast the vehicle felt as if it was still being pushed by something. Then a small jolt was felt and then the vehicle finally slowed. Had I been going faster or had the car that pulled been closer. This fault would have resulted in an incident
NHTSA complaint #11754246 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Northport, AL
POWER TRAIN
I am reporting a safety-related transmission problem I experienced with my 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10R80 automatic transmission. While driving normally, the transmission suddenly shifts hard/lags on gears 3-5 and sometime higher gears 7-9 at higher speeds. I’ve also noticed a buzzing/metallic rattling coming near the engine from inside. There is also times i can tell i have no power when trying to speed up and the other day i almost thought i was going to get T-Boned. This occurred while on my daily traffic commute to work, creating a potentially dangerous situation because the truck did not respond as expected when I needed predictable acceleration or propulsion. I believe this incident may be related to the known 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve problem. Ford technical information identifies axial movement of the CDF sleeve that can cause hydraulic-circuit leaks and harsh or delayed engagement and shifting. This condition can result in slipping, RPM flares, delayed engagement, unexpected gear changes, harsh downshifts, lurching, or loss of propulsion. This is a safety concern, not merely a transmission quality or reliability issue. Unexpected loss of propulsion or unpredictable shifting while merging, accelerating into traffic, crossing an intersection, turning, or traveling at highway speed can create a collision hazard. Because I personally experienced this unexpected transmission event, I request that NHTSA investigate the 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve condition in Ford F-150s. Please review Ford warranty claims, dealer repair records, transmission replacements, consumer complaints, and field-failure data to determine whether this is a safety defect requiring a recall. I believe owners should not have to wait for a potentially dangerous transmission failure before this known condition is addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11754321 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Northport, AL
ENGINE
I am reporting a safety-related transmission problem I experienced with my 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10R80 automatic transmission. While driving normally, the transmission suddenly shifts hard/lags on gears 3-5 and sometime higher gears 7-9 at higher speeds. I’ve also noticed a buzzing/metallic rattling coming near the engine from inside. There is also times i can tell i have no power when trying to speed up and the other day i almost thought i was going to get T-Boned. This occurred while on my daily traffic commute to work, creating a potentially dangerous situation because the truck did not respond as expected when I needed predictable acceleration or propulsion. I believe this incident may be related to the known 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve problem. Ford technical information identifies axial movement of the CDF sleeve that can cause hydraulic-circuit leaks and harsh or delayed engagement and shifting. This condition can result in slipping, RPM flares, delayed engagement, unexpected gear changes, harsh downshifts, lurching, or loss of propulsion. This is a safety concern, not merely a transmission quality or reliability issue. Unexpected loss of propulsion or unpredictable shifting while merging, accelerating into traffic, crossing an intersection, turning, or traveling at highway speed can create a collision hazard. Because I personally experienced this unexpected transmission event, I request that NHTSA investigate the 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve condition in Ford F-150s. Please review Ford warranty claims, dealer repair records, transmission replacements, consumer complaints, and field-failure data to determine whether this is a safety defect requiring a recall. I believe owners should not have to wait for a potentially dangerous transmission failure before this known condition is addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11754321 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Northport, AL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am reporting a safety-related transmission problem I experienced with my 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10R80 automatic transmission. While driving normally, the transmission suddenly shifts hard/lags on gears 3-5 and sometime higher gears 7-9 at higher speeds. I’ve also noticed a buzzing/metallic rattling coming near the engine from inside. There is also times i can tell i have no power when trying to speed up and the other day i almost thought i was going to get T-Boned. This occurred while on my daily traffic commute to work, creating a potentially dangerous situation because the truck did not respond as expected when I needed predictable acceleration or propulsion. I believe this incident may be related to the known 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve problem. Ford technical information identifies axial movement of the CDF sleeve that can cause hydraulic-circuit leaks and harsh or delayed engagement and shifting. This condition can result in slipping, RPM flares, delayed engagement, unexpected gear changes, harsh downshifts, lurching, or loss of propulsion. This is a safety concern, not merely a transmission quality or reliability issue. Unexpected loss of propulsion or unpredictable shifting while merging, accelerating into traffic, crossing an intersection, turning, or traveling at highway speed can create a collision hazard. Because I personally experienced this unexpected transmission event, I request that NHTSA investigate the 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve condition in Ford F-150s. Please review Ford warranty claims, dealer repair records, transmission replacements, consumer complaints, and field-failure data to determine whether this is a safety defect requiring a recall. I believe owners should not have to wait for a potentially dangerous transmission failure before this known condition is addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11754321 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dunbarton, NH
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
Ive noticed that the electric motor sometimes doesnt want to disengage quickly when I step on the brakes. In this incident I had to make a hard brake because someone pulled out in front of me. I had the cruise control on. When I slammed on the brakes the vehicle did not stop fast the vehicle felt as if it was still being pushed by something. Then a small jolt was felt and then the vehicle finally slowed. Had I been going faster or had the car that pulled been closer. This fault would have resulted in an incident
NHTSA complaint #11754246 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oakwood, GA
POWER TRAIN
I am reporting a safety-related transmission problem I experienced with my 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10R80 automatic transmission. While driving normally, the transmission suddenly slipped at least twice, and shifts violently often. The truck while driving on a 35mph road after just going over a railroad track I went to accelerate and lost gear and the transmission slipped really bad and violently caught a gear after reaching around 4000 rpm. The truck also shifts violently when under moderate acceleration at almost all times in gears 2-5 creating a potentially dangerous situation because the truck did not respond as expected when I needed predictable acceleration or propulsion. I believe this incident may be related to the known 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve problem. Ford technical information identifies axial movement of the CDF sleeve that can cause hydraulic-circuit leaks and harsh or delayed engagement and shifting. This condition can result in slipping, RPM flares, delayed engagement, unexpected gear changes, harsh downshifts, lurching, or loss of propulsion. This is a safety concern, not merely a transmission quality or reliability issue. Unexpected loss of propulsion or unpredictable shifting while merging, accelerating into traffic, crossing an intersection, turning, or traveling at highway speed can create a collision hazard. Because I personally experienced this unexpected transmission event, I request that NHTSA investigate the 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve condition in Ford F-150s. Please review Ford warranty claims, dealer repair records, transmission replacements, consumer complaints, and field-failure data to determine whether this is a safety defect requiring a recall. I believe owners should not have to wait for a potentially dangerous transmission failure before this known condition is addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11754157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stewart, TN
POWER TRAIN
I'm reporting a transmission problem on my 2021 Ford F-150 with the 10R80 automatic transmission that I believe is a safety issue, not just a reliability one. The truck currently has about 55,000 miles on it. Right now the truck shifts hard and jerks every time I drive it, and it's especially bad at low speed. The worst situation is creeping through a parking lot looking for a spot, the transmission drops down into first with a clunk and a jerk, and then kicks again when it shifts back up out of first. It's rough enough that I've taken to putting the truck in "Eco" drive mode on purpose, because that softens the shift profile and takes a little of the edge off. Once I'm out of the low-speed stop-and-go and up to normal road speed, it seems to smooth out and drive okay, but the low-speed shifting is genuinely excessively rough. From what I've read, this matches the known 10R80 problem where the CDF clutch sleeve can move axially and cause hydraulic-circuit leaks, which leads to slipping, RPM flares, delayed or harsh engagement, and unexpected shifts. Everything I've found says this condition progressively worsens as the transmission degrades. That's exactly why I'm filing now rather than waiting. A hard, unpredictable shift or a loss of propulsion at the wrong moment — pulling into traffic, crossing an intersection, merging — can easily cause a collision. I don't want to wait until it fails in a dangerous spot and someone in my family gets hurt. I'd like NHTSA to investigate the 10R80 CDF clutch-cylinder/sleeve condition on Ford F-150s and to review Ford's warranty claims, dealer repair records, transmission replacements, and other owner complaints to determine whether this is a defect requiring a recall. Owners shouldn't have to wait for a dangerous failure before a known condition like this is addressed.
NHTSA complaint #11754192 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesHot Springs, VA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V896000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the remedy was not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the remedy would not be available until the end of 2026. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11753354 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Madison, WI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The vehicle is currently at Kayser Automotive Group located at 2303 West Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713, their direct line is [XXX], since the diagnoses of the corrosion of the DCN. SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS THAT FAILED: A faulty or clogged engine bay drain plug failed to divert water, causing significant water accumulation that routed into the interior cabin. This water intrusion directly soaked interior carpeting and exposed the Data Communication Network (DCN) connector and Body Control Module (BCM) wiring harness to moisture, resulting in severe pin corrosion and electrical communication faults. The vehicle and all affected components are fully available for inspection upon request. SAFETY RISK: The DCN connector and Body Control Module control critical vehicle operations, exterior lighting, instrument clusters, and safety/driver-assistance systems. Water corrosion on these communication buses causes unpredictable, uncommanded electrical failures and module communication dropouts while operating the vehicle at speed, creating a severe crash hazard to occupants and surrounding traffic. DEALER CONFIRMATION & INSPECTIONS: The issue was physically inspected and confirmed by an authorized Ford dealership service department, Kayser Automotive Group located at 2303 West Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713. Dealership technicians verified the water accumulation path, identified the faulty/clogged drain pathway, and documented physical corrosion on the DCN wiring connector. A Technical Assistance Center (TAC) case was requested to escalate the defect to Ford Corporate. WARNING LAMPS & PRIOR SYMPTOMS: Initial symptoms appeared as heavily saturated interior floor carpets and standing water pooling near the cowl/dash area. Shortly thereafter, intermittent electrical glitches, warning lamps on the instrument cluster, and network communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) appeared as the corrosion worsened. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11753065 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Madison, WI
STRUCTURE:BODY
The vehicle is currently at Kayser Automotive Group located at 2303 West Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713, their direct line is [XXX], since the diagnoses of the corrosion of the DCN. SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS THAT FAILED: A faulty or clogged engine bay drain plug failed to divert water, causing significant water accumulation that routed into the interior cabin. This water intrusion directly soaked interior carpeting and exposed the Data Communication Network (DCN) connector and Body Control Module (BCM) wiring harness to moisture, resulting in severe pin corrosion and electrical communication faults. The vehicle and all affected components are fully available for inspection upon request. SAFETY RISK: The DCN connector and Body Control Module control critical vehicle operations, exterior lighting, instrument clusters, and safety/driver-assistance systems. Water corrosion on these communication buses causes unpredictable, uncommanded electrical failures and module communication dropouts while operating the vehicle at speed, creating a severe crash hazard to occupants and surrounding traffic. DEALER CONFIRMATION & INSPECTIONS: The issue was physically inspected and confirmed by an authorized Ford dealership service department, Kayser Automotive Group located at 2303 West Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713. Dealership technicians verified the water accumulation path, identified the faulty/clogged drain pathway, and documented physical corrosion on the DCN wiring connector. A Technical Assistance Center (TAC) case was requested to escalate the defect to Ford Corporate. WARNING LAMPS & PRIOR SYMPTOMS: Initial symptoms appeared as heavily saturated interior floor carpets and standing water pooling near the cowl/dash area. Shortly thereafter, intermittent electrical glitches, warning lamps on the instrument cluster, and network communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) appeared as the corrosion worsened. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11753065 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Madison, WI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The vehicle is currently at Kayser Automotive Group located at 2303 West Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713, their direct line is [XXX], since the diagnoses of the corrosion of the DCN. SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS THAT FAILED: A faulty or clogged engine bay drain plug failed to divert water, causing significant water accumulation that routed into the interior cabin. This water intrusion directly soaked interior carpeting and exposed the Data Communication Network (DCN) connector and Body Control Module (BCM) wiring harness to moisture, resulting in severe pin corrosion and electrical communication faults. The vehicle and all affected components are fully available for inspection upon request. SAFETY RISK: The DCN connector and Body Control Module control critical vehicle operations, exterior lighting, instrument clusters, and safety/driver-assistance systems. Water corrosion on these communication buses causes unpredictable, uncommanded electrical failures and module communication dropouts while operating the vehicle at speed, creating a severe crash hazard to occupants and surrounding traffic. DEALER CONFIRMATION & INSPECTIONS: The issue was physically inspected and confirmed by an authorized Ford dealership service department, Kayser Automotive Group located at 2303 West Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713. Dealership technicians verified the water accumulation path, identified the faulty/clogged drain pathway, and documented physical corrosion on the DCN wiring connector. A Technical Assistance Center (TAC) case was requested to escalate the defect to Ford Corporate. WARNING LAMPS & PRIOR SYMPTOMS: Initial symptoms appeared as heavily saturated interior floor carpets and standing water pooling near the cowl/dash area. Shortly thereafter, intermittent electrical glitches, warning lamps on the instrument cluster, and network communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) appeared as the corrosion worsened. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11753065 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Collegeville, PA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The computer system malfunctioned; the front panel warning was "Stop vehicle and check regen. brakes". I put my car in drive and when I hit the gas pedal the car reversed instead of going forward. I got it towed to the dealer at Piazza Hyundai in Limerick PA. The service did not provide me with an explanation about the warning and showed little concerns to the issues, I was given a month time frame for looking at my car. I consider this a safety issue as the car did not respond appropriately to D and R, I suspect a computer failure.
NHTSA complaint #11752337 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Collegeville, PA
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
The computer system malfunctioned; the front panel warning was "Stop vehicle and check regen. brakes". I put my car in drive and when I hit the gas pedal the car reversed instead of going forward. I got it towed to the dealer at Piazza Hyundai in Limerick PA. The service did not provide me with an explanation about the warning and showed little concerns to the issues, I was given a month time frame for looking at my car. I consider this a safety issue as the car did not respond appropriately to D and R, I suspect a computer failure.
NHTSA complaint #11752337 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.