7,256 of the
48,021 complaints filed about the Ford F-150
are about the engine —
100% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2018.
While driving on the [XXX], close to [XXX], throttle response was lost on the vehicle. Immediately put the hazards on, turned them off momentarily to indicate a turn off to the shoulder, traffic was right behind me, with some fast movers. “Hill start assist not available” was displayed on the main panel and “trac off”/ traction control. Below approx 10 mph the vehicle started shaking violently and we came to a stop. Turned the vehicle off and started looking in the manual and online for associated issues. Was able to restart the vehicle with no annunciated issues and continued driving at a cautious speed. A few minutes later the same issue arose. Had to pull over and reset the vehicle. By this time we had committed to taking the vehicle to the Ford service center on the interstate and made it there after occurring 4-5 more times where we had to pull over during the worst time of day, avoiding traffic on the on/off ramps. We had to use heavy braking once as we were disabled and there was another disabled vehicle also pulled over and we had to stop before them with enough safety clearance. We made it to Ford. According to SB 16B32B, our truck qualifies for an expired recall based on the [XXX] plant and the production date. Ford produced P2112 code for throttle body issues. We paid for the repairs. Requesting a re-inquiry of SB 16B32B. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11763952 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Engine failure due to oil consumption. Low compression on bank 2. Changed coil packs, spark plugs and bank 2 Catalytic converter misfires stayed. Took to dealer for diagnostics and found low compression and recommended engine replacement. Now getting new truck because of expensive engine replacement causing me to roll the negative equity to my new truck.
NHTSA complaint #11763679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am reporting a severe safety defect where Ford Motor Company's sequential safety recall software updates are actively corrupting powertrain modules and inducing physical mechanical failures while the vehicle is in operation.Following the completion of the 24S55 Engine Intake Valve Recall (which reflashed the PCM and wiped the transmission's adaptive learning tables), my 2021 Ford F-150 developed an immediate operational shudder. Shortly after, a forced Over-the-Air (OTA) update for the 26C10 Trailer Brake Module triggered a secondary network reset via the CAN-bus. The intersection of these two software-driven actions caused an operational fault that physically broke the torque converter clutch.A compromised torque converter clutch can cause sudden vehicle stalling, unpredictable acceleration lags, and catastrophic powertrain locking while driving at highway speeds, creating an imminent crash hazard. The local Ford dealership service department confirmed the hardware failure and noted that pushing automated software updates over unstable tables leaves the entire transmission highly vulnerable to total systemic failure.Ford is currently refusing to open an escalation file or address this issue. Because Ford's official remedy for safety recalls 24S55 and 26C10 directly introduces a secondary, severe safety risk to the vehicle's powertrain integrity, I request that NHTSA investigate the technical compatibility and safety of these sequential software updates.
NHTSA complaint #11763680 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2020 Ford F-150 (5.0L V8) experienced a sudden loss of engine power and stalled completely while I was driving. In the days leading up to this, the check engine light had illuminated, and I later discovered the vehicle had consumed a severe amount of engine oil — the dipstick read below the "add" line. Critically, no low oil pressure warning light or audible chime alerted me to the oil loss before the stall occurred. After the initial stall, the engine continued to struggle to maintain idle and stalled repeatedly whenever RPM dropped to approximately 1,000, making the vehicle unsafe to drive. I had the vehicle towed to a Ford dealership for diagnosis. The dealership's estimate confirmed the need for a full engine (long block) replacement, at a cost of approximately $19,824.56 (total estimate $21,491.04). I am aware that Ford issued Technical Service Bulletin 19-2365, which acknowledges that 2018-2020 F-150 trucks with the 5.0L engine may experience excessive oil consumption exceeding one quart per 3,000 miles with no visible external leaks, attributed to oil being drawn into the engine during deceleration fuel shut-off events. I believe this defect directly caused my vehicle's stalling and oil starvation, and that the lack of any dashboard warning prior to the failure is a separate and significant safety concern, since a driver has no way to know the engine is being damaged or that a stall is imminent.
NHTSA complaint #11762811 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
We purchased this 2014 Ford F-150 SuperCrew (3.5L EcoBoost) used on Dec 31, 2022. Just two days after taking it home, the vehicle began experiencing sudden, violent, uncommanded downshifts from 6th to 1st gear at highway speeds. This occurred throughout our ownership. Because this was our family's only form of transportation, we had no choice but to continue driving it under these terrifying conditions, repeatedly navigating a lethal safety hazard with our three children in the vehicle until the powertrain suffered a catastrophic failure. This matches the exact defect investigated under NHTSA Campaign 24V444 / Recall 24S37 and expanded under Recall 26S45. On Dec 23, 2023, a final highway downshift forced the powertrain into 1st gear, creating immense kinetic stress and engine-braking that instantly shattered internal components and caused a severe engine knock. Less than a mile later, while trying to get our family home in life-threatening -40 degree Fairbanks winter weather with our three children inside, the engine completely blew, leaving us stranded. The Fairbanks Ford dealership initially stated that Ford would be liable for the consequential damages. However, it later backtracked, claiming that a local customer satisfaction program had "timed out" at the 150,000-mile threshold. A diagnostic certification from a local Nissan dealership has documented the failure. I was an original reporter aiding the push to reopen this failed software recall investigation, and Ford's corporate delays allowed this defect to destroy my engine before a real fix was issued. Due to this defect, our family has suffered extreme financial hardship: we spent $6,513.68 out of pocket for a 5-month Turo rental starting Christmas Day 2023; I was forced to leave my job due to a lack of transportation in a sub-zero climate; and I had to liquidate my retirement early. We have paid on time for 3 straight years on a broken vehicle and currently owe $19,633.44 on a financial ghost. Ford Motor Co
NHTSA complaint #11762410 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a recall repair associated with the PCM reprogramming. Upon retrieval, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode while driving. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear, and the vehicle lost motive power. The dealer was contacted and provided the contact with an estimate for a diagnostic test. The contact spoke with a supervisor, but no additional assistance was provided.
NHTSA complaint #11761800 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2019 Ford F-150. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the failure ceased after the engine had been running for several minutes. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11761918 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
We purchased a used 2020 F150 in late summer 2024. We brought it in for issues in November 2024, but the Ford dealership found no repairs were needed. We returned in March 2025 when the CDF drum failed requiring a transmission rebuild, a known issue with Technical Service Bulletin but not a recall. The engine continued consuming oil after this despite Ford completing all applicable service bulletins and advising there was nothing further to do. We took the vehicle in for service in May, 2026 and were told they had already updated software to address the oil consumption and we were told that should resolve the issue. On June 30, 2026, the truck was towed to the dealership after repeated stalling and a check engine light. The dealership again acknowledged this is a known issue with this engine - the valve seals are defective yet they had stalled our concerns so long at this point, we were past the warranty period. We researched and found this was a widespread, known issue asked whether Ford would offer customer loyalty assistance after 30 years of Ford ownership. We were told the truck's approximately 118,000 miles exceeded the assistance threshold. The engine replacement was quoted at $15,000. Ford advised us to repair the engine and save our receipt in case they should issue a recall at some point in the future. Given the value of the truck was $15,000 we chose not to keep investing in this vehicle and sold it for parts at a loss.
NHTSA complaint #11761799 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Known issues with design and life expectancy of the exhaust manifolds and bolts thousands of owners are replacing manifolds due to warping and shearing of bolts when exhaust overheats. I’m currently getting quotes to replace due to failure on a gently used truck. Failure happened during a highway trip of a couple hundred miles under no additional load.
NHTSA complaint #11761523 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Direct failure of Cam phasers and confirmation. This led to erratic engine runtime leading to transmission shifting learned behaviors based on the bogus engine information. This causes erratic hardshifting into drive and most importantly dropping gears on the highway resulting in unsafe driving conditions at random. This includes both random downshifts at highway speed and a similar situation when accelerating the wrong gear is engaged both causing unsafe conditions for the driver and those surrounding. Upon phaser replacement the engine then ran correctly and transmission was reset both KAM tables and learned behavior to rectify the transmission safety challenges. This should at least be a TSB not just a mystery to owners and dealers alike.
NHTSA complaint #11761411 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On XXX, my [XXX] son was driving this 2017 Ford F-150 when the transmission suddenly downshifted while traveling on the road. The downshift was severe enough that the rear tires lost traction and the vehicle fishtailed, nearly resulting in an accident. The vehicle was taken to an authorized Ford dealer on 8/18/2026. We reported the sudden downshift, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the condition. The dealer performed Ford Recall 26S28/NHTSA 26V-237 and campaign 19G01, and the vehicle was returned on XXX. On XXX, only two days after the recall repair, the engine unexpectedly shut off while the vehicle was being driven. It restarted afterward. On XXX, the engine again unexpectedly stalled while the vehicle was moving. When the engine stopped, power-steering assist was lost and the driver had to coast the vehicle safely to the side of the road. The engine restarted immediately. When attempting to drive away, the transmission appeared to be starting in approximately third gear rather than first gear. After the vehicle was moving, the transmission eventually began operating normally again. Ford Customer Relationship Center was notified on XXX and formally documented these incidents. The vehicle is available for inspection. I am concerned because the original sudden downshift closely resembles the safety defect addressed by Recall 26V-237/26S28, and serious intermittent stalling and abnormal transmission operation have continued after the recall remedy was performed. I am requesting that NHTSA document and evaluate these post-recall safety symptoms and whether the recall remedy adequately addresses the underlying defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11760892 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
In late July 2026, my son received a Ford safety recall notice (Recall #26S28) for his 2017 F 150 requiring a PCM software update. I brought the truck to Crown Motors in Redding on August 11th for the recall service. Before this appointment, the truck had no performance issues. Immediately after picking up the truck, a noticeable pinging sound occurred under acceleration. I returned the vehicle on August 12th, where Crown Motors confirmed the issue and advised spark plug replacement. This did not resolve the problem. I was also told that continued driving could damage the engine, so the truck remained at the dealership. Over the following days, Crown Motors worked with Ford engineering and repeatedly attempted software-related fixes. Crown staff informed me they believed the recall update caused the issue, and the first internal Ford team reportedly agreed. However, on August 25th, Ford’s second internal review determined the software update was not responsible and stated that all repair costs would fall on me—despite the clear timeline showing the problem began immediately after the recall service. Customer Service provided no assistance and refused to escalate my concern. As a result, my truck is currently non-operational, Crown Motors does not have a fix, and Ford will not cover repairs triggered only after Ford’s own safety recall. According to NHTSA’s info, it seems Ford is obligated under Motor Vehicle Safety Act (49 U.S.C. § 30111 et seq.) to repair the vehicle. I am requesting that Ford acknowledge responsibility for the recall related issue and cover the necessary repairs. I am deeply concerned at the lack of support and accountability shown throughout this process from Ford. I am resubmitting this info, not sure if my first attempt worked. I had an issue with my internet browser.
NHTSA complaint #11760926 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I own a 2018 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost with approximately 93,000 miles. I am experiencing a repeated cold start cam phaser rattle. This is a known issue addressed by Ford in several TSBs, including 19-2365, yet no recall has been issued. It has been "repaired" once at approximately 40,000 miles only to have the same issue reoccur at which time I was told that rattling at startup is "normal" and "since it doesn't persist it is not an issue". No IC gasoline engine should rattle on startup, and I believe this defect poses long-term reliability concerns and will lead to engine damage and failure during operation. Ford should be held responsible for a widespread design flaw affecting thousands of vehicles. I urge the NHTSA to investigate this recurring issue and hold Ford accountable for consumer safety and financial impact.
NHTSA complaint #11761037 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Not sure if I can file an issue for this, but I wanted to let you know that a Ford Safety recall caused other issues after it was applied. In late July 2026, my son received a Ford safety recall notice (Recall #26S28) for his 2017 F 150 requiring a PCM software update. I brought the truck to Crown Motors in Redding on August 11th for the recall service. Before this appointment, the truck had no performance issues. Immediately after picking up the truck, a noticeable pinging sound occurred under acceleration. I returned the vehicle on August 12th, where Crown Motors confirmed the issue and advised spark plug replacement. This did not resolve the problem. I was also told that continued driving could damage the engine, so the truck remained at the dealership. Over the following days, Crown Motors worked with Ford engineering and repeatedly attempted software-related fixes. Crown staff informed me they believed the recall update caused the issue, and the first internal Ford team reportedly agreed. However, on August 25th, Ford’s second internal review determined the software update was not responsible and stated that all repair costs would fall on me—despite the clear timeline showing the problem began immediately after the recall service. Customer Service provided no assistance and refused to escalate my concern. As a result, my truck is currently non-operational, Crown Motors does not have a fix, and Ford will not cover repairs triggered only after Ford’s own safety recall. I believe the Spark Knock issue is an additional safety issue caused by the PCM recall update that was I was told could cause engine failure.
NHTSA complaint #11760056 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving, my 2022 Ford F-150 equipped with the 2.7L EcoBoost experienced abnormal engine operation, a check-engine light, and reduced engine power. The unexpected reduction in available engine power created a safety concern because loss of acceleration or propulsion can be dangerous when merging, crossing traffic, passing, or traveling at highway speeds. The vehicle was inspected and diagnosed by an authorized Ford dealership. The PCM stored DTC P0332, Knock/Combustion Vibration Sensor “B” Circuit Low. The dealer performed Ford Pinpoint Test DG. Testing reportedly found no open circuit, short to ground, short to voltage, or intermittent circuit fault. The dealer determined that the knock-sensor assembly required replacement.The repair involves replacement of Ford knock-sensor assembly FT4Z-12A699-E, which contains both knock sensors. Access to the assembly requires extensive disassembly of engine fuel and cooling-system components. Ford’s service procedure includes removal of both direct-injection fuel rails, draining the cooling system, removal of the coolant pump, and removal of the coolant outlet connector.I am concerned about the possibility of coolant leakage or contamination affecting the knock-sensor assembly because of its location in relation to cooling-system components. I do not currently know whether coolant contamination caused this particular failure. I request that NHTSA investigate whether coolant leakage or contamination in this area contributes to premature knock-sensor failures on 2.7L EcoBoost engines. I have also identified another 2022 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost that was diagnosed by a Ford dealership with a similar knock-sensor circuit-low fault, P0327 also quoted replacement of the same FT4Z-12A699-E assembly. I request investigation knock-sensor failures on 2.7L EcoBoost F-150s, including Ford warranty/field data and whether coolant leakage or contamination contributes to failures capable of causing unexpected reduced engine powe
NHTSA complaint #11760176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving at speed, my vehicle experienced a severe safety hazard: the transmission jerked violently and the engine completely stalled on the road, causing an immediate loss of power. The dealership diagnosed the truck and stated that tree debris had plugged the cowl drains at the base of the windshield. Because the drains plugged, rainwater backed up and overflowed directly into the passenger cabin, soaking the Body Control Module (BCM) and crashing the central computer network. A vehicle's central computer network should not be engineered in a way that normal outdoor tree debris can completely flood an interior cabin module and cause a dangerous drivetrain shutdown while driving.
NHTSA complaint #11759546 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
In 2019, vehicle had a recall for output speed sensor in the transmission. Initial Ford dealership in Indiana (Don Hinds), reprogrammed. They did not test drive vehicle or follow additional instruction to replace the molded leadframe. Vehicle has continued to demonstrate OSS sensor failure. Every time we drive it, the vehicle downshifts from 6th gear to 1st gear with malfunction indicator light and wrench light coming on. Spoke with Don Hinds Ford and they agree this needs to be covered by Ford. They contacted ford Recall number repeatedly. I contacted them repeatedly starting in April. I was told to take my vehicle to a Ford dealership in Arizona (where I currently live) - Sanderson Ford. They ran the codes and agreed the molded leadframe needs to be replaced. They and I have contacted Ford Customer Assistance Center multiple times. Initially, they stated only one call to them, but the individual, Lisa, hung up on me and closed the file. I have been calling every week since May 12th and have never been told the case was closed until August 19th when I was told case was closed and they would open a new case. They have not communicated with Sanderson Ford or myself since that time. The vehicle is unsafe to drive, it is my mode of transportation and is currently sitting at Sanderson Ford. Ford corporate is not responding to any communciation from myself or the dealership. The truck issue is putting myself and other drivers at risk because the vehicle cannot be controlled when the OSS sensor fails. Initial case file: [XXX] Updated case file: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11759175 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.