Key insights
- Ford is recalling 1.4 million F-150 trucks due to a gearshift issue causing unexpected downshifts. NHTSA investigated reports of related injuries and an accident. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software. While Ford shares rose 4% today, the recall could negatively impact future sales and reputation, albeit modestly.
STORY: :: FordFord on Friday said it is recalling about 1.4 million of its popular F-150 pickup trucks in the U.S. following an investigation by federal regulators into reports of unexpected downshifts in the vehicles.The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, said Ford was aware of two "potentially" related injuries and one accident.It added that dealers would update the trucks' powertrain control module software as a remedy.Earlier this year, NHTSA had expanded a safety-related investigation into the issue.:: FordA preliminary evaluation was first opened in March of 2025, after receiving complaints related to F-150 pickups from 2015 to 2017 equipped with the '6R80' transmission.Ford had previously said that the issue may have been caused by electrical connections wearing down over time due to heat and vibration, leading to signal loss from the transmission range sensor.NHTSA said that incorrect signals likely lead to an unintended downshift.Ford’s F-Series trucks have long been the bestselling automobile in America.Shares of Ford were up more than 4% in Friday afternoon trading.