Ford Truck Recall Triggered by Transmission Issue
The safety recall covers 184,000 2011-2012 model-year Ford F-150 trucks and 2012-MY Expedition, Mustang and Lincoln Navigator vehicles in the U.S.

Photo of Ford F-150 courtesy of Ford.

Photo of Ford F-150 courtesy of Ford.
Ford Motor Co. is recalling approximately 184,000 2011-2012 model-year Ford F-150 trucks and 2012-MY Expedition, Mustang and Lincoln Navigator vehicles in the U.S. because they’re at risk for unexpectedly downshifting.
These vehicles, each equipped with a 6R80 transmission, have a potential problem with the output speed sensor on the transmission lead frame. Under certain conditions, the transmission controls could force a temporary downshift into first gear.
Depending on the speed of the vehicle at the time of the downshift, the driver could experience an abrupt speed reduction that could cause the rear tires to slide or lock up. This condition could result in loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash, according to Ford.
Ford noted it’s aware of three reports of accidents, but no injuries have been related to this condition.
The Ford F-150 vehicles were built at Dearborn Truck Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant from Aug. 19, 2011, through March 9, 2012. The Ford Expedition vehicles were built at Kentucky Truck Plant from Aug. 19, 2011, through Dec. 19, 2011. The Ford Mustang vehicles were built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant from Aug. 19, 2011, through Feb. 21, 2012. The Lincoln Navigator vehicles were built at Kentucky Truck Plant from Aug. 19, 2011, through Dec. 17, 2011.
In addition to the vehicles recalled in the U.S., 17,900 vehicles are being recalled in Canada.
Dealers will inspect the powertrain control module for diagnostic trouble codes tied to the issue. If no related diagnostic trouble codes are present, dealers will update the powertrain control module software, which will eliminate the downshift into first gear if an OSS fault occurs, Ford said.
Additionally, as part of the corresponding customer satisfaction program, Ford will provide a one-time replacement of the lead frame at no charge within 10 years or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date.
If related diagnostic trouble codes are present, dealers will update the powertrain control module software and replace the lead frame at no cost to the customer, Ford said.
Originally posted on Automotive Fleet
More Safety & Compliance

GeoFencing Adds to Your Truck Security Arsenal
Geofencing is a familiar fleet tool today, but its early adoption marked a major shift in vehicle tracking, route monitoring, and the debate over employee privacy.
Read More →
Recalls You Need to Know About in October 2026
In October 2026, what recalls might impact your fleet? Work Truck has the answers in this comprehensive overview of recent NHTSA recalls.
Read More →
Construction Fleets Show Telematics Adoption Alone May Not Reduce Driving Risk
SambaSafety found construction fleets monitor roughly 92% of their vehicles but recorded the highest severe speeding rate among industries studied.
Read More →From Our Partners

Lytx Launches 360 Hub Kit for Expanded Fleet Camera Visibility
Lytx’s new AI-ready gateway and HD auxiliary camera ecosystem, the Lytx 360 Hub Kit, extends visibility across side, rear, cargo, and blind-zone views to help fleets see more and respond faster.
Read More →
Mack Defense Achieves Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Level 2
After an assessment conducted by an authorized Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO), Mack Defense has achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2.
Read More →
When Work Trucks Under 26,001 Pounds Need IRP Registration
Think trucks under 26,001 pounds are automatically in the clear when it comes to IRP? Not always. Learn where lighter vehicles can still run into trip permit, apportioned registration, and IFTA compliance requirements when crossing state or provincial lines.
Read More →
Smith System Wants Work Truck Fleets to Look Beyond the Driver Alert
Smith System’s new Driver Risk Management program is built to help mixed work truck fleets turn telematics alerts and observations into specific behaviors, coaching actions, and measurable follow-up.
Read More →
Volvo Trucks Releases New Safety Recommendations for Traveling with Pets
One of the most important recommendations for professional drivers traveling with pets is to ensure pets are properly restrained while the truck is moving. Other tips are available in the new guide from Volvo Trucks North America and Center for Pet Safety.
Read More →
Are Work Truck Drivers Warming Up to Dash Cams and GPS Tracking?
A new survey finds field-service drivers may be more comfortable with dash cams and GPS tracking than fleet managers think, especially when the technology helps protect them after a crash.
Read More →
Recalls You Need to Know About in September 2026
If you have Altec, Chrysler, Ford, Heil, General Motors, International, Mack Trucks, Paccar, Rivian, Royal Truck, Toyota, US Truck Body, or Volvo Trucks vehicles in your fleet, you should check these important recalls issued by the National Highway Safety Administration.
Read More →



