Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this concern.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2015 Ford F-150 powertrain problems
moderate 191 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
191
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
1fire
1injury
What stands out
Owners have filed 191 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 3 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
During service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the timing gear breaking and engine damage. Replacement of the bolt is critical to the repair and accurately following the installation procedure in the Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 303-01 is extremely important. The bolt torque procedure can be found in the crankshaft front seal removal and installation procedure or in the engine assembly procedure.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2003-2020 Expedition/Navigator and 2006-2020 F-150 (non-Raptor) vehicles equipped with 4WD may exhibit grinding/clicking/ratcheting noise from the front wheel area. This may be due to partial engagement of the integrated wheel ends (IWE). To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure to remove and cap the vacuum supply line or to reprogram the transfer case control module (TCCM) and replace any worn vacuum and/or IWE components.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2013-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with electronic shift on-the-fly (ESOF) 4-wheel drive (4WD) may exhibit an intermittent grinding noise while driving in 2-wheel drive (2WD) mode most commonly on acceleration. ESOF can be identified as it does not have a 4WD AUTO (4A) position on the mode selector switch (MSS). This may be due to a loss of vacuum to the integrated wheel end (IWE) actuators and/or wear of the IWE components. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to reprogram the transfer case control module (TCCM) and replace any worn vacuum and/or IWE components.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2013-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with Electronic Shift On-The-Fly (ESOF) 4-wheel drive (4WD) may exhibit an intermittent grinding noise while driving in 2-wheel drive (2WD) mode most commonly on acceleration. This may be due to a loss of vacuum to the integrated wheel end (IWE) actuators and/or wear of the IWE components. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to reprogram the transfer case control module (TCCM) and replace any worn vacuum and/or IWE components.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2015 F-150 powertrain has a cluster of dangerous electrical and transmission failures. Most serious: the 6R80 transmission's molded lead frame connector fails intermittently, causing the transmission to downshift abruptly from 6th gear to 1st at highway speeds (55–70 mph). Owners describe sudden loss of control, wheel lockup, 20–100 foot skids, and being stranded mid-traffic. The wrench light comes on, PRNDL display blacks out or flashes, and the only recovery is to stop, shut down, and restart.
The transmission also fails to engage or shifts into neutral unprompted. Owners lose drive or reverse without warning—stranding them perpendicular to traffic or in busy intersections. Some vehicles roll out of park on level ground despite the selector showing park.
Electronic throttle body failures cause sudden loss of acceleration and power. The truck enters "limp mode" at highway speed, shaking violently and refusing throttle input. Drivers must pull over, restart, and hope it doesn't happen again mid-freeway.
Diagnostic trouble codes P0707 and P0706 (transmission range sensor failures) appear repeatedly. Dealers tell owners the lead frame needs replacement at $900–$1,500 or higher, but parts are on backorder for weeks or months. Earlier F-150 model years (2011–2013) got a factory recall for the identical lead frame part; 2015 models were excluded despite using the same transmission and showing identical failure symptoms. Ford and dealerships consistently tell owners their 2015 is not covered by recall, even as owners source aftermarket repairs themselves.
Same Ford F-150 powertrain reports on nearby years: 2014 · 2017 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission downshift to 1st gear at highway speeds
Vehicle abruptly downshifts from 6th gear (or higher) to 1st or 2nd gear, often at highway speeds (55–70 mph), causing loss of control, wheel lockup, skidding, and sudden deceleration. Owners report this as catastrophic and dangerous in traffic.
When: Intermittent; occurs at highway speeds during normal driving, sometimes while passing or in traffic
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden downshift from 6th to 1st or 2nd gear; Tires lock up or skid; Rear wheels lock causing 20–100 ft skids; Vehicle unable to accelerate or maintain speed; Wrench light illuminates; PRNDL display flashing or going black; Gear selector lights flashing; Engine over-revving post-downshift; Vehicle lurches forward in seat; Loss of vehicle control in traffic
Codes mentioned: P0707, P0706, P0720, P0722, P06E9, P1702, P1921
Repairs/costs cited: Lead frame (molded lead frame/transmission connector) replacement; cost reported as $900–$1,500 and more. Parts frequently on backorder (weeks to months). Earlier model years (2011–2013) had factory recall for same part; 2015 models excluded from recall despite identical part and failure mode.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 19V-075 issued for 2011–2013 F-150 6R80 transmission lead frame; 2015 models NOT included despite same transmission and component failure. Ford initially told owners 2015 is not under recall. Some owners paid out of pocket ($1,500–$2,000+) or had lead frame replaced under warranty after dealer diagnosis. Technical Bulletin 1495 referenced in one narrative for case connector and transmission tuneup.
Transmission fails to shift or drop into neutral while driving
Vehicle unexpectedly shifts into neutral, fails to engage drive or reverse, or loses gear engagement entirely, stranding the owner. Often occurs during normal driving or parking maneuvers, forcing restart to regain function.
When: Various; reported during forward/reverse motion, while backing up, while turning, or at startup; mileage ranges 3,000–104,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission shifts into neutral unexpectedly; Cannot engage drive or reverse; Vehicle will not move forward or backward; Transmission drops out of gear mid-drive; Gear indicator lights flicker or disappear; Wrench light appears; Loss of all power delivery; Vehicle rolls despite being in park; Requires shutdown and restart to re-engage
Codes mentioned: P0707, P0706
Repairs/costs cited: Lead frame replacement; transmission range sensor issues; case connector replacement mentioned. Owners report repair estimates $1,284–$1,321 and higher. Parts on backorder.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford did not include 2015 models in earlier recalls despite identical transmission type. Some dealers attempted software updates with no resolution. One dealer refused to diagnose or repair after video evidence was provided.
Rough or harsh transmission shifts (gear hunting, slam shifts)
Transmission shifts harshly, skips gears, or hunts between gears. Vehicle jolts or lurches when shifting. RPM fluctuates erratically (1,500–4,500 rpm swings reported). Occurs at light throttle or during uphill driving.
When: Ongoing issue reported from early ownership through mid-life; light acceleration, uphill driving, passing situations
Symptoms owners cite: Harsh or slam shifts causing vehicle jolt; Transmission skips gears; RPM hunting (sudden swings from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm); Vehicle fails to downshift on uphills; Engine shuddering at torque converter lock-up (3rd and 5th gear); Engine sounds overworked or revving excessively; Engine nearly redlines or surges without driver input; Vehicle shakes or vibrates during shift; Wrench light may appear
Codes mentioned: P0706, P0707
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers performed software updates; one narrative mentions torque converter and solenoid replacement ($5,000 estimated). Lead frame replacement also referenced. Some issues not resolved by updates.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued software updates at some dealerships with limited effectiveness. No widespread recall for rough shifting reported in narratives. Dealers have advised waiting for fixes from manufacturer.
Electronic throttle body failure (loss of power, limp mode)
Throttle becomes unresponsive during normal driving, causing vehicle to enter 'limp mode' with reduced power. Engine idles roughly, vehicle shakes violently, and acceleration is lost. Recovery requires restart. Affects safety at highway and city speeds.
When: Intermittent; occurs at highway speeds (55–75 mph), uphill driving, and in traffic; some owners report multiple incidents within days or weeks
Symptoms owners cite: Throttle unresponsive to pedal input; Vehicle enters limp mode (<5 mph max speed); Engine idles very rough and shakes aggressively; Loss of power steering (some cases); Wrench light illuminates; Check engine light on; Warning messages: 'Hill Start Assist Not Available', 'Service Advance Trac', 'Traction Control Fault', 'Hill Descent Control Fault'; Multiple warning lights flash on dash; Vehicle must be stopped, turned off, and restarted to recover
Codes mentioned: Not explicitly listed; check engine light triggered
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body replacement cost $500–$1,500+. Parts availability not always immediate. Extended warranty mentioned by one owner; another was denied warranty coverage outside bumper-to-bumper period.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford acknowledged throttle body issue via extended warranty for 2014–2016 F-150s produced in Dearborn and Kansas, per one narrative. However, no formal recall issued. Dealers aware issue is 'common' but repair not always covered. Overseas Ford models reportedly have same issue.
Transmission control module / electrical failure (loss of all power, stalling)
Vehicle loses all engine power without warning while driving. Engine stalls or shuts down despite being in gear. Driver is left stranded mid-traffic or mid-lane. Requires restart to recover. Multiple incidents reported.
When: Intermittent; occurs at various speeds (highway to city) and conditions; some owners report 2–3+ occurrences
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of engine power while driving; Vehicle stalls without warning; Engine shuts off despite being in drive; Traction control warnings appear; Wrench light illuminates; No response from accelerator; Vehicle must be restarted to regain power; Difficulty restarting after stall (reported in some cases)
Codes mentioned: Not specified; multiple transmission codes in some cases
Repairs/costs cited: One owner had PCM (powertrain control module) replaced ($3,000 reported); another had throttle body replaced. Dealers often unable to diagnose or replicate issue when parked.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford warranty covered some repairs; others required owner to pay out of pocket. One owner was denied lemon-law repurchase despite three separate incidents and three repairs by dealership.
Vehicle rolls out of park or fails to hold in park
Vehicle rolls or moves despite being parked and gear selector showing 'Park.' Occurs on level ground with no external force. Vehicle can be pushed easily while supposedly in park. Parking brake not engaged in some cases.
When: At rest, in driveway or parking lot; reported at 39,000–53,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls backward or forward while in park; Gear indicator shows park but vehicle moves; Vehicle rolls when loading cargo; Can be pushed easily despite being parked; No warning lights prior to rolling; Vehicle continues rolling even after brake is depressed
Codes mentioned: Not listed; one narrative mentions 'transmission error' diagnosis
Repairs/costs cited: One dealer performed software update; issue recurred. Another dealer stated 'transmission error' but did not diagnose or repair despite video evidence.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford notified of failure; advised owner to take vehicle to dealer. One dealer refused to assist and would not review video evidence. Software update attempted but failed to resolve.
Transmission range sensor / lead frame intermittent connection failure
Transmission range sensor connector (part of molded lead frame) loses electrical contact or becomes erratic due to connector wiggle or solder joint fatigue. Causes PRNDL display errors, transmission not recognizing gear selection, and loss of transmission engagement.
When: Intermittent; triggered by shifter movement, specific angles, or temperature cycles; mileage 40,000–85,000+
Symptoms owners cite: PRNDL display grayed out or flashing; Transmission range sensor reads erratically; Gear not fully shifting into selected position; Slight shifter movement causes transmission malfunction; Wrench light appears; Check engine light illuminates
Codes mentioned: P0707 (Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Low), P0706 (Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Range Performance)
Repairs/costs cited: Lead frame replacement $900–$1,500+. Case connector replacement and transmission tuneup also performed in one case ($383.77). Parts frequently on backorder.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 19V-075 issued for 2011–2013 models; 2015 NOT included. Ford stated vehicle 'not on recall list' despite identical part and failure symptoms. Some dealers willing to replace under warranty after diagnosis; others initially unable to source part.
Rear differential or transmission lock-up / failure
Rear end or transmission locks up suddenly during normal driving or during 4-high engagement, causing wheel lockup, skidding, and complete loss of vehicle mobility. Requires transmission rebuild or replacement.
When: High mileage (75,000–100,000+); during shift to 4-high on snowy road (one case); during normal highway driving (one case)
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loud noise or 'explosion' sound; Rear wheels lock and skid; Transmission will not go into gear after incident; Heavy smoke from rear/underside; Complete transmission failure; Wrench light may illuminate
Codes mentioned: Not specified
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission rebuild or replacement; one estimate $9,701.90 (out of warranty). Another rebuilt transmission in approximately 2 weeks (labor and parts cost not stated). One case required flat-bed tow.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford declined warranty coverage due to mileage beyond warranty period. One owner pursued independent transmission shop repair.
Auto stop/start system malfunction and forced stalling in traffic
Auto stop/start feature engages unexpectedly or causes vehicle to stall in dangerous situations. Feature cannot be permanently disabled. Engine stalls or hesitates when attempting to accelerate from stop. System overrides driver attempts to disable it.
When: During rush-hour traffic, at intersections, while at traffic lights; vehicle with 19,771 original miles
Symptoms owners cite: Auto stop/start engages unexpectedly during driving; Vehicle stalls dead in intersection or traffic; Cannot shift into neutral to move vehicle; Engine hesitates or stalls after stop; Feature cannot be permanently disabled; System overrides driver disable attempts
Codes mentioned: Power train system default, ABS malfunction codes
Repairs/costs cited: Not repaired; ongoing issue. Owners report difficulty disabling feature; one dealership attempted but only disabled remote start function.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Not specified; feature advertised but no known recall or remedy.
4WD hub grinding/front drive unit vibration and transfer case wobble
Loud grinding or vibration from front left 4WD hub during normal driving. Separate persistent wobble/vibration from transfer case when in 4WD low, even at very low speeds (10 mph). Steering wheel and seats shake intensely.
When: Reported from 34,000 miles onward; vibration continues with multiple new tire sets and confirmed alignment
Symptoms owners cite: Loud grinding noise from front left hub at any speed; Persistent wobble/vibration in 4WD low (10+ mph); Steering wheel, seats, pedals shake intensely; Vibration similar to tire imbalance but verified as not tire-related; Front rotors worn prematurely (deep cuts at 45,000 miles with factory pads)
Codes mentioned: Not specified
Repairs/costs cited: First dealer failed to diagnose over 6 days; claimed no issue found. Second dealer also failed to diagnose. Third dealer identified and repaired hub issue. Transfer case wobble not resolved; owner installed three tire sets and two shops verified tires and alignment good. Brakes required rotor replacement at 45,000 miles due to factory rotor/pad wear.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall for hub or transfer case vibration mentioned. Dealers initially unable to identify and repair grinding hub.
Starter failure and recurring transmission electrical issues
Starter fails, leaving vehicle unable to start. After replacement, vehicle experiences recurrent transmission downshift incidents. Multiple start failures follow, suggesting starter replacement may not address underlying electrical or transmission control issue.
When: Starter failed at unspecified mileage; transmission issues occurred shortly after starter replacement; approximately 31,908 miles reported for some incidents
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not start (battery and alternator good); Violent downshift from 6th to 3rd gear at highway speed; Tires lock up; vehicle skids in traffic; Transmission in limp mode (stuck in 3rd gear); Multiple start failures after starter replacement; Vehicle fails to start intermittently for days
Codes mentioned: Multiple transmission errors reported by mechanic; specific codes not listed
Repairs/costs cited: Starter replaced; transmission issues persist. Independent mechanic noted multiple transmission control errors. Owner concerned about electrical malfunctions in transmission control module.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford dealer replaced starter; did not address underlying transmission control module electrical issue. Earliest dealer appointment: 35 days out from complaint date.
Synthesized from 191 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Second time my truck has shut down on the freeway due to a throttle body. Very dangerous!
Transmission shifting erratic.
Had powertrain trouble with your 2015 Ford F-150?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2015 Ford F-150?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 191 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 89 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 44,000 and 96,771 miles, with the median around 67,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 44,000; a quarter make it past 96,771. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/Ford/F-150.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.