For 20172026 vehicles equipped with a 10R transmission, a revision to the Road Testing Vehicle procedure has been made in the WSM, located in Section 307-01 > Diagnosis and Testing. This updated procedure improves the diagnosis of customer reported transmission concerns and aids in locating the proper root cause. During diagnosis and testing, details regarding whether the condition is more prevalent when the vehicle is hot or cold, throttle percentage at the time of occurrence, vehicle speed, the specific shift involved, and whether the issue occurs during transmission engagements (N>R, N>D, R>D, or D>R) should be noted. Engineering requests including these detailed operating conditions tha
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2019 Ford F-150 powertrain problems
moderate 465 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
465
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
2crashes
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 465 powertrain complaints filed for the 2019 Ford F-150, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Powertrain accounts for 49% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 12 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 465 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.
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.
Certain 2018-2020 Model Year F-150 Vehicles Equipped With 3.3L Engines Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reprogramming
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗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 ↗This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2301. Reason for update: update the Part List Description. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to axial movement of the CDF clutch c
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2126. Reason for update: update the Part List and Service Procedure. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to axial movement of the CD
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2019 F-150's 10R80 transmission is the central issue here. Owners describe it as jerky, hesitant, and prone to harsh shifts that worsen over time—especially in cold weather. Many report the truck lurches forward or refuses to engage gears smoothly, and some experience sudden downshifts from 10th gear to 1st at highway speeds without warning, causing engine RPM to spike and loss of vehicle control.
The underlying culprit, per Ford's May 2023 TSB 22-2428, involves defects in the CDF clutch drum and valve body. These fail internally, causing hydraulic pressure loss and transmission fluid to drain without visible leaks. By the time owners notice stalling, erratic shifting, or limp mode—often past 60,000 miles—the transmission is typically shot. Replacement costs run $8,000–$13,000, and most vehicles are out of warranty by then.
Dealerships, even during the warranty period, repeatedly told owners the hard shifts were "normal" or "characteristic" of the transmission and refused diagnosis. Ford customer service proved unresponsive to calls and letters. One owner reported his dealership explicitly said the transmission would have been replaced free had he brought it in sooner, but by then the truck was over 60,000 miles.
Some owners also report cam phaser failure (3.5L EcoBoost) and excessive engine oil burn, compounding the powertrain reliability crisis. A few describe transmission fluid leaks and new transmission failures within weeks of initial replacement.
Same Ford F-150 powertrain reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2020 · 2021
Failure modes owners describe
10R80 transmission - harsh/delayed shifting and gear slipping
Transmission exhibits hard shifts, jerking, hesitation, and erratic behavior when changing gears. Owners report the truck lurches forward on take-off, slips between gears, or refuses to engage smoothly. Shifts can feel like whiplash and frequently worsen in cold weather.
When: Begins between 3,500 and 75,000 miles; many owners report onset in first 1-2 years of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Hard, jerky shifts when accelerating or decelerating; Transmission hesitation or lag before engaging gears; Slipping sensation as if vehicle is in neutral; Lurching forward or sudden deceleration mid-shift; Worsened in cold weather or during cold starts; Clunking or clanging noise during shifts
Codes mentioned: P0767, P2535, P2703, Powertrain Malfunction/Reduce Power notifications
Repairs/costs cited: Dealerships initially perform PCM software resets, transmission fluid flushes, valve body replacement (cost ~$3,000-$5,000), or complete transmission replacement (cost $9,877–$13,000+). Many owners report issues persist after resets and repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 22-2428 issued May 23, 2023 for harsh/delayed engagement and shifting on 10R80 transmissions built before Dec 23, 2022. Addresses CDF drum, valve body, and clutch basket defects. No recall issued; owners beyond factory warranty (~60,000 miles) denied coverage. Ford customer service largely unresponsive to complaints.
10R80 transmission - sudden downshift from high gear to first gear
Transmission suddenly and unexpectedly downshifts multiple gears while driving at highway speeds, causing engine to rev to 5,000–6,000 RPM and loss of vehicle control. Owners report this occurs without warning and creates extreme safety hazards.
When: Typically occurs after 40,000–80,000 miles; can happen at any speed or load condition
Symptoms owners cite: Abrupt downshift from 10th to 1st gear at highway speeds (45–75 mph); Engine RPM spikes to 5,000–6,000 RPM despite accelerator released; Loss of power and control; rear wheels may lock up; Transmission enters limp mode or cycles rapidly between gears; Wrench warning light or 'Transmission Failure—See Dealer' message appears (often after the event)
Codes mentioned: P0767, P2535, P2703, Transmission Failure warning messages
Repairs/costs cited: Requires complete transmission replacement. Shops find metal chunks in fluid and damaged internal components (CDF drum, valve body). Cost $8,000–$13,000+. Some owners report replacement transmission failing shortly after installation.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 22-2428 addresses underlying CDF and valve body defects. No recall. Most vehicles out of warranty; Ford denies coverage. Dealership diagnostics sometimes inconclusive; some shops report transmission shops are overwhelmed with similar failures.
10R80 transmission - engine stall and transmission failure at stop/idle
Vehicle stalls at traffic lights, stop signs, or idle while transmission struggles to engage or hold gears. Foot pedal may become unresponsive. Requires multiple restart attempts and disengaging auto-stop/start feature.
When: Occurs throughout vehicle life; more common in traffic situations and after prolonged idle
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls at red light or stop sign; Foot pedal becomes unresponsive or stiff; Transmission appears stuck or unable to determine correct gear; 'Auto Stop/Start, put vehicle in park and restart engine' warning message; Vehicle revs to 6,000+ RPM then suddenly drops; Multiple restart attempts required to resume driving
Codes mentioned: Powertrain Malfunction/Reduce Power notifications (14+ reported in one month), Auto stop/start warning messages
Repairs/costs cited: Dealerships perform PDM resets, battery replacements (often unnecessary), and sometimes transmission replacement. Battery testing typically normal. No repair consistently resolves the issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships initially deny knowledge of the problem and claim no TSB exists, contradicting documentation. Ford customer service unresponsive. No recall issued.
CDF (Clutch Drum F) defect - internal transmission fluid loss
CDF clutch drum assembly fails internally, causing loss of hydraulic pressure and transmission fluid without visible external leaks. Leads to delayed or harsh engagement and eventual complete transmission failure.
When: Failure occurs between 15,000 and 79,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive; Harsh, jolting shift into gears; Erratic shifting between multiple gears; No visible external transmission fluid leaks; No warning lights or messages until failure is imminent; Internal metal debris in transmission fluid
Codes mentioned: None visible to driver; requires dealer fluid analysis and TSB 22-2428 reference
Repairs/costs cited: Requires CDF clutch drum component replacement or full transmission replacement. Cost $8,000–$13,000+. One owner reports dealership initially blamed low transmission fluid on owner maintenance failure, refusing warranty coverage until presented with TSB evidence.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 22-2428 issued May 23, 2023 acknowledging CDF defect. CDF design updated in 2022 models. Vehicles built before Dec 23, 2022 considered suspect. No recall; warranty coverage limited to in-warranty vehicles.
Transmission temperature overheating
Transmission temperature rises above normal operating range (190–210°F) to 220–230°F, causing transmission to cycle erratically between gears or enter limp mode. Additional loss of functionality in other systems (wipers, traction control) may occur.
When: Occurs at various speeds; more common under load, in hilly terrain, or during rapid gear cycling
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission temperature gauge rises to 220–230°F (abnormal; normal is ~190°F); Rapid cycling between multiple gears; Limp mode activation or loss of power; Associated loss of wiper or traction control function; Loss of all power and ability to maintain speed
Codes mentioned: None reported by owners
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report turning off engine to cool transmission as temporary remedy. No permanent fix reported; usually precedes transmission failure. Full transmission replacement necessary.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific response documented. Issue addressed as part of CDF/valve body defect (TSB 22-2428).
Cam phaser failure (3.5L EcoBoost engines)
Cam phaser components fail, causing cold-start rattle, ticking during idle, and intermittent power loss during driving. This is a separate engine issue often occurring alongside transmission problems in affected trucks.
When: Reported from ~40,000 miles onward; sometimes concurrent with transmission failures
Symptoms owners cite: Loud rattling noise on cold start lasting several seconds; Ticking noise during idle; Rough engine running; Sudden loss of power while merging onto highway or accelerating; Potential for engine shutdown while driving
Codes mentioned: Check engine light illumination (not always present)
Repairs/costs cited: Cam phaser replacement required; cost ~$4,000+. TSB issued; Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03 (and supplements through 2022) offered coverage, but only during specific window. Owners missing the deadline denied coverage despite vehicle still under typical mileage warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB and Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03 issued; extended warranty offered during program window (ended Jan 2023). Vehicle owners with 2019 models and <70,000 miles outside the program window denied coverage despite known issue. Ford refuses to extend program or issue recall.
Transmission fluid leak after repair
After transmission repair or replacement, transmission fluid leaks from the case, causing smoke, fluid loss, and renewed shifting problems. One owner reports dealership blamed owner overfilling after repair rather than investigating defective part or installation.
When: Occurs within 1–2,000 miles after transmission replacement or major service
Symptoms owners cite: Visible fluid leaking from transmission case; White or blue smoke from transmission area; Renewed hard shifting and erratic behavior; Transmission fluid coating undercarriage
Codes mentioned: None immediately
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership initially attributes leak to overfilling, refusing to investigate defective components or seal quality. Some owners report being turned away and told to keep driving until it fails completely.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No documented response. Issue appears to be recurring installation or parts-quality problem.
Synthesized from 465 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 10 most recent
vehicle shifts gears in automatic transmission at highway speeds all the way down to first gear . this causes vehicle to lurch in an unexpected manner. now transmission frequently won't engage at all.
2019 F150 with 65,000 miles on it, started having issues shifting gears. Was accelerating on the Freeway and jumped from 3rd to 8th gear losing all power and making all passengers jerk forward whipping our necks. Also, started to not go into the right gear after starting up in the morning; put the truck into drive and immediately went into 7th gear without releasing the break and the Powertrain…
UNKNOWN. Truck has issues switching gears. Pulled out on the highway and truck wouldn’t shift out of 2nd gear. I almost got rear ended because the truck would not shift into the higher gears. It finally shifted real hard out of 2nd gear, then started shifting back to lower gears even though I wasn’t slowing down. This incident with it not shifting out of 2nd only happened once so far, but the…
Transmission jerks, and stalls. Drive train noise. Engine cuts out and has rough idle.
The vehicle has given codes P0018 and P0021 on multiple occasions. These codes are likely due to an issue with the cam phasers. This is a known issue due to a design flaw.
The 10 speed transmission is inconsistent in shifting especially when cold ... Also grabs and clunks if slightly rolling backwards when moved to drive (inconsistent). Creates unpredictable driving situations.
Truck hesitates, wants to shut of and does shut off. Wrench indicator comes off and on. Truck Shuts off at stop light and needs to be restarted.
The 10 speed transmission in the truck slips into neutral during acceleration. I usually loose 2nd or 3rd gear. The engine RPM spikes to 4-5000 and the vehicle coasts to near stop before transmission grabs again. It can create a danger on highway acceleration ramps or at stop signs. It happens intermittently and has been going on for 9 months or so.
The f150 was purchased new with 5miles on it. The truck broke down on me within the first 16hrs of driving it off the lot. A temperature sensor had failed and shut down the truck while driving 70mph which was not safe I had no control of the vehicle and barely made it to the break down lane. That issue was resolved and the part replaced. A week later after driving the truck everyday for my daily…
The contact owns a 2019 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds, the transmission upshifted from first gear to fifth gear unexpectedly. The transmission was slamming into gear while driving at slow and high speeds. The accelerator pedal was depressed but the vehicle stopped. There was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The check Owner’s Manual message was…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2019 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 2019 Ford F-150?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 465 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 123 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 19,243 and 92,526 miles, with the median around 62,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 19,243; a quarter make it past 92,526. 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/2019/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.