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 ↗2020 Ford Expedition powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2020 Ford Expedition have filed 239 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 60,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
239
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2016 Expedition | 34 |
| 2017 Expedition | 50 |
| 2018 Expedition | 137 |
| 2019 Expedition | 196 |
| 2020 Expedition (this page) | 239 |
| 2021 Expedition | 98 |
| 2022 Expedition | 14 |
| 2023 Expedition | 9 |
| 2024 Expedition | 5 |
3fires
2injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 239 powertrain complaints filed for the 2020 Ford Expedition, 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
Of the 20 model years of Ford Expedition we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 239.
Powertrain accounts for 63% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 9 categories tracked.
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.
This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2132. Reason for update: update the Part List Description and Labor Times 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 mo
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020 Continental, 2020-2024 Edge/Nautilus, 2020-2025 Explorer/Aviator/Escape/Corsair/F-150/F-Super Duty/Ranger/Transit/E-Series, 2021-2025 Bronco, and 2022-2025 Maverick vehicles may require an engine cooling system flush to be performed for various concerns. Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-03 has been updated to eliminate the need to remove and install the radiator assembly to perform a radiator flush.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Various vehicles equiped with 10R80/10R80 MHT/10R100/10R140 transmissions may require replacement of the seal kits (7153) when internal repairs are being performed. These kits come with 4 wheel drive (4WD) seals and will no longer include the 2WD seals. When working on a 2WD vehicle, any 2WD seals must be ordered separately. Refer to the parts catalog for the proper 2WD seals required.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This article supersedes TSB 24-2046 to update the Service Procedure LTIS statement. Some 2017-2020 F-150, 2018-2021 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang, 2019-2023 Ranger vehicles equipped with a 10R80 transmission may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift, an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) that are stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to the transmission solenoid ID strategy, sticking valves in the main control valve body and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of 2020 Ford Expeditions describe transmission failures that create immediate safety hazards. The most common complaint: during highway driving—often while accelerating, passing, or merging—the transmission abruptly disengages into neutral without warning, engine RPM spikes to redline, and the vehicle loses all power for 3–10 seconds before the transmission re-engages with a loud clunk. This happens at 55–75 mph with other vehicles close by, forcing near-miss evasive maneuvers and creating high risk of rear-end collisions. No warning lights typically appear before the failure occurs.
Beyond slipping, owners report harsh, jerky downshifts—especially into 5th and 7th–8th gears—accompanied by loud clunking or grinding sounds. Some vehicles enter limp mode with reduced power and transmission overheating to 250+ degrees Fahrenheit, causing burning smell and smoke. One owner's radiator ruptured without warning.
Dealers repeatedly perform transmission relearns, software updates, and multiple rebuilds or full replacement (costs $7,000–$12,000+), yet failures recur within days or weeks. Dealers often cannot reproduce the failures or find fault codes, leaving owners stranded without repair. Ford issued Recall 24E13 in April 2025 for PCM malfunction and has acknowledged TSBs (24-2101, 22-2428), but many 2020 Expeditions are beyond powertrain warranty, leaving owners responsible for repair costs despite the known defect. The pattern suggests a systemic transmission design flaw affecting thousands of vehicles.
Same Ford Expedition powertrain reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2019 · 2021 · 2022
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission gear slipping and loss of power at highway speeds
The transmission unexpectedly slips into neutral or disengages during acceleration, causing total loss of motive power at highway speeds (55–75 mph) for 3–10 seconds. Engine RPM revs high while vehicle loses speed rapidly. Vehicle eventually re-engages after several seconds. Occurs unpredictably during normal driving, lane changes, passing, merging, and acceleration.
When: Between 7,400 and 90,000 miles; reported from early ownership through high mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of acceleration and power while pressing accelerator; Engine RPM spikes to redline while transmission disengages; Vehicle loses speed rapidly (from 65–75 mph down to 40 mph or lower); No immediate warning lights before failure; Loud clunk or clunking noise when transmission re-engages; Entire vehicle jolts or shudders when power returns; Transmission feels like it is 'floating' between gears; Unresponsive for 3–10 seconds before power returns
Codes mentioned: No diagnostic fault codes generated in most cases, Occasional 'Shift System Fault' or wrench light appears during or immediately after event, Some cases report 'Transmission stuck in park' code, Some cases report 'Reduced Engine Power' message, PCM-related failures (per Recall 24E13)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers perform transmission relearn/reset and adaptive learning resets; multiple transmission rebuilds and full transmissions replacements attempted (costs cited: $7,000–$9,914 for replacement); throttle body replacement tried unsuccessfully; transmission fluid flushes and cooler line flushes performed; valve body replacements attempted; torque converter replacement; main control valve body, separator plate, and channel plate replaced; ignition coils and spark plugs replaced; TCM updates; software downloads and reflashes; transmission stuck in park code reset; all repairs frequently unsuccessful—failures recur within days to weeks
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 24E13 issued April 25, 2025 for PCM malfunction (addresses some cases); Ford TSB 22-2428 cited by owners regarding 10-speed transmission defects; Ford TSB 24-2101 referenced; manufacturers repeatedly deny fault codes exist when none are recorded; Ford denies vehicle is under warranty past powertrain warranty period; some dealers unable to replicate failures and refuse repair; manufacturer field technician advised brake light sensor replacement (unrelated, ineffective); buyback offers made in at least one case but denied in others; Ford engineers scheduled to visit dealer in at least one case; multiple transmission software updates issued (2024) without resolving the issue
Hard and harsh transmission shifting
Transmission shifts abruptly, harshly, and with abnormal force—particularly during downshifts and while shifting into 5th, 7th, and 8th gears. Shifts may be delayed or search for the correct gear. Occurs during acceleration, normal driving, and while depressing the accelerator pedal. Can occur in bumper-to-bumper traffic and at various speeds.
When: From early ownership (one week after new purchase) through 90,000+ miles; some cases from 2023 onward, escalating in 2024–2025
Symptoms owners cite: Abrupt, harsh, or jerky downshifts; Vehicle jerks significantly during gear transitions; Loud clunking, banging, or grinding noises during shifting; Delayed or slow shifts between gears; Transmission 'searches' or hesitates before engaging correct gear; Violent lurching or shuddering that wakes sleeping passengers or causes nausea; Passenger vomited due to intensity of shift; Transmission shifting from high gear to low gear continuously (example: 8th to 1st)
Codes mentioned: Power train warning light illuminated, 'Shift System Fault' or 'Service System Fault' message displayed, 'Shift FYS Fault - Service Required' warning light, 'Reduced Engine Power' message, Check engine light, Wrench light
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission relearn and adaptive learning resets performed (temporary improvement only, failures return); main control valve body replaced; separator plate and channel plate replaced; transmission rebuilt (multiple times in same vehicle, failures recur); torque converter replaced; broken seal inside C-clutch replaced; transmission cooler and lines flushed; transmission fluid replaced; ignition coils and spark plugs replaced; full transmission replacement recommended in multiple cases (cost not specified in some narratives); costs cited range $7,000–$12,160+ for rebuilds; repairs frequently ineffective—harsh shifts return within days to weeks
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers acknowledge issue is common in Ford Expeditions with 10-speed transmission; TSBs exist (24-2101, 22-2428 cited); Recall 24E13 relates to PCM; dealers unable to reproduce issue in many cases despite owner documentation; service advisers state it is 'known issue' requiring module reset under warranty; after warranty expires, repairs become owner responsibility; manufacturer denies full responsibility for repair costs; in at least one case, owner offered partial cost-share (60% owner, 40% Ford) despite known defect
Transmission overheating and thermal issues
Transmission overheats to 250 degrees Fahrenheit or higher during normal highway driving, resulting in limp mode, smell of burning fluid through vents, smoke from engine bay, and potential radiator failure. Cooling system performance impacted by PCM malfunction (Recall 24E13). Transmission enters limp mode after overheating, requiring vehicle to cool before normal operation resumes.
When: Reported at 38,000 miles and higher mileage; continuous operation despite overheating
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission temperature gauge reads 250+ degrees Fahrenheit during driving; Strong burning odor coming through AC vents and from engine bay; Smoke or white smoke coming from engine bay or underneath vehicle; Driver headaches from burning odor inhalation; Vehicle enters limp mode with reduced power; Repeated overheating cycles
Codes mentioned: No immediate warning lights (in some cases), Power train malfunction warning light (after overheating occurs), 'Limp mode' activated
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission cooling system valve replaced; radiator failure requiring replacement; transmission cooler and lines flushed; vehicle remains unrepaired in at least one case; radiator ruptured without warning lamps in one documented case
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: PCM malfunction identified as root cause (Recall 24E13, April 25, 2025); dealers documented coolant leak and radiator burst; Ford engineers scheduled to diagnose in at least one case; vehicle remains unrepaired and in dealer possession; Harbin Motor Company (Scottsboro, AL) holding failed components available for inspection
Transmission stuck in park and starting issues
Vehicle transmission becomes stuck in park, preventing normal shifting to drive or reverse. In one case, after brake light sensor replacement attempt, vehicle failed to start when start button was depressed. Transmission 'stuck in park' code detected in diagnostic scans.
When: Reported at 7,400 miles and approximately 55,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission stuck in park and unable to shift to drive or reverse; Start button press does not start vehicle; Violent shifting when attempting to shift from park into drive or reverse on inclines (despite parking brake being set)
Codes mentioned: 'Transmission stuck in park' code, Battery light (in one case with start failure)
Repairs/costs cited: Brake light sensors replaced (ineffective and unrelated to actual transmission problem); vehicle ultimately not repaired—buyback offered instead; no transmission repair costs specified
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer field technician incorrectly advised brake light sensor replacement; manufacturer subsequently offered buyback when start failure occurred; manufacturer notified of failure
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) malfunction affecting transmission and cooling
PCM manages engine-transmission communication and cooling system performance. PCM malfunction causes cascading failures in transmission (delayed shifting, hesitation, gear slippage) and cooling system (overheating, radiator rupture). Subject to Recall 24E13 issued April 25, 2025.
When: Detected via diagnostic scan on April 10, 2025; vehicle operated while exhibiting symptoms
Symptoms owners cite: Delayed transmission shifting and hesitation; Transmission stuck in park; Repeated overheating without warning lamps; Coolant leak without warning lamps; Radiator bursting; Loss of gears unexpectedly; Excessive engine RPM revving before transmission engages; Delayed acceleration; Loud clunking during shifting; Burning smell during acceleration
Codes mentioned: PCM-related failure code, 'Transmission stuck in park' code, Overheating code
Repairs/costs cited: No repair completed; vehicle requires PCM replacement (per Recall 24E13); transmission rebuild required; failed components in possession of Harbin Motor Company (Scottsboro, AL)
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 24E13 issued April 25, 2025 for PCM malfunction; Harbin Motor Company (authorized Ford dealer) confirmed PCM-related failures on April 10, 2025 and May 15, 2025 via service manager Craig Davis; full transmission rebuild needed; coolant leak located; vehicle remains unrepaired
Synthesized from 239 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 12 most recent
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH the "Power Train malfunction" warning light illuminated on the instrument panel as the vehicle went into LIMP mode. The contact stated that the vehicle would fail to accelerate when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the first time the failure occurred she pulled over had the vehicle was…
I am suggesting an investigation into the 2020 model Ford expedition relating to the 10 speed automatic transmission in this vehicle and others in previous and newer models. The problem is known and has been well documented that the transmission often fails and pops out of gear especially when accelerating and is extremely dangerous for obvious reasons while passing or climbing hills. There is…
My transmission started jumping gears and slipping at 65k miles. I had it checked out then and the mechanic said that these transmissions shifted rough, but they were not really sure why and that they reprogrammed the computer and that should fix it. It went on intermittently for the next 6 months to a year and I took it in again and was told they couldn't get the transmission to shift rough or…
The contact's husband owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at 65-70 MPH on cruise control, the vehicle inadvertently downshifted, skipped a gear, and lurched forward several times. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle would skip from 3rd gear to 5th gear whenever she would depress the accelerator pedal. The contact was able to…
The incident occurred while traveling at 75 mph on the interstate. The car felt like it tried to put itself in park and slammed forward violently, at that time it came up with a shift fault light on the display, it shifted to neutral so there was no movement of the vehicle it was free wheeling, then it slammed itself back in a low gear where the vehicle slammed hard and the car engine was…
The transmission has now had over 5 shifting stall and power loss events while on the highway when attempting to downshift when accelerating. This loss of power causes a drastic reduction in speed and delay in actions. These events have nearly cause accidents at highway speeds. Additionally the radar sensor for the collision avoidance system went out and the car now shifts harshly in any gear…
Frequently when driving my 2020 Ford Expedition max the transmission slips out of gear causing it to go into neutral and put me in a position when i am unable to accelerate my vehicle. This happens mostly on the freeway when we are driving 65 MPH and greatly endangers the safety of my family. Reading several on-line forums indicates this is a common problem and should be fixed via a recall.…
The transmission in the car caused a complete loss of power. The car stopped in the middle of the street and was almost rear-ended. Our infant son was in the car at the time. We were very worried about our safety. The "see manual" warning light flashed on the screen. We had to place the car into neutral and was able to finally make it to a safe location.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the gear shifter suddenly dropped, the RPM revved up, and there was a thumping noise and a shift system malfunction warning light illuminated. The failure occurred when the contact attempted to accelerate. The failure occurred twice and on the second occurrence, the contact noticed that the RPM…
While driving in the city or on the highway when accelerating, the car will lose power almost like it shifted to neutral - pressing the gas does not do anything then all of a sudden the expedition will rapidly catch gear causing the car to jerk all of the passengers. It is very unsafe and we have almost been rear ended due to this. It is extremely unsafe and scary. I notice it happening…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2020 Ford Expedition?
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 2020 Ford Expedition?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 239 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 45 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 40,000 and 85,000 miles, with the median around 60,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 40,000; a quarter make it past 85,000. 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/2020/Ford/Expedition.
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.