3 million 2015-2017 model year Ford F-150 units are under federal investigation for a previously probed issue, after an initial NHTSA investigation and subsequent recall allegedly failed to address an unexpected downshifting issue. The new investigation was officially launched on January 30, 2026, and encompasses a total of 1,270,970 F-150 units, more than doubling the number of trucks that were previously investigated and then recalled. Initially, Ford recalled 552,188 F-150 pickups that had a tendency to drop into first gear, regardless of the truck's speed.
This specific issue was focused on the transmission's Output Shaft Speed sensor, as it miscommunicated with the truck's Powertrain Control Module and scrambled the pre-set shift mapping. However, this latest recall grows the population significantly, due to an additional issue related to the directional control of the truck. Ford has been working to address these issues, but the new investigation suggests that more work is needed to ensure the safety of its vehicles.
The issue at hand involves the Transmission Range Sensor, which can also inadvertently shift into neutral, leaving drivers unable to reverse up a hill and liable to roll away. This adds a loss of motive power to the mix, making it even more concerning for federal regulators. Preliminary testing performed by NHTSA’s Vehicle Research Test Center (VRTC) showed that when the TRS experiences an intermittent signal loss, one possible outcome is a change in vehicle direction.
Specifically, if a vehicle is operating in reverse up an incline when the TRS signal loss occurs, then the vehicle may shift into neutral causing the vehicle to change directions and roll forward. " This latest development highlights the importance of ongoing testing and monitoring to ensure the safety of vehicles on the road. As a result, Ford F-150 owners are advised to remain vigilant and report any unusual behavior or symptoms to their local dealership or NHTSA.
The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen how many trucks will ultimately be affected by this new recall.
This latest development underscores the need for continued vigilance in monitoring vehicle safety issues, particularly those that can impact driver control and safety on the road.
