Ford F-150 Complaints (2018)

2,327 consumer complaints on file.

#11730248April 9, 2026
POWER TRAIN
1. 10R80 (CDF DRUM BUSHING) failure. The vehicle has pressure loss when put into gear, driving or slowing down, taking your foot off the gas, sluggish when put in first gear to drive, performance, and harsh shifting- at any speed when driving, missing gears - it' jolts hard (shifting up or shifting down) when the vehicle shifts, particularly between gears 1–3, 3–4, 6 - 8 it misses 2nd and 7th gear. While driving the vehicle it goes into to neutral despite being in gear. The vehicle has stopped on the road while driving and not able to put the vehicle into gear to drive at all. Wrench Light On: Codes P0732-00, P076F-00, P07F6-00, P07F7-00, U0252-00 Yes the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. 2. Our safety is at risk since the vehicle suddenly changes gears up or down causes major jolt sitting in the seat and abruptly slows down on the rode with traffic, or if you slow down or stop it might not go back into gear. I have had back surgery (lumbar) and it hurts my back. not to mention, the whiplash to our necks every time the vehicle jerks in and out of gear. Vehicle suddenly slows down making it dangerous for vehicle around us as well. 3. We first took the vehicle to Macon Auto Repair 2/23/2026 (no codes at this time unable to determine the problem), 2/24/26 took the vehicle to Rodney's Transmission for a second opinion - they checked the transmission fluids and added one quart of oil (still no codes to determine the problem) . The wrench appeared after the problems started and is whey we took it twice to two different shops not knowing what was the problem. When the wrench appeared we took the vehicle to Rodney's Transmission 4/2/2026 where the vehicle was inspected and the codes are from the diagnostic test done by, Rodney's Transmission, Thompsonville, KY 4. Symptoms yes, described above. Warming light not until after the problems continued to occur.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729898April 8, 2026
POWER TRAIN
this is the 10 speed transmission. When starting from a stop the truck will start to shift thru gears and then shift into neutral and the engine will rev very high and then slam back into a lower gear.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729514April 6, 2026
POWER TRAIN
I was accelerating from a red light and felt like I had lost power. The RPM's of the engine increased, but I was slowing down. After about 5 seconds, the transmission engaged harshly and the wheels started spinning/squealing like burning out. I almost lost control of the vehicle. If the road would have been slippery, I would have lost control, in heavy traffic. I took my F150 into the Ford Dealership to be inspected. Afterwards, I was told I need a new transmission. The cost would be over $11,000.00 with tax for a new transmission! My truck had 75,000 miles on it, just out of warranty. There is no reason for my transmission to go out at such low mileage. I have not hauled or pulled anything heavy. I take care of my vehicles and have scheduled maintenance performed. As I researched this problem, I discovered it is a known issue on the 2018 Ford F150 vehicles. I found where people documented the same problem on YouTube and the internet. I went through dozens of cases by people with the same problem. There are probably 100's but I stopped after confirming the issue. Even Ford personnel said they were aware of it. When a customer walked up and stated they had a problem with their 2018 F150, their first thought was the transmission. This is an extreme hazard. Like in my case, the issue reveals itself while driving. There are no warning lights or indication. It is known to happen in lower gears, so usually on takeoff. There are so many scenarios where people are depending on the vehicle to accelerate, like when turning and other vehicles are approaching. If the vehicle stalls in front of the oncoming traffic, or if you lose control, the results could be catastrophic. I hope this is addressed before someone is severely hurt or killed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729529April 6, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The vehicle experienced repeated transmission malfunctions involving the automatic transmission system. Symptoms began occurring consistently and included failure to properly shift between gears, particularly failure to engage 3rd gear, resulting in high engine RPM followed by a sudden and harsh engagement into gear. The transmission would also fail to downshift when coming to a stop, at times remaining stuck in higher gears such as 4th or 9th, creating hesitation and delayed acceleration from a stop. Additional symptoms included erratic and delayed shifting between 1st and 2nd gears, with high RPM and abrupt engagement. The issue was reproducible during normal driving conditions and became more frequent over time. Using tow/haul mode temporarily reduced the severity of the issue but did not resolve it. These conditions created a potential safety concern, as delayed or incorrect gear engagement could result in hesitation when accelerating into traffic or when attempting to merge, increasing the risk of a collision. The issue was discussed with a dealership service advisor, who indicated that based on the described symptoms, the transmission likely required rebuild or replacement. The vehicle was subsequently inspected and repaired by an independent transmission specialist, who confirmed internal transmission failure. The transmission required a full rebuild, including replacement of major internal components such as the CDF drum, torque converter, and servicing of the valve body. No consistent warning lights were present prior to the failure, and the condition developed progressively with increasing frequency and severity. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by an independent service center and required significant repair to restore normal operation.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728496April 1, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Was slowing down to turn, engine cut out and received an “auto start/stop, shift to P and then restart engine” error on dash. Almost got in an accident because of it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728643April 1, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES
While driving a chime rang with message “low brake fluid”. Immediately noticed brake pedal soft and braking dramatically reduced. Was able to stop the vehicle close by gas station. Purchased 2 16 ounce bottles brake fluid. The reservoir was almost empty and I put in 16 ounces. Brake warning message was gone. Proceeded home which was 5 miles away. As I neared home warning returned. Once home I checked the reservoir and it was empty. Put the other 16 ounces in and checked for leaked under the truck. Found no leaked. Did some research and saw there was a recall for the brakes. • The Defect: The master cylinder's piston cup seals can fail, causing brake fluid to leak into the brake booster, reducing hydraulic pressure, I tried to move my truck but when I pressed on the brakes the pedal went all the way to the floor. Was able to put in neutral and stop the truck safely. I had the truck towed to Honolulu Ford. Was informed my truck was not included in the recall. They replaced the brake master cylinder, brake booster, and vacuum tube. At a cost of $2490.85. I believe Ford should have fixed this at no cost because the exact issue has been addressed on 2 previous recalls . From the time I got the message of low brake fluid to not having any brakes was almost immediately. I believe this could have been much worse. Prior to this I did not have any issues with the brakes. I check fluid levels regularly and never had to add brake fluid.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728221March 31, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The 10R80 transmission has shifting shutters and loses what gear it is in and causes loss of throttle, hanging in gear and sudden downshift at road speed causing control issues. A faulty drum in transmission is to blame is my understanding and Ford is aware of this problem for model year, replacement cost is over 10,000 dollars for a poor design. Reading online forums this is a common issue Ford is aware of.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728235March 31, 2026
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the sunroof slides became inoperable. There was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer annually, where it was diagnosed and determined that the slides were fractured. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728400March 31, 2026
POWER TRAIN
My 2018 Ford F‑150 XLT has the 10R80 automatic transmission with severe issues including harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, and unpredictable shift timing. Symptoms occur during normal driving and create a serious safety hazard. Ford dealer replaced transmission with a remanufactured 10R80, part number JL3Z‑7000‑ERM, and is listed in Ford’s Equipment Safety Recall 25SB3 (dated 10/28/2025) for missing internal bearings and unsafe shifting behavior. When the Ford dealer replaced the transmission on 02/26/2025, they recorded mileage as 70,009 miles, 9k miles lower than the actual mileage of 79,009. This discrepancy creates a false service record and misrepresents when the failure occurred. It also affects warranty determinations, recall eligibility, and the accuracy of the vehicle’s service history. The mileage history shows a consistent progression documented by two independent auto shops (see attached files). This mileage discrepancy impacts warranty and goodwill eligibility, recall-related determinations, accuracy of Ford’s internal service history and Carfax/AutoCheck reporting. Despite the replacement, the transmission continues to exhibit the same dangerous symptoms. As a disabled veteran, I rely heavily on safe, predictable vehicle operation. Delayed engagement and slipping created an elevated risk when operating this vehicle. The dealer informed me that Ford has not provided a fix and that they cannot take further action. I have stopped operating the vehicle due to the severity of the transmission defect and the safety risks it creates. I request that Ford correct this mileage entry and ensure the digital service record reflects the accurate mileage. I also request NHTSA investigate the transmission and mileage matters, as the vehicle is unsafe to operate and Ford has not provided a remedy. Thank you in advance.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11727863March 30, 2026
POWER TRAIN
transmission is mis-shift and jerk while shfting. There's a lag between 6 and 8th gear
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11727452March 27, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Hard jerking in the transmission around 50 miles per hour around gears 7 to 10.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11727328March 26, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AIR BAGS, SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, he was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle. The contact stated the front end of his vehicle impacted the front driver-side wheel of the other vehicle. The contact stated that not a single air bag deployed during the impact, and no brake collision warning was activated. No warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel prior to the crash. The contact stated he received a pre-collision notification on his phone approximately 30 seconds after the accident occurred, but he was unable to avoid the collision. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The contact was the only occupant in the vehicle. The contact sustained neck pain, a herniated disc, and a bulging disk in the lower back. The contact was taking no pills and undergoing physical therapy. A police report was filed. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 167,000.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11727056March 25, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E070000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted but the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission shifted harshly and there were delays while changing gear. The approximate failure mileage was 109,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11726892March 25, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, POWER TRAIN, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My truck only has 26000 miles and the transmission started acting very funny, shifting erratically, then it was stuck in 5th gear limp mode. There is some kind of bushing that comes loose in these 10 speed transmissions. It cost me $7597.48. And $150.00 towing.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11726939March 25, 2026
ENGINE
I’m experiencing the cam phaser rattle on startup on my 2018 Ford F-150 3.5L
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11727041March 25, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The transmission failed. It is available for inspection but the transmission was replaced at my cost. Traveling on the highway the vehicle bogged down and could not respond to pressing gas peddle. I had no control of the vehicle. All transpired on major highway Route 95. The problem repeated again while I was driving and it was identified by the independent service facility that the transmission failed. The vehicle was inspected by the repair facility and the fault was determined to be the failed transmission. New transmission was installed, we have all receipts. No warning lamps prior to the fault. The problem first appeared when I was traveling home on the highway from the facility I purchased the vehicle. after 1st incident the warning light appeared.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11726691March 24, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
When the F-150 would be turned off after driving for a while, the truck would not Start for a few hours until it cooled down. I had it checked out at Gator Ford and they saif they could not determine the proble. I drove it to [XXX] and had it check out at Two Rivers Ford in [XXX] and they said the truck clearly had a problem and that they "Believed it eas the 10 gear trsnission getting hot and the truck cutting off. They said I should trade it or risk the proble being the Oil Pump and eng. I took their advice and traded it for an F-150 platunm Vin: [XXX] . This is a problem and needs to be look at as now my 2023 F-150 eng has locked up that I reported with a Vin [XXX] . The cutting off with wait time was a daily occurance. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11726737March 24, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, POWER TRAIN
Manufacturer recall #24E12 (PCM software update) triggered a PO430:00-ED code (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold - Bank 2) because the new software more strictly monitors the catalytic converter, causing it to detect previously ignored degradation. This reprogram scamming program makes community bothered by paying parts replacements more than 2K, even vehicle was fine before the recall. This needs resolved with FREE FIXED and FREE Catalytic Replacement. This is not right to announce a recall with unfinished repair issues left. This needs action. Thanks, So mote it be!
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11726835March 24, 2026
POWER TRAIN
Harsh shifting from failing clutch drum
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11726440March 23, 2026
POWER TRAIN
Continuation of Complaint Number: XXX, submitted electronically to NHTSA on 3/9/2026, 12:43:36 PM. I have the Dealership Report, please find attached and add it to my original complaint. The findings match the Technical Service Bulletin: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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