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2021 Ford F-150 Unexpected Neutral Recall 25V-169

Ford has issued a recall (NHTSA ID 25V-169) for certain 2021 F-150 vehicles due to a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software issue that can cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral, leading to a loss of drive power.

ByAhmet Topcu — Founder & Editor-in-Chief2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150 — Ford F-150 unexpected neutral
Editorial illustration generated for this article.
25V16900025S2422V-188DTC for low transmission fluid pressureunexpectedly shift into neutralPowertrain Control Module (PCM) softwareFord F-150 unexpected neutralF-150 transmission shift neutral2021 Ford F-150 recallF-150 loss of drive power

Why this matters

An unexpected shift into neutral while driving is a serious safety concern. If your 2021 Ford F-150 unexpectedly shifts into neutral, it results in an immediate loss of drive power, which can significantly increase the risk of a crash, especially in traffic or at higher speeds.

What's being recalled

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. This recall specifically addresses vehicles that were previously repaired incorrectly under an earlier recall, 22V-188. The issue stems from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, which may falsely activate a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure.

Symptoms

The primary symptom owners might experience is the transmission unexpectedly shifting into neutral. This condition is triggered by a false activation of the "DTC for low transmission fluid pressure" within the vehicle's system.

Manufacturer's remedy

Ford dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software on affected vehicles. This repair will be performed free of charge to the owner. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed on April 22, 2025.

Owner action

If you own a 2021 Ford F-150, you should contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more information. Ford's internal number for this recall is 25S24. You may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or visit nhtsa.gov.

NHTSA ID: 25V169000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the problem with the 2021 Ford F-150 transmission?
The 2021 Ford F-150 may experience an unexpected shift into neutral due to a software issue in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that falsely activates a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure.
What is the recall number for the Ford F-150 unexpected neutral issue?
The NHTSA recall identification number for this issue is 25V-169000. Ford's internal recall number is 25S24. This recall also relates to previous recall 22V-188.
How will Ford fix the unexpected neutral problem in my F-150?
Ford dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software on affected 2021 F-150 vehicles. This software update will be provided free of charge to resolve the issue causing the Ford F-150 unexpected neutral condition.
When will I be notified about the 2021 Ford F-150 recall?
Owner notification letters regarding this recall (25V-169000) are scheduled to be mailed by Ford on April 22, 2025.

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