The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into approximately 1.3 million Ford F-150 pickup trucks due to a defective gear change mechanism that may cause wheel lock-up. This issue pertains to the 2015-2017 model years of the Ford F-150, following over 130 consumer complaints received by the safety agency.
Complaints indicate that while driving at highway speeds, the vehicles experience an unintended gear downshift without warning, leading to rapid deceleration. Some reports suggest that this unexpected gear change causes the rear wheels to temporarily lock, seize, or skid, which could result in drivers losing control of the vehicle and increase the risk of accidents or injuries.
A Ford spokesperson stated that the company is collaborating with NHTSA to support the investigation. To date, no crashes or fires have been reported in connection with this gear change issue.
— news from New York Post