10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
7 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
2 / 0
Average Mileage:
64,407 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

The NHTSA is the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints can be spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem. See the Back button — blue bar at the very top of the page — to explore more.

Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2010 Ford F-150:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

« Read the previous 20 complaints

problem #29

Sep 102014

F-150 8-cyl

  • 81,500 miles
I was traveling West on I10 in Arizona when my truck decided to down shift/limp mode at 75 mph. The result was a nice long slide until I was able to shift the transmission into neutral. Of course the cruise control still thought it was going to speed the truck up and continued accelerating until I turned it off. I was able to get to the emergency lane and shut the vehicle off. I called the dealership to report it and they asked me to start it again. It started fine and did not show any errors on the display. I was able to drive it home though at a reduced speed and not using the cruise control. I find that Ford would supply a vehicle with a limp mode that would shift the vehicle into 2nd gear limp mode at any speed and not shut off the cruise at the same time. Seems to me the vehicle should disengage the cruise and slow the vehicle when at speed and not the unexpected down shift that seems to result from any transmission issues. If I had been towing my car trailer or travel trailer this could have been catastrophic. Be nice to find out what Ford says when I finally get my truck back.

- Peoria, AZ, USA

problem #28

Aug 292014

F-150 4WD 8-cyl

  • 51,008 miles
My Ford F150 XLT was parted in my drive way, last driven at 9.00am on 8/29/2014. The vehicle was engaged in park, steering wheel locked and key fully with drawn. At around 5.00pm vehicle took off itself with out driver went down the street and hit another parked vehicle causing big damages to that vehicle and as well to Ford 150 that I own. I have several evidence of people around my street watching this happening. My purpose of this complain is: 1. to find out whether there is recall on this vehicle, and Ford hasn't informed the customers 2. the dealership san leandro Ford in ca 94577 didn't respond my compliant- my request was to find if there is recall on the vehicle. 3. my big concern is for public safety, whether this vehicle has factory and has tendency take off when fully parked and disengaged. I believe we were just lucky it didn't hit children playing on the street or didn't run in to some one's house. 4. I really beg your organization to quickly investigate, because this defect can cause serious accidents and deaths 5. we have several pictures and videos for evidence, taken by people in the neighborhood.

- Hayward, CA, USA

problem #27

Jun 262014

F-150 8-cyl

  • 110,000 miles
I parked the vehicle, removed the key from the ignition, and went into my home. I heard a loud noise coming from outside the house, and when I went out, the vehicle had rolled down the road approximately 75 yards and crashed into a tree.

- Reisterstown, MD, USA

problem #26

May 132014

F-150 8-cyl

  • 75,025 miles
Traveling down the interstate when a loud bang came from the transmission area of the vehicle and the rear wheels of the vehicle locked up causing the vehicle rear end to start hopping and sliding left. I regained control and put the gear shifter in neutral which allowed me to steer past a vehicle in the right lane and get to the shoulder of the highway. I looked in the rear view mirror and an 18 wheeler was on his brakes and was apparently going to pass close or crash into my vehicle. At this time I was moving at approximately 45-50 mph and I decided to go through the ditch and came to a stop on the frontage road. The vehicle was still running but would not throttle up. I placed the vehicle in park and attempted to throttle up which also failed. I turned the ignition off for approximately 10 minutes and crawled under the vehicle to look for damage. Amazingly no external damage was noted. At this time I restarted the vehicle and put the transmission in drive and everything worked as if nothing had ever happened. I drove the vehicle at a slow speed straight to the dealer and reported what had happened. The service manager recovered a code which had been stored when the incident happened. When the code was investigated the instructions directed the technicians to replace the megatronics valve body. Before a replacement part could be ordered the service manager received a call from the manufacturers transmission factory and was directed not to order a replacement part and that the factory would send the replacement part and to send the defective part back to the factory as soon as it was removed from the vehicle. I have researched this problem and this is not an isolated case. I was nearly killed due to a faulty part in a transmission and can only wonder who may have lost their life in the same situation. The vehicle was repaired but I could not trust it. I have sold it.

- New Iberia, LA, USA

problem #25

May 302014

F-150 8-cyl

  • 30,400 miles
My 2010 Ford F150 has approx. 30,4xx miles on it and has been maintained perfectly. In a brief summary, going in to work early (5am) potentially saved me from having a wreck to due a faulty throttle body. Upon accelerating from a red light, my truck entered into a "limp home" mode (mechanic wrench icon appeared) and began to incorrectly regulate my rpms. This caused my vehicle to become nearly stranded as I was moving no faster than 10mph in a 50mph zone. I was luckily only 1/8th of a mile from work and was able to get off the street. Upon leaving work, my truck was acting fine with no warning lights (not even the mechanic wrench). I then proceeded to drive it to an auto parts supplier to have a free diagnostic performed. No codes were saved or showed up. However, while driving back home, it again acted up and entered a limp mode. This time both "check engine" and "mechanic wrench" lights were on. I took my truck to the nearest dealer who then diagnose the problem as a faulty throttle body. I am quoted $881 to perform the replacement of a ~$150 part...since it is a 2010, it is out of the 3yr/36,000 bumper to bumper and Ford doesn't consider the throttle body part of the drive train warranty (Ford will cover the intake manifold though, a chunk of plastic that won't break)... Ford has apparently had problems w/ their drive-by-wire throttle bodies, as seen through their "consumer satisfaction program 13N03" recall. This incident should definitely be investigated as I have taken proper care of my truck (that has 30,400 miles) and I am stranded in a road, often traveled by 18 wheelers, going 10mph. I am not confident in my Ford truck.

- Pasadena, TX, USA

problem #24

Mar 172014

F-150 8-cyl

  • 74,834 miles
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. After coming home from a week of business travel, my neighbor came over to inform me that my 2010 F150 FX4 with the 5.4 V8 and 6 speed transmission was leaking transmission fluid on the driveway. After checking under the truck I looked under the hood for the transmission oil dip stick so I could check the fluid level. To my surprise, there is no transmission oil dip stick. After looking thru the owner's manual, it states that the transmission is a sealed transmission and doesn't need any oil except if there is a problem. Well obviously if there is a leak, there is a problem and there is no way to add fluid to prevent an failure issue. I then contact a dealer near my Georgia home and took it in for service. They told me it was a transmission bulkhead connector seal leak and it would cost $600 to repair. This is outrageous. After looking thru the internet, I found the Ford tsb 11-3-25. From my search, there are thousands of people reporting this issue. Since the transmission could leak until it doesn't have enough fluid to make it work properly, thus causing drivability issues. I would think this should be considered a safety issue and be a recall, not just a tsb. Therefore, I'm writing you this email to advise you of this issue incase you are not aware of it.

- Cape Coral, FL, USA

problem #23

Dec 272013

F-150

  • 58,300 miles
The contact owns a 2010 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while putting the vehicle in reverse, the vehicle accelerated abnormally at an excessive speed. The contact then shifted into drive and the vehicle accelerated uncontrollably and crashed into two vehicles. Two passengers in the vehicle sustained injuries to the neck, shoulder and back. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed and repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 58,300.

- Marrero, LA, USA

problem #22

Sep 072012

F-150

  • 27,000 miles
Growling noise in 4X2 when I put vehicle in 4X4 noise goes away.

- Lakeside, AZ, USA

problem #21

Sep 132013

F-150 8-cyl

  • 38,012 miles
I own a Ford F150 lariat 4X4 with a 5.4 engine, 3.55 gears and 38,000 miles. I was traveling at 75 mph using cruise control and all of the sudden the transmission automatically downshifted, which caused the rear tires to lock up and cause the vehicle to skid. The engines RPM's increased to at least 5000 RPM, when I shifted the transmission to neutral and shut the engine off. We I pulled the vehicle to the side of the road, the engine went into a lockdown mode with the engine and wrench icons illuminating. I let the truck sit for approximately 15 minutes and called the dealer for a tow. They instructed me to drive the truck to the dealership if possible and diagnosed the problem was related to a faulty computer (mechatronic) that controls the transmission. They did not have the controller in stock and recommended that I have the unit replaced in my home town. The dealer in my hometown claims that the have never heard of a similar problem and I need to monitor the truck for recurrence. I searched the web and it sounds as if the problem is known on the 2010 model. Your suggestions?

- Fargo, ND, USA

problem #20

Feb 012012

F-150 4WD 8-cyl

  • miles
2010 Ford F-150. Consumer writes in regards to transmission problems and gross neglect of customer service at dealerships. The consumer stated the vehicle has been in the repair shop on four separate occasions, for transmission and four-wheel drive issues, which has yet to be remedied. The dealer acknowledged there was a problem, but they didn't know how to fix it. The consumer stated while driving between 25-30 mph in heavy traffic, the vehicle made a terrible sound and when he put the vehicle in 4-wheel drive it made no difference. The consumer was informed the vehicle needed a road force balance. The road force seemed to help slightly, but only for a brief time. When he returned to the dealer, he was then told the drive line needed to be aligned. After having that done, the vehicle continued to operate in the same manner.

- Castle Rock, WA, USA

problem #19

Feb 072013

F-150 8-cyl

  • 37,605 miles
Since purchase in 2010, the transmission continually searches for the right gear, never seems to find it, and will "bang" into whatever gear it chooses. Galpin and simi valley Ford have been unable to re-create condition and simply say it is due to the electronic transmission. Approximately one year ago, simi valley Ford stated the "spline shaft" was never lubricated and claimed to have fixed the problem by lubricating the area. The problem has returned, past the basic 3/36 warranty, and now have been told the issue is not a "powertrain" issue and therefore not under the 5/60 powertrain warranty. However, they offered to install a Ford recommended clamp and more lubrication for a nominal charge. Other than the powertrain issue, the vehicle has "stalled" several occasions. Usually this occurs while coming to a stop. Vehicle is then restarted and good for awhile. Galpin Ford has been unable to reproduce, therefore, no problem.

- Moorpark, CA, USA

problem #18

Jan 012012

F-150 8-cyl

  • miles
2010 Ford F-150. Consumer writes in regards to a complaint with vehicle dealership. The consumer stated in January 2012, he started to hear an incessant high pitched squeaking noise coming from the rear driver's side of the vehicle. The dealer informed the consumer the squeaking noise was coming from the tailgate latch assembly on the driver's side. The dealer stated they lubricated both sides and was road tested and the noise was gone. The service rep, then gave the consumer a tube of silicone that was used primarily for brake components and informed the consumer, if the noise returned, lubricate the tailgate latch. For awhile, there was no noise coming from the vehicle. Approximately two weeks later, the noise had returned. The consumer went to another dealer, to have the vehicle inspected. The dealer informed the consumer, that the previous dealer provided him with the wrong type of lubricant and the dealer reassured him the problem had been resolved. However, two months later, the noise had returned again. The consumer returned to the dealer again, where they chose to lubricate the tailgate latch assembly for the third time. The consumer stated he had other issues with the vehicle that were corrected, such as the right rear shock, the transmission slip yoke, a loose fuel door and a rattling noise in the driver's side door panel.

- Dallas, TX, USA

problem #17

Jan 032013

F-150 8-cyl

  • 41,000 miles
While decelerating 2010 Ford F150 stalled (4.6L V-8). Vehicle restarted in neutral, then stalled each time vehicle was put in gear. Increased rpms in neutral and put vehicle in drive and drove to safe area, vehicle stalled. Cleaned mass air flow and made it home. Took vehicle to local dealership where vehicle was purchased and was told that because the onboard computer is not displaying a code that the truck cannot be fixed. Currently I refuse to drive a vehicle that is stalling unexpectedly and subsequently losing power steering and brake assist. This vehicle is a danger and liability to any driving inside it, or near it.

- Orange, CA, USA

problem #16

Jul 012010

F-150 8-cyl

  • 10,000 miles
At apx 10,00 miles on my 2010 F150 I started getting a clunk/bump in the driveline when stopping and starting. Sometimes it was worse when turning. I am a 20 year veteran mechanic with prior Ford dealer experience. I have not been able to get this issue resolved by the local servicing Ford dealer vanbortel Ford. It has been in many many times for the same complaint. In the life of this vehicle it has had an engine replaced at 20,00 the torque converter at 25,000 the driveshaft at apx 35,000 the rear springs at 37,000 and the issue still persists. It is in now on 12/26/2012 for a trans leak, poor engine/trans performance and reduced economy from reflashing the trans several times as well as the same clunk/bump when starting and stopping. My concern is that the unknown defect causing clunk/bump could cause a safety issue by locking up or failing at speed.

- Fairport , NY, USA

problem #15

Dec 122012

F-150

  • 30,000 miles
The contact owns a 2010 Ford F-150. While driving approximately 5 mph, the contact depressed the brake pedal but the brakes would not respond. The transmission disengaged as the vehicle began rolling backward. The contact shifted to park and was able to stop the vehicle and shut the engine off. After restarting, the contact was able to operate the vehicle without failure. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 30,000. Updated 1/15/13 the consumer stated the problem did not recur and could not be duplicated and wished to withdraw his complaint. Updated 01/17/13

- Lake Stevens, WA, USA

problem #14

Nov 182010

F-150 8-cyl

  • 10,000 miles
Sometimes around 45 to 50 mph when accelerating, the truck does a violent hard shift. It is random when it will happen and has been happening for over a year. I have taken the truck to two different dealerships several times and they keep telling me Ford is aware of it but does not have a solution. I have contacted Ford directly and they just tell me to take it back to the dealership.

- Prescott, AZ, USA

problem #13

Feb 022012

F-150 8-cyl

  • 14,350 miles
I have had the vehicle in the shop 4 times since new with various transmission problems, including harsh shifting, shudder, and now the drivetrain locking up or violently downshifting, etc. The transmission has been removed twice for evaluation and inspection. While driving to work on 2/2/12 the vehicle violently decelerated to a stop, rear wheels were locked up after slight depression on brake pedal preparing to make a turn. The speed was approximately 35 mph. The truck was stopped in road and would not move. Turned vehicle off and restarted and was able to drive from incident. Ford responds that they cannot duplicate the problem; therefore no corrective action is recommended. Web message boards report a similar problems that have been identified as violent downshift from 6th gear to 1st gear. Ford will not provide an assessment on vehicle safety, declining to comment either because the person speaking for them is not qualified, or that they cannot assess unless they can reproduce the problem. At this time, I will not put my family in this vehicle.

- Fredericksburg, VA, USA

problem #12

Feb 042012

F-150

  • 52,000 miles
After owning my truck for nearly 2 years I began to notice a musty smell. Last weekend my kids were riding in the back seat and noticed water pooled on the center seatbelt frame. I immediately thought the sliding glass window was partially opened, but it wasn't. besides it was no where near where the water was pooling. Then we noticed in both corners of the headliner dark water stains. Just by looking at the cab of the truck it looks to me like it is the molding that extends about 18 inches up the cab of the truck. I'm thinking it wasn't properly sealed on the roof. I am sure it has been leaking since day one, but with the drought here in houston for the last year I am just now noticing since it rains at least twice a week. Ford is saying it is out of warranty and I would have to pay to have it fixed. Excuse me but why is this considered warranty work when it is clearly craftsmanship of the truck. First time Ford owner but never again. I don't have enough time to explain all the transmission and brake issues.

- New Caney, TX, USA

problem #11

Jul 292011

F-150

  • 10,000 miles
Purchased the truck used with 8,000 miles. While driving, the brakes seemed to start getting. Real touchy and almost put you in the windshield. Took the truck in for service and. Was told that was normal on the newer models, after suggesting it felt like the trailer assist didn't feel like it was releasing. The service advisor even showed me a printed note on my bill that stated there was no service concern. Also having transmission flutter when slowing for a stop or to make a turn. There has also been times when the transmission clunks then drops into a gear. Also experiencing vibration when slowing down. The body also bounces bad enough where it will get to the point of being uncontrollable. I only have 26,000 mi on the truck and drive highway. Turned into my driveway off the street and the body sounded like it was going to fall off the frame.

- Bonner Springs, KS, USA

problem #10

Dec 292009

F-150 8-cyl

  • 1,800 miles
Problems incurred second day of driving...into Ford dealer @ 1800 miles...now 30,000.severe transmission hits @ start & stop violent slamming between gears and when dowshifting complete slipage/disengagement when backing up slight grade. Left front brake drags with wheel sliding on ice-snow, brake linings smoke and smell and rotor 386 degrees with others @ 124-160. In to 3-different Ford dealerships a total of 6 times and with factory Ford technician once and told twice by Ford dealer shop managers that there is nothing they can...will do. "all" say they've re-programmed the transmission and cleared the learning curve. No codes stored or seen....Ford has tried to tell me basically...I'm nuts and everything is fine...have four written statements of other drivers of my truck as to what they've incurred...makes no differenc. Have filed with BBB and going to arbitration, which from what all the other Ford F150 owners are saying...will be an exercise in futility...and time. Have given Ford diagrams showing transmission problems....have given Ford written and verbal descriptiions of under what conditions it happens and to drive under same and expierence for themselves...they "all" refuse to enter my complete descriptions onto work order or drive it under conditions described. Have no idea why 3-400,000 Ford F150 owners do not file a class action...only way Ford will respond.........will not...cannot drive on ice/snow for fear of losing control when both brake and transmission problems may occur.

- Brighton, CO, USA

Read the next 9 complaints »