2016 Ford F-150 Engine Problems

Truck totally shuts off randomly while driving. Loss of everything Z

NHTSA ID

11774657

Incident

Oct 1, 2026

My 2016 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 has experienced repeated failures involving the transmission gear-position system and inability to start. During the most recent incident, I was stopped at a traffic light when a wrench warning illuminated on the dashboard and all transmission gear-position indicators disappeared. The vehicle remained operational but exhibited significantly reduced performance when accelerating. Concerned about the malfunction, I turned off the ignition to attempt a restart. The vehicle would not restart, leaving me stranded. This failure created a serious safety concern because the vehicle could have become disabled in active traffic. Previously, the vehicle experienced a similar no-start condition. An independent repair facility replaced the starter, negative battery cable, and shift lever. Although the vehicle initially operated normally, the problem returned. The repair facility subsequently reproduced the failure and retrieved diagnostic trouble codes consistent with Ford's transmission-related safety recall. The underlying defect remains unresolved. The vehicle is currently undrivable and located at an authorized Ford dealership, where it is available for inspection. Ford customer service informed me that the recall remedy has been paused because the existing fix is ineffective. The dealership cannot perform its own diagnostic evaluation until December. Despite the vehicle being undrivable due to a suspected recall-related defect, both Ford corporate customer service and the dealership have declined to provide a loaner vehicle, rental assistance, or an expedited diagnostic evaluation. I am concerned about the risk of unexpected transmission behavior, loss of power, and vehicle immobilization in traffic. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this safety defect and the lack of an available effective recall remedy.

NHTSA ID

11773650

Incident

Oct 23, 2026

My truck was driving fine since I bought it 9 years ago. Ford sent me a letter saying to come in for a recall (Recall 26S28). I went to my local Ford dealership for the recall work, and after that my truck started driving very poorly. The transmission would shudder, and studder at all RPMs (unsafe at highway speeds). I called the dealership and was given the run around. I was told by the dealership that the 'transmission learning' was reset and that it was fine now. Their fix didn't do anything and the truck still had transmission problems. I then found out that the recall that was performed on my truck was 'paused' due to it causing 'issues'. Ford refuses to tell me why the recall was paused, and insists that the recall did not break my truck (even though it was obviously paused for a reason). After driving it for a few months and it getting worser and worse, I called another branch of the dealership. They told me that my transmission was basically broken now, and that it would be $9000 to replace it. The truck has 72000 miles on it. The truck ran perfectly fine for almost a decade and now the transmission fails after the transmission recall work was done. I read of other F150 owners who had the recall done, and their trucks spontaneously missed a shift on the highway which is very unsafe. The Ford dealership told me to call the Ford help line, which is basically a black hole with a rep reading from a script. Ford has made my truck unsafe, nearly undrivable and unsellable, and refuses to take any action or responsibility.

NHTSA ID

11773604

Incident

Aug 27, 2026

Driving down Highway 6/34. Cruise set at 65 mph. The truck on its own Shifted into 2nd gear and revving up the engine caused the vehicle to slow uncontrollably, which is very unsafe driving. The 2016 has a safety recall to prevent this from happening. I am writing this to report that my truck has had the recall done, and this still happened. I will park the truck until Ford can fix it. But they are trying to get out of fixing this safety issue with all these trucks. At 65 mph, I lost control of the truck, and thank goodness there were no other vehicles on the road around me

NHTSA ID

11764971

Incident

Sep 16, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a recall repair associated with the PCM reprogramming. Upon retrieval, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode while driving. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear, and the vehicle lost motive power. The dealer was contacted and provided the contact with an estimate for a diagnostic test. The contact spoke with a supervisor, but no additional assistance was provided.

NHTSA ID

11761800

Incident

Aug 26, 2026

The contact’s son owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

NHTSA ID

11755292

Incident

Mar 6, 2026

Mileage

120,000 mi

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. The contact stated that the power train warning light and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was notified that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train). The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the diagnostic result was unknown. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted, and the warning lights were flashing. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that an unknown transmission part and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11754711

Incident

Apr 4, 2026

I was driving on the highway speed limit 65, and all of the sudden it down shifted to first gear, jerking the truck almost to a complete stop, very scary and unsafe. I pulled over to recoup myself . It is now happening more frequently, wrench light on the dash . Not sure what I need to do , my truck is my life support for me and my family! Help me please! Thank you,

NHTSA ID

11753628

Incident

Jul 13, 2026

Vehicle suddenly seemed to shift while driving causing a loud sound, jerk and caused a loss of control suddenly.

NHTSA ID

11752526

Incident

Jul 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH on three occasions, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to first gear and the vehicle decelerated to 20 MPH. The vehicle became uncontrollable momentarily; however, the contact was able to regain control of the vehicle. The contact was concerned about driving the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The powertrain service warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission lead frame needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a ticket was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 182,000.

NHTSA ID

11751114

Incident

Apr 15, 2026

Mileage

182,000 mi

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55-60 MPH, the park, neutral, and drive lights started to cycle and flash. The transmission unexpectedly downshifted to first gear with the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The local dealer was contacted about NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train); and confirmed that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 162,009.

NHTSA ID

11747349

Incident

Jun 10, 2026

Mileage

162,009 mi

VALVE TRAIN FAILURE

NHTSA ID

11746764

Incident

Jun 12, 2026

.2016 F-150 Ford Truck. Purchased from a used car dealership. While driving the truck on a freeway at about 40 MPH, accelerated to 55 MPH and changed lanes. Engine went into limp mode. Check engine light flashed. Started to deaccelerate. Moved vehicle over to shoulder. Fault codes: P0340, P0344, P0365, P0369. This truck has a 2.7L EcoBoost engine. Mileage is about 130,000. Two mechanics from different companies evaluated and found timing chain broke and sheared the keyway on the crank shaft where the timing sprocket is located. There was not prior warning to indicate any issues.

NHTSA ID

11743075

Incident

Mar 23, 2026

Our truck was smoking from the exhaust and we took it to the local Ford service department. They determined the oil pan is leaking, there is a coolant leak from the engine, requiring a new engine, and also the need for turbos. These are the EXACT issues that are included in this service bulletin making dealerships aware. If this is such a widespread problem with these trucks, why is there not a recall to make proper repairs?

NHTSA ID

11741670

Incident

May 5, 2026

Low idol sputters then dies down shifts clunks and stays stuck in 3rd gear cruse control fails different modes stop working wrench light on dash truck is lurching on takeoff basically just destroying itself while in operation rendering it undriveable

NHTSA ID

11740291

Incident

May 24, 2025

Our truck has been experiencing downshift to a lower gear and the powertrain warning lamp wrench symbol in the instrument panel cluster comes on. This has been happening from about 4/1/2026 and ongoing.

NHTSA ID

11737764

Incident

Apr 1, 2026

VEHICLE SAFETY COMPLAINT STATEMENT Prepared for NHTSA Submission Regarding Recall 26V237 / 26S28 To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Subject: Report of Accident and Vehicle Control Loss Due to Defect Specified in Recall 26V237 VEHICLE INFORMATION: Year/Make/Model: 2016 Ford F-150 VIN: [XXX] INCIDENT DESCRIPTION: In March, while driving during a snowstorm, the vehicle experienced a sudden and unexpected loss of traction and stability. Without warning, the rear wheels appeared to lock or drastically reduce speed, causing the truck to slide uncontrollably and strike a roadside barrier. Following the initial impact, while attempting to move the vehicle to a safe location as instructed by insurance/authorities, the engine suddenly stalled and shut down completely while in motion, nearly resulting in a second high-speed collision with the vehicle ahead. CORRELATION WITH RECALL 26V237: In May, I received a Safety Recall Notice (Ford Recall 26S28 / NHTSA Recall 26V237). The description of the defect—an "unexpected downshift to a lower gear causing abrupt wheel speed reduction and rear tire slide"—exactly matches the catastrophic event I experienced in March. The recall also notes that the engine may malfunction or stall, which occurred during my incident. IMPACT & DAMAGES: The insurance company evaluated the damage at approximately $6,000 for structural repairs. However, the vehicle remains unsafe and mechanically compromised. Despite the structural fixes, the core safety defect involving the transmission and engine software remains unresolved as Ford has stated that a remedy will not be available until July 2026. REQUEST: I am filing this formal complaint to document that the defect in Recall 26V237 resulted in a real- world accident and total loss of vehicle utility prior to the notification being sent. I request that NHTSA takes note of this incident as part of its oversight of Ford's recall execution, as the vehicle is currently un-dri INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO

NHTSA ID

11736995

Incident

Jan 24, 2026

Ford Corporate will not reimburse for the repairs that need to be made or provide a loaner car until the recall equipment is available. Need vehicle to drive to work. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The automatic lead frame has gone due to the PCM recall for my ford 150 2016 vehicle Safety or the safety of others put at risk? Family in the car driving to an event Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes it has been identified by a local service center with the computer codes Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes, orange wrench light came on, sudden downshifting of the vehicle, the traction control would shut off, the gear and drive lights would shut off Powertrain control module pcm reprogramming Recall incomplete Recall service not available right now. We have a remedy but parts are not available right now. We will inform you when the service is available. Or, you can contact your dealer. Issue Date 2026-04-14 Campaign 26S28/26V237 Description On your vehicle, an unexpected downshift to a lower gear may occur and cause an abrupt wheel speed reduction for a short duration. In some cases, this could cause the rear tires to slide until the vehicle speed slows down. You may also experience a malfunction indicator lamp mil andor a powertrain warning lamp wrench symbol in the instrument panel cluster prior to an unintended downshift occurring. Safety Risk This may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy A remedy is not yet available. Ford Motor Company is working to provide software for this repair. When the remedy becomes available, Ford Motor Company will notify you via mail to schedule a service appointment with your dealer for repairs to be completed free of charge. The remedy is anticipated to be available in July 2026.

NHTSA ID

11734861

Incident

Apr 25, 2026

My vehicle keeps downshifting randomly at highway speeds and will also not shift out of 1st or 2nd. Rear tires keep locking up. 1. PCM 2. I have a hard time keeping vehicle in control 3. Yes, active recall can't repair until July 4. Yes, it has been inspected 5. Yes, check engine and wrench light

NHTSA ID

11734757

Incident

Mar 26, 2026

Exhaust manifold studs broke off (as do they all break) and turbos oil lines leak engine oil causing fire. By the time I stopped and got out there was already flames coming out from the hood. It was so fast I didn’t have time to be get my firearms or tools out. I have not notified Ford or and I only had liability insurance on my 2016 f150. 3.5 eco boost.

NHTSA ID

11734087

Incident

Feb 8, 2026

Oil pan leaks. The F150 just crossed 70,000 miles. At just under 60,000 miles the truck had what the Ford Service tech described as a weap from the oil pan. He said it was a costly repair so just to watch it. At 65,000 it was a steady drip when the oil was warm. Now at 70,000 the Ford dealer is recommending a replacement. What I have learned is this is a common failure on 2015 to 2017 F150s with the 2.7L engine. I suspect this was happening earlier but the Ford Dealer was relucant to bring it up as it would have at the time been covered under warranty. I have also now learned Ford is on its 3rd TSB for resolving this common leak at the oil pan. Hopefully this will warrant a recall response from Ford. From research this is a very common failure and engine damage will occur if the leaking oil pan is not repaired. Please investigate as I suspect there are numerous complaints. Thank you.

NHTSA ID

11728437

Incident

Mar 31, 2026

While driving, the hill descent fault error would pop up on the instrument panel, the truck would begin to shake, and the gas pedal would no longer work. I would have to pull over, shut the vehicle off for a few minutes and restart it. This happened multiple time while driving on the highway and in town. After sitting in the driveway for while trying to get repairs scheduled, the issue got worse, and I would have to pull over every one to 2 minutes due to this issue occuring.

NHTSA ID

11725877

Incident

Sep 2, 2025

While driving the instrument cluster would flicker and then the truck would down shift gears. The first time it did, it dropped from 6th gear to 3rd gear at 70 mph, and the next time it dropped from 6th to 1st around 65 mph. It also occurred at lower rates of speed.

NHTSA ID

11725872

Incident

Sep 2, 2025

Very slowly a noise started on the passenger side of the engine and kept getting louder, didn’t know if it was a vacuum hose leak or something else. Finally the noise was very loud especially when accelerating, I took to my local Ford dealership to have them find the noise and let me know. 3 days later, I get a call from the service writer and he tells what the problem was, so I told I would be by to pickup the vehicle and he tells me that I can’t as the engine was taken apart on the passenger side. I told him, I didn’t authorize him to do that, only to find the noise, needless to say I was quite angry and I had no choice but to have them repair the exhaust manifold bolts which had broken towards the rear of the engine. After much discussion, he told me that this was a normal incident with this engine/vehicle combination due to heat buildup. I asked if there was a service bulletin on it and he played dumb and said no there wasn’t after telling me it happens a lot. To me this should have been covered under the long term factory warranty. The vehicle only had 61,500 miles on it. After hassling with him, I asked the price and it was going to over $6000.00, Again I am very angry, as I have no choice, and they end up replacing turbo parts that were just replaced 5,000 miles ago. I can’t believe how they handled it, no recourse and out of pocket $6,000. I made numerous calls to Ford in Michigan and got the total run-around. I really like this truck as it has served me well. Since, the service writer admitted that it was a continuous problem with this issue, as they have steel bolts going into an aluminum head, of course with heat there will be problems. I have heard of a few F-150 owners on a Ford website with the same issue and they ask the same thing, why not a recall? I would love to get reimbursed for all that money I had no choice to put out, as I would taken it to a certified mechanic that does all my work now! Total BS on the dealer and Ford!

NHTSA ID

11720029

Incident

May 9, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH, the vehicle shuddered and stalled. The WRENCH symbol (Powertrain Malfunction Indicator Light) was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

NHTSA ID

11718475

Incident

Feb 13, 2026

Mileage

98,000 mi