Ford F150 Transmission Problems & Cost | 4R75W / 4R75E / 6R80

Something seems wrong with your F-150 4R75E, 4R75W, 4R70W or 4R100 (Lightning only) or 6R80 (late model) transmission? Let’s look at some of the most common Ford F150 transmission problems, and see what you can do to get your truck back on the road.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Ford F150 Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate

These are the most current prices for remanufactured Ford F150 transmissions.

Replacement F150 Transmission:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
4R75E/W 4R70W2025
4R100 / E4OD2226
6R602559
6R802559

What are the DTC codes related to Ford F-150 transmission problems?

Trouble CodeDescription
P0700Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
P0701Transmission Control System Range/Performance
P0703Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit
P0705Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)
P0707Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0708Transmission Range Sensor Circuit High Input
P0710Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit
P0711Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0712Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0713Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0714Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent P0715
P0715Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit
P0716Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance 
P0717Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
P0718Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
P0720Output Speed Sensor Circuit
P0721Output Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0722Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
P0723Output Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
P0729Gear 6 Incorrect Ratio
P0730Incorrect Gear Ratio
P0731Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
P0732Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio
P0733Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio
P0734Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio
P0735Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
P0740Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0741Torque Converter Clutch Circuit
P0742Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0744Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent
P0745Pressure Control Solenoid 'A'
P0748Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0750Shift Solenoid 'A'
P0753Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0755Shift Solenoid 'B'
P0758Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical
P0766Shift Solenoid 'D' Performance or Stuck Off
P0767Shift Solenoid 'D' Stuck On
P0775Pressure Control Solenoid 'B'
P0780Shift Malfunction
P07811-2 Shift
P07822-3 Shift
P07833-4 Shift
P07844-5 Shift
P0791Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit
P0793Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
P0795Pressure Control Solenoid 'C'
P0797Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Stuck On
P0798Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Electrical
P0817Transmission Fluid Pressure Manual Valve Position Switch Reverse with Drive Ratio
P0817Starter Disable Circuit
P08295-6 Shift
P0840Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “A”
P0960Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit/Open
P0961Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0962Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Low
P0963Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit High
P0973Shift Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Low
P0976Shift Solenoid “B” Control Circuit Low
P0977Shift Solenoid “B” Control Circuit High
P0979Shift Solenoid “C” Control Circuit Low
P0980Shift Solenoid “C” Control Circuit High
P0982Shift Solenoid “D” Control Circuit Low
P0983Shift Solenoid “D” Control Circuit High
P0984Shift Solenoid “E” Control Circuit Range/Performance
P1762Nissan DTC: Direct Clutch Solenoid Valve
P2703Transmission Friction Element D Apply Time Range/Performance

Recalls & Known F150 Transmission Problems

Recall ID 12C23-S1 – Ford 6R80 Transmission

– Summary
In May 2012, the Ford Motor Company issued a compliance recall on the following vehicles equipped with the 6R80 transmission:

2011 – 2013 Ford F150
2011 – 2013 Ford Expedition
2011 – 2013 Ford Mustang
2011 – 2013 Lincoln Navigator

– Consequence
It seems that a faulty 6R80 transmission range sensor / TRS can cause a number of transmission problems when the shifter is placed in the Reverse position. The symptoms include failure to engage reverse gear, the electronic PRNDL indicator will not display reverse (if equipped), the backup lamps will not function, and intermittent rear video camera operation (if equipped).

– Remedy
Replace the 6R80 transmission lead frame (which includes the TRS sensor). Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332 or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236

2012 F-150 Shifter May Be Moved Out of Park Without Pressing the Brake Pedal (NHTSA Recall Number: 11V582000)

Summary
Ford recalled 16,091 units of the 2011 Ford F150, to replace a defective brake shift interlock switch. This little device is designed to prevent the shifter from being moved out of Park unless the brake pedal is depressed.

Consequence
If the brake shift interlock switch isn’t working properly, the shifter will be able to move out of park, without the brake pedal being depressed. Should this happen, the truck could instantly lunge forward or backward, causing an accident with another vehicle or striking a pedestrian walking by (again, that would be very bad).

Remedy
In 2011, Ford instructed its dealers to inspect and replace faulty brake shift interlock switch on affected 2011 F150 models. If you’re experiencing this problem, or are unsure if the recall repair was performed on your truck, you can call Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Have your VIN number handy, and refer to this Ford recall campaign number: 11C21

TCC Application in 2nd Gear – 4R75E Transmission / 4R70 Transmission

2005 – 2006 Ford F-150
Problem – A lack of power after the 1-2 shift can be caused by an un-commanded torque converter clutch application / TCC apply. The P0742 and/or P1742 DTCs may also be stored.
Solution – The #7 check ball inside of the valve body may have worn down to an incorrect size, allowing the torque converter clutch to apply after the 1-2 shift. Replacement of this check ball may solve the problem.

Slipping in All Forward Gears – 4R75E Transmission

2005 – 2006 Ford 4R75E Transmission
Problem – Many 2005 – 2006 Ford vehicles equipped with the 4R75E transmission, may experience excessive slipping in all forward gears. Metal shavings may also be present in the transmission fluid.
Solution – Replace forward clutch drum and update ECU with program 06B06

Poor performance with DTCs P0715, P0716 & P0717 – 4R100 Transmission

Problem – Poor engine performance and acceleration may be due to a sticking solenoid regulator valve
Solution – If the solenoid regulator valve cannot be repaired, the valve body will have to be replaced

Ford F-150 Transmission Technical Service Bulletins

TSB 13-4-23 – 4R75E Transmission – Grinding/Slipping/Loss of Reverse

2008 – 2010 Ford F-150
Problem – Some vehicles may experience a grinding/whining noise, unusual vibrations, slipping, and potentially a loss of reverse gear, all resulting from a failure of the planetary gear assembly
Solution – Install planetary upgrade kit and new torque converter

TSB 02–21–1 – 4R100 Transmission – Torque converter access plug may become dislodged

1989 – 1997 Ford Super Duty – 1989 – 1998 Ford F250 – 1989 – 1998 Ford F53 Motorhome – 1989 – 2003 Ford E-Series – 1989 – 2003 Ford F150 – 1999 – 2003 Ford Super Duty – 2000 – 2003 Ford Excursion – 1998 – 2003 Lincoln Navigator – 2002 – 2003 Lincoln Blackwood
Problem – Due to extreme load and material shrinkage, the torque converter external access dust plug may fall out during severe duty use.
Solution – Install new plug (part number E9TZ-7N171-A) with a 1/4 inch bead of silicone sealant around the plug.

TSB 98-20-9 – Ticking noise on initial startup when the selector is in park or neutral – 4R100 Transmission

1998 Ford Econoline – 1998 Ford Expedition – 1998 Ford F150 – 1998 Ford F250 – 1998 Lincoln Navigator – 1999 Ford F250 HD – 1999 Ford F350 – 1999 Ford Super Duty
Problem – A ticking noise may be hard when the vehicle is first started and the shifter is in the ‘P’ or ‘N’ position. In some cases, the noise may also be heard after the vehicle has warmed up. This can be caused by the overdrive clutch steel separator plate(s) hitting against the case internal spline.
Solution – Install new OD friction plates and accumulator assembly

TSB 10-18-1 – Delayed forward/reverse engagement after cold starts – 6R80 transmission

2007 – 2010 Ford Expedition – 2009 – 2010 Ford F150 – 2009 – 2010 Lincoln Navigator
Problem – Some vehicles equipped with the 5.4L engine and the 6R75 or 6R80 transmission may experience delayed forward and/or reverse engagement after a cold start or in cold climates. The P0741, P0731 and/or P0735 DTC’s may also be present.
Solution – A new front pump adapter seal and separator plate will need to be installed. The main oil pressure regulator valve and its bore may also need to be cleaned.

TSB 11-8-4 – Fluid leak from bell housing – 6R80 transmission

2011 Ford Expedition – 2011 Ford F150 – 2012 Ford Mustang – 2011 Lincoln Navigator
Problem – Some vehicles built between 4/15/2011-6/8/2011 may experience a transmission fluid leak coming from the bell housing area.
Solution – Install updated transmission pump assembly

TSB 14-0217 – Delayed engagement park forward or reverse

2011 – 2014 Ford Expedition – 2011 – 2014 Ford F150 – 2011 – 2014 Ford Mustang – 2011 – 2014 Lincoln Navigator
Problem – Some vehicles may experience a noticeable delay when trying to engage a forward or reverse gear from Park. This can happen with the vehicle is cold (i.e. has not been driven for several hours).
Solution – Install updated 6R80 transmission pump

TSB 18-2079 – Harsh or delayed shifting and/or P0711 DTC – 10R80 Transmission

Problem – Some owners may experience usually harsh or delayed gear changes. There may also be a P0711 diagnostic trouble code saved in the transmission control module
Solution – The powertrain control module will need to be updated with new software (release 108.04 or higher). Once the update is complete, the adaptive transmission shift strategy program may temporarily cause usually firm upshifts and downshifts while it ”relearns” your driving style.

Ford F150 3rd gear shift problems

While the F150 is usually a very reliable beast, 2001 and up models equipped with the 4R70W/4R70E or 4R75E transmission can develop a number of issues over the years. Like Ford F150 3rd gear slipping for example. During the 3-4 shift, the transmission will slip into neutral instead of engaging 4th gear. There may also be a lack of engine braking if the transmission is manually shifted into the 2 position.

What causes the Ford F150 3rd gear slip?

These F150 shifting problems are likely due to a broken overdrive servo retaining snap ring or overdrive servo piston ‘E’ clip. Should this happen, the pieces from that broken snap ring or clip can make their way into the overdrive servo regulator valve, preventing the overdrive band from making a full apply. After the broken parts are replaced, that overdrive servo regulator valve assembly needs to be removed from the valve body so that any damage from the broken pieces can be repaired. Most mechanics will overlook this, resulting in more transmission problems somewhere down the road. Street Smart Transmission on the other hand, is very familiar with these transmissions and always inspects for this damage during every reman F150 transmission build.

How much is it going to cost to fix my 4R70W/4R70E or 4R75E transmission?

Unfortunately, the problem described here will require the removal and disassembly/partial disassembly of your transmission. Given the labor time involved to remove the transmission from the vehicle (this is not a simple task), most repair shops will recommend that you go ahead and rebuild the entire transmission while it’s out. Since they already have to tear it down to replace the 4R70W/4R70E or 4R75E transmission, it sort of makes sense to spend the extra money to do that. After all, you should get a lot more mileage out of your transmission once it’s rebuilt. And since they’ve already got the transmission apart, might as well, right?

Can I drive with a transmission problem?

Okay, if your truck can still make it up and down the road, you might say “It’s fine, I’ll just drive it until I can get it fixed”. But that is not always a good idea. You see, there are a lot of (very expensive) moving parts inside of a transmission, and if something isn’t right, continuing to drive with a transmission problem could damage something else.

How often does a F150 transmission need to be replaced?

The overall lifespan of a Ford F-150 transmission largely depends on how well it was maintained. Factory design flaws also factor into this equation, along with how/how hard you drive. But on average, we’ve seen the OE Ford F-150 transmission last for between 130,000-220,000 miles. A high quality replacement Ford transmission however, can last considerably longer if all of the factory design flaws have been addressed and the vehicle has been maintained.

How are Ford F150 SD transmission issues diagnosed?

It is fairly easy to guesstimate what the root cause of your Ford F150 transmission problems might be, but you won’t truly know unless you have the right tools and experience. A good mechanic or transmission repair center will be able to connect your F150 to a computer and find out which diagnostic trouble codes (DTC’s) have been stored. Once they know what to look for, they can perform a visual inspection to verify the problem.

How is a Ford F150 transmission replaced?

In order to replace your Ford F-150 transmission, the truck has to be lifted from the ground in order to gain access to all of the parts that will need to be unbolted. Then the transmission can be lowered to the ground (typically with a transmission jack), so the new transmission can be installed. Once it is in place, the ECU will have to be reprogrammed to accept the new gearbox.

Recommendations for F150 transmission issues?

To save time and get back on the road faster, you can get an online quote for a replacement Ford F-150 transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Ford F150 Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Ford F150 Transmission

The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used 4R100 or used 4R75E transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Ford F150 Transmission

Another option would be a rebuilt 4R75W or 4R100 transmission or rebuilt 4R70W transmission. A local repair shop will remove your F150 transmission, then install a bunch of new parts. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each mechanic will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Ford F150 Transmission

Many owners depend on their Ford F-150 to make a living and get things done. Their gasoline engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured transmission.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Related Forum Discussions

References

  1. http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/results.cfm?SearchType=QuickSearch&rcl_ID=12V198000&summary=true
  2. http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/results.cfm?SearchType=QuickSearch&rcl_ID=12V190000&summary=true

What Problem Does Your F-150 Have?

Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!

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Joseph
3 months ago

2017 ford f150 with 73000 miles 6r80 transmission.has a feels like two shifts in 3rd gear and some cold hard shifts.. no codes come up for transmission or motor

Last edited 3 months ago by Joseph
Cecil compelube
6 months ago

Have a 2006 F-150 no drive gear only when I raise rpm then shifts into drive and will go into neutral after stopping or hit a bump in the road.it has a 4r70e transmissiom.would you have any answers

Last edited 6 months ago by Cecil compelube
Bill morse
7 months ago

I have a 2003 Ford f150 when I stop and try to go it won’t go then it slammed into gear then goes good it only happens when I stop it won’t go into first gear what do you think the problem is

Helen
7 months ago

Only have 1st and reverse

Phillip
7 months ago

Got a 97 f150 drive it several times yesterday no problem but when I backed out this morning all forward gears are like being in neutral had no slips no noise just no forward been working on cars my whole life never had a transmission do that with no sign of a issue has a new converter 3 weeks ago when installed a crate engine

Mark A Edwards
8 months ago

I have a 2012 f150 stx fx4. It has the 6 speed auto transmission. My problems is sluggish takeoffs and rough shifting. I also feel a loss of power. This really bums me out. I hope this will be an easy fix and won’t brake my bank…

Tony
8 months ago

Flywheel replacement f150 Ford 2006 need price

Jeff vt
8 months ago

Slipping and hard shift after hesitation when accelerating

Denise selman
9 months ago

Had drive no reverse then got under truck and shifted it into reverse now we have reverse park neutral but no drive gears can even shift it into on transmission replaced fluid filter shift solenoid still the same

Denise selman
10 months ago

It’s a 04 f150 4×4 5.4 3v

Denise selman
10 months ago

I think the manual valve seals are bad

James Garrett
10 months ago

I have a 1989 f-150 with a 5 speed manual transmission. I’m not sure what kind of transmission it is, but I just finished setting my timing. The cam and crank shafts were out. Well i didn’t make it out of the parking lot where I had the truck sitting, and it died and the starter wouldn’t crank the engine back over. I got to looking around and there is fabric hanging out of my pressure plate . So i think it could have caused all of the engine problems also

Paul
11 months ago

2nd gear shifts hard sometimes

Julian Aki
11 months ago

2004 ford f150xlt 4.6 2WD automatic 182,267 miles now
140k when purchased
Day One… no check engine light, runs and shifts normally
Six months later slips when O.D on drives and runs fine just when off
strangely no check engine light yet, eventually check engine light went on but it was months after loss of OD.
Change fluid and filter, nothing in pan other than fluid. zero metal or debris just worn Tran fluid
Next purchased rebuilt valve body after discovering OD shift solenoid had fell apart when valve body removed. (street smart transmission) very satisfied with purchase thx,
installed rebuilt valve body along with new oem overdrive shift solenoid
And now the truck is stuck in second has reverse still and OD light flashing along with check engine light.
From information here I’m assuming it’s in limp mode caused by a sensor in the air/fuel mixture malfunctioning or a speed sensor because all the transmission sensors were replaced when valve body was rebuilt..
Thx for your time
Sincerely Julian Aki

Rick Muder
1 year ago

2007 ford f-150 dies when put in drive but not in reverse acts like it is locking up when put in drive. Reokaced all three valves inside tranny and changed out fluid and filter and it nstill does it. It shifts erratic and shutters when coming to a stop could it be the converter???

Anonymous
1 year ago

Goes to neutral when shifting to od

Anonymous
1 year ago
Reply to  Anonymous

will not catch wi in D or any other gear except reverse

Mike brewer
1 year ago

Have no reverse on my 07 f150

Tawana
1 year ago

Won’t go in reverse

Janice levine
1 year ago

Hi, I have an 03 F 150 supercrew 4×4 5.4l 4R70W ,ONLY HAS REVERSE after my bf took it to work i went to go to the store and the fwd gears slipping so badly ot never really got into 2nd, after approx. A mile. I rurned around and had to put it in 4h to get it up the slight incline to home.I checkwd the fluid when i sropped , it didnt register on the stick. Dry i xouldnt see due to the crime lights and over filled it and got it homw then realized it ,.syphoned extra out. Our neighbor hood mechanic put in something that would evaporate to swell the seals part of this acrivity involed kicking intopassing gear 15 xs in 5 mi., that wasnt happening , tried to explain to ape man, yelled and said go do it . Needless to say i hqd to be to1ed home.that q
Was 6byears ago

Chuck Paradis
1 year ago

My 2013 f150 ecoboost downshifts to first gear randomly, It’s happened three times now

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