NHTSA Complaint #11711328 — 2019 FORD F-150

I am reporting a safety-related defect involving the 10R80 transmission in my 2019 Ford F-150. The vehicle experiences erratic shifting and loss of power that appears to be caused by a known defect in the transmission’s CDF clutch drum assembly. Ford has issued TSBs for this problem (including TSB 25-2126), which describe axial movement of the CDF drum sleeve leading to hydraulic pressure loss. However, this issue has not been addressed through a recall. My vehicle exhibits symptoms consistent with this defect, including: •Harsh and unexpected shifts •Delayed engagement when accelerating •RPM flares and slipping between gears •Loss of power or hesitation during passing, merging, or turning •Sudden or unpredictable shift behavior that affects vehicle control These symptoms occur at random and create unsafe driving conditions, especially when entering traffic or making left turns. The loss of power and inconsistent shift timing can leave the vehicle unable to accelerate when necessary, which creates a potential crash hazard. This appears to be a widespread issue affecting Ford vehicles equipped with the 10R80 transmission from multiple model years. Many owners have reported the same symptoms, and transmission specialists have documented a design flaw in the original CDF drum, where the internal bushing moves out of position and causes hydraulic circuit failure. Ford has quietly released a revised CDF drum, which further indicates that the original design may be defective. Because this defect can cause unpredictable loss of power or abnormal shifting that affects driver control, I believe it constitutes a safety risk and should be investigated. A TSB does not ensure repair unless a failure is already happening, which puts drivers and the public at risk. I am requesting that NHTSA open an investigation into CDF drum failures in the 10R80 transmission and evaluate whether a recall is warranted.