NHTSA Complaint #11716462 — 2020 FORD EDGE

My 2020 Ford Edge Titanium experienced a complete transmission failure at just 65,898 miles—less than 6,000 miles beyond the factory warranty. Fortunately, I had purchased a Lifetime Limited Warranty through a third-party provider, American Colonial Administration, LLC. During my research on the 8F35 transmission, I discovered numerous consumer complaints, particularly affecting the 2019–2021 model years. I also reviewed estimated replacement costs, which typically ranged from $5,500 to $9,000. However, the Ford dealership charged $11,596.27 for the replacement. The warranty company covered $9,791.29, leaving me responsible for $1,804.98 out of pocket, in addition to $408 for towing and $421 for a one-week rental car. My vehicle remained in the shop for a total of 33 days, leaving me without transportation for 26 days. I contacted Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan to request cost assistance, given the documented issues with the 8F35 transmission. I was informed that no Customer Satisfaction Program (CSP) applied to my situation. I was also told that dealerships are independently owned and operated, which ultimately meant Ford would not offer any help—even though the failure resulted from a known problem with their own product.