Ford F-350 SD Transmission Problems

Owners have filed 287 complaints about transmission & drivetrain problems with the Ford F-350 SD — 8% of all F-350 SD complaints. The worst model years are 2020 (54), 2001 (28) and 2017 (23). Problems typically start around 48,000 miles. 12 related recalls have been issued.

287complaints
2020worst year
48ktypical miles
12related recalls
8crashes
3fires

Transmission complaints by model year

’97’99’00’01’02’03’04’05’06’07’08’09’10’11’12’13’14’15’16’17’18’19’20’21’22’23’24’25’26158287136135211214111717234135410144653
Transmission complaints per model year, Ford F-350 SD.
YearComplaintsShare of year's complaintsTypical mileage
2026338%—
2025536%1,000 miles
2024613%30,000 miles
2023410%10,000 miles
20221412%62,000 miles
20211010%0 miles
20205429%70,000 miles
2019133%30,000 miles
201842%5,000 miles
2017234%49,000 miles
2016178%25,000 miles
2015178%51,000 miles
2014114%0 miles
201213%—
201149%42,000 miles
201012%—
2009211%15,000 miles
20081111%28,000 miles
200728%110,000 miles
200654%29,000 miles
2005136%37,000 miles
200465%59,000 miles
20031310%28,000 miles
200276%40,000 miles
20012818%50,000 miles
200085%107,000 miles
19991511%47,000 miles

Which parts fail

  • Automatic transmission
    55
  • Clutch assembly › Pedal/hand lever(motorcycle)
    8
  • Clutch assembly
    7
  • Manual transmission
    5
  • Driveline
    5
  • Axle assembly
    4
  • Transfer case (4-wheel drive)
    4
  • Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift
    3

Components named in complaints (automatic and manual transmissions, CVT, axles, driveshaft, 4WD/AWD).

Mileage when the problem started

  • Under 25k
    6032%
  • 25k–50k
    4624%
  • 50k–75k
    3016%
  • 75k–100k
    2011%
  • 100k–150k
    2111%
  • 150k+
    116%

What owners report

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.Description On your vehicle it is possible that the trailer module trm may lose communication at vehicle start-up. If a trm loss of communication occurs and a trailer is connected to the vehicle, trailer stop lamps and turn signal indicators will not function. Additionally, for trailers equipped with electronic trailer brakes, the trailer brakes will not function. This loss of communication can occur with-or-without a trailer connected to the vehicle and can only initiate at vehicle start-up. If this occurs, a trailer brake module fault notification will pop-up on the vehicles instrument panel cluster. …

2026 F-350 SD · Mar 2026

I purchased my 2026 Ford F-350 Platinum from Sandy Sansing Ford Lincoln on June 11, 2026. I was not informed that the vehicle has two unrepaired/unresolved Recall's. Both of the recalls were issued in March, 2026. The Dealership had this vehicle on their lot from September, 2025 to the date that I purchased it. The first recall is 26E01 "Powertrain Control Module PCM Software" and the second recall is 26C10 "Trailer Module Reprogramming." I was not aware of and it was never brought to my attention at the time of sale that the vehicle had two recalls and, I purchased the vehicle three months after both of these recalls were issued.

2026 F-350 SD · Jun 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle independently accelerated. The contact stated that the transmission independently shifted from first gear. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was uncontrollable. The contact turned the vehicle off, shifted into neutral, and parked the vehicle in the nearest driveway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was restarted, and the vehicle was driven to the intended destination. The contact stated that the failure had not reoccurred. The contact stated that the vehicle drove normally after the initial failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact stated that several attempts were made to contact the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 1,400.

2025 F-350 SD · 1,000 miles · Sep 2025

The driveshaft separated resulting in a loss of motive power while we were driving on the highway at around 65-70mph. We heard/felt vibrations, and a harsh noise then a loud popping noise right before/ during the failure. Then heard dragging as we came toward the guard rail. It caused a loss of control of the vehicle almost causing us to crash. We were able to pull to the side of the road while traffic went around us. One vehicle pulled over in front of us checking their car stating they saw something fly out from under ours but then they left. We looked under and the rear driveshaft was hanging down and the vehicle was unable to drive forward or back. When trying to pull it on a tow vehicle the bearings came out. It is available for inspection. We are waiting for paperwork from a dealer to see all the damages that occurred but they told us the cost was $20,500 to repair. …

2025 F-350 SD · Jul 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Ford F-350. The contact stated that after reversing into the driveway and parking the vehicle, the engine was turned off while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact exited the vehicle and entered the residence. Moments later, the vehicle erroneously rolled down the driveway downhill and collided with a building on the property. The contacted stated that the Automatic Return to Park (P) safety feature failed to engage, causing the incident. The vehicle was later driven to the local dealer for repairs. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 30,000.

2024 F-350 SD · 30,000 miles · Jun 2026 · crash

The contact owns a 2024 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer informed the contact that a software update had been completed on the TCM. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for additional assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 21,000.

2024 F-350 SD · 21,000 miles · Jul 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-350 SD. The contact stated that there was a whirring sound coming from the vehicle since the vehicle was purchased. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer informed the contact that there was no recall on the VIN for the issue and that the whirring sound did not shorten the life of the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 9,500.

2023 F-350 SD · 10,000 miles · Apr 2024

This truck has 20,000 miles. I experienced what's called the death wobble which nearly shook the truck off the road. The dealership told me a $2000 dollar duel steering stabilizer would fix the problem. I reluctantly payed for it as they said the lift voided the warranty. The truck is still not fixed and my wife nearly went off the road today driving it. I read online that a stabilizer doesn't fix the problem it only masks the symptoms. I'm certain the dealership knows this.

2023 F-350 SD · Nov 2024

Related recalls (12)

Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft

NHTSA recall 26V-119 · Mar 3, 2026 · 11,431 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026-2025 F-250 SD and F-350 SD vehicles. The driveshaft friction weld may fail, resulting in rear driveshaft separation and a sudden loss of drive power.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driveshaft serial number and replace the driveshaft as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 6, 2026.

Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft

NHTSA recall 25V-866 · Dec 12, 2025 · 6,819 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Super Duty F-250 and F-350 vehicles. The right rear axle shaft may have been improperly heat-treated during manufacturing and may break.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the right rear axle shaft date code and replace the axle shaft as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 15, 2026.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Gear position indication (PRNDL)

NHTSA recall 25V-163 · Mar 14, 2025 · 11,621 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 vehicles. The steering column shifter may have been improperly welded and detach from the steering column.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column serial numbers and replace the steering column as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2025.

Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft

NHTSA recall 23V-595 · Aug 25, 2023 · 41,555 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Super Duty F250 and F350 vehicles equipped with single rear wheels and a 10.5-inch rear axle shaft. The left rear axle shaft may have been improperly heat-treated during manufacturing and may break.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the left rear axle shaft date code and replace the axle shaft as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023.

Power train › Driveline › Driveshaft

NHTSA recall 22V-880 · Nov 29, 2022 · 18,808 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 4x4 vehicles. A radial damper inside the driveshaft may move out of position over time, which can cause a driveshaft imbalance and result in a fracture.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the driveshaft, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S74.

Show 7 more recalls

Power train › Automatic transmission

NHTSA recall 22V-256 · Apr 14, 2022 · 23,165 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles equipped with 6.7L diesel engines. A washer within the vehicle's transmission can disintegrate, causing metallic debris to become lodged in the 'Park' mechanism.

Remedy: Dealers will replace a gearset within the transmission, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 19, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.

Power train › Axle assembly

NHTSA recall 21V-536 · Jul 15, 2021 · 27,604 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 F-350 Super Duty pickup trucks equipped with 6.7L diesel engines and Dana model 275 rear axles. The rear axle housing may not support the load of the pickup truck and deform, which could result in driveshaft separation.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the axle housing for deformities, and repair or replace the housing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021.

Power train › Axle hubs

NHTSA recall 21V-390 · May 25, 2021 · 17,616 vehiclesDo not drive

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-350, F-450, F-550, and F-600 vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels and front wheel hub extenders. The front wheel hub extenders may be improperly attached to the front rotor hub assemblies, which could result in separation of the wheels and wheel extenders from the vehicle.

Remedy: Owners are instructed not to drive their vehicles until the torque of the wheel extender nuts can be verified. Dealers will inspect and tighten the front wheel hub extender nuts, free of charge.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Torque converter

NHTSA recall 20V-365 · Jun 23, 2020 · 13 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Super-Duty F-250, F-350, and F-550 diesel pickups. The transmission torque converter damper plate was not tempered, resulting in a brittle damper plate that may fracture and cause the engine to stall or require increased brake pedal effort in order to stop the vehicle.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission assembly, free of charge. This recall began July 6, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.

Power train › Automatic transmission

NHTSA recall 18V-802 · Nov 14, 2018 · 4 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty and F-450 Super Duty vehicles. An incorrect transmission case casting may cause the park pawl assembly to not be secured, possibly resulting in unintended vehicle movement.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners and dealers will inspect the transmission case, replacing the transmission as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 7, 2018.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)

NHTSA recall 15V-175 · Mar 25, 2015 · 6,322 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks manufactured February 22, 2010, to January 30, 2015, and equipped with ambulance or fire engine preparation packages.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.

Power train › Automatic transmission › Control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)

NHTSA recall 14V-204 · Apr 17, 2014 · 3,973 vehicles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty trucks manufactured September 13, 2013, through March 28, 2014, and equipped with 6.2L gasoline or 6.7L diesel engines and 6R140 transmissions.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the transmission software, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2014. Owners may contact Fords customer service at 1-800-392-3673.

Frequently asked questions

Which Ford F-350 SD years have transmission problems?

By NHTSA complaints, the 2020 (54), 2001 (28), 2017 (23), 2015 (17) and 2016 (17) model years. Transmission complaints make up 29% of all complaints for the 2020.

Is there a recall for Ford F-350 SD transmission problems?

Yes — 12 recalls, including 26V-119 (axle shaft, Mar 3, 2026); 25V-866 (axle shaft, Dec 12, 2025); 25V-163 (gear position indication (prndl), Mar 14, 2025). Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers; check a specific car with the VIN recall check.

At what mileage do Ford F-350 SD transmission problems start?

Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 48,000 miles; 56% happened before 50,000 miles.

What part fails most often?

Owners most often name the automatic transmission (55 mentions), followed by the clutch assembly › pedal/hand lever(motorcycle) (8).

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.