Ford F-150s included in transmission recall

Ford will be recalling 184,000 vehicles, including 2011-2012 F-150 trucks, over a potentially dangerous transmission problem.

Ford reports that effected vehicles with an automatic transmission may experience an unexpected downshift into first gear, which can cause the vehicle to suddenly slow down. As a result, the rear tires may slide or lock, increasing the risk of a crash.

Effected F-150s were manufactured between Aug. 19, 2011 and March 9, 2012. Other Ford vehicles facing this recall include the 2012 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator, manufactured from Aug. 19, 2011 to Dec. 19, 2011, and the 2012 Mustang, manufactured from Aug. 19, 2011 to Feb. 21, 2012.

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module with updated software free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 23.

Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and mention Ford recall 16S19.

Owner may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safecar.gov. NHTSA’s campaign number for this recall is 16V248000.