In a significant legal development, a class-action lawsuit has been initiated against Ford Motor Company and Ford Motor Company of Canada, focusing on alleged operational problems with the 10-speed automatic gearbox found in several popular models, including the F-150 pick-up truck. The lawsuit, filed in Vancouver by Charney Lawyers, highlights serious concerns raised by Canadian consumers regarding the 10R80 transmission, which has been linked to a range of troubling performance issues.
The lawsuit specifically targets Ford vehicles manufactured between 2017 and 2018, including the Ford Expedition, Mustang, Ranger, F-150, and Lincoln Navigator, all equipped with the problematic 10-speed automatic transmission. According to the claims, the transmission is prone to “unintended lunging” and unexpected gear shifts that occur without driver input, raising significant safety concerns for owners and lessees of these vehicles.
Among the five specific issues cited in the lawsuit, the most alarming complaints include unintended lunging when shifting from park to drive, which can pose a serious risk to drivers and pedestrians alike. Additionally, drivers have reported shimmying and shuddering while the vehicle is in motion, difficulty in shifting gears, premature wear of clutch plates and transmission components, and sudden gear shifts that are not initiated by the driver. These issues have led to frustration and concern among Ford owners, prompting many to seek legal recourse.
The origins of this legal action appear to stem from a growing number of complaints received by Ford Canada since the introduction of the 10-speed transmission in 2017. Reports indicate that Ford Canada began investigating the transmission issues only after receiving 11 customer complaints, raising questions about the company’s responsiveness to consumer safety concerns. The lawsuit suggests that the automaker may have been aware of these significant operational issues yet failed to take adequate measures to address them.
As the lawsuit unfolds, it is expected to draw attention not only from affected consumers but also from industry analysts and automotive safety advocates. The implications of this case could be far-reaching, potentially impacting Ford’s reputation and financial standing in the Canadian market. The automaker has faced scrutiny in the past over various quality control issues, and this latest lawsuit adds to the growing list of challenges it must navigate.
In response to the mounting complaints, Ford has reportedly conducted last-minute tests on the F-150’s 10-speed transmission, indicating a recognition of the need for further evaluation before shipments of affected models continue. The company’s proactive approach to testing may be an attempt to mitigate the fallout from the lawsuit and reassure consumers of their commitment to safety and quality.
As the legal proceedings progress, affected Ford owners are encouraged to stay informed about their rights and the potential outcomes of the lawsuit. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of consumer advocacy in the automotive industry, highlighting the need for manufacturers to prioritize safety and reliability in their products.
In conclusion, the class-action lawsuit against Ford over the 10-speed automatic transmission issues underscores the critical need for transparency and accountability in the automotive sector. As consumers await further developments, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how automakers address and rectify operational issues in their vehicles, ultimately shaping the future of automotive safety standards.
