Federal telemetry verified ● Model-year dossier

2017 FORD F-150

Complaint-pattern analysis from publicly available NHTSA safety records.

9.7Reliability score / 10

System health index

Reliability telemetry

A cohort-relative signal that annualizes documented reports for vehicle age and weights NHTSA crash or fire flags.

Documented incidents84

Reports with crash / fire flags2

Flagged-report share2.38%

Primary reported systemPOWER TRAIN

Scores are relative to the indexed vehicle cohort, not failure rates. Crash and fire flags identify how a complaint was recorded by NHTSA; they do not establish that a reported component caused the event.

View NHTSA source reports 84 documented reports → Compare this vehicle Choose another model →

Data-based buyer guidance

Review source records

Use the complaint patterns as a research starting point, alongside recalls, maintenance history, and an inspection.

Dataset signal

This model year has 84 processed complaint reports; POWER TRAIN is the most frequently classified system at 67.9% of reports.

Model-year context

Available adjacent years span 84–114 reports. It has fewer reports than 2016 and 2018.

Before you buy

Check open recalls using the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Review the linked NHTSA reports for symptoms that match the vehicle you are considering.
Ask for maintenance records and arrange an independent pre-purchase inspection.

This is a statistical research aid, not a mechanical diagnosis, failure prediction, or recommendation to buy or avoid a vehicle.

Component analysis

Most frequently reported systems.

POWER TRAIN57 documented reports

67.9%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM13 documented reports

15.5%

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL11 documented reports

13.1%

ENGINE10 documented reports

11.9%

SERVICE BRAKES6 documented reports

7.1%

OTHER / UNSPECIFIED5 documented reports

6.0%

HYDRAULIC4 documented reports

4.8%

STRUCTURE3 documented reports

3.6%

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM3 documented reports

3.6%

STEERING2 documented reports

2.4%

Show all 14 reported components

AIR BAGS1 documented reports

1.2%

ENGINE / ENGINE COOLING1 documented reports

1.2%

SUSPENSION1 documented reports

1.2%

WHEELS1 documented reports

1.2%

Failure intelligence

What to inspect before you buy.

Complaint clusters identify repeated reported symptoms; they are not a diagnosis or defect finding.

POWER TRAIN

Transmission Drivability Issues

21 reports

Danger zone mileage50,365–50,365 miMedian: 50,365 mi

Reported symptoms

Delayed/hard shifting
Intermittent wrench warning light
Reduced power/limp mode
Sluggish shifting and delayed engagement between gears, Abrupt downshifts while driving, Transmission signal loss, Powertrain warning light illuminated

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the transmission lead frame and control module for faults and ensure proper diagnostics are performed to identify potential hardware failures.

POWER TRAIN: 21 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 50365, median 50365, and P75 50365 miles.

ENGINE

Engine Performance Issues Post Recall

3 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Notable pinging sound under acceleration
Severe transmission downshift causing loss of traction
Engine unexpectedly shut off while driving
Repeated stalling of the engine leading to loss of power-steering assist

Pre-purchase check

Inspect for potential software issues related to recall updates, examine spark plugs, and assess transmission behavior.

ENGINE: 3 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Power Train - Lead Frame Module Issues

3 reports

Danger zone mileage150,000–150,000 miMedian: 150,000 mi

Reported symptoms

Wrench warning light displayed on dashboard
Sudden gear dropping while driving
Truck locks into a specific gear
Difficulty starting to move from a stop at intersections after locking into gear (especially in 3rd or 5th gear)

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the lead frame module for signs of failure or malfunction, especially if the gear shifting is inconsistent or if warning lights are present.

POWER TRAIN: 3 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 150000, median 150000, and P75 150000 miles.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Vehicle Speed Control Transmission Failures

3 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Intermittent transmission signal loss
Abrupt downshifts while driving
Vehicle entering limp mode due to sensor failure

Pre-purchase check

Inspect for proper software updates and confirm the condition of physical transmission components, especially lead frame and output speed sensor.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL: 3 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 1 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Transmission Control and Drivability Issues

2 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Delayed hard shifting
Intermittent wrench warning light
Reduced power/limp mode condition
Sluggish shifting between gears

Pre-purchase check

Conduct a thorough inspection of the transmission control module and related components, including the transmission lead frame and range sensor. Verify any diagnostic trouble codes and ensure proper logging during inspection processes.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: 2 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

OTHER / UNSPECIFIED

Transmission Drivability Issues and Control Failures

2 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Delayed/hard shifting
Intermittent wrench warning light
Reduced power/limp mode condition
Sluggish shifting after recall remedy

Pre-purchase check

Ensure thorough inspection of the transmission lead frame and diagnose any intermittent transmission signal losses or hardware failures.

OTHER / UNSPECIFIED: 2 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

10-Speed Automatic Transmission Issues

2 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Uncommanded downshift causing abrupt vehicle deceleration
Transmission shudders and jerks hard during shifts
Failure to engage into gear, resulting in vehicle immobilization at stoplights
Immediate safety hazard due to improper engagement and sudden shifts

Pre-purchase check

Seek inspection and resolution from a qualified transmission shop, particularly to check the CDF Drum bushing and overall transmission performance.

POWER TRAIN: 2 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Harsh and Unpredictable Shifting of 10R80 Transmission

2 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Clunking noise during gear changes
Jerking motion while shifting
Harsh shifting feel
Delayed engagement in shifting gears

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the 10R80 transmission for software updates, mechanical issues, or wear that may affect shifting performance.

POWER TRAIN: 2 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Transmission Shifting Issues

2 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Sudden and unexpected gear changes
Minor downshifts occurring without warning
Severe downshifts from higher gears to lower gears
Dashboard warning lights illuminating erratically

Pre-purchase check

It is advised to have the transmission system and electronic controllers inspected for faults, considering the reported erratic behavior and transmission shifts.

POWER TRAIN: 2 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

SERVICE BRAKES

Service Brake Issues in 2017 Ford F-150

2 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Brake pedal becomes inoperable or goes to the floorboard
Extended braking distance
Brake pedal is firm while depressed

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the hydraulic brake system and verify the status of any recalls or repairs pending.

SERVICE BRAKES: 2 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical System Lead Frame Issue

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Truck shifting unexpectedly into park or reverse at high speeds
Gear indicator light fluctuating between gears without interaction
Taillamps not activating when brakes are not engaged

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the lead frame and associated electrical components for wear or damage, and verify proper functioning of the gear indicator and taillamps.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical System Malfunction - Fuel Level Gauge

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Fuel level gauge not working after severe cold weather
Multiple sensor and fuse replacements without resolution
Vehicle unable to be inspected due to gauge issue

Pre-purchase check

Inspect connections and wiring related to the fuel gauge and consider reviewing recall details for further guidance.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Odometer Discrepancy

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Mileage mismatch between reported and actual readings
Discovery of higher mileage after purchase

Pre-purchase check

Verify vehicle history report for accurate mileage and check odometer for tampering signs.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Output Speed Sensor Failure

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Vehicle enters limp mode
Reversion to limp mode after software flash

Pre-purchase check

Inspect Output Speed Sensor and associated lead frame hardware for failure.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Rear Window Defroster Electrical Short

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Rear window defroster causes back window to shatter
Shattering occurred shortly after defroster use

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the rear window defroster system for shorts or faulty wiring connections; assess the integrity of the window glass and seals.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Throttle Body Communication Issue

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Wrench light activation
Loss of gas control
Sudden deceleration

Pre-purchase check

Inspect PCM and throttle body connection and functionality.

ENGINE

Engine Performance Issues Post PCM Recall

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Erratic shifting
Stuck gears
Going into limp mode
Check engine light is activated after recall

Pre-purchase check

Inspect for PCM reprogramming effects and assess transmission response in relation to recent recall updates.

ENGINE: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

ENGINE

Engine Timing and VVT Solenoid Issues

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Loss of power
Limp mode activation
Failure to shift
VVT solenoid failure

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the timing system and VVT solenoids for functionality and alignment.

ENGINE: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

ENGINE

PCM Communication Issue with Throttle Body

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Wrench light illumination
Loss of gas throttle control
Abrupt slowing of the vehicle

Pre-purchase check

Inspect PCM connections and throttle body sensor functionality.

ENGINE: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

OTHER / UNSPECIFIED

Rear Window Defroster Short Circuit

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Rear window shattered unexpectedly after using defroster
Defroster shows signs of malfunction (short circuit)

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the rear window defroster wiring and components for shorts or irregularities. Check for any signs of overheating or damage around the defroster areas.

OTHER / UNSPECIFIED: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

OTHER / UNSPECIFIED

Transmission Gear Slippage

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Transmission drops from 6th gear to a lower gear
Slipping sensation during gear change
Jerking motion while driving

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the transmission system for functionality and any signs of damage or wear.

POWER TRAIN

Power Train Issue

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Unusual noises from power train
Vibrations during acceleration

Pre-purchase check

Inspect power train components for wear and abnormal noises; check fluid levels and connections.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Power Train Issues Post Recall

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Erratic shifting
Stuck gears
Entering limp mode
Check engine light illuminated

Pre-purchase check

Inspect power train components, focusing on the PCM function and transmission performance.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Power Train Recall Service Delay

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Dealership unable to service recall
Vehicle in dealership for multiple days
Lack of communication from dealership regarding service status

Pre-purchase check

Ensure communication with the dealership is clear; inquire about technician qualifications for recall services.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Power Train Timing Issues

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Timing issues
VVT solenoid failure
Loss of power
Limp mode activation on vehicle drivetrain functionality problems during operation attempted shifting failures

Pre-purchase check

Have a qualified mechanic inspect the timing components and VVT solenoid functionality.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Torque Converter Malfunction

1 reports

Danger zone mileage70,000–70,000 miMedian: 70,000 mi

Reported symptoms

Significant vibration at speeds above 45 mph
Shuddering during operation

Pre-purchase check

Inspect torque converter and drivetrain components for wear or failure; check for related service bulletins or recalls.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 70000, median 70000, and P75 70000 miles.

POWER TRAIN

Transmission Abruptly Shifts Down

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Transmission abruptly shifts down
Engine RPM increases drastically
Inability to drive normally

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the transmission system for faults or failures, particularly in the shifting mechanism and fluid levels.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

POWER TRAIN

Transmission Shift Point Issues

1 reports

Danger zone mileage318–318 miMedian: 318 mi

Reported symptoms

Missing shift points
Inconsistent shifting
Transmission clunking
Loss of power during shifting

Pre-purchase check

Inspect transmission components, particularly the 4-5-6 drum ring and associated mechanisms, for wear and proper functionality.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 318, median 318, and P75 318 miles.

POWER TRAIN

Transmission Sticking and Harsh Shifting

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Transmission gets stuck on a gear while driving
Vehicle jerks violently during shifting
Driver experiences head jarring motions

Pre-purchase check

Inspect transmission system for faults and check for error codes.

POWER TRAIN: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

SERVICE BRAKES

Brake Master Cylinder Issues Post-Repair

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Returned vehicle in unsafe condition after brake repair
Documented evidence of defects related to brake repair

Pre-purchase check

Conduct an independent inspection to assess the safety and condition of the brake system.

SERVICE BRAKES: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

SERVICE BRAKES

Service Brake Recall Issue

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Parts replaced were also recalled
Original parts were reinstalled after recall

Pre-purchase check

Verify if replacement parts are affected by any recalls and confirm the installation of the correct components during servicing.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Eratic Shifting and Limp Mode Issues Post Recall

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Erratic shifting
Stuck gears
Engaging limp mode
Check engine light activation

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the vehicle's transmission system and diagnostic trouble codes for abnormalities post-recall.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 unavailable, median unavailable, and P75 unavailable miles.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Loss of Throttle Control due to PCM Communication Issue

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Wrench light activates
Loss of gas control
Abrupt slowing of vehicle

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the connection and functionality of the PCM and throttle body communication system.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Vehicle Speed Control Issues

1 reports

Danger zone mileageMileage not reported

Reported symptoms

Timing issues
VVT solenoid failure
Loss of power
Limp mode activation, failure to shift

Pre-purchase check

Consider inspecting VVT solenoids and transmission control systems.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Vehicle Speed Control Malfunction

1 reports

Danger zone mileage150,000–150,000 miMedian: 150,000 mi

Reported symptoms

Wrench warning light on dashboard
Sudden gear drops
Loss of vehicle speed control

Pre-purchase check

Inspect the lead frame module and associated wiring for faults.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL: 1 NHTSA complaints in this cluster, including 0 crash-flagged and 0 fire-flagged reports; reported incident mileage spans P25 150000, median 150000, and P75 150000 miles.

What the data says

POWER TRAIN is the most frequently classified component, appearing in 67.9% of complaint reports in this dataset. This 2017 FORD F-150 has 84 complaint reports in the records we have processed. One report can be classified under more than one component, so component shares do not add up to 100%.

Compare model years

These nearby model years have 2016: 114 reports · 2018: 99 reports. Complaint totals are not failure rates and should be read with vehicle age, sales volume, and reporting patterns in mind.

2016 9.3 2018 9.9