Transmission - Hard Downshift / Sticking and Clunking Noise

[RKL_Ohio]

I have a 2020 with 57k miles. Recently I've been experiencing hard downshifts, especially from 4th gear and down. It feels like it's sticking, and then releases with a clunk that I can hear. I had the software upgrade done a few months ago. Any ideas for what's causing this? Thanks!

 

[mx10166]

Unfortunately it's almost certainly a failing CDF drum. Since your powertrain warranty expires at 60k miles you should take to the dealer ASAP. This is a well known issue if you have followed the posts in this forum and ford has issued several technical service bulletins to dealers so they know how to fix it. There are improved parts from Ford to address the issue. They will remove your transmission and replace the defective CDF with the new and improved version.

I had similar issues with my 2020 at 62K miles, just outside of warranty. They tried flashing new software which helped for like a week and then it acted up again. Because it was out of warranty I made the choice to have them install a completely new transmission assembly. 60K seems to be the magic number when they are likely to fail.

 

[BSarchet]

I am at 64k on my 2022 and had the transmission fluid changed at 60k. Started happening a little before that but has gotten worse. Mostly in the first few minutes of starting driving, but seems to be getting slightly more frequently. It’s mostly 1 to 3 to 5 an especially on downshifts back to 1st when decelerating. Also starting to get some shuddering in the middle gears. Probably happens once or twice per drive.

How often does this need to be happening for the dealership to be able to replicate and say it’s an issue? I have the Ford warranty until 75k but this is making me want to trade the car in. I hate feeling like there’s a problem.

 

[mx10166]

I am at 64k on my 2022 and had the transmission fluid changed at 60k. Started happening a little before that but has gotten worse. Mostly in the first few minutes of starting driving, but seems to be getting slightly more frequently. It’s mostly 1 to 3 to 5 an especially on downshifts back to 1st when decelerating. Also starting to get some shuddering in the middle gears. Probably happens once or twice per drive.

How often does this need to be happening for the dealership to be able to replicate and say it’s an issue? I have the Ford warranty until 75k but this is making me want to trade the car in. I hate feeling like there’s a problem.

I would take it to the dealer now so your concerns are documented. It will only get worse and a rebuild will be required with the updated parts, which isn't a big deal, so don't feel like it's not fixable.