The Good, Bad & Ugly About Mustang’s 10 Speed Transmission

The Ford Mustang’s 10-speed automatic transmission, known as the 10R80, has sparked significant conversation among car enthusiasts and owners alike.

Introduced to enhance performance and fuel efficiency, this transmission has been featured in a variety of Ford and GM vehicles.

While it offers several benefits, such as smoother gear shifts and improved acceleration, it’s not without its share of problems.

In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of the Mustang’s 10-speed transmission, providing a detailed look at its performance and reliability.

Which Vehicles Have the Mustang 10 Speed Transmission?

The 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80) is found in various Ford and GM models. Here’s a list of vehicles featuring this transmission:

Ford Vehicles:

• Ford Mustang (2018-present)
• Ford F-150 (2017-present)
• Ford Expedition (2018-present)
• Ford Ranger (2019-present)
• Ford Everest (2019-present)
• Ford Transit (2020-present)
• Ford Endeavour (2020-present)

Lincoln Vehicles:

• Lincoln Navigator (2018-present)

GM Vehicles:

• Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (2017-present)
• Chevrolet Suburban (2018-present)
• Chevrolet Tahoe (2018-present)
• GMC Yukon (2018-present)
• Cadillac Escalade (2018-present)
• Chevrolet Silverado (2019-present)
• GMC Sierra (2019-present)
• Cadillac CT6 (2019-present)
• Cadillac CT4 (2020-present)
• Cadillac CT5 (2020-present)

What Are Common Problems with the Mustang 10 Speed Transmission?

While the 10R80 transmission has its advantages, many Mustang owners have reported several common issues. Below are some of the most frequent complaints:

Problem #1 Harsh Shifting

• What it is: The transmission shifts roughly or jerks during gear changes, particularly when accelerating or decelerating.
• Potential causes: The issue may be caused by faulty transmission control module (TCM) software, worn or damaged transmission components, or low and contaminated transmission fluid.
• Symptoms: Owners typically experience noticeable jerking or lurching during gear shifts, with rough transitions between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
• Potential fix: To fix the problem, the TCM software may need to be updated, any worn or damaged transmission components should be replaced, and the transmission fluid should be flushed and replaced.

Problem #2 Slipping Gears

• What it is: The transmission may slip out of gear or hesitate when shifting, which can lead to unsafe driving conditions.
• Potential causes: This issue could be caused by worn clutch packs or bands, low transmission fluid levels, or faulty solenoids or sensors.
• Symptoms: Drivers may notice that the engine revs without a corresponding increase in acceleration or experience hesitation or delay in gear engagement.
• Potential fix: Replacing the worn clutch packs or bands, ensuring proper transmission fluid levels, and replacing any faulty solenoids or sensors will help address this issue.

Problem #3 Shuddering/Vibrations

• What it is: A shuddering or vibrating sensation, particularly at low speeds or under load, may occur.
• Potential causes: This is often due to torque converter issues, contaminated or degraded transmission fluid, or faulty transmission mounts.
• Symptoms: Drivers will feel a shuddering or shaking sensation during acceleration, and vibrations may be felt throughout the vehicle, particularly at low speeds.
• Potential fix: Repairing or replacing the torque converter, flushing and replacing the transmission fluid, and inspecting and replacing any defective transmission mounts can help resolve this problem.

Problem #4 Delayed Engagement

• What it is: There may be a noticeable delay when shifting from park to drive or reverse, which can be inconvenient and even hazardous.
• Potential causes: This problem could be caused by low transmission fluid levels, a faulty transmission control module (TCM), or worn internal transmission components.
• Symptoms: Owners may notice a delay in vehicle movement after shifting into drive or reverse, accompanied by hesitation before the transmission engages.
• Potential fix: Ensure the transmission fluid is at the proper level, update or replace the TCM if necessary, and repair or replace any worn internal transmission components.

Problem #5 Transmission Noise

• What it is: Unusual noises, such as clunking or whining, may be heard coming from the transmission.
• Potential causes: These sounds are often the result of worn or damaged gears or bearings, low or contaminated transmission fluid, or a faulty torque converter.
• Symptoms: Increased noise, such as clunking, whining, or humming, can be heard from the transmission area, especially during gear shifts or acceleration.
• Potential fix: To fix the issue, replacing worn or damaged gears or bearings, flushing and replacing the transmission fluid, and repairing or replacing the torque converter are recommended solutions.

Is There a Mustang 10 Speed Transmission Recall?

Yes, there have been recalls related to the 10-speed automatic transmission in Ford Mustangs. For example, Ford previously issued a recall for over 2,100 2018 Mustangs due to a potential issue with the premium gauge cluster not communicating correctly with the shifter, which could lead to a rollaway accident.

Additionally, some 2019-2021 Mustang owners have reported problems with rough shifting and gear hunting.

If you own a Mustang with a 10-speed transmission and are experiencing issues, make sure to contact your local Ford dealership to check if your vehicle is affected by any recalls or technical service bulletins. They can provide specific information and assistance.

Is There a Mustang 10 Speed Transmission Lawsuit?

Yes, several lawsuits have been filed concerning the 10-speed automatic transmission in Ford Mustangs.

These lawsuits generally allege that the transmission suffers from problems such as harsh shifting, jerking, hesitation, and slipping gears, all of which pose safety risks.

One notable lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, includes claims from owners of 2018-2023 Ford Mustangs and other models equipped with the 10-speed transmission.

The plaintiffs argue that Ford has failed to adequately address these issues, despite being aware of them. For more information, visit our article on the lawsuit related to Ford’s new transmission.

How the Lemon Law Can Help Your Mustang 10 Speed Transmission Problems

If you’re experiencing persistent transmission problems with your Ford vehicle equipped with the 10-speed transmission and have not received a satisfactory solution from your dealership or manufacturer, it may be time to explore your legal options.

A qualified Lemon Law attorney can help you navigate the process, whether that means securing compensation, obtaining a replacement vehicle, or even receiving a refund if your Ford meets the criteria for a lemon.

For Ford owners facing unresolved 10-speed transmission issues, the Lemon Law Experts are here to provide the support and legal assistance you need.

With years of experience handling cases involving transmission failures and other ongoing vehicle defects, we can work on your behalf to secure the remedy or compensation you deserve.

Contact the Lemon Law Experts today to learn how we can help address your Ford’s transmission concerns.