The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into roughly 1.3 million Ford pickup trucks via failed gear changes that could lead to potential wheel lockups.
On Friday, the safety agency began investigating its 2015-2017 FORD F-150 truck after receiving more than 130 consumer complaints.
The driver complained of unrequested downshifting gear without warning while driving at highway speeds. According to the NHTSA, the vehicle slows down rapidly.
According to some complaints, the rear wheels of the truck will temporarily lock, seize, or slip after unexpected gear changes.
Wheel lockups allow drivers to lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of crashes and injuries.
“We are working with the NHTSA to support that investigation,” a Ford spokesperson posted in a statement.
According to the NHTSA, no crashes or fires have been reported related to a failed gear change.
