Ford 6R80 Transmission FAQs

The 6R80 was a popular automatic transmission used in several Ford models over the years. It was based on a German ZF design, and aside from a few common faults, it is a solid and dependable unit. Let’s cover the basics of this transmission, and the common issues we see with them.

What Fords Use The 6R80 Transmission?

The 6R80 transmission is a six-speed automatic used widely in Ford trucks and SUVs from around 2009 to 2020. You’ll find it in models like the F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and V8 Mustangs. It’s built to handle moderate to heavy loads, making it a popular choice for towing and off-road use.

To confirm that your specific Ford model uses the 6R80 transmission, use our VIN decoder or your vehicle’s Transmission Tag Number. You can also contact our transmission experts for additional help.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Failing 6R80?

While generally reliable, the 6R80 can develop a few issues over time. If you notice these symptoms, it is time to have your transmission checked:

• Torque converter shudder or vibration at highway speeds. This is common on high mileage 6R80s. It can sometimes be fixed by flushing fluid, or in extreme cases, replacing the torque converter.
• Valve body wear leading to inconsistent line pressure and shifting problems. Regular maintenance and using the correct Mercon LV fluid can help extend the life of your valve body components.
• Faulty lead frame: A common issue, usually in models built between 2011 and 2014. The lead frame contains the wiring harness and sensors. A fault here can damage the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor resulting in performance issues, hard shifting, and other intermittent faults.
• Harsh or delayed shifts: Caused from valve body wear and neglected maintenance.
• Fluid leaks around the pan gasket or output shaft seal.

Have There Been Recalls On The 6R80 Transmission?

Yes, there have been recalls in the USA involving the 6R80 transmission. The most important ones revolved around the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor issues that were common on some F-150, Expedition, and Mustang models built between 2011 and 2014. Here are some key ones:

• 19S07 (NHTSA Campaign 19V-075) covers certain U.S. Ford F‑150 model years 2011-2013 equipped with the 6R80 transmission. The issue: an intermittent output shaft speed (OSS) sensor failure could lead to an unintended downshift into first gear.
• 24S37 (NHTSA Campaign 24V-444) covers 2014 F-150 models with the 6R80, where an OSS sensor failure may result in unexpected downshifts.

The recalls resolved the issues with the faulty lead frames, and any affected vehicles would need to get their software reprogrammed at a Ford dealership to avoid further problems.

How Much Does A Replacement Ford 6R80 Transmission Cost?

The 6R80 transmission has been used in a wide variety of Ford vehicles. Prices vary depending on the supplier and whether you are buying a new, used, or remanufactured unit. Powertrain Products supplies completely remanufactured 6R80 units that are rebuilt to meet and often exceed OE specifications.

Prices for the 6R80 are typically below $4k, including our core charge waiver. You can browse our selection of 6R80 transmissions here for more specific information on pricing.

Can I Replace A Ford 6R80 Transmission Myself?

Replacing a 6R80 transmission is a complex and labor-intensive job that requires specialized tools and a thorough understanding of transmission systems. If you’re not an experienced mechanic, it’s best to have the work done by a professional, as improper installation can cause serious damage and pose safety hazards.

For those confident in their mechanical skills, make sure to consult a detailed service manual and follow all safety procedures carefully during the process.

Where Should I Buy A Replacement Ford 6R80 Transmission?

There are several companies offering remanufactured Ford 6R80 transmissions. Quality differs greatly, and you’ll soon find that not every transmission is remanufactured to the same standards.

At Powertrain Products, we not only remanufacture transmissions, but also put them through a comprehensive rebuilding process that includes rectifying known factory faults, making them better than new. Our superior remanufacturing process in detail:

• Every transmission goes through a thorough process of disassembly, inspection, and triple cleaning. During this stage, we also chase all threads and replace every bushing with brand-new parts.
• Our most skilled technicians rebuild and inspect each valve body, then test it using our C.A.R.S. system, which simulates real-world driving conditions to ensure proper function and reliability.
• During reassembly, every transmission receives all new O-rings, gaskets, and seals. Finally, we put each unit through a rigorous spin and load test using our custom dyno machines to confirm it’s fully road-ready.

The 6R80 Transmission-specific upgrades that we focus on at Powertrain Products include:

• Molded lead frame replaced with upgraded unit (reprogramming required)
• OSS sensor replaced

All the information regarding software reprogramming is included in every 6R80 transmission purchase.

If all of this is sort of quality you are after, then Powertrain Products is the perfect choice for your next remanufactured transmission.

Will My Remanufactured Ford 6R80 Transmission Come With A Warranty?

Our remanufactured transmissions come with a 3-year standard warranty included. You can then choose to upgrade – we have a range of extended warranty coverage options below to suit your needs:

• 5-year Extended Warranty
• 7-year Extended Warranty
• Pure Care No Fault Coverage

However, if you’re using this transmission for a 1-ton and up application, our 18-month, 50k-mile standard Commercial Warranty will be applied to your purchase instead.

Keep in mind that our remanufactured transmissions are not intended for use on trucks with modified emissions systems, deleted emissions systems, or tuned vehicles. We do offer upgraded units for that purpose (contact us for more info) however, the warranty that comes with our stock units will be voided if used in this manner.

Remanufactured Ford 6R80 Transmissions From Powertrain Products

Powertrain Products stocks a full range of remanufactured Ford 6R80 transmissions as well as transmissions for many other vehicles. To make sure you get the right transmission the first time, use our VIN decoder or your vehicle’s Transmission Tag Number. Every Powertrain Products transmission is remanufactured to be better than OEM. We’re also the nation’s leading supplier of engines, differentials, and transfer cases. Call us at 888-842-0023 or contact us online and order today!