Complaint 2186135

Complaint Summary

POWER TRAIN

Owner Narrative

My 2020 Ford Edge Titanium AWD, with approximately 64,000 miles, recently began exhibiting a brief vibration or shudder when accelerating at low speeds, below 40 mph. The vibration lasts approximately one to two seconds and occurs around the time the vehicle shifts gears under acceleration. The vehicle does not exhibit the vibration while maintaining a constant speed. Prior to this issue appearing, there were no warning lights, messages, or other indicators of a transmission problem. I brought the vehicle to a Ford dealership for inspection and diagnosis. After evaluating the vehicle, the dealership informed me that the transmission needed to be replaced and provided an estimate of approximately $11,000 to install a remanufactured transmission. After receiving this estimate, I contacted the dealership to ask whether any less invasive diagnostic or corrective measures had been attempted before recommending complete transmission replacement. I asked whether a powertrain control module (PCM) reprogramming or transmission fluid service had been performed, pursuant to Tech. Serv. Bul. 21-2389. The service advisor told me he did not see a PCM reprogram listed in the service notes and placed me on hold to confirm with the technician. When he returned, he stated that the technician had not performed a PCM reprogram because it allegedly could have worsened the issue. I was also informed that replacing the transmission fluid could potentially worsen the condition, and therefore it was not attempted. The dealership confirmed that the issue involved torque converter shudder but recommended replacing the entire transmission assembly rather than attempting other diagnostic or corrective steps. The unexpected shudder during acceleration raises concerns about drivability and the potential for the condition to worsen, particularly when accelerating into traffic or from intersections. At this time, the vehicle has only been inspected by the dealer.

Owner-submitted narrative on file with NHTSA. Complaint narratives are self-reported and have not been verified.