Ford is initiating a major safety recall affecting approximately 1.4 million F-150 pickup trucks in the United States. The action involves a software update to address a gear-shifting issue that has raised safety concerns.

The problem impacts model years 2015 through 2017 and stems from a signal fault between a transmission sensor and the vehicle's control module. In certain circumstances, this fault can cause the pickup truck to unexpectedly downshift into second gear, an undesirable occurrence if it happens unexpectedly while driving. The risk was significant enough to prompt a broader investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration earlier this year.

Ford has stated that the issue has been linked to two injuries and one reported accident to date, adding urgency to the recall campaign. The remedy is relatively straightforward: dealerships will perform a free software update on the powertrain control module. Owners will not be required to have any mechanical parts replaced.