This procedure addresses a non-existent component. The 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 and automatic transmission uses electronic throttle control and does not have a kickdown cable.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission range sensor (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Throttle position sensor (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission pan gasket (if inspection required) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Ensure engine is cool before beginning work
3. Connect OBD-II scanner to diagnostic port under driver-side dash
4. Retrieve any stored transmission or throttle-related diagnostic trouble codes
5. Verify complaint: harsh shifting, delayed downshifts, or lack of throttle response during acceleration

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify electronic throttle system operation
   Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Monitor throttle position sensor readings on OBD-II scanner while slowly depressing accelerator pedal. Verify smooth transition from 0% to 100% throttle position without dropouts or erratic readings. Any irregular behavior indicates potential TPS or accelerator pedal position sensor failure.
2. 2

   Check transmission range sensor
   With OBD-II scanner connected, cycle through all gear positions (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Sport) and verify the scanner displays correct gear position for each selection. If positions do not match or show intermittent readings, transmission range sensor replacement is required.
3. 3

   Inspect transmission range sensor connector
   Locate transmission range sensor on driver side of transmission housing. Disconnect electrical connector and inspect pins for corrosion, bent terminals, or moisture intrusion. Clean connector with electrical contact cleaner if minor corrosion present. Check connector retention clip for proper seating.
4. 4

   Test transmission range sensor resistance
   Using digital multimeter, test transmission range sensor resistance across terminals per Ford service specifications. Sensor should show specific resistance values for each gear position. Out-of-specification readings confirm sensor failure requiring replacement.
5. 5

   Remove and replace transmission range sensor if faulty
   Remove sensor retaining bolt using appropriate socket. Carefully extract sensor from transmission case. Install new sensor with new O-ring if equipped, aligning sensor shaft with transmission detent. Hand-tighten bolt, then torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Check for transmission software updates
   Using factory-level diagnostic software or dealership scan tool, verify current transmission control module (TCM) software version. Ford has released multiple calibration updates for the 10R80 transmission to address shift quality concerns. Flash TCM to latest calibration if updates are available.
7. 7

   Inspect transmission fluid condition
   Check transmission fluid level and condition through dipstick (if equipped) or fill plug access. Fluid should be bright red and free of burnt odor or metallic particles. Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates internal transmission wear requiring fluid service or further diagnosis.
8. 8

   Perform transmission relearn procedure
   After any sensor replacement or software update, perform adaptive learning reset using OBD-II scanner. Clear all transmission-related fault codes. Start engine and allow to reach full operating temperature. Drive vehicle through multiple acceleration and deceleration cycles in both Drive and Sport modes to allow TCM to relearn shift points.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring positive retention clip engagement
2. Verify transmission fluid level is within specification after any sensor replacement
3. Clear all diagnostic trouble codes after repairs are completed

Verification

• Test drive vehicle through various operating conditions including gentle acceleration, wide-open throttle, and engine braking scenarios
• Verify smooth transmission shifts with appropriate downshift response during acceleration
• Re-scan for diagnostic trouble codes to confirm no new faults are present
• Confirm transmission range sensor displays correct gear position on scan tool in all selector positions
• Verify throttle position sensor readings correspond accurately to accelerator pedal input

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