Ford F-150 irregular shudder at highway speed requiring downshifts, more pronounced when towing on Ford F-150

Some Ford F-150 owners report experiencing an irregular shudder at highway speeds, particularly when towing, which may be linked to various issues. These owners have noted that transmission problems could be a contributing factor, especially if downshifts are needed to alleviate the shudder. Additionally, the shudder tends to be more pronounced under towing loads due to increased strain on the vehicle's components, including the transmission and driveline. Some have found that recalibrating the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) through a Technical Service Bulletin, such as TSB 22-2224, may help mitigate the issue. Furthermore, if the shudder is accompanied by driveline vibrations, it could signal underlying driveline component problems that require inspection and possible repairs. Staying informed about recalls related to specific Ford F-150 models is crucial, as there have been past recalls addressing transmission-related issues that could lead to unexpected downshifts. For persistent shuddering, especially while towing, it is recommended that owners seek a professional inspection to accurately diagnose and address the problem.