Ford F150 features multiple transmission identification codes compatible with specific generation/year models, trim levels, and engine types. If you have recently got your hands on a Ford F-150, it’s crucial to know about all the different transmission identification codes to drive your vehicle with full confidence.
If this is your first time discovering the transmission identification codes of Ford and you have no idea what’s the one for your vehicle, this guide has your back.
In this write-up, I will take you through a small introduction to the transmission codes, their location, and some methods you can use to identify these codes. I will also highlight some of the reasons explaining why searching for such codes might be necessary.
Note: Here is a little guide for you to learn about how to reset the transmission control module on your vehicle.
What Are Ford F-150 Transmission Identification Codes?
When it comes to vehicles, especially the premium ones like Ford, you might keep discovering a lot of new terms about them. The transmission identification code is also one such term that not a lot of users know about.
These transmission identification codes, if you aren’t already aware, can help you quickly determine the F150 transmission type and specifications. These alphanumeric codes typically provide valuable details regarding the model number, production year, and more.
Here, I have listed some standard Ford F-150 identification codes for you.
- C3: Used on early F150 models from the 50s and 60s; this code refers to the 3-speed automatic transmission. The C3-coded models of the Ford F150 represent the lightest-duty versions in the series.
- C6: With a 3-speed automatic transmission known as C6, famous for its durability and strength, this code is typically seen on models from the 60s through the 80s; additionally, it was often utilized in racing applications.
- AOD (Automatic Overdrive): This code refers to a 4-speed automatic transmission first introduced in the 1980s to increase fuel efficiency. Later, a computer-controlled version known as AODE became popular.
- E4OD: It stands for Electronic 4-Speed Overdrive automatic transmissions – these were commonly found in late 1980s and early 1990s Ford F150s.
- 4R70W: Introduced as an upgrade from AOD transmissions for later model years, this code denotes a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- 4R100: This code designates the 4-speed automatic transmission known as 4R100, first introduced in late 1990 and famous for heavy-duty applications.
- 5R110W: The 5R110W code designates a 5-speed automatic transmission found on specific heavy-duty F150 variants.
Why Is the Transmission Identification Code of Your Truck Important?
Now that you have gone through some of the most common Ford F150, it’s important to understand why knowing about these codes can be of help to you.
Understanding your transmission’s type and design is essential for various reasons. Here are some basic scenarios where this knowledge could come in handy.
Reason #1: Maintenance of the Vehicle
Knowledge of transmission type, code, and design is a significant requirement for regular maintenance. This knowledge allows a mechanic or workshop to locate specific parts, compatible fluids, and the procedures to repair them efficiently.
Reason #2: Easy Troubleshooting
Knowing your vehicle identification number will save time and allow for successful troubleshooting of problems quickly. Furthermore, knowing its identification code will assist in finding compatible replacement models more efficiently.
Reason #3: Car Reselling
If you plan to resell your Ford F150, prospective buyers could ask about its transmission type and code. Therefore, it would be beneficial for you to have this knowledge prior to selling so as to prevent any inconvenience later.
Reason #4: Vehicle Policies & Plans
New models of trucks and maintenance plans often include terms and conditions specific to different systems. Therefore, you need to know the code to assess whether or not it falls within warranty, maintenance, or insurance plans.
How To Identify Ford F-150 Transmission Identification Codes?
Finding transmission identification codes on a Ford F150 truck can be accomplished from two sources. One method involves looking at an alphabetic list displaying its type on a sticker located near the door jamb of your truck. The second way involves identification tags on transmissions or documents related to them.
Here is a little breakdown of both these methods for you.
Method #1: Finding the Transmission Identification Codes via Alphabetic list
The first method you can use to find out the transmission identification code of your vehicle is to head to the alphabetic list. Each alphabet identifies a specific transmission model. Some of these lists based on different Ford F-150 models are elaborated below.
- 1990-1992 Ford Models
1990-1992 Ford F150 models feature codes “G” for C6 automatic transmission, “U” for 4-speed automatic 4R70W transmission, and “M” and “E” for 5-speed manual with M5OD overdrive and E4OD automatic transmission, respectively.
- 1997-2003 Ford Models
1997-2003 models have code “E,” which stands for 4-speed automatic with 4R100 overdrive transmission; “M” stands for 5-speed manual M5R2-C overdrive transmission, while “U” stands for 4-speed automatic 4R70W transmission.
- 2005 Ford Model
F150 2005 model is equipped with transmission codes “A,” “B,” and “M,” representing 4-speed automatic 4R70E, 4-speed automatic 4R75E, and 5-speed manual M5R2-C, respectively.
- 2007 Ford Model
2007 models of F150 trucks have a “Q” identification code that indicates 4-speed automatic 4R75E transmissions; therefore, various codes could exist depending on trim levels and transmission types.
Method # 2: Use the Identification tag to Find the Transmission Identification Codes
You can also know about the transmission identification code of your Ford using the identification tag. The alpha-numeric numbers on the metal tag or identification ID tag on the transmission body are actually what the identification code for your car is.
- The F150 2010 model of the truck comes equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission coded as 4R75E; 2009 to 2014 models feature 6R80 6-speed transmissions; while for 2017 onward models, there is also a 10-speed automatic transmission with code 10R80.
- The 2015-2020 Ford F-150’s transmission identification numbers are 6R80 and 10R80 for its 6-speed and 10-speed automatic options, respectively. These adaptors are compatible with engines such as the 3.3-litre and 3.5-litre V6, 2.7-litre and 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6s, and the 5.0-litre V8.
Due to variations and similar transmissions that come equipped with various engines, the best way to verify your vehicle’s code would be by checking its owner’s manual or visiting a Ford dealership.
How to Locate the Transmission Identification Codes?
The exact location of the Ford F150 transmission identification code will likely depend on model year and trim level. These codes are typically located at the following:
- Look at the driver-side door jamb sticker. Here is the information about VIN, transmission type (automatic or manual), tire size, axle code, rim size, safety compliance certificates, etc.
- You can also check the transmission housing; it features a metal tag or sticker attached to either its top or bottom body that you can read easily without taking apart the assembly.
- Your pickup truck owner’s manual may also contain information on its transmission type and code. If it’s not available or stolen, another way is to contact Ford’s authorized dealership with your VIN of the vehicle and inquire.
Conclusion
This is all the information you need to understand the F150 transmission identification codes. In this guide, I have shared the significance of these codes and how you can locate them.
This guide also holds information on how to identify these codes based on your specific model. With this knowledge, you can find the transmission identification code of your vehicle without much hassle.
Hopefully, the next time someone asks you about the transmission identification code of your Ford F-150, you will know exactly what they mean!