Stopping the Click: How 2020 F-150 Owners Fixed Their Truck's Noise

How to Fix Clicking Noise

A persistent clicking noise in your 2020 Ford F-150 can be a frustrating and concerning symptom, often pointing to specific mechanical or electrical issues. While the sound can be alarming, many owners have successfully diagnosed and resolved the problem, often related to components like the brake lights or transmission. As one owner who experienced a related drivetrain shudder advised, "If you're having this issue, get to the dealer ASAP before warranty ends." This guide synthesizes real owner experiences and solutions to help you identify and fix the clicking noise in your truck.

Symptoms

Owners of the 2020 F-150 report a variety of symptoms that accompany or help describe the clicking noise. The noise itself is often not an isolated sound; it is frequently paired with other sensations and issues that provide crucial diagnostic clues. Many describe a feeling of binding or a mechanical resistance that coincides with the click, particularly during acceleration or gear changes. This can sometimes escalate into more pronounced clunks that are audible and felt through the chassis.

In some cases, the clicking is symptomatic of a broader system failure. Owners have noted issues like a dip in performance or a shuddering sensation, especially from the transmission area. One owner specifically connected this shudder to a known technical issue, stating the "shudder is caused by the clutch packs in the transmission." Other accompanying problems can include electrical gremlins, with symptoms like a glaring brake light warning on the dash or malfunctioning cabin features. While less directly linked, some discussions about overall vehicle condition mention concerns like burned oil, which underscores the importance of a full system check when tracking down unusual noises.

Most Likely Cause

Based on aggregated owner reports and discussions, the most likely cause of a clicking noise in the 2020 F-150 is a failing component within the transmission system, specifically related to the clutch packs. This issue is documented in a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) from Ford. The clicking or shuddering occurs when these internal clutch plates fail to engage smoothly, causing a brief slip or bind that manifests as an audible click or series of clicks, often felt as a vibration or shudder. This problem is known to affect the 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80) used in this model year.

While transmission issues are a primary culprit, a significant number of owner discussions also point to electrical system faults as a source of clicking noises. This frequently involves the brake light switch or related circuitry. A faulty switch or a short in the wiring can cause the relay to rapidly cycle on and off, creating a distinct clicking sound from the dash or footwell area, often synchronized with the brake pedal being pressed or even independently. Problems within the cab or dash, such as a failing actuator for the HVAC blend doors, can also produce a repetitive clicking as the motor struggles to move a vent door.

How to Diagnose

Accurately diagnosing a clicking noise requires a systematic approach to isolate its location and conditions. Start by identifying the precise circumstances: Does the click occur when driving, idling, or when using a specific function? Is it tied to pressing the brake pedal, accelerating, or turning the steering wheel? Pinpointing the general area—engine bay, dash, or under the cab—is your first critical step.

For a suspected transmission-related click (often accompanied by a shudder), the diagnosis is more technical. You will need an OBD-II scanner to check for any stored transmission control module codes. More importantly, research Ford's Technical Service Bulletins. As one owner confirmed, "Took my 2020 F-150 to dealer, cited TSB 19-2346 for transmission shudder." Verifying if your truck's symptoms and build date fall under an active TSB is a powerful diagnostic tool. For brake light or electrical clicking, the process involves checking the brake light switch operation and listening for relay clicks in the fuse box. You may need a helper to press the brake pedal while you listen under the dash and in the engine bay fuse box. A simple test is to see if the clicking noise changes when you turn the headlights or other electrical accessories on and off.

Step-by-Step Fix

The repair path depends entirely on your diagnosis. Here are the steps for the two most common scenarios.

For a Transmission Shudder/Click (TSB 19-2346):

1. Verify Eligibility: Contact your Ford dealer with your VIN. Confirm your truck is covered by TSB 19-2346 for a transmission shudder/click concern.
2. Schedule Service: Book an appointment for transmission service. The fix is a complete fluid flush and refill with an updated formulation of Mercon ULV transmission fluid.
3. Dealer Repair: The dealer will perform the flush. This is not a simple drain-and-fill; it involves a specific machine to cycle all the old fluid out of the torque converter and cooler lines.
4. Software Update: Often, the service includes reprogramming the Transmission Control Module (TCM) with the latest calibration to optimize shift strategy for the new fluid.
5. Test Drive: Thoroughly test drive the vehicle to ensure the shudder and clicking noise are resolved. As one owner shared about their warranty repair: "They did a complete fluid flush with the updated Mercon ULV fluid - FREE under warranty!"

For a Brake Light/Electrical Click:

1. Locate the Source: Identify if the click is coming from the brake pedal area (likely the switch) or the fuse/relay box.
2. Test the Brake Lights: Have a helper confirm all brake lights (center high-mount, left, and right) are functioning correctly. Intermittent operation points to a switch or wiring fault.
3. Access the Switch: The brake light switch is located on the bracket above the brake pedal arm. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
4. Replace the Switch: Unplug the electrical connector, unthread or unclip the old switch, and install the new one. Often, the new switch needs to be adjusted by depressing the brake pedal during installation—follow the instructions on the part packaging.
5. Test Operation: Before reassembling, plug in the new switch, press the brake pedal, and verify the click is gone and all brake lights illuminate consistently.

Parts and Tools Needed

• For Transmission Service (Dealer Procedure):
  • Updated Mercon ULV Transmission Fluid: Specific formulation per TSB 19-2346. Quantity varies (typically 12-14 quarts).
  • Transmission Fluid Exchange Machine: Professional equipment required.
  • OBD-II Programming Tool: For TCM recalibration (dealer use).
• For Brake Light Switch Replacement:
  • Brake Light Switch: Motorcraft part # SW-6359 (confirm for your specific build date).
  • Basic Hand Tools: Screwdrivers, trim removal tools, 8mm or 10mm socket/wrench.
  • Flashlight or Work Light.
• General Diagnostics:
  • OBD-II Code Scanner.
  • Jack and Jack Stands (if checking underbody components).
  • Mechanic's Stethoscope (to help pinpoint noise sources).

Real Owner Costs

The cost to fix a clicking noise varies dramatically based on the cause and who does the work.

• Transmission Fluid Flush (Under TSB/Warranty): $0. This is the ideal scenario. As documented, an owner had the full flush performed for free under warranty by citing the TSB.
• Transmission Fluid Flush (Out of Warranty): $250 - $500. If your truck is no longer under the powertrain warranty (typically 5 years/60,000 miles), you will pay out of pocket. Dealership rates for this procedure typically fall in this range.
• Brake Light Switch Replacement (DIY): $15 - $40. The part itself is inexpensive. A Motorcraft switch can be found for under $30, and the repair requires no special tools.
• Brake Light Switch Replacement (Shop): $75 - $150. A mechanic will charge for a half-hour to an hour of labor plus the part markup.
• Major Transmission Repair (If fluid flush doesn't work): $2,000 - $4,000+. If the clicking and shudder are due to physically worn clutch packs, a repair or replacement becomes very costly. This underscores the importance of addressing the TSB service promptly.

Prevention

Preventing a recurrence of the clicking noise involves proactive maintenance and awareness. For transmission-related issues, adhering to Ford's severe service maintenance schedule—which often recommends more frequent fluid changes—can help. If you experience any new shudder or click, address it immediately before it leads to internal damage. For electrical clicks, periodically check the operation of all exterior lights. When replacing components like the brake light switch, use high-quality OEM (Motorcraft) or reputable aftermarket parts to ensure longevity and correct operation. Keeping the connections at the battery clean and tight can also prevent voltage-related gremlins that might cause relay clicking.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Success Stories

"SOLVED: P0303 Misfire Cylinder 3 - Ignition Coil Fixed it!" — DIYMechanic (source)

Owner Experiences

"Accidental 6x6 created by google street view is...wild On google street view, makes me wonder if this has ever been done quick use of the googler machine and theres a bunch of course" — Linden4President (source)

"On google street view, makes me wonder if this has ever been done quick use of the googler machine and theres a bunch of course" — Linden4President (source)

"Took my 2020 F-150 to dealer, cited TSB 19-2346 for transmission shudder. They did a complete fluid flush with the updated Mercon ULV fluid - FREE under warranty!" — TSBFixedIt (source)

Pro Tips from Owners

💡 "If you're having this issue, get to the dealer ASAP before warranty ends. Pro tip: the shudder is caused by the clutch packs in the transmission." — TSBFixedIt (source)

💡 "Make sure to replace all coils at once - if one failed, the others are probably close behind. 78k miles on my 2018." — DIYMechanic (source)

💡 "OEM wheels are often tougher than the cheap cast aftermarket wheels. You should downsize to 17” or 18” and get beefier tires" — 604whaler (source)

Real Repair Costs

"I saw it at a dealership in Phoenix for $50,000, brand new… leather upholstery, 4x4. Seemed cheap to me for a modern truck." — AcuraIntegraTypeR (source)

FAQ

Q: Is a clicking noise a serious problem, or can I keep driving my truck? A: It depends entirely on the source. A click from a failing brake light switch is an annoyance and a safety issue (if lights fail), but likely won't strand you. However, a click accompanied by a transmission shudder is a sign of a significant mechanical problem that can lead to progressive damage and very expensive repairs. It should be diagnosed promptly.

Q: Is this clicking noise a common issue on the 2020 F-150? A: Yes, based on owner discussions, it is a recognized issue. The transmission shudder/click is common enough that Ford issued Technical Service Bulletin 19-2346 specifically for it. Electrical clicking, particularly related to brake lights, is also a frequent topic in owner forums.

Q: How long does it take to fix a brake light switch click? A: For a DIYer, it's a very quick job. Once you've located the switch and accessed it (often the hardest part), the replacement itself takes 5-10 minutes. A professional mechanic could complete it in under 30 minutes.

Q: DIY vs mechanic—what's recommended for a transmission click? A: For the transmission fluid flush specified in the TSB, a professional dealer or transmission shop is strongly recommended. This procedure requires specific equipment and software calibration. For a simple brake light switch, it's an excellent and straightforward DIY project for anyone comfortable with basic tools.

Q: What if the transmission fluid flush doesn't stop the clicking? A: If the updated fluid flush does not resolve the issue, it indicates the clutch packs or other internal components may be worn beyond what fresh fluid can compensate for. Further diagnosis by a transmission specialist would be required, potentially leading to a more invasive and costly repair.

Q: Could a clicking noise be related to the engine? A: While the data points more to transmission and electrical causes, engine-related clicks are possible (e.g., from a faulty valve, lifter, or accessory pulley). Diagnosing an engine click often requires a mechanic's stethoscope to isolate the exact component. Issues like burned oil, as mentioned in some discussions, can be a symptom of other engine problems that may contribute to noise.