* Transmission type: Different Ford transmissions (e.g., 4R70W, 5R55E, 6F35, 10-speed) have varying inherent reliability and designs. Some are known to be more robust than others.
* Vehicle model and year: The application of the transmission (truck, car, SUV) and the year of manufacture impact its lifespan. Older designs may have known weaknesses not present in newer ones.
* Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and consistently operating the transmission under heavy load significantly reduce lifespan.
* Maintenance: Regular fluid and filter changes are crucial. Neglecting maintenance is a primary cause of premature transmission failure.
* Driving conditions: Frequent stop-and-go traffic puts more stress on the transmission than highway driving.
* Quality of repairs (if any): If the transmission has been previously repaired, the quality of that repair can impact its longevity.
While some Ford transmissions might last 150,000 miles or more with proper care, others might fail well before 100,000 miles due to any of the above factors. Therefore, giving a single average lifespan is misleading and inaccurate.