Try using premium gas. Might make it a bit smoother, Haven't noticed what your noticing on mine but I've been running premium. All though I do notice the downshifting when slowing down. Just seems normal to me. idk
I figured out on my 22' outerbanks that I had before trading it in. That the auto stop start does help with gas mileage. With my new one I don't even notice the feature being on
I haven't noticed the dashboard stuff. But I've only had her since the 7th of July. What I did notice is that the tailgate door panel came apart while getting groceries. Thought I pulled the whole tailgate down. Looks like they messed up at the factory. Shouldn't be to hard to have ford to...