NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Service Brakes complaints
85 reportsClear category filter75,300 miles · Mar 2, 2021
Service Brakes
GOOD DAY TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, ON FEBRUARY 13,2021 I HAD A MAJOR BRAKE FAILURE WHILE PARKING MY TRUCK WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AS I WAS BACKING UP. THE REASON THIS IS A CONCERN IS THAT I REGULARLY HAVE MY VEHICLE SERVICED AT ONLY FORD DEALERSHIPS. THE TWO MOST RECENT TIMES I HAD SERVICE WAS ON JANUARY 21,2021 TH…
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GOOD DAY TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, ON FEBRUARY 13,2021 I HAD A MAJOR BRAKE FAILURE WHILE PARKING MY TRUCK WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AS I WAS BACKING UP. THE REASON THIS IS A CONCERN IS THAT I REGULARLY HAVE MY VEHICLE SERVICED AT ONLY FORD DEALERSHIPS. THE TWO MOST RECENT TIMES I HAD SERVICE WAS ON JANUARY 21,2021 THE WORKS OIL AND FILTER CHANGE WHICH INCUDES INSPECTING INSPECTING THE BRAKE SYSTEM; AND OCTOBER 27,2020 THE WORKS OIL AND FILTER CHANGE WHICH INCLUDES INSPECTING THE BRAKE SYSTEM AT WHICH TIME I HAD REAR BRAKE WORK DONE BY FUTURE FORD LINCOLN OF CONCORD 2258 DIAMOND BLVD. CONCORD CA.94520. THE TECHNICIAN SAID IT WAS TO MUCH PRESSURE APPLIED TO MY BRAKES WHILE BACKING UP AND PARKING. I HAVE NOT EVER EXPERIENCED THIS THROUGH OVER 40 YEARS OF DRIVING AND IT IS A VERY CONCERNING ISSUE THAT I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF IT CAN BE INVESTIGATED INTO PLEASE. THANK YOU
NHTSA ODI #11398765
Mileage unknown · Jan 6, 2021
Service Brakes
DOING APPROXIMATELY 45MPH, IN FREEZING TEMPS AND LIGHT SNOW, APPROACHED A YELLOW LIGHT. HAD PLENTY OF DISTANCE TO STOP AND BEGAN TO APPLY BRAKES. TRUCK BEGAN TO SLOW, BUT SUDDENLY FELT LIKE THE BRAKES LET GO OR MAYBE HIT A PATCH OF ICE. LET OFF AND DEPRESSED THE PEDAL AGAIN. THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. I BEGAN PUMPING THEM WHIC…
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DOING APPROXIMATELY 45MPH, IN FREEZING TEMPS AND LIGHT SNOW, APPROACHED A YELLOW LIGHT. HAD PLENTY OF DISTANCE TO STOP AND BEGAN TO APPLY BRAKES. TRUCK BEGAN TO SLOW, BUT SUDDENLY FELT LIKE THE BRAKES LET GO OR MAYBE HIT A PATCH OF ICE. LET OFF AND DEPRESSED THE PEDAL AGAIN. THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. I BEGAN PUMPING THEM WHICH WAS SLOWING THE VEHICLE, BUT I ENDED UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION, NARROWLY AVOIDING A SIDE IMPACT WITH A SEMI AND LOOKING LIKE A MORON. MY ENTIRE FAMILY WAS IN THE TRUCK AND THIS WAS VERY CLOSE TO A DISASTER. AFTERWARDS THE BRAKES WERE SOFT AND CONTINUED TO DO THE SAME. WHEN THE PEDAL WAS HELD DOWN IT WOULD SLOWLY GO TO THE FLOOR, FEELING LIKE ALL HYDRAULIC PRESSURE WAS BLEEDING OFF. THE INITIAL OCCURRENCE HAPPENED ON A CITY ROAD IN MOTION. OF COURSE THE TRUCK WARRANTY ENDED ABOUT 500 MILES PRIOR. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN BABIED, ONLY USED FOR WEEKENDS. BEING TOLD BY DEALER THAT A SEAL FAILED IN THE MASTER CYLINDER AND POSSIBLY A HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT. ESTIMATE TO REPAIR IS OVER $2500 TO REPAIR A VERY NEW VEHICLE THAT COSTS OVER $50,000.
NHTSA ODI #11386879
30,000 miles · Dec 11, 2020
Service Brakes
I WAS BACKING INTO MY DRIVEWAY AND STEPPED ON THE BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR - NO BRAKES. I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO TRY PUMPING THE BRAKES OR STEPPING ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. THE VEHICLE IMPACTED THE GARAGE DOOR DAMAGING IT TO THE POINT THAT IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE REPLACEMENT COST IS $1…
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I WAS BACKING INTO MY DRIVEWAY AND STEPPED ON THE BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR - NO BRAKES. I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO TRY PUMPING THE BRAKES OR STEPPING ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. THE VEHICLE IMPACTED THE GARAGE DOOR DAMAGING IT TO THE POINT THAT IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE REPLACEMENT COST IS $1,833.33. THE VEHICLE IMPACT POINTS WERE THE PLASTIC PARTS OF THE TAILGATE, BUMPER AND TRAILER HITCH. THERE WAS NO VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. THE BRAKES WORKED FINE AGAIN AFTER THE INCIDENT. I HAD SKYLINE FORD CHECK THE BRAKES AND THEY COULD NOT FIND ANY TROUBLE CODES OR PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES DURING A TEST DRIVE. I NOW DON'T TRUST THE BRAKES AND AM CONCERNED THAT IT COULD HAPPEN AGAIN WITH MORE SEVERE CONSEQUENCES.
NHTSA ODI #11383025
24,613 miles · Nov 30, 2020
Service Brakes
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT AT 35 MPH, SHE ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL HOWEVER, THE BRAKES FAILED TO OPERATE AS NEEDED, WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED THROUGH THE RED LIGHT. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVEN TO THE RESIDENCE AND THEN TOWED TO PEORIA FORD (9…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT AT 35 MPH, SHE ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL HOWEVER, THE BRAKES FAILED TO OPERATE AS NEEDED, WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED THROUGH THE RED LIGHT. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVEN TO THE RESIDENCE AND THEN TOWED TO PEORIA FORD (9130 W BELL RD, PEORIA, AZ 85382) WHERE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED DUE TO A LEAK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V332000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,613.
NHTSA ODI #11377078
26,600 miles · Nov 6, 2020
Service Brakes
WHILE COMING TO A STOP IN TRAFFIC MY 2017 FORD F-150 XL 5.0L STARTED BRAKING NORMALLY WITH SOLID PEDAL FEEL. HOWEVER, AS I CONTINUED BRAKING AND APPLYING MORE PRESSURE TO STOP THE PEDAL SUDDENLY BECAME VERY SOFT AND WENT TO THE FLOOR. I HAD TO RELEASE THE PEDAL AND REAPPLY THE BRAKES. AGAIN, THE BRAKE PEDAL STARTED OUT NORMAL AN…
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WHILE COMING TO A STOP IN TRAFFIC MY 2017 FORD F-150 XL 5.0L STARTED BRAKING NORMALLY WITH SOLID PEDAL FEEL. HOWEVER, AS I CONTINUED BRAKING AND APPLYING MORE PRESSURE TO STOP THE PEDAL SUDDENLY BECAME VERY SOFT AND WENT TO THE FLOOR. I HAD TO RELEASE THE PEDAL AND REAPPLY THE BRAKES. AGAIN, THE BRAKE PEDAL STARTED OUT NORMAL AND THEN WENT SOFT AGAIN AS MORE PRESSURE WAS APPLIED AND I HAD TO VEER TO THE RIGHT TO AVOID REAR ENDING A STOPPED VEHICLE. LUCKILY NO COLLISION OCCURRED. THE BRAKES CONTINUED ACTING THIS WAY UNTIL I WAS ABLE TO CAREFULLY DRIVE IT TO A FORD SERVICE CENTER. THIS OCCURRED ON BOTH CITY AND HIGHWAY DRIVING WHEN COMING TO A STOP OR TRYING TO SLOW DOWN SUDDENLY DUE TO TRAFFIC. MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY IN FOR REPAIR AT A FORD SERVICE CENTER.
NHTSA ODI #11373436
106,500 miles · Oct 27, 2020
Electrical SystemService BrakesVehicle Speed Control
DIGITAL CLUSTER MALFUNCTION, CAUSING SPEEDOMETER AND FUEL GAUGE TO BOTH DISPLAY ZERO, LOSS OF POWER TO WINDOWS, LOSS OF PARKING BRAKE FUNCTION, BLACKED OUT BACKUP CAMERA, NO HEAT OR A/C. HIGHBEAMS STAY ON AND CANNOT BE SWITCHED TO LOW BEAMS. ALL HAPPENED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH.
NHTSA ODI #11366656
10 miles · Sep 22, 2020
Service Brakes
BRAKES EXTREMELY PEDAL SPONGE TO THE FLOOR. EXTREME BRAKE STOPPAGE. VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND WAS ABLE TO STOP SLOWLY ON CITY STREET. I SENT IT BACK TO A NEAR HOME TO STAY. EXTREMELY CLOSE TO COLLISION. NO DAMAGES. REPLACED MASTER CYLINDER TO REPAIR CENTER. DEALERSHIP WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA ODI #11360507
4,950 miles · Aug 15, 2020
Service Brakes
LOSS OF BRAKE FUNCTION WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. PEDAL TO THE FLOOR WITH NO WARNING LIGHTS / CHIMES. BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR APPEARED FULL - NO EXTERNAL SIGNS OF LEAKS. BRAKE PEDAL HAD A MIND OF IT'S OWN! BRAKES WOULD WORK, THEN PEDAL TO FLOOR, THEN BRAKES WOULD WORK, THEN NOT.......... TOWED TO DEALER ON 8/13/2020 8/14/2…
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LOSS OF BRAKE FUNCTION WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. PEDAL TO THE FLOOR WITH NO WARNING LIGHTS / CHIMES. BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR APPEARED FULL - NO EXTERNAL SIGNS OF LEAKS. BRAKE PEDAL HAD A MIND OF IT'S OWN! BRAKES WOULD WORK, THEN PEDAL TO FLOOR, THEN BRAKES WOULD WORK, THEN NOT.......... TOWED TO DEALER ON 8/13/2020 8/14/2020 - DEALER STATES BRAKE BOOSTER FAILURE WITH BRAKE FLUID LEAKING INTO BRAKE BOOSTER. JOHNSON / SEWELL FORD IN MARBLE FALLS, TX. NO MENTION OF MASTER CYLINDER OR BRAKE VACUUM PUMP INVOLVEMENT? (ECOBOOST 3.5 ENGINE CONFIGURATION) BOOSTER ON BACK ORDER, MAY BE WEEKS TO MONTHS! MY BUILD DATE (3/2017 AT DEARBORN PLANT) IS ALMOST ONE YEAR LATER THAN THE BUILD DATES SHOWN IN THE PENDING RECALL 20S31, BUT APPEARS TO BE THE SAME PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #11349543
33,000 miles · Aug 3, 2020
Service BrakesVehicle Speed Control
I WAS ON A HIGHWAY IN RAIN ON CRUISE CONTROL APPROACHING AN OFF RAMP. MY SPEED WAS 72 MPH AS SET BY CRUISE CONTROL. I APPLIED THE BRAKES TO DISENGAGE AND SLOW FOR THE OFF-RAMP WHICH IS SHARP. AS I APPROACHED I STARTED TO APPLY MORE BRAKE PRESSURE. THE VEHICLE BEGAN ACCELERATING AS I WAS GOING INTO THE TURN. I STOMPED ON THE BRAK…
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I WAS ON A HIGHWAY IN RAIN ON CRUISE CONTROL APPROACHING AN OFF RAMP. MY SPEED WAS 72 MPH AS SET BY CRUISE CONTROL. I APPLIED THE BRAKES TO DISENGAGE AND SLOW FOR THE OFF-RAMP WHICH IS SHARP. AS I APPROACHED I STARTED TO APPLY MORE BRAKE PRESSURE. THE VEHICLE BEGAN ACCELERATING AS I WAS GOING INTO THE TURN. I STOMPED ON THE BRAKES AND THE BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOOR REPEATEDLY WHILE STILL ACCELERATING. I NAVIGATED THE TURN AT HIGH SPEED WITH THE BACK END BREAKING LOOSE AND FISH TAILING. I BARELY MADE IT AROUND AND PROCEEDED TO HIT THE OFF BUTTON FRANTICALLY. THE TRUCK SHUT DOWN AND I COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I HAD MY 7YR OLD GIRL IN THE TRUCK. IT WAS TERRIFYING. WHEN I RESTARTED THE TRUCK THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS DISENGAGED AND THE BRAKES WORKED
NHTSA ODI #11342907
40,000 miles · Jul 16, 2020
Service BrakesStructureCrash
I WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY SITTING STATIONARY IN MY VEHICLE BUCKLING UP TO DEPART FOR THE STORE. I PUT MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL TO PUSH THE START BUTTON. AFTER STARTING I MOVED THE SHIFT LEVER TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN GEAR AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ROLL AND MY BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. BECAUSE MY DRIVEWAY HAS A SLIGHT RAMP TO IT…
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I WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY SITTING STATIONARY IN MY VEHICLE BUCKLING UP TO DEPART FOR THE STORE. I PUT MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL TO PUSH THE START BUTTON. AFTER STARTING I MOVED THE SHIFT LEVER TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN GEAR AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ROLL AND MY BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. BECAUSE MY DRIVEWAY HAS A SLIGHT RAMP TO IT THE VEHICLE KEPT ROLLING FORWARD, I KEPT HITTING THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT THE BRAKE PEDAL KEPT GOING TO THE FLOOR AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. AS A RESULT I ROLLED INTO A BLOCK FENCE ACROSS FROM MY DRIVEWAY KNOCKING IT DOWN AND DAMAGING MY VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS JUST ROLLING UNDER ITS OWN MOMENTUM, NO POWER TO THE DRIVE TRAIN. NO INJURIES, BUT FENCE WAS DOWN AND VEHICLE HOOD AND OTHER FRONT END AREAS WERE DAMAGED. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT CAUSED THE BRAKES TO FAIL. FILED AN INSURANCE CLAIM AND HAD TO HAVE VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALER FOR BODY REPAIRS AND NEIGHBORS FENCE REPAIRED.
NHTSA ODI #11339784
Official recalls
17Jun 9, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 17V053. The instrument cluster may lose power after initial vehicle start-up in cold ambient temperatures. Several gauges, including the transmission gear position indicator, may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An instrument cluster that fails to display critical safety information, such as gear position or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will update the Instrument Panel Cluster Assembly (IPC) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 17, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C26. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6, 2026.
Apr 14, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150 vehicles. A loss of signal between the transmission range sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into second gear.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Unexpectedly downshifting into second gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S28. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 15, 2026.
Apr 11, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A brake fluid leak can cause reduced brake function and extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S37. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 22V-150.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Consequence: A brake fluid leak can cause reduced brake function and extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S37. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 22V-150.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Consequence: A brake fluid leak can cause reduced brake function and extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S37. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 22V-150.
Mar 11, 2022
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. An interim owner notification letter notifying customers of the safety defect were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed April 29, 2022. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-332. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S11.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Consequence: A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. An interim owner notification letter notifying customers of the safety defect were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed April 29, 2022. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-332. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S11.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Consequence: A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. An interim owner notification letter notifying customers of the safety defect were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed April 29, 2022. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-332. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S11.
Jun 8, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2017 F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may leak brake fluid into the brake booster.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel and feel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, possibly requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and inspect the brake booster, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners an interim notification on June 30, 2020. The recall began on October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S31.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2017 F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may leak brake fluid into the brake booster.
Consequence: A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel and feel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, possibly requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and inspect the brake booster, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners an interim notification on June 30, 2020. The recall began on October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S31.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2017 F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may leak brake fluid into the brake booster.
Consequence: A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel and feel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, possibly requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and inspect the brake booster, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners an interim notification on June 30, 2020. The recall began on October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S31.
Apr 8, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater and previously remedied under recall 18V894. During the previous repair, the block heater cable's splice connector may have been damaged.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A damaged cable could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the engine block heater from being used. When replacement cables become available, a second notice will be mailed and dealers will replace the engine block heater cord, free of charge. The recall began May 31, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S11.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater and previously remedied under recall 18V894. During the previous repair, the block heater cable's splice connector may have been damaged.
Consequence: A damaged cable could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the engine block heater from being used. When replacement cables become available, a second notice will be mailed and dealers will replace the engine block heater cord, free of charge. The recall began May 31, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S11.
Equipment:electrical
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater and previously remedied under recall 18V894. During the previous repair, the block heater cable's splice connector may have been damaged.
Consequence: A damaged cable could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the engine block heater from being used. When replacement cables become available, a second notice will be mailed and dealers will replace the engine block heater cord, free of charge. The recall began May 31, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S11.
Dec 18, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater. Water and contaminants may get into the block heater cable's splice connector causing corrosion and damage.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: When the heater is plugged in, prolonged corrosion could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring which can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the block heater cable, free of charge. Once parts are available, Dealers will replace the engine block heater cable, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S45.
Aug 31, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Regular Cab and SuperCrew Cab vehicles. If a front seat belt pretensioner deploys as the result of a crash, the sparks may ignite materials such as carpeting or insulation within the B-pillar area.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A vehicle fire could result if materials ignite inside the vehicle.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the B-pillar insulation material and wiring harness tape, and install heat resistant tape, free of charge. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S27.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seat Belts:pretensioner
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Regular Cab and SuperCrew Cab vehicles. If a front seat belt pretensioner deploys as the result of a crash, the sparks may ignite materials such as carpeting or insulation within the B-pillar area.
Consequence: A vehicle fire could result if materials ignite inside the vehicle.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the B-pillar insulation material and wiring harness tape, and install heat resistant tape, free of charge. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S27.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Regular Cab and SuperCrew Cab vehicles. If a front seat belt pretensioner deploys as the result of a crash, the sparks may ignite materials such as carpeting or insulation within the B-pillar area.
Consequence: A vehicle fire could result if materials ignite inside the vehicle.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the B-pillar insulation material and wiring harness tape, and install heat resistant tape, free of charge. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S27.
Apr 4, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford F-150 and 2018 Ford Expedition and Mustang and Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with 10-speed automatic transmissions. A roll pin may not have been installed in the transmission, potentially causing a loss of the "Park" function.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Despite the transmission shift lever being placed in 'Park' and the instrument panel display indicating 'Park,' the vehicle may roll away after it has been exited if the parking brake has not been applied, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission to make sure it has the roll pin, installing one if it is missing, free of charge. The recall began on April 13, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S09.
Oct 24, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with ten-speed transmissions. The pin that attaches the transmission shift linkage to the transmission may come out, preventing the transmission from responding to movement of the shift lever.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The disconnected linkage may cause the vehicle to not move forward or backward as selected by the driver with the shift lever. Additionally, despite selecting 'Park', if the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle may roll. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the roll pin with an updated part, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S36.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:floor Shift
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with ten-speed transmissions. The pin that attaches the transmission shift linkage to the transmission may come out, preventing the transmission from responding to movement of the shift lever.
Consequence: The disconnected linkage may cause the vehicle to not move forward or backward as selected by the driver with the shift lever. Additionally, despite selecting 'Park', if the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle may roll. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the roll pin with an updated part, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S36.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:column Shift
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with ten-speed transmissions. The pin that attaches the transmission shift linkage to the transmission may come out, preventing the transmission from responding to movement of the shift lever.
Consequence: The disconnected linkage may cause the vehicle to not move forward or backward as selected by the driver with the shift lever. Additionally, despite selecting 'Park', if the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle may roll. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the roll pin with an updated part, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S36.
Oct 16, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ford F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty trucks. The doors on these vehicles may have a bent or kinked actuation cable or the door latches may freeze after water gets into the latch. Either condition can result in the doors opening while driving although they appear to be closed.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A door that opens while driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the door latch actuation cables and repair if necessary, and install water shields over the door latches, free of charge. The recall began October 12, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S33.
Sep 25, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks with manually-adjusted front passenger seats. The seat belt anchor may not be adequately welded to the seat cushion frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages," and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The seat belt buckle weld may fail, preventing the occupants from being properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger manual seat track, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C17.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seats
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks with manually-adjusted front passenger seats. The seat belt anchor may not be adequately welded to the seat cushion frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages," and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: The seat belt buckle weld may fail, preventing the occupants from being properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger manual seat track, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C17.
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks with manually-adjusted front passenger seats. The seat belt anchor may not be adequately welded to the seat cushion frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages," and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: The seat belt buckle weld may fail, preventing the occupants from being properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger manual seat track, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C17.
Aug 28, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250 and F-350 trucks equipped with a crew cab. The left rear inflatable seat belt buckle assembly may be inadequately attached to its mounting bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the left rear inflatable seat belt buckle separates from it's mounting bracket, the seat occupant may not be adequately restrained, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the seat belt assembly, replacing the attaching rivet as necessary, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed October 18, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C12.
Aug 28, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 and Mustang vehicles. The air bag inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may rupture in the event of a crash.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S26.
May 22, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles originally produced with black or body colored exterior door handles that may have been subsequently equipped with a chrome exterior door handle cover accessory kit purchased from a Ford dealer. These accessory door handle covers may cause the doors to unlatch in a side impact collision. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the doors unlatch and open in a side impact collision, the occupants have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the accessory covers and refund the purchase price. The recall began July 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for the recall is 17C09.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles originally produced with black or body colored exterior door handles that may have been subsequently equipped with a chrome exterior door handle cover accessory kit purchased from a Ford dealer. These accessory door handle covers may cause the doors to unlatch in a side impact collision. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Consequence: If the doors unlatch and open in a side impact collision, the occupants have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the accessory covers and refund the purchase price. The recall began July 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for the recall is 17C09.
Structure:body:door
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles originally produced with black or body colored exterior door handles that may have been subsequently equipped with a chrome exterior door handle cover accessory kit purchased from a Ford dealer. These accessory door handle covers may cause the doors to unlatch in a side impact collision. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Consequence: If the doors unlatch and open in a side impact collision, the occupants have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the accessory covers and refund the purchase price. The recall began July 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for the recall is 17C09.
May 22, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to having inadequate welds. As such, these vehicles may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202a, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C08.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to having inadequate welds. As such, these vehicles may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202a, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C08.
Seats
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to having inadequate welds. As such, these vehicles may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202a, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C08.
Jan 24, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 trucks equipped with an eight-inch productivity screen. In these vehicles, the instrument cluster may lose power after the initial vehicle start-up in cold ambient temperatures. Several gauges, including the transmission gear position indicator, may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 102, "Transmission shift position sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the transmission gear position indicator fails to illuminate, the driver may be unable to tell the transmission shift position, increasing the risk of a crash or injury from unintended vehicle movement.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began February 20, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C01.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 trucks equipped with an eight-inch productivity screen. In these vehicles, the instrument cluster may lose power after the initial vehicle start-up in cold ambient temperatures. Several gauges, including the transmission gear position indicator, may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 102, "Transmission shift position sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect."
Consequence: If the transmission gear position indicator fails to illuminate, the driver may be unable to tell the transmission shift position, increasing the risk of a crash or injury from unintended vehicle movement.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began February 20, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C01.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (prndl)
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 F-150 trucks equipped with an eight-inch productivity screen. In these vehicles, the instrument cluster may lose power after the initial vehicle start-up in cold ambient temperatures. Several gauges, including the transmission gear position indicator, may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 102, "Transmission shift position sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect."
Consequence: If the transmission gear position indicator fails to illuminate, the driver may be unable to tell the transmission shift position, increasing the risk of a crash or injury from unintended vehicle movement.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began February 20, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C01.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
3EA26001 · Unintended Transmission Downshift And Rear Wheel Lock-up
Opened Jan 30, 2026 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)
On March 21, 2025, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25002) to investigate instances of unexpected transmission downshifting without driver input in model year (MY) 2015-2017 Ford F-150 vehicles (subject vehicles) manufactured by Ford Motor Company (Ford). The complaints allege that, without warning or driver input, the subject vehicles experienced a sudden and rapid deceleration often accompanied by temporary rear wheel lockup, seizure, or skidding, resulting in a loss of vehicle control that increases the risk of crash and injury to all motorists, including those not within the subject vehicles. The MY 2015 and MY 2016 F-150 vehicles were equipped with the “6R80” transmission, while the MY 2017 vehicles were equipped with either the “6R80” transmission or the “10R80” transmission. This investigation was limited to MY 2015-2017 Ford F-150 with the “6R80” transmission. ODI identified 329 Vehicle Owners Questionnaires (VOQs) related to this investigation and sixty percent of these consumers were interviewed to confirm the details of their allegations. Consumers reported that their vehicles’ transmission suddenly downshifted to a lower gear, often to 1st or 2nd gear, without driver input or advance warning. Consumers described the downshift events to be regular and repeated occurrences, with some consumers stating that they no longer drive the vehicle due to safety concerns. Forty-three percent of consumers reported experiencing at least one wheel lockup event, during which the rear tires locked, screeched, or skidded during the transmission downshift. ODI also found that 114 of the 329 consumers reported having their vehicle’s molded lead frame or valve body assembly (which comes with a molded lead frame) replaced, 80 of which were confirmed through consumer submitted repair invoices. In its response to ODI’s Information Request, Ford provided an assessment of potential root cause of failure for the subject vehicles and how this failure is different from the failure associated with MY 2011-2014 Ford F-150 vehicles that was addressed by four safety recalls (16V-248, 19V-075, 19V-433, and 24V-444). Ford has identified that the defect in the recalled vehicle population involved lead frame supplier production issues resulting in signal loss from the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor. Ford has identified that the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population involved degradation of electrical connections within the lead frame due to thermal cycling and vibration over extended time in service resulting in signal loss from the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS). Signal loss from the TRS can result in an unintended shift to neutral, unintended upshift, or unintended downshift which are regulated by a gear “shift map” based on the vehicle’s speed at the time of signal loss. According to Ford’s “shift map”, at speeds between 35-64 mph, the maximum allowable downshift would be to 2nd gear (i.e. a 6th to 2nd gear downshift event) which Ford has designated to represent the worst-case scenario for subject vehicles. Ford has also acknowledged that the worst-case scenario may also involve temporary wheel lockup. However, Ford has stated that the failure mechanism in the MY 2011-2014 F-150 vehicles—previously addressed through recalls—primarily involved OSS sensor signal loss that could result in 6th to 1st gear downshift events. This OSS-related failure mode is distinct from the TRS-related signal loss identified in the subject vehicle population. ODI has identified an additional potential safety defect associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. Preliminary testing performed by NHTSA’s Vehicle Research Test Center (VRTC) showed that when the TRS experiences an intermittent signal loss, one possible outcome is a change in vehicle direction. Specifically, if a vehicle is operating in reverse up an incline when the TRS signal loss occurs, then the vehicle may shift into neutral causing the vehicle to change directions and roll forward. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysis (EA) to, among other things, perform component-level testing and vehicle testing, as well as review additional technical information to better understand the alleged defect that has been identified. To review the reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
PE25002 · Unintended Transmission Downshift And Rear Wheel Lock-up
Opened Mar 21, 2025 · Closed Jan 30, 2026
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)
On March 21, 2025, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE25002) to investigate instances of unexpected transmission downshifting without driver input in model year (MY) 2015-2017 Ford F-150 vehicles (subject vehicles) manufactured by Ford Motor Company (Ford). The complaints allege that, without warning or driver input, the subject vehicles experienced a sudden and rapid deceleration often accompanied by temporary rear wheel lockup, seizure, or skidding, resulting in a loss of vehicle control that increases the risk of crash and injury to all motorists, including those not within the subject vehicles. The MY 2015 and MY 2016 F-150 vehicles were equipped with the “6R80” transmission, while the MY 2017 vehicles were equipped with either the “6R80” transmission or the “10R80” transmission. This investigation was limited to MY 2015-2017 Ford F-150 with the “6R80” transmission. ODI identified 329 Vehicle Owners Questionnaires (VOQs) related to this investigation and sixty percent of these consumers were interviewed to confirm the details of their allegations. Consumers reported that their vehicles’ transmission suddenly downshifted to a lower gear, often to 1st or 2nd gear, without driver input or advance warning. Consumers described the downshift events to be regular and repeated occurrences, with some consumers stating that they no longer drive the vehicle due to safety concerns. Forty-three percent of consumers reported experiencing at least one wheel lockup event, during which the rear tires locked, screeched, or skidded during the transmission downshift. ODI also found that 114 of the 329 consumers reported having their vehicle’s molded lead frame or valve body assembly (which comes with a molded lead frame) replaced, 80 of which were confirmed through consumer submitted repair invoices. In its response to ODI’s Information Request, Ford provided an assessment of potential root cause of failure for the subject vehicles and how this failure is different from the failure associated with MY 2011-2014 Ford F-150 vehicles that was addressed by four safety recalls (16V-248, 19V-075, 19V-433, and 24V-444). Ford has identified that the defect in the recalled vehicle population involved lead frame supplier production issues resulting in signal loss from the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor. Ford has identified that the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population involved degradation of electrical connections within the lead frame due to thermal cycling and vibration over extended time in service resulting in signal loss from the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS). Signal loss from the TRS can result in an unintended shift to neutral, unintended upshift, or unintended downshift which are regulated by a gear “shift map” based on the vehicle’s speed at the time of signal loss. According to Ford’s “shift map”, at speeds between 35-64 mph, the maximum allowable downshift would be to 2nd gear (i.e. a 6th to 2nd gear downshift event) which Ford has designated to represent the worst-case scenario for subject vehicles. Ford has also acknowledged that the worst-case scenario may also involve temporary wheel lockup. However, Ford has stated that the failure mechanism in the MY 2011-2014 F-150 vehicles—previously addressed through recalls—primarily involved OSS sensor signal loss that could result in 6th to 1st gear downshift events. This OSS-related failure mode is distinct from the TRS-related signal loss identified in the subject vehicle population. ODI has identified an additional potential safety defect associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. Preliminary testing performed by NHTSA’s Vehicle Research Test Center (VRTC) showed that when the TRS experiences an intermittent signal loss, one possible outcome is a change in vehicle direction. Specifically, if a vehicle is operating in reverse up an incline when the TRS signal loss occurs, then the vehicle may shift into neutral causing the vehicle to change directions and roll forward. Based on NHTSA’s analysis of consumer data, information provided by Ford, and preliminary testing conducted by NHTSA’s VRTC, this Preliminary Evaluation is being upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA26001). During this Engineering Analysis, the agency plans to, among other things, perform component-level testing and vehicle testing, as well as review additional technical information to better understand the alleged defect that has been identified from this Preliminary Evaluation. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
PE18008 · Seatbelt Pretensioner Fire
Opened Aug 3, 2018 · Closed Dec 17, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Seat Belts:pretensioner
On June 18, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-008) to investigate complaints alleging post-crash fires at the B pillar in the area of the seat belt pretensioners on MY 2014-2018 Ford F-150 Regular Cab, and Super Crew Cab Vehicles. On August 24, 2018, Ford Motor Company recalled (FSA 18S27 - NHTSA #18V568) the affected population. Ford's investigation found that some front seat belt pretensioners may generate sparks during deployment in excess of Ford's specification. Sparks in the pretensioner exhaust gases inside the lower portion of the B-pillar may subsequently ignite combustible components contained in the B-pillar, such as insulation or carpet, and may cause a subsequent vehicle fire. ODI also requested relevant information from other manufacturers to assess the potential scope of post-crash pretensioner fires. Ford will notify owners and require dealers to remove B-pillar insulation material and wiring harness tape, and install heat resistant tape, free of charge. The recall notification began September 28, 2018.Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.The VOQs associated with the closing of this investigation are: 11143035, 11130056, 11129828, 11128761, 11127993, 11127880, 11124717, 11123419, 11119651, 11119626, 11114065, 11113160, 11111822, 11097937, 11078447, 11014688
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