NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
112 reportsClear category filter117,500 miles · Jan 18, 2017
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH AND HIT A BUMP, THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT REDUCED THE VEHICLE IN SPEED IN ORDER TO AVOID A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE TRACK BAR HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH AND HIT A BUMP, THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT REDUCED THE VEHICLE IN SPEED IN ORDER TO AVOID A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE TRACK BAR HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,500.
NHTSA ODI #10946144
62,000 miles · Dec 8, 2016
SteeringSuspension
VIOLENT SHAKING FROM FRONT STEERING AND SUSPENSION. KNOWN PROBLEM WITH FORD SERVICE TECHNICIANS AND INDEPENDENT TIRE DEALERS. FORD CALLS IT " DEATH WOBBLE". MOST AFFECTED YEAR MODELS ARE 2006 THRU 2012 PER SERVICE WRITER . PROBLEM STARTS APPROXIMATELY 42 MPH IN MY TRUCK ON HIGHWAYS OR CITY STREETS USUALLY AFTER A SMALL BUMP IN R…
Read full complaint
VIOLENT SHAKING FROM FRONT STEERING AND SUSPENSION. KNOWN PROBLEM WITH FORD SERVICE TECHNICIANS AND INDEPENDENT TIRE DEALERS. FORD CALLS IT " DEATH WOBBLE". MOST AFFECTED YEAR MODELS ARE 2006 THRU 2012 PER SERVICE WRITER . PROBLEM STARTS APPROXIMATELY 42 MPH IN MY TRUCK ON HIGHWAYS OR CITY STREETS USUALLY AFTER A SMALL BUMP IN ROAD.. SHAKING IN STEERING WHEEL AND BOUNCING IN CAB. I HAD TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP TO STOP THE SHAKE AND BOUNCE. THE FORD DEALER REPLACED TRACK BAR AND BALL JOINT. THEN REPLACED FOUR TIRES , BALANCED,AND FRONT END ALIGNMENT. TRUCK NOW HAS CONSTANT VIBRATION IN STEERING WHEEL. DEATH WOBBLE HAS OCCURRED TWICE SINCE REPAIR. GOING BACK TO DEALER. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN REPORTED AND WELL KNOWN TO FORD. NO SPECIFIC CAUSE OR FIX HAS BEEN OFFERED. SUPPOSEDLY FORD REDESIGNED FRONT STEERING AND SUSPENSION IN 2014 MODELS BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. THE SERVICE WRITER, WENDY, AT SILSBEE FORD IN SILSBEE, TEXAS TOLD ME SHE DID NOT KNOW WHY FORD DOES NOT RECALL THESE TRUCKS IT IS SUCH A BIG PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #10933947
90,000 miles · Dec 5, 2016
SteeringSuspension
FORD F250 TRUCK - FRONT END SUSPENSION AND 4 WHEEL DRIVE PROBLEMS. SINCE MARCH OF THIS YEAR 2016, @ 90K MILES, WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, TRAVELING AROUND 50 MPH, THE FRONT SUSPENSION ON MY FORD F250 STARTED SHAKING AND WOBBLE UNCONTROLLABLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED PROBABLY 20 TIMES OR SO. THE WOBBLE WAS SO SERIOUS AND SCARY. I…
Read full complaint
FORD F250 TRUCK - FRONT END SUSPENSION AND 4 WHEEL DRIVE PROBLEMS. SINCE MARCH OF THIS YEAR 2016, @ 90K MILES, WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, TRAVELING AROUND 50 MPH, THE FRONT SUSPENSION ON MY FORD F250 STARTED SHAKING AND WOBBLE UNCONTROLLABLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED PROBABLY 20 TIMES OR SO. THE WOBBLE WAS SO SERIOUS AND SCARY. I WOULD HAVE TO APPLY MY BRAKES AND HOLD ONTO THE STEERING WHEEL WITH A STRONG GRAB, TO KEEP MY TRUCK ON THE ROAD. OTHER VEHICLES AROUND MINE, WOULD SCATTER OUT OF MY WAY. ON OCTOBER 17, 2016, I HAD THE STEERING DAMPER REPLACED AND THE TRACK BAR BALL REPLACED, COSTING $361.71. "DEATH WOBBLE", WAS STILL HAPPENING. LAST MONTH ON NOVEMBER 14, 2016, I TOOK MY TRUCK INTO OUR LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS ON THE SUSPENSION PROBLEM - "DEATH WOBBLE". REPAIRS INCLUDED, BAR - FRONT SUSPENSION TI, JOINT ASY - BALL, NUT, END ASY - DRAG LINK ROD, ROD, ROD ASY - DRAG LINK, ADJUSTER ASY @ 2, ALL REPLACED WITH NEW PARTS. REPLACE DRAG INK AND END, INSTALL ADJUSTERS FOR CASTOR, FRONT END ALIGNMENT (4 WHEEL DRIVE). THE FORD DEALERSHIP WAS EVEN AWARE OF THIS EXISTING PROBLEM WITH THE FORD F250 SUSPENSION, FROM PREVIOUS COMPLAINS AND REPAIRS. MY REPAIR COST WAS $1205.07. NOW MY 4 WHEEL DRIVE WILL NOT LOCK IN ON THE FRONT END. I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT, TAKING MY TRUCK BACK TO FORD DEALERSHIP TOMORROW MORNING FOR ADDITIONAL REPAIRS. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE ON THESE VEHICLES AND SOMETHING MUST BE DONE ABOUT IT. A RECALL SHOULD AND MUST BE MANDATORY FOR THE PUBLIC SAFETY. THIS ISSUE WILL END UP KILLING SOMEONE (IF, IT HAS NOT ALREADY) IF, A RECALL IS NOT ORDERED IMMEDIATELY. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10930091
84,000 miles · Nov 16, 2016
SteeringSuspension
WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH ON BOTH CITY AND HIGHWAY ROADS THE FRONT END AND STEERING WHEEL START TO WOBBLE AND VIBRATE TO A POINT WHERE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE IS ALMOST LOST. THE ONLY WAY TO REMEDY THE WOBBLE/VIBRATION IS TO HIT THE BRAKES AND SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN. THIS ONLY OCCURS WHEN DRIVING OVER UNEVEN PAVEMENT,…
Read full complaint
WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH ON BOTH CITY AND HIGHWAY ROADS THE FRONT END AND STEERING WHEEL START TO WOBBLE AND VIBRATE TO A POINT WHERE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE IS ALMOST LOST. THE ONLY WAY TO REMEDY THE WOBBLE/VIBRATION IS TO HIT THE BRAKES AND SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN. THIS ONLY OCCURS WHEN DRIVING OVER UNEVEN PAVEMENT, POT HOLES OR WASHBOARD ROADS. MY RESEARCH HAS REVEALED THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE F250S AND IS COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS THE "DEATH WOBBLE". THE 2 DEALERS I BROUGHT IT TO EVEN AGREED THAT IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM THAT THEY HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH. THIS PROBLEMS OCCURS ALMOST EVERY HIGHWAY TRIP I TAKE.
NHTSA ODI #10926570
3,000 miles · Jan 26, 2016
SteeringSuspension
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHOOK AND BECAME DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. THE FAILURE OCCURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE DRAG LINK AND THE BALL JOINTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE ALSO NEEDED A FRONT END ALIGNMENT. T…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHOOK AND BECAME DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. THE FAILURE OCCURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE DRAG LINK AND THE BALL JOINTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE ALSO NEEDED A FRONT END ALIGNMENT. THE REPAIRS WERE DONE; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.
NHTSA ODI #10822406
124,000 miles · Nov 19, 2015
Steering
BOUGHT VEHICLE WITH 89,000 MILES IN 2013; CURRENTLY HAVE 124,000 MILES. ABOUT 3 MONTHS AGO, VEHICLE STARTED A SHAKE IN STEERING, LASTING 1-2 SECONDS, WHENEVER A LARGE POTHOLE/BUMP ON 11/17/2015, WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED THE "DEATH WOBBLE", LASTING APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS, UNTIL THE VEHICLE GOT SLO…
Read full complaint
BOUGHT VEHICLE WITH 89,000 MILES IN 2013; CURRENTLY HAVE 124,000 MILES. ABOUT 3 MONTHS AGO, VEHICLE STARTED A SHAKE IN STEERING, LASTING 1-2 SECONDS, WHENEVER A LARGE POTHOLE/BUMP ON 11/17/2015, WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED THE "DEATH WOBBLE", LASTING APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS, UNTIL THE VEHICLE GOT SLOWED DOWN BELOW 30 MPH. CONTINUED TO WORK, KEEPING THE SPEED BELOW 60 MPH, AND THEN THE SAME ON THE WAY HOME, AND PROBLEM DIDN'T OCCUR. VEHICLE HAS STOCK TIRES, AND NO ADDITIONAL LIFTS.
NHTSA ODI #10794821
36,172 miles · Nov 18, 2015
SteeringSuspension
DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OF 55 - 65MPH AND HIT A SLIGHT BUMP IN THE ROAD THE ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHAKES UNCONTROLLABLY. IN ORDER TO GET THIS TO STOP YOU MUST SLAM ON THE BRAKES TO BRING THE SPEED DOWN TO 15 - 20 MPH. FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE ADVISER AND MECHANIC ACKNOWLEDGE THIS ISSUE EXISTS AND HAS SINCE 2005 BUT TH…
Read full complaint
DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OF 55 - 65MPH AND HIT A SLIGHT BUMP IN THE ROAD THE ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHAKES UNCONTROLLABLY. IN ORDER TO GET THIS TO STOP YOU MUST SLAM ON THE BRAKES TO BRING THE SPEED DOWN TO 15 - 20 MPH. FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE ADVISER AND MECHANIC ACKNOWLEDGE THIS ISSUE EXISTS AND HAS SINCE 2005 BUT THERE ISN'T ANY RESOLUTION FOR THE ISSUE. MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP 3 DIFFERENT TIMES FOR OVER A MONTH IN TOTAL TIME. FORD REGION CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER STATES THE ISSUE IS THE ROAD. I FIND IT ODD THERE ARE MAY OTHER FORD TRUCK OWNERS WITH THE SAME ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI #10794621
49,000 miles · Nov 2, 2015
EngineService BrakesSteering
THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE WILL STALL (CUT OFF) WITHOUT ANY INDICATION OR NOTICE DURING MOTION OR AT A STOP. THIS HAS HAPPENED AT CITY SPEEDS (LESS THAN 25 MPH) AND AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS (GREATER THAN 55 MPH) THE VEHICLE WILL NOT IMMEDIATELY START BUT MAY START AFTER STANDING FOR SOME TIME. THIS CAUSES POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES AND…
Read full complaint
THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE WILL STALL (CUT OFF) WITHOUT ANY INDICATION OR NOTICE DURING MOTION OR AT A STOP. THIS HAS HAPPENED AT CITY SPEEDS (LESS THAN 25 MPH) AND AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS (GREATER THAN 55 MPH) THE VEHICLE WILL NOT IMMEDIATELY START BUT MAY START AFTER STANDING FOR SOME TIME. THIS CAUSES POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES AND OTHER IMPORTANT SAFETY FEATURES TO BE DEGRADED OR LOST.
NHTSA ODI #10787647
28,000 miles · Oct 27, 2015
SteeringSuspension
WHILE DRIVING DOWN STRAIGHT DOWN THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 50 MPH. I CROSSED A BRIDGE EXPANSION JOINT AND THE FRONT OF THE PICKUP SHOOK VIOLENTLY. I HAD TO APPLY THE BRAKES FIRMLY AND PULL TO THE SHOULDER QUICKLY. I THOUGHT THE FRONT END OF THE TRUCK WAS COMING APART AND I WAS GOING TO WRECK. THIS HAD NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE AND THERE WAS…
Read full complaint
WHILE DRIVING DOWN STRAIGHT DOWN THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 50 MPH. I CROSSED A BRIDGE EXPANSION JOINT AND THE FRONT OF THE PICKUP SHOOK VIOLENTLY. I HAD TO APPLY THE BRAKES FIRMLY AND PULL TO THE SHOULDER QUICKLY. I THOUGHT THE FRONT END OF THE TRUCK WAS COMING APART AND I WAS GOING TO WRECK. THIS HAD NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE AND THERE WAS NO WARNING PRIOR TO THE EVENT. I HAD BEEN DRIVING ABOUT 20 MILES BEFORE THIS OCCUR. IT HAPPENED AGAIN SEVERAL DAYS LATER. I ONLY HAVE 28K MILES ON IT. MY FRIEND LATER TOLD ME THIS WAS THE 'DEATH WOBBLE' AND THAT HE HAD IT ON HIS F250-2012. HE SAID IT REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF A SUSPENSION BAR(TRACK BAR) ON THE FRONT OF THE TRUCK WHICH I HAD DONE. NO FURTHER PROBLEM HAVE BEEN NOTED SINCE REPLACED..1 WEEK AGO. THE SHOP WHERE I HAD THE WORK DONE SAID THEY HAVE FIXED ABOUT 70 TRUCKS AND IT WILL OCCUR AGAIN WHEN THE BALL JOINT ON THE BAR WEARS OUT AGAIN. I HAVE A KING RANCH MODEL WITH 20 INCH TIRES THAT MAY BE A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. OTHER PEOPLE I KNOW WITH F250S AND 18 INCH TIRES HAVE NOT NOTICED THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #10786578
40,000 miles · Mar 24, 2015
SteeringSuspension
THE TRUCK WENT INTO A WOBBLING FRONT WHEEL SITUATION WHEN I HIT AN IRREGULAR PAVEMENT STRETCH. IT HAS ALSO HAPPENED WHEN YOU GO OVER AN EXPANSION JOINT ON A BRIDGE OR HIT A BUMP OR POTHOLE AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10701349
NHTSA investigations
1RQ14005 · Vehicle Commanded Engine Shutdown
Opened Jan 13, 2015 · Closed Mar 15, 2016
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:software; Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel; Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System; Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Additional source detail variants (5)
Electrical System:software
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.