Ford is hitting the brakes on over 112,000 of its popular F-150 pickup trucks due to a potentially serious safety concern: uncontrolled roll-aways. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a letter to Ford outlining the recall, citing the risk of damaged axle hub splines leading to the trucks shifting out of park and rolling away, even without the parking brake applied. This malfunction can also cause a sudden loss of drive power, further increasing the risk of accidents.
The recall encompasses F-150 trucks built between January 8, 2020, and February 25, 2023, across various trim levels and configurations. The affected models include both single and double-cab trucks, with both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive options.
The Culprit: Damaged Axle Hub Splines: The crux of the issue lies in the axle hub splines, which connect the wheels to the axles. According to NHTSA, these splines can become damaged due to wear and tear, leading to potential disengagement and causing the aforementioned roll-away or loss of power scenarios. This poses a significant safety risk for both the occupants of the truck and anyone in the vicinity who might be caught in the path of an uncontrolled vehicle.
Recall Action and What Owners Should Do: Ford is urging owners of affected vehicles to schedule a free repair at their nearest dealership. The fix involves inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the damaged axle hub splines. Owners can receive notification about the recall and schedule their appointment through the Ford Owner Portal or by contacting their local dealer directly.
For those concerned about their own F-150, checking the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA recall website or Ford’s own recall page is crucial. This allows for quick confirmation of whether your vehicle is among the affected units and provides further information about the recall and necessary steps for repair.
This recall underscores the importance of staying informed about potential safety issues with any vehicle. Promptly addressing recalls and ensuring proper maintenance contribute significantly to ensuring safe driving experiences for everyone on the road.
