F-150: Ford Recalls Best-Selling Vehicle Over Essential Equipment Flaw

Ford is initiating a recall affecting approximately 113,000 units of its widely popular F-150 pickup trucks in response to a potential concern related to the rear axle hub bolt. 

This issue, as highlighted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), revolves around the possibility of the bolt “fatiguing and breaking,” thus raising the specter of an elevated crash risk.

The NHTSA underscores that the ramifications of bolt breakage could extend to the axle hub spline, creating scenarios where the vehicle might “roll away when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied, or cause a loss of drive power.” 

The identified risk necessitates immediate attention to address safety implications.

Ford Recalls Over 112,000 F-150 Trucks Over Axle Bolt Concern

This recall is pertinent to 112,965 F-150 trucks produced within the model years 2021 through 2023. Specifically, the affected vehicles are those equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and specific heavy-duty axle specifications. 

Ford is diligently working to address this issue and ensure the safety and well-being of its customers.

In light of this recall, the NHTSA issued a crucial advisory to F-150 drivers, urging them to remain vigilant for potential indicators of the identified problem. 

Drivers are encouraged to be attentive to unusual sounds, such as a “clicking noise,” which may suggest a loose rear axle bolt, or a “rattle noise,” indicative of a broken bolt. 

Such audible cues could serve as early warnings, prompting drivers to take proactive measures and seek necessary inspections or repairs to mitigate potential risks associated with this safety concern. 

The collaboration between Ford and the NHTSA underscores the commitment to prioritizing consumer safety and addressing automotive issues promptly and comprehensively.