TRENTON, NJ – Nearly one million Ford F-150s on the roads may have a brake failure waiting to cause a serious if not deadly incident. Many of those vehicles were sold right here in the New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania tri-state area.
Ford Motor Company announced a significant recall on Friday, affecting approximately 870,000 F-150 trucks in the United States. The decision comes after the discovery of a potential wiring issue that could lead to the unexpected activation of the electric parking brake. The recall encompasses model years 2021 through 2023 and applies to trucks equipped with a single exhaust system. While no accidents or injuries have been reported, Ford is taking proactive measures to address the problem and ensure the safety of its customers.
The Wiring Issue and Risk:
According to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ford identified a specific wiring vulnerability in the affected F-150 trucks. The problem arises when the wiring harness comes into contact with the rear axle housing, causing chafing and potential damage. As a result, the electric parking brake may activate unexpectedly, even while the vehicle is in motion.
Safety Concerns and Customer Feedback:
Ford reported that the issue has led to 918 warranty claims and three field reports related to the wire chafing condition in North America. Out of those, 299 cases indicated that the electric parking brake had unintentionally activated, with 19 instances occurring while the truck was in motion. Fortunately, no crashes or injuries have been attributed to this problem to date.
Recall Measures:
In response to the identified issue, Ford is taking prompt action to rectify the situation and protect its customers. Dealerships will implement a series of measures during the recall process, including installing a protective tie strap and tape wrap around the wiring harness. Additionally, they will replace the harness as necessary, ensuring that the risk of unexpected electric parking brake activation is mitigated.
Customer Safety and Satisfaction:
The safety and satisfaction of its customers remain a top priority for Ford, and this recall demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing potential safety concerns proactively. By taking prompt action, Ford aims to prevent any future incidents related to the electric parking brake issue and provide F-150 owners with peace of mind while driving their vehicles.
Ford’s recall of nearly 870,000 F-150 trucks due to the risk of unexpected electric parking brake activation underscores the company’s dedication to customer safety and satisfaction. The identified wiring issue, while not resulting in any reported accidents or injuries, requires immediate attention and corrective measures. Owners of the affected F-150 trucks can be reassured that Ford and its dealerships are diligently working to address the problem and implement necessary fixes to ensure their vehicles are safe to operate.
If you own a 2021 through 2023 model year F-150 with a single exhaust system, make sure to check for any recall notices and promptly schedule an appointment with your local Ford dealership to have the necessary modifications completed.