The Ford F-150 is experiencing a high volume of recalls due to various issues, all stemming from incorrect software updates, according to the latest update from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Daytime Running Lights
More than 91,000 Ford F-150 trucks from the 2018-2020 model years did not have a previous recall remedy done correctly. The repair was recorded as being successful, but the correct software update may not have been installed.
The daytime running lamps (DRL) on some F-150s remain on even when the low beams are manually switched on, reducing visibility for other drivers.
Unexpected Downshift
More than 44,000 Ford F-150s from the 2014 model year did not receive the powertrain control module (PCM) software remedy for a previous recall. Although the vehicles did not receive the remedy, the repairs were recorded as being successful.
Vehicles may therefore still experience an intermittent loss of the transmission output shaft speed (OSS) sensor signal to the PCM, resulting in an unexpected downshift into first gear. The potential risk of this issue depends on the vehicle’s speed at the time of OSS failure, but it could lead to a loss of vehicle control and increase the likelihood of a crash.
There are many potential causes for an intermittent OSS signal, such as contamination, connector corrosion, and incorrect sensor outputs, to name a few. A warning sign of this happening is the illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).
If the OSS signal recovers while driving, the vehicle can return to normal function. Otherwise, the F-150 will have to be stopped and restarted.
Unintended Vehicle Movement
More than 10,000 Ford F-150s from the 2018 model year are being recalled because they did not receive the PCM software remedy for a previous recall. The rapid shift from park to drive may cause the PRNDL gear indication in the instrument cluster to be lost, and the truck could reverse momentarily. Drivers may also experience momentary neutral operation instead of reverse. Unintended vehicle movement can lead to the risk of an accident or injury.
Remedy
So far, no reports of accidents or injuries related to any of these issues have been received. F-150 owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle in to a dealer service center have the software updated. This service is free of charge. Owners who have paid for these repairs could be eligible for reimbursement.
Millions of cars are recalled, sometimes more than once. While automakers do their best to notify every vehicle owner affected by a recall, they don’t always reach everyone. To check whether your vehicle might be subject to a recall, use the easy tool at our recall center. All you need is your VIN, license plate, or year, make, and model of your car to get started.
