Ford has issued a recall alert for more than 310,000 2016 Super Duty trucks, including F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 models. Their airbags may not deploy properly.
Dust can get into the steering wheel clock spring, Ford says, which could cause corrosion. A corroded spring can snag the ribbon cable that provides the electrical connection to the driver’s airbag module and pull it out. The airbag might not deploy properly in an accident if its connection isn’t complete.
Ford says drivers may notice a popping or clicking sound coming from the steering wheel, steering wheel switches and buttons that don’t light up or cease functioning, and an airbag warning light as the problem develops. But, especially with a critical safety issue like a non-functioning airbag, it always makes sense to bring your truck in for recall repairs even if you don’t notice a problem.
Recall repairs are always free. Dealers will replace the steering wheel clock spring with one of a new design. Ford’s recall notice doesn’t mention whether they’ll reconnect any dislodged ribbon cables, but we assume they will.
Most cars get recalled at least once during their useful lives. A car is too complex a machine to operate for years without uncovering problems. But millions of us miss recall notices every year and unknowingly drive recalled vehicles. Find out if your car needs any free safety repairs at our easy-to-use recall center.
