Ford Motor Company has recently issued a recall for approximately 870,000 F-150 pickup trucks in the United States. The recall comes as a result of a potential issue with the vehicles’ parking brakes, which could unexpectedly activate and cause safety concerns for drivers.
The affected F-150 models were manufactured between 2015 and 2019, and the recall includes trucks equipped with both regular and super crew cabs. Ford has stated that the problem lies in the brake master cylinder’s cup seal, which could degrade over time and allow brake fluid to leak into the brake booster. This leakage can lead to the unintended activation of the parking brake, even without any manual intervention from the driver.
The unexpected activation of the parking brake poses a significant safety risk, especially if it occurs while the vehicle is in motion. It could potentially cause a sudden and unexpected loss of control, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Ford has reported that it is aware of 45 incidents related to this issue, including one accident that resulted in an injury.
To address this safety concern, Ford dealerships will inspect the brake master cylinder and replace it if necessary. Additionally, they will replace the brake booster if any signs of brake fluid leakage are detected. These repairs will be conducted free of charge for affected vehicle owners.
Ford has stated that it will begin notifying affected customers by mail starting in mid-August 2021. Owners of the recalled F-150 pickups are advised to bring their vehicles to an authorized Ford dealership as soon as they receive the notification. Dealerships will schedule appointments to carry out the necessary inspections and repairs.
In the meantime, Ford has advised F-150 owners to exercise caution while operating their vehicles. They recommend engaging the parking brake only when necessary and ensuring that it is fully disengaged before driving. Drivers should also be attentive to any warning lights or messages related to the parking brake system on their vehicle’s instrument cluster.
This recall is part of Ford’s commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers. The company has stated that it is cooperating fully with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to address this issue promptly and effectively. Ford’s priority is to provide a safe driving experience for all its customers, and this recall demonstrates their dedication to resolving potential safety concerns promptly.
If you own an F-150 pickup truck manufactured between 2015 and 2019, it is crucial to pay attention to the recall notice and take immediate action. By doing so, you will ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other road users. Contact your local Ford dealership for further information or assistance regarding this recall.
