These recalled Ford F-150s may have parking brakes that engage unexpectedly.
Recalled Ford F-150s May Have Parking Brakes That Engage Unexpectedly
In recent news, Ford has issued a recall for certain models of its popular F-150 pickup trucks due to a potential issue with the parking brake system. The recall affects a significant number of vehicles and has raised concerns among owners and potential buyers alike.
The problem lies in the parking brake control module, which may malfunction and cause the parking brake to engage unexpectedly. This can occur while the vehicle is in motion, posing a serious safety risk to both the driver and other road users. Ford has reported that they are aware of several incidents related to this issue, including one accident resulting in injuries.
The affected models include certain F-150 trucks from the 2019 and 2020 model years, manufactured at specific assembly plants. Ford has estimated that approximately 292,311 vehicles in the United States and federal territories are subject to the recall. Additionally, around 43,536 vehicles in Canada and 2,741 vehicles in Mexico are also affected.
Owners of the affected vehicles are advised to bring their trucks to authorized Ford dealerships for inspection and repair. The dealerships will reprogram the powertrain control module software, which will eliminate the possibility of the parking brake engaging unexpectedly. This repair will be done free of charge to the owners.
Ford has stated that they will notify all affected owners by mail, providing them with instructions on how to proceed. However, if owners are unsure whether their vehicle is included in the recall, they can visit Ford’s official website and enter their vehicle identification number (VIN) to check for any open recalls.
The company has also assured customers that they are working closely with their dealers to ensure that the necessary parts and resources are available to complete the repairs as quickly as possible. Ford understands the inconvenience this recall may cause to its customers and is committed to resolving the issue promptly.
In the meantime, Ford advises owners to use the parking brake only when necessary and to exercise caution while driving. They also recommend engaging the parking brake regularly to keep it in proper working condition. Additionally, owners are encouraged to contact their local Ford dealership if they experience any issues or have further questions.
This recall comes as a blow to Ford, as the F-150 is one of their most popular and profitable models. The pickup truck has a loyal customer base and is known for its reliability and performance. However, this incident highlights the importance of addressing safety concerns promptly and transparently, even for well-established and reputable automakers like Ford.
It is worth noting that recalls are not uncommon in the automotive industry, and manufacturers often take swift action to rectify any potential safety issues. The recall process ensures that vehicles are brought back to the manufacturer or authorized dealerships for inspection and repair, minimizing the risk to consumers.
In conclusion, the recall of certain Ford F-150 pickup trucks due to a potential issue with the parking brake system has raised concerns among owners and potential buyers. The malfunctioning parking brake control module can cause the brake to engage unexpectedly, posing a safety risk. Ford is taking the necessary steps to address the issue by offering free repairs to affected owners. It is crucial for owners to follow the instructions provided by Ford and contact their local dealership for further assistance.
