Ford Recalls F-150 Trucks Over Parking Brake Malfunction
Ford Motor Company has issued a safety recall for approximately 292,311 F-150 trucks in North America due to a potential parking brake malfunction. The affected trucks, manufactured between 2014 and 2017, may have a faulty parking brake cable that could cause unexpected rollaways.
The parking brake malfunction occurs when the parking brake is not fully engaged after being applied, causing the truck to roll unexpectedly. This defect poses a significant safety risk, especially when the vehicle is parked on a slope or incline.
According to Ford, the company has received reports of accidents and injuries related to this issue, which prompted the recall. The company has stated that it is not aware of any fatalities resulting from the parking brake malfunction.
Owners of the affected trucks are advised to use extra caution until their vehicles are repaired. Ford dealerships will inspect the parking brake cables and make any necessary adjustments or replacements free of charge.
The recall primarily affects trucks in the United States and Canada, with 242,229 vehicles in the US and federal territories and 49,287 vehicles in Canada being recalled. Additionally, 871 trucks in Mexico are also included in the recall.
Ford will notify affected owners by mail and provide details on scheduling a service appointment with their local Ford dealership. The repair procedure is expected to be relatively straightforward, with the estimated time for repairs being less than one hour.
In the meantime, owners are encouraged to engage the parking brake fully and, if parking on a slope, turn the wheels towards the curb for additional safety. Ford advises against using the parking brake alone as a reliable means of preventing rollaways while the vehicle is in motion.
Failure to address this issue promptly could lead to accidents, injuries, or even loss of life. Ford is taking this recall seriously to ensure the safety of its customers and to avoid any potential legal repercussions.
This safety recall is yet another blow to Ford, which has faced several recalls in recent years. In 2019, the company recalled millions of vehicles due to a faulty transmission issue, and in 2020, it recalled thousands of vehicles for various defects, including a defective airbag component. These repeated recalls highlight the importance of rigorous quality control measures in the automotive industry.
If you own an F-150 truck manufactured between 2014 and 2017, it is crucial to check if your vehicle is among those affected by the recall. Stay updated and informed by visiting the Ford website or contacting your local dealership.
Ultimately, Ford’s decision to issue this recall demonstrates its commitment to customer safety. By promptly addressing and fixing the parking brake malfunction, the company aims to prevent any potential accidents and maintain its reputation for producing safe and reliable vehicles.
