Ford Recalls F-150 Pickup Trucks for Battery Problem

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Ford is recalling certain 2019-2020 F-150 pickup trucks because a fastener that connects components to the battery may loosen. As a result, the steering and/or braking systems, along with instrument panel displays, could be affected, plus the vehicle could stall, according to the manufacturer. The recall is for 135,725 trucks in the U.S. and federal territories, 30,073 in Canada, and 2,257 in Mexico.

Ford said in its recall notifications that it is not aware of any crashes or injuries associated with this problem.

The Details

Vehicles recalled: 168,055 Ford F-150 pickup trucks from the 2019 and 2020 model years in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, including 2019-2020 Ford F-150 pickup trucks built at Ford's Dearborn Truck Plant from July 15 to Oct. 1, 2019, and its Kansas City Assembly Plant from June 24 to Oct. 1, 2019.

The problem: A fastener that connects cables on the positive battery terminal may not be secure, which may result in intermittent or inoperative vehicle systems. This can include the instrument panel displays, braking or steering controls, and/or the engine stalling. The improperly assembled cable connection may also cause a short, which increases the risk of smoke, melting parts, or fire.

The fix: Ford will notify owners if their vehicle is part of the recall. Dealers will inspect the cable and, if necessary, retorque the fastener, all at no charge to owners.

How to contact the manufacturer: Ford’s number for this recall is 19S40. Owners may call Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. The recall is expected to begin Nov. 25, 2019.

NHTSA campaign number: The NHTSA campaign number is 19V-805.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has a recall that needs to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.



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