Nearly 30,000 Ford F-150 Lightning EVs Recalled Over Safety Concerns
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Ford Motor Company has announced a significant recall of nearly 30,000 Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup trucks in the United States due to a critical safety issue that could lead to losing steering control.
Details of the Recall
The recall affects 29,501 Ford F-150 Lightning BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) models from the 2024 and 2025 model years. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the front upper control arm ball joint nut may not have been properly tightened during assembly. This defect can cause the control arm to detach from the knuckle assembly, resulting in a loss of vehicle steering and control, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
The issue was identified after an incident where a Ford F-150 Lightning unexpectedly swerved into a highway guardrail at 60 mph. An inspection revealed that the upper control arm nut was missing, leading to the separation of the joint from the knuckle. This prompted a broader investigation and subsequent recall.
Ford’s Response and Owner Guidance
Ford has stated that dealers will inspect the upper control arm ball joint nut and replace the nut and/or knuckle assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning February 10, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more information.
In the meantime, owners of the affected vehicles should be vigilant for symptoms such as unusual vehicle vibrations, clunking or rattling noises, or imprecise steering. If any of these symptoms are present, the vehicle must be inspected immediately.
Broader Context of Ford Recalls
This recall adds to a series of issues that have affected the Ford F-150 Lightning since its launch. Previous recalls have addressed problems such as battery defects that could lead to fires, software glitches affecting electronic stability control, and issues with the rear lightbar.
These recurring problems have placed Ford under increased scrutiny, especially as the company invests heavily in electric vehicle production. In November 2024, Ford was fined $165 million for failing to provide accurate recall information to the NHTSA, highlighting the importance of transparency and prompt action in addressing vehicle safety concerns.
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Conclusion
The recall of nearly 30,000 Ford F-150 Lightning pickups underscores the challenges automakers face in ensuring safety and reliability in new electric vehicle models. Ford’s proactive approach in addressing the control arm issue is a critical step in maintaining customer trust and vehicle safety. Owners are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and to have their vehicles inspected promptly to ensure continued safe operation.
