Ford has issued a safety recall for nearly 113,000 trucks and SUVs due to a rear axle bolt that can break. The defect increases the risk of a vehicle rollaway or a sudden loss of driving power. The campaign covers select 2021-2023 Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator models.
The problem centers on the rear axle hub bolt. This specific component can fatigue and fracture unexpectedly. If the bolt breaks, the axle shaft splines can become damaged, preventing power from reaching the rear wheels. This could result in a loss of motive power while driving. Additionally, the vehicle may lose its park function, potentially allowing it to roll away if the parking brake is not engaged.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall affects F-150 trucks equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package. Certain Expedition and Navigator SUVs with the heavy-duty trailer tow package are also included. The company has not reported any crashes or injuries related to this specific defect.
Ford’s investigation noted that the bolt was supplied by a third-party manufacturer. The company told federal regulators it has received 376 warranty reports potentially related to the fracturing bolt between August 2021 and March 2024. This data prompted the automaker to issue the voluntary safety recall.
Next Steps for Owners
For owners, the solution involves a dealer visit. Ford service centers will replace the left and right rear axle hub bolts free of charge. If the splines on the axle shaft are damaged, the entire axle shaft assembly will also be replaced at no cost to the customer. Ford plans to begin mailing notification letters to affected owners on June 24, 2024.
Until the repair is performed, Ford advises drivers to use their electronic parking brake whenever they park their vehicle. Owners can check if their vehicle is included in this recall by visiting Ford’s recall website or the NHTSA’s site and entering their 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). What to watch next is how quickly Ford can supply its dealer network with the necessary replacement parts to complete the repairs.
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Source: Original source
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Jordan Avery
Senior Automotive Reporter & News Editor
Jordan Avery has spent 10+ years reporting breaking automotive news from Detroit, Stuttgart, Tokyo, and the CES/SEMA show floors. Starting as a staff writer at a regional auto publication, Jordan rose through the ranks to become an award-winning automotive journalist with bylines at major outlets and press credentials covering every major OEM launch event globally. Jordan specializes in translating complex manufacturer announcements, safety recalls, EV battery developments, and global trade policy into clear, accurate stories that everyday car owners can act on. A former member of the Motor Press Guild and North American Car and Truck of the Year jury voter, Jordan maintains a vast network of OEM press contacts and has exclusive access to embargoed press materials. Jordan's newsroom ethic is simple: get it right before you get it first.
