Ford recalls both internal combustion and electric F-150s
Ford has issued two new recalls last week for its F-150 pickup trucks—both electric and gasoline-powered—adding to a growing list of safety concerns for America’s best-selling vehicle. For example, the 2020 F-150 is already subject to 11 recalls. Ford’s suffered a banner year for recalls. The automaker is auditing software-only recall work done in the past and finding many cases where it was not installed properly. Last week’s new F-150 recalls include:
- 2023 Ford F-150 Lightnings recalled for battery fire risk
- 2025 Ford F-150 trucks recalled for missing warning labels
F-150 Lightning recall: Loose battery fasteners pose fire risk
The first recall, 24V-144, affects 2023 F-150 Lightning electric trucks. Ford discovered that some vehicles may have loose or missing retention nuts on the high-voltage battery junction box bus bars. This defect can lead to electrical arcing, increasing the risk of fire and sudden loss of power.
Initially, Ford recalled 216 vehicles. Ford has now identified three additional trucks with the same issue, bringing the total to 219. The company is notifying owners and instructing dealers to inspect and repair the affected components at no cost.
2025 F-150 recall: Missing airbag warning labels
The second recall, 25C12, involves 326 units of the 2025 F-150. These trucks were found to be missing the required dashboard airbag warning labels, a violation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208. Ford plans to mail the missing labels directly to owners, expecting them to install them themselves.
Broader concerns: Transmission issues under investigation
Beyond these recalls, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into nearly 1.3 million F-150 trucks from model years 2015 to 2017. The probe follows 138 complaints about unexpected downshifts to first gear at highway speeds, causing rapid deceleration and potential rear-wheel lockup. While Ford’s reported no related crashes or injuries, the investigation could lead to a significant recall.
F-150 owners concerned about these issues should contact their local Ford dealership with their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready. Alternatively, they can check for recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov or calling the NHTSA toll-free at 1-888-327-4236.
