Ford Recalls Super Duty Pickups Over Steering Defect
Ford Motor Company has initiated a significant recall affecting more than 115,000 Super Duty pickup trucks in the United States. This action addresses a critical flaw in the steering column's upper shaft, which could potentially detach and result in an abrupt loss of steering control. The affected vehicles include certain F-250, F-350, and F-450 models from the 2020–2021 model years, specifically those produced before February 2021. This recall underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the automaker in managing quality control, particularly as it intensifies its efforts in the electric vehicle market and launches new global branding initiatives.
The root of the problem lies in the original manufacturing process of the steering column's upper shaft. During the production period for the recalled vehicles, a single staking method was used to secure the shaft. Ford engineers later determined that this method was insufficient to meet established safety standards, particularly concerning pull-apart resistance. A particularly concerning aspect of this defect is the absence of dashboard warnings to alert drivers if the steering column begins to fail, significantly elevating the risk to occupants.
Ford's identification of this issue in late June 2025 prompted an immediate escalation to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Fortunately, as of the time of the recall announcement, no accidents or injuries directly related to this steering defect have been reported. As part of the recall remedy, authorized dealerships will conduct inspections of the steering shaft in affected vehicles. If necessary, the shaft will either be reinforced to meet safety specifications or replaced entirely, all at no cost to the owner. Owners of the affected vehicles can anticipate receiving interim notification letters regarding the recall starting in early October.
This latest recall adds to a series of quality-related concerns for Ford. Just recently, the company recalled over 102,000 vehicles due to issues with door trim pieces detaching. Furthermore, CEO Jim Farley has publicly acknowledged the company's intensified focus on improving quality control and expanding its global branding presence through its new \"Ready Set Ford\" campaign. Despite these quality hurdles, Ford is simultaneously leveraging strong momentum in the electric vehicle sector, offering incentives such as lease deals for its F-150 Lightning to drive EV adoption and offset the mounting costs associated with these widespread recalls.
For owners of Super Duty trucks, this steering defect represents more than just an inconvenience; it poses a serious safety hazard, especially given that these vehicles are frequently utilized in demanding work environments where sudden steering failure could lead to dire consequences. For Ford, this ongoing pattern of recalls highlights the intricate balancing act between its ambitious electric vehicle goals, extensive global marketing campaigns, and stringent cost-reduction strategies, all while striving to meet the high-quality expectations of its customer base. The company's ability to consistently deliver reliable vehicles, regardless of their propulsion system, remains a critical factor in maintaining consumer trust and solidifying its position in the competitive automotive landscape.