Ford F-150 Lightning Suspension and Steering Recall
In December 2024, Ford Motor Company issued a recall for nearly 12,000 F-150 Lightning trucks from the 2023 and 2024 model years due to a critical suspension defect.
The recall addresses an improperly torqued ball joint nut on the front upper control arm, which can loosen over time. This defect may lead to the separation of suspension and steering components, resulting in a partial loss of steering control and significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Details of the Recall
Affected Vehicles: Approximately 11,922 Ford F-150 Lightning trucks manufactured between November 5, 2023, and February 13, 2024.
Defect Description: The front upper control arm ball joint nut may not have been properly tightened during assembly. An insufficiently torqued nut can cause the control arm to separate from the knuckle assembly, compromising the vehicle's steering capability.
Safety Risks: A loose or missing ball joint nut can lead to a partial loss of steering control, increasing the likelihood of a crash. Drivers may notice vehicle vibration and hear clunking or rattling noises during suspension movement, indicating a potential issue.
Ford's Response and Remedy Program
Ford will notify owners to bring their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for inspection. Dealers will check the torque of the left and right upper control arm ball joint nuts. If the torque meets specifications, the nuts will be replaced. If the torque is insufficient, both the knuckle and nuts will be replaced.
California Lemon Law Implications
California's Lemon Law, known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides legal recourse for consumers who have purchased or leased defective vehicles that the manufacturer cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts. If your Ford F-150 Lightning has been subject to this recall and continues to experience issues after repair attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund.
Steps to Take if Affected
Check Recall Status: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) website and enter your vehicle's VIN to see if your F-150 Lightning is affected by this recall.
Schedule Repairs: If your vehicle is included in the recall, contact your local Ford or Lincoln dealer to schedule a free inspection and repair.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communications, repair attempts, and any issues that arise with your vehicle.
Consult a Lemon Law Attorney: If problems persist after multiple repair attempts, consult with a California Lemon Law attorney to understand your rights and potential remedies, like Valero Law APC
Conclusion
The recent recall of Ford F-150 Lightning trucks due to suspension issues underscores the importance of vehicle safety and consumer rights. Staying informed about recalls and understanding the protections offered by California's Lemon Law can help ensure that you remain safe on the road and receive the remedies you are entitled to if your vehicle is defective.