How do I know if my F-150 is being recalled?
Yes. You can determine whether your F-150 has an open recall by checking your vehicle’s VIN against official recall databases from NHTSA and Ford; if there is an open recall, Ford will invite you to a free repair at a local dealer.
Understanding recalls and campaigns for the F-150
A recall is a safety-related fix mandated by federal regulators. Automakers sometimes issue additional campaigns or field actions that address safety or regulatory concerns but may not be classified strictly as recalls. For Ford, safety-related issues are typically listed as recalls or campaigns with a required remedy at no cost to the owner.
What counts as a recall
Recall events are government-regulated safety fixes that must be completed by the vehicle owner. Campaigns or field actions are similar but may vary in urgency or scope. It’s important to treat any safety-related notice from NHTSA or Ford as actionable until the repair is completed.
How to check for recalls on your F-150
Use these steps to verify whether your F-150 has any active safety recalls or campaigns tied to its VIN.
- Find your VIN on the vehicle (driver-side dashboard near the windshield or the driver’s door jamb) and write it down.
- Visit the NHTSA recall search portal and enter your VIN or search by make/model/year to see open safety recalls.
- Visit Ford’s official recall lookup for your VIN to verify any recalls or campaigns from the manufacturer.
- Consider signing up for recall alerts from NHTSA or Ford and check periodically, especially after ownership transfers or if you receive a notice.
- Check any mailed recall notices or messages in the FordPass app or owner portal for VIN-specific information.
Keeping your VIN in view and checking these sources regularly helps ensure you don’t miss an active recall on your F-150.
What to do if a recall is found
If a recall is identified, take prompt action to arrange the repair with an authorized Ford dealer. Recall work is performed at no cost to the vehicle owner, and timelines can vary depending on parts availability and shop capacity.
- Schedule an appointment with an authorized Ford dealer as soon as possible.
- Bring your VIN and any recall notice you’ve received; the dealer will pull up the exact open recalls for your truck.
- Understand that the fix is free and can range from a software update to a parts replacement or more extensive repair.
- Follow the dealer’s guidance on estimated repair time and whether you need a loaner or rental vehicle.
- Keep documentation of the repair and any notices for your records and future resale.
If you cannot reach a dealer promptly, you can contact Ford customer support or the NHTSA recall hotline for assistance in locating an appointment or alternative service options.
Where to get more information and how to stay informed
Staying informed helps you monitor for new recalls that may affect your model year or trim. Use VIN-based checks periodically and subscribe to official alert services.
Locating your VIN and understanding notices
Your VIN is a 17-character code found on the dash, door jamb sticker, and vehicle documents. When you receive a recall notice, it will specify the affected VIN range or your exact VIN. Always cross-check notices with official online databases to avoid confusion.
Summary
To determine if your Ford F-150 is being recalled, check your VIN against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall database and Ford’s official recall lookup. If an open recall is detected, contact an authorized Ford dealer to schedule a free repair. Stay vigilant by signing up for recall alerts, reviewing notices, and checking your VIN periodically, especially after ownership changes or new model-year campaigns. Acting promptly helps ensure your truck remains safe to drive.
