What are the recalls on the 2004 Ford?

Recalls for 2004 Ford vehicles depend on the exact model and VIN; there isn’t a single nationwide list labeled simply “2004 Ford recalls.” To know which recalls may affect a specific car, you should check the official recall databases using the vehicle’s VIN or model details.

In this article, we outline how recalls work for 2004 Ford models, what kinds of issues typically prompt recalls in that era, and how to verify whether a particular 2004 Ford is affected. The information below aims to help you navigate recall listings and take action if needed.

How recalls are tracked for 2004 Ford models

Understanding the sources of recall information is key. Official recall campaigns are published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and by Ford Motor Company. They include details on the defect, risk, involved models, production ranges, and required remedies. Because recalls are model-specific and often VIN-specific, checking the exact vehicle is essential.

Common recall areas for 2004 Ford vehicles

Below are broad categories of issues that have historically triggered recalls across 2004 Ford cars, trucks, and SUVs. The presence of a recall in these categories does not guarantee it applies to your particular vehicle; always verify with the VIN.

• Safety and airbag systems (including restraint system components and inflator-related concerns)


• Fuel system and emissions-related components (such as fuel lines, connectors, or vapor management)


• Steering and suspension defects (potential steering looseness, misalignment, or faulty components)


• Brake and electrical systems (including braking hardware, sensors, or wiring harness issues)


• Door latches and child-safety restraints (risk of doors opening or not latching properly)


• Engine and transmission management (control modules, wiring, or related systems that could affect performance)

The issues above reflect the kinds of safety and mechanical concerns that have historically prompted recalls for vehicles from that era. For precise, model-specific information, you should perform a VIN-based lookup.

How to check recalls for your 2004 Ford

To determine exactly which recalls, if any, affect your 2004 Ford, follow these steps. A VIN-based check is the most accurate method to identify active or past campaigns.

1. Locate your vehicle’s VIN. It is usually found on the lower-left corner of the windshield, the driver’s side door jamb, or your vehicle registration documents.


2. Use the NHTSA recall lookup by VIN: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter the VIN to see any open or completed campaigns.


3. Also check Ford’s official recall and owner resources. Visit the Ford Owner website’s recall center and enter the VIN or model details: https://owner.ford.com.


4. Contact a Ford dealer with your VIN to confirm the current recall status and arrange repairs if needed. Many recalls are repaired at no cost to the owner.


5. Review your vehicle service history for any recall-related service entries and ensure the remedy has been completed if a recall was issued in the past.

By following these steps, you can determine whether a 2004 Ford you own or are considering buying is subject to recalls and what actions are required. Remember that recall statuses can change over time, so checking periodically or after major service events is a good practice.

Summary

For a 2004 Ford, there isn’t a single universal list of recalls—the recalls depend on the specific model and VIN. To get an accurate picture, use the VIN to search the official NHTSA recall database and Ford’s owner resources, and contact a dealer if you need help interpreting the results. This approach ensures you know about any safety-related campaigns and can obtain the necessary remedies at no cost where applicable.

For quick reference, you can start here:
- NHTSA recall lookup: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Ford Owner recall center: https://owner.ford.com

What is the transmission problem on a 2004 Ford f150?

Common 2004 Ford F-150 transmission problems include slipping, harsh or delayed shifts, a loss of fourth gear, and no reverse gear. These issues often stem from low or dirty transmission fluid, worn-out solenoids, internal wear like a faulty check ball in the valve body, or problems with the transmission control module (TCM). A damaged wiring harness is another possibility. 
This video explains common issues in 4R70E and 4R75E transmissions, such as loss of fourth gear: 1mFordTechMakulocoYouTube · Aug 20, 2018
Common problems and causes

• Slipping gears or harsh/delayed shifts: This can be caused by worn clutch packs, low transmission fluid, a clogged filter, or a faulty valve body. A transmission control module (TCM) that needs its adaptive shift tables reset can also cause poor shifting. 
• Loss of fourth gear: This is a specific and common issue in 4R70E and 4R75E transmissions and is often related to the overdrive band or a problem with the number seven check ball in the valve body. 
• No reverse gear: This can be a symptom of a transmission control module (TCM) issue, a faulty reverse gear shift solenoid, or a loss of fluid pressure. 
• "Trans fault" message and flashing overdrive light: A "Trans fault" message, especially when combined with a flashing overdrive light, usually indicates a fault detected by the TCM. This could be due to a faulty transmission range sensor, a solenoid issue, or a wiring problem. 
• Wiring harness issues: A wiring harness that is resting on the exhaust manifold can get damaged by the heat, leading to electrical faults that affect the transmission. 

Troubleshooting and solutions

1. Check fluid: Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. Low or dirty fluid is a very common cause of shifting problems. 
2. Scan for codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any stored trouble codes. Codes like P0734 (no fourth gear) or others related to specific solenoids can point to the problem. 
3. Inspect the wiring: Look for any damaged or melted wiring harnesses, particularly near the exhaust manifold, according to this Reddit post. 
4. Inspect the valve body: A faulty number seven check ball is a known issue that can cause low power, stalling, and harsh shifts. This requires internal transmission work. 
5. Reset the TCM: A transmission control module that needs to relearn its shift strategies can be reset. This is a good first step before professional diagnosis, as shown in this YouTube video. 
6. Consult a professional: If the problem persists after trying the above steps, it is best to have a qualified mechanic or transmission specialist diagnose the issue. More serious problems like a failing transmission control module, worn clutch packs, or a failed torque converter may require professional repair or replacement. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the transmission control module (TCM): 57sShaners Mechanic LifeYouTube · Dec 21, 2024

How do I check if my Ford has any recalls?

The Ford App

1. Open the Ford app.
2. Tap the Tool icon to go to the Service dashboard.
3. Select the Recall tile. Note: This tile will only appear if there is an active recall on your vehicle.

Do Ford recalls expire?

No, safety, compliance, and emissions recalls do not expire, and affected vehicles remain eligible for the free repair until it is completed. However, other programs like Customer Satisfaction Programs are different and do have expiration dates and/or mileage limitations. 

• Safety, compliance, and emissions recalls: These do not expire, so you can schedule the free repair at any time. 
• Customer Satisfaction Programs: These are different from recalls and are for non-safety-related issues. They typically have a set expiration date or mileage limit, and the repair must be performed within those parameters. 
• How to check: Use the Ford recall checker to see if your vehicle has any outstanding recalls. 

What is the recall on the 2004 Ford?

THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 17, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. Summary: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 4.2L, 4.6L AND 5.4L GASOLINE ENGINES, THE FUEL TANK MAY HAVE A DEPRESSION AT THE SEAM BETWEEN THE TOP AND BOTTOM HALVES OF THE TANK.