What is the Ford F150 steering lawsuit?
There are multiple lawsuits and recall actions alleging steering defects in Ford F-150 pickups, often centering on problems with electric power steering and steering gear that can affect control of the vehicle. Ford has issued recalls on some affected models, but plaintiffs say repairs are not always sufficient and seek broader remedies.
Overview of the lawsuits and common legal theories
The lawsuits generally contend that Ford produced or marketed F-150 trucks with defective steering systems, and that the company failed to warn customers or adequately repair the problem. Below is a snapshot of the legal theories most frequently raised by plaintiffs.
The following list summarizes the typical legal theories plaintiffs rely on.
- Design defect claims alleging the steering system (often the electric power steering unit or associated components) is inherently faulty and prone to failure or loss of assist.
- Manufacturing defect claims arguing that specific vehicles leave the factory with faulty parts or assembly problems that compromise steering safety.
- Failure-to-warn claims asserting Ford did not adequately disclose known steering risks to owners and dealers.
- Breach of warranty or implied warranty claims seeking repair costs, replacements, or reimbursements for steering-related damage.
- Product liability and strict-liability theories asserting the steering defect makes the vehicles unreasonably dangerous.
- Consumer protection or deceptive-practices claims alleging misleading marketing or failure to disclose potential steering issues.
These theories guide the types of damages plaintiffs seek and shape how the cases proceed through courts.
Model years and vehicles implicated in the cases
Filings across different lawsuits cite a range of model years, with particular attention often given to F-150s equipped with electric power steering and related control systems. The focus can vary by case, and some suits reference older hydraulic setups while others concentrate on newer EPS-equipped models.
The following overview describes how model-year groupings typically appear in litigation without implying universal applicability across all cases.
- Vehicles built in the era when electric power steering (EPS) became standard in the F-150 are frequently cited in lawsuits.
- Older F-150 models with hydraulic steering are occasionally referenced in broader discussions, though EPS-related claims are more common in recent litigations.
- The exact years involved depend on the specific complaint and docket; plaintiffs point to the particular vehicles identified in their filings.
In short, the landscape of model-year involvement varies by case, and owners should examine the docket or consult counsel for case-specific details.
How the cases are moving through the courts
Many of the steering-related lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts across the United States. Some matters have been consolidated in multidistrict litigation (MDL) registries to streamline discovery and pretrial proceedings, while others proceed as separate class actions or individual suits. Outcomes have ranged from ongoing discovery to settlements or dismissed claims in certain instances, with the trajectory depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of each case.
What Ford has said and the recall actions
Ford Motor Company has stated that safety remains a priority and that it participates in recall campaigns when warranted. The company has issued recalls addressing steering-related issues on certain F-150s and has encouraged owners to bring affected vehicles to dealers for inspection and repair at no cost where recalls apply. Ford also emphasizes that not every F-150 is affected and that many owners experience no steering problems. Judicial proceedings and recall notices are distinct avenues: recalls involve regulatory actions to fix specific defects, while lawsuits pursue compensation or other remedies through the courts.
What owners can do now
Owners who are curious about steering issues in their Ford F-150 can take several practical steps. The following list explains how to check for recalls and what to consider if you think you’re affected.
The following list provides concrete actions for vehicle owners to take regarding steering concerns.
- Check for open recalls using your vehicle’s VIN on the NHTSA recall website or Ford’s recall page.
- If a recall applies, schedule a free appointment with an authorized Ford dealer to have the issue repaired.
- Pay attention to steering symptoms such as stiff steering, sudden changes in steering effort, abnormal noises, or a warning light; report these symptoms to your dealer promptly.
- Keep documentation of repairs, communications, and any related costs in case you pursue warranty remedies or participate in a potential class action or settlement.
- Consult a consumer-law attorney if you believe you were affected and want to evaluate your options, including whether you might be part of a pending or potential class action.
Proactive steps can help ensure timely repairs and establish a record should legal options become relevant.
Summary
In short, the Ford F-150 steering lawsuits comprise a set of claims alleging defects in steering systems, primarily involving electric power steering and related components. The cases span various model years and are progressing through courts with recalls occurring independently whenever regulators determine a safety risk warrants action. Owners should monitor recall notices, seek timely dealer evaluations, and consult legal counsel if they suspect they’ve been affected.
Summary of key takeaways
The Ford F-150 steering issue has generated litigation alongside regulatory recalls. The lawsuits rely on theories such as design and manufacturing defects, failure to warn, and warranty claims. Model-year involvement varies by case, with EPS-focused vehicles being a common focus in newer models. Owners can check recalls by VIN, seek dealer repair, document issues, and consult counsel if they believe they are impacted.
