What is the Ford steering linkage recall?
Ford steering linkage recalls are safety actions addressing defects in the steering linkage that could compromise steering control. If your vehicle is affected, Ford and government safety agencies require a repair at no cost to you.
The Ford steering linkage recall covers issues in components that connect the steering wheel to the wheels, such as tie rods, center links, pitman arms, idler arms, or the steering rack and pinion assembly. These recalls arise when a manufacturing defect, wear, or improper installation can cause looseness, misalignment, or even detachment of the steering linkage. The result can be reduced steering accuracy or, in extreme cases, a partial or complete loss of steering control. Ford works with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to identify affected vehicles, notify owners, and provide a remedy that typically involves inspection and replacement or repair of the steering linkage at no charge.
What are the steering linkage components involved?
Steering linkage comprises several interconnected parts that translate the driver’s steering input into wheel movement. In recalls, the focus is on components that could loosen, detach, or wear abnormally. These include tie rods, center link (sometimes called a steering linkage bar), pitman arm, idler arm, and related fasteners or mounting points. While the general concept remains the same, the specific component(s) involved in a recall can vary by model year and production lot.
Which Ford models and years could be affected?
Recalls are model-year and VIN-specific. Ford has issued steering linkage recalls across a range of models over different years, but not all vehicles are affected. To determine whether your particular Ford model is included, you should check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) against official recall listings and Ford’s owner portal.
How to check if your Ford is affected
Use official sources to verify recall status for your exact vehicle. The steps below guide you through finding out whether a steering-linkage recall applies to you.
- Locate your vehicle’s VIN. It’s found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the driver's side door jamb.
- Visit the NHTSA Recall Look-up tool at safecar.gov or Ford’s official owner portal and enter your VIN.
- Review any recall notices listed for your vehicle, focusing on steering-linkage-related campaigns.
- If a recall is shown, contact a Ford dealer to schedule the free remedy. Have your VIN ready when you call.
- Follow the dealer’s instructions and stop driving only if the recall notice advises against driving; otherwise, schedule the service at your earliest convenience.
Note: The exact remedy and timing vary by campaign. The typical remedy involves inspecting the steering linkage and replacing or repairing faulty components as required, with no cost to the owner.
What the repair typically involves
Remedies usually include parts replacement (such as a damaged tie rod, center link, or related mounting hardware) and a safety inspection of adjacent steering components. In some cases, a technician may also re-torque fasteners, align the wheels, or replace associated steering mechanics to restore proper steering performance. The specific steps depend on the identified defect and the model-year of the vehicle.
Symptoms that could indicate a steering-linkage issue
Be alert to signs that may suggest a problem with the steering linkage. If you notice any of the following, contact your Ford dealer or safety hotlines for guidance, especially if a recall has been announced for your vehicle:
- Excessive steering play or looseness in the steering wheel
- Vague or drifting steering, especially at highway speeds
- Hard steering or require more effort than usual
- Unusual clunking, knocking, or grinding noises from the front end
- Uneven tire wear or pulling to one side without tire pressure issues
Remedial action should come from Ford through a formal recall, with owners advised on when and how to bring the vehicle in for service.
What Ford does about recalls
When Ford identifies a steering-linkage safety issue, it coordinates with the NHTSA to issue a recall notice. Owners are informed by mail with instructions on verifying eligibility by VIN and scheduling a free repair at an authorized dealer. The goal is to replace or repair defective components and ensure the vehicle meets safety standards. If you don’t receive a recall notice but suspect a problem, you can proactively check your VIN and contact a dealer for a free inspection.
Summary
Ford steering-linkage recalls target defects in components that connect the steering wheel to the wheels, aiming to prevent loss of steering control. The affected models and years are determined by VIN-specific safety campaigns run in collaboration with the NHTSA. To determine if your vehicle is affected, check your VIN on official recall portals, and if a recall applies, arrange the free repair with a Ford dealer. Stay informed by regularly checking for recall notices and following official guidance to keep your vehicle safe on the road.
What years are affected by the Ford death wobble?
Ford “Death Wobble”: What You Need to Know
- Model year 2005-2007 Ford F-250 4×4 trucks.
- Model year 2005-2007 Ford F-350 4×4 trucks.
- Model year 2017-2019 F-250 4×4 trucks.
- Model year 2017-2019 Ford F-350 4×4 trucks.
What is the steering problem with Ford?
Ford Motor Co. has recalled more than 115,000 F-Series trucks for a condition where the steering column upper shaft could detach, resulting in a loss of steering control that could increase the risk of a crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Is Ford recalling 115539 US vehicles due to a steering column defect?
Ford is recalling 115,539 Super Duty pickups from 2020-2021 due to a steering column defect. The upper shaft of the steering column may detach, creating a risk of losing steering control. Dealers will inspect and replace or modify affected parts, with owner notifications starting in October.
What vehicles is Ford recalling for steering issues?
The F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty pickups from 2020 and 2021 model years are being recalled because of an issue that could cause loss of steering control.
