What is the recall on the Ford F150 brake vacuum pump?

Ford has issued safety recalls affecting certain F-150 pickups because the brake vacuum pump may fail, potentially reducing brake assist and increasing stopping distances. The remedy is a free repair that typically involves replacing the brake vacuum pump and related components after verifying your vehicle’s VIN. Owners should check official recall listings to confirm applicability to their truck.

What the recall covers and why it matters

The recall centers on the brake vacuum pump that powers the brake booster. If the pump fails or operates improperly, it can lead to reduced brake assist, making the brake pedal feel firmer and requiring more effort to stop. In a worst‑case scenario, this could increase stopping distances and raise the risk of a crash. Ford’s notices specify that the remedy is a replacement of the affected pump and any related parts, performed at no cost to the owner.

How to verify whether your F-150 is affected

The exact model years and VIN ranges vary by recall campaign. To determine if your truck is affected, use authoritative lookup tools and contact channels below.

• Check the vehicle’s VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety recall page (safercar.gov) by entering your 17‑digit VIN. The site will indicate if there is an open recall and provide campaign numbers and dates.


• Visit Ford’s official recall lookup page and search by VIN or model year to see current notices, required actions, and dealer instructions.


• Contact your local Ford dealer’s service department with your VIN to confirm eligibility, parts availability, and to schedule service when convenient.

By confirming with these official sources, you’ll know whether your specific F-150 is included in an active brake vacuum pump recall and what steps to take next.

What the repair typically entails

When your F-150 is identified as affected, the typical remedy involves replacing the brake vacuum pump with an improved or updated part and inspecting related hardware to ensure proper brake boost operation. The service is performed at no cost to the owner, and it may require scheduling a follow‑up appointment if parts are on allocation.

• The service usually starts with an inspection of the brake booster system and the vacuum pump to confirm failure indicators or abnormal operation.


• If diagnosed as affected, the technician will replace the brake vacuum pump and any associated seals, lines, or fittings as needed.


• After replacement, the system is tested for proper brake boost function and a road test may be performed to ensure normal braking performance.

Owners should keep repair records and any recall notices in their vehicle file for future reference or resale documentation.

What to do if you experience braking issues before service

The recall process aims to prevent hazardous braking conditions, but if you notice symptoms prior to service, take precautionary steps to stay safe.

• Pay attention to the brake pedal feel: if it becomes unusually stiff or requires more travel to stop, consider scheduling service promptly.


• Be alert to warning lights related to the brake system or stability control, and reduce driving speed to minimize risk if you notice a decline in braking performance.


• Avoid aggressive braking or long downhill descents until the vehicle has been inspected and repaired.

Experiencing these symptoms does not always mean a recall applies to your vehicle, but it warrants a check with Ford or NHTSA resources to rule out a recall or other brake‑system issue.

Summary

The Ford F-150 brake vacuum pump recall targets vehicles where pump failure can lead to reduced brake assist and longer stopping distances. The fix is a free replacement performed by a Ford dealer after VIN verification, with guidance available through NHTSA and Ford’s official recall pages. To stay safe, owners should verify recall status for their VIN, schedule service if affected, and follow manufacturer recommendations if symptoms appear prior to repair.

What happens if a brake vacuum pump fails?

If a brake vacuum pump fails, the vehicle's power brakes will lose their assist, making the brake pedal feel hard and stiff, requiring more force to stop. This can significantly increase stopping distances, and in severe cases, lead to complete brake failure. Other symptoms may include unusual noises from the pedal, the engine stalling when braking, or other vacuum-related issues like climate control problems or a "check engine" light. 
Immediate effects

• Harder-to-press brake pedal: The most common symptom is a brake pedal that feels stiff and requires much more foot pressure to operate because the power assist is gone. 
• Increased stopping distance: Without the vacuum assist, it will take longer for the vehicle to come to a complete stop. 
• Unusual noises: You may hear hissing sounds when pressing the brake pedal, which can indicate a leak in the brake booster or vacuum system. 
• Engine stalling: A large vacuum leak from a failed booster can draw too much air into the engine, causing it to stall or idle roughly when you brake. 

Other potential consequences

• Check engine light: A vacuum leak can trigger the "check engine" light because unmetered air entering the engine can cause a lean fuel mixture. 
• Climate control problems: In some vehicles, a failing vacuum pump can cause the climate control system to default to the windshield defroster. 
• Engine performance issues: Other engine components that rely on vacuum, such as turbochargers, can be affected, leading to a loss of performance. 
• Complete brake failure: In the worst-case scenario, a failed pump can lead to total brake failure, making it impossible to stop the vehicle. 

This video demonstrates how a failing vacuum pump affects brake performance: 59sAuto Info GuyYouTube · Jan 12, 2023
What to do

• Drive with extreme caution: If you notice these symptoms, drive slowly and be prepared to apply significant force to the brake pedal. 
• Avoid hard braking: Be gentle with the pedal to prevent the engine from stalling. 
• Seek professional help immediately: Do not ignore these signs, as they can lead to a serious accident. A mechanic needs to diagnose the issue and repair or replace the vacuum pump and any related parts. 

Is there a recall on the Ford f150 brake failure?

Ford recalls 312,120 vehicles from 2025 models including Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger due to EBB module defects causing loss of brake assist, with free OTA software fixes available.

How much does it cost to replace a vacuum pump on a Ford F150?

The cost to replace a Ford F-150 vacuum pump can range from approximately $440 to over $1,300, depending on the year, engine, and labor costs. Parts can cost anywhere from about $57 to over $300, while labor is a significant part of the total expense. 
This video explains the symptoms of a bad car vacuum pump and how to troubleshoot it: 53sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · Aug 13, 2024
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Expect to pay anywhere from about $57 to over $300 for a new vacuum pump, depending on the specific model and brand (OEM vs. aftermarket). 
• Labor: This is a major factor, with costs varying significantly based on your location and the mechanic's shop rates. 
• Total: Professional estimates for the entire job range from around $440 to over $1,335. For example, a 2016 F-150 with a 3.5L V6 might cost around $440, while a 2000 F-150 with a 5.4L V8 could be closer to $1,335. 

How do I know if my F-150 vacuum pump is bad?

To verify a bad vacuum pump, listen for unusual noises like grinding or whining near the pump area. Check for vacuum leaks using a smoke test or vacuum gauge. Inspect the pump's diaphragm and seals for cracks or wear. A failing pump often causes hard brake pedal feel due to insufficient vacuum for the brake booster.