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When did Ford put airbags in the F-250?

Ford began installing airbags as standard equipment in the F-250 pickup truck in the late 1990s. The introduction of airbags in the F-250 was part of a broader effort by Ford to improve the safety features across its truck lineup in response to growing consumer demand for enhanced occupant protection.


The Evolution of Airbags in Ford Trucks


Airbags first became available as optional equipment in some Ford vehicles in the late 1980s, but it wasn't until the mid-1990s that they started to become more widely adopted across the automaker's product line. The F-250 was one of the later Ford models to receive airbags as standard equipment, with driver-side airbags becoming standard in 1997 and passenger-side airbags following in 1998.


Prior to the introduction of airbags, Ford trucks relied on seatbelts and other passive safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision. However, as consumer awareness and demand for advanced safety technologies grew, Ford recognized the need to enhance the safety profile of its trucks to remain competitive in the market.


Airbag Adoption Across the F-Series Lineup



  • The F-150, Ford's best-selling and most popular truck model, received standard driver-side airbags in 1995 and passenger-side airbags in 1997.

  • The larger F-250 and F-350 models followed a similar timeline, with driver-side airbags becoming standard in 1997 and passenger-side airbags added in 1998.

  • By the early 2000s, airbags were standard equipment across the entire F-Series lineup, including the heavy-duty F-250 and F-350 models.li>

The introduction of airbags in Ford trucks was a significant milestone in the evolution of vehicle safety, providing an added layer of protection for drivers and passengers in the event of a crash. As consumer expectations and safety regulations continued to evolve, Ford remained committed to enhancing the safety features of its trucks to meet the needs of its customers.

Does a 1997 Ford F250 have airbags?


Dual airbags are standard, and the passenger side restraint can be switched off in the event that a rear-facing child safety seat has been installed. The new F-Series meets 1999 side-impact standards for trucks, and a four-wheel anti-lock braking system is optional across the board.



What Ford models are recalled for airbags?


Ford's warning covers 374,290 model year 2004-2014 vehicles previously recalled under the following campaigns:

  • 17V787, 17V788. 2004-2006 Ranger.
  • 15V319. 2005-2006 GT. 2005-2014 Mustang.
  • 16V384, 17V024, 18V046, 19V001. 2005-2006 GT. 2005-2014 Mustang. 2006-2012 Fusion. 2006-2012 Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr. 2006-2012 Mercury Milan.



Does a 1994 F250 have airbags?


This truck was the first manifestation of that line of engines, in a remarkably pure form. Furthermore, despite the lack of power windows, cupholders, and airbags, it does have one major safety feature: anti-lock brakes (ABS).



When did the F250 get airbags?


The SuperDuties are the first Ford 3/4 ton trucks to get airbags, starting in 1999.



What year did airbags become mandatory?


1998
When Did Airbags Become Mandatory in the US? After the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 went into effect, airbags became mandatory in the US seven years later on September 1st, 1998.



What year did airbags become standard?


1998
On September 1, 1998, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 finally goes into effect. The law required that all cars and light trucks sold in the United States have airbags on both sides of the front seat.



Does a 2002 Ford F250 have airbags?


All models can be equipped with a six-speed-manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic. Super Duty pickups are available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive and come equipped with an airbag restraint system for front occupants.



What year did Ford start putting airbags in trucks?


The light-duty F-Series received a driver-side airbag starting in the 1994 model year.



What does the F in F-250 stand for?


The “F” in the Ford F Series stands for “Ford,” representing the company's long-standing commitment to producing high-quality, durable trucks. This letter has been a consistent part of the Ford truck naming convention since introducing the F-1 in 1948.



When did all trucks have to have airbags?


September 1, 1998
On September 1, 1998, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 finally goes into effect. The law required that all cars and light trucks sold in the United States have airbags on both sides of the front seat.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.