Ford issues recall for F-150 pickups

An important recall has been issued for certain 2013 and 2014 F-150 pickup trucks with 3.5L EcoBoost engines. If you are the original owner, you should receive an official notice beginning the July 11th. About 271,000 North American vehicles are affected.

The recall is necessary because brake fluid can leak from the master cylinder which will affect front brake performance.  Ford reports that nine accidents have been attributable to the problem, and that no injuries have been reported as a result.  A published report which I believe is attributable to Associated Press says that one person did report a knee injury incurred while applying the brake.

Once dealers have the parts, they will replace the master cylinder at no cost to the truck owner.  If any leaks are found in the master cylinder, they will also replace the brake booster.

The affected vehicles include certain 2013 and 2014 F-150s built at the Dearborn Truck Plant between August 1, 2013 and August 22, 2014, as well as 2013 and 2014 F-150s at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant between August 1, 2013 and August 31,2014.  All are equipped with the 3.5L GTDI EcoBoost engine.

If you are not sure whether your vehicle is affected, go to http://www.safecar.gov.

It is always worth a reminder that this federally-maintained website is your go-to location for recall information.  You simply need to plug in your VIN number to see if any recalls have been issued.  I encourage you to check every six months and to also do it when you are contemplating the purchase of a new or used vehicle.  Recall repairs are always done without charge, so you have absolutely nothing to lose.

Don’t ignore any recalls

Recent studies have shown that a majority of vehicle owners neglect to respond to recall notices or fail to check whether a recall has been issued.  I’m not about to lecture but when you do not deal with a recall you may be putting yourself and your family at risk.  You also might be held liable if you ignore a recall and sell a vehicle, I believe.