NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
47 reportsClear category filter100,000 miles · Jun 26, 2019
SteeringSuspension
I WAS TRAVELLING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT APPROXIMATELY 72MPH AND THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING VIOLENT AND I ALMOST LOST CONTROL. MY WIFE DROVE IT AND I WAS BESIDE HER ON THE INTERSTATE AND IT HAPPENED TO HER ALMOST CAUSING HER TO WRECK THE VEHICLE. I HAD TO CALL HER TO CALM HER DOWN. PLEASE HELP FIX THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE …
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I WAS TRAVELLING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT APPROXIMATELY 72MPH AND THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING VIOLENT AND I ALMOST LOST CONTROL. MY WIFE DROVE IT AND I WAS BESIDE HER ON THE INTERSTATE AND IT HAPPENED TO HER ALMOST CAUSING HER TO WRECK THE VEHICLE. I HAD TO CALL HER TO CALM HER DOWN. PLEASE HELP FIX THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED.
NHTSA ODI #11222820
Mileage unknown · Apr 28, 2019
SteeringSuspensionWheelsCrashInjury
TRUCK CONTINUES TO HAVE THE DEATH WOBBLE AS I DRIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND HIT A SMALL PORTHOLE OR BUMP IN THE ROAD. THE WOBBLE BECOMES SO SEVERE THAT I HAVE LITTLE TO NO CONTROL OVER THE TRUCK. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON AFTER 6MONTHS FROM PURCHASE DATE (NEW) BUT FORD SAYS THEY CAN NOT DUPLICATE. IT HAPPENS ABOUT 1-5X A WEEK AND …
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TRUCK CONTINUES TO HAVE THE DEATH WOBBLE AS I DRIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND HIT A SMALL PORTHOLE OR BUMP IN THE ROAD. THE WOBBLE BECOMES SO SEVERE THAT I HAVE LITTLE TO NO CONTROL OVER THE TRUCK. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON AFTER 6MONTHS FROM PURCHASE DATE (NEW) BUT FORD SAYS THEY CAN NOT DUPLICATE. IT HAPPENS ABOUT 1-5X A WEEK AND I'VE NEARLY HIT SEVERAL OTHER VEHICLES ON THE HIGHWAY EACH TIME BY SWIRLING DURING THE WOBBLE. I LOOSE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. I HAVE HAD A CRASH AS A RESULT OF THIS.
NHTSA ODI #11204247
69,000 miles · Jan 21, 2019
Steering
EXTREME SHAKING OF THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN ENCOUNTERING A SHIFT IN ROAD SURFACE SUCH AS AN EXPANSION JOINT, ETC AT AROUND 55 MPH AND TURNING SLIGHTLY LEFT. THIS HAS OCCURRED ON FREEWAYS, HIGHWAYS AND ROADS. LINK TO VIDEO: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=UVTUQV60JNU
NHTSA ODI #11171153
58,000 miles · Nov 8, 2018
SteeringSuspension
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD F-250 SD. WHILE DRIVING OVER UNEVEN LAND AND BUMPS IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY. ALSO, THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED AND THERE WAS A STRONG VIBRATION FELT IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS. GERMAIN FORD OF BEAVERCREEK (2356 HELLER DR, DAYTON, OH 45434, 1-(937) 429…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD F-250 SD. WHILE DRIVING OVER UNEVEN LAND AND BUMPS IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY. ALSO, THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED AND THERE WAS A STRONG VIBRATION FELT IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS. GERMAIN FORD OF BEAVERCREEK (2356 HELLER DR, DAYTON, OH 45434, 1-(937) 429-1300) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WITHOUT GUIDELINES FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,000.
NHTSA ODI #11150119
65,000 miles · Jan 16, 2017
SteeringSuspensionWheels
FOR THE PAST 3-4 YEARS MY TRUCK HAS EXPERIENCED THE "DEATH WOBBLE." WHEN DRIVING (STRAIGHT OR IN SLIGHT TURN) APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH OR HIGHER AND HITTING A TYPICAL BUMP IN THE ROAD, MY TRUCK BEGINS A VIOLENT SHAKING THAT STOPS WHEN I REDUCE THE SPEED ENOUGH TO REGAIN CONTROL. I HAVE ATTEMPTED REPAIRS AT TWO LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIPS…
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FOR THE PAST 3-4 YEARS MY TRUCK HAS EXPERIENCED THE "DEATH WOBBLE." WHEN DRIVING (STRAIGHT OR IN SLIGHT TURN) APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH OR HIGHER AND HITTING A TYPICAL BUMP IN THE ROAD, MY TRUCK BEGINS A VIOLENT SHAKING THAT STOPS WHEN I REDUCE THE SPEED ENOUGH TO REGAIN CONTROL. I HAVE ATTEMPTED REPAIRS AT TWO LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIPS AS WELL AS A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP, BUT NOTHING DONE HAS CORRECTED THE ISSUE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10945494
100,000 miles · Oct 10, 2016
SteeringSuspensionWheels
THE TRUCK WILL EXPERIENCE REALLY BAD WOBBLE/BOUNCE AT 35-55MPH SPEEDS. I INSTALLED A DUAL STEERING STABILIZER THINKING MAYBE IT JUST NEEDS AN UPGRADE. THE REAR END SEEMS TO BE THE PROBLEM. EVERY BUMP IS FELT. THE CAB MOVES AND ROTATES BACK AND FORTH AS IF SOMEONE IS SHAKING THE SEAT. THE TAIL BED IS VISIBLY BOUNCING UP AND DOWN …
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THE TRUCK WILL EXPERIENCE REALLY BAD WOBBLE/BOUNCE AT 35-55MPH SPEEDS. I INSTALLED A DUAL STEERING STABILIZER THINKING MAYBE IT JUST NEEDS AN UPGRADE. THE REAR END SEEMS TO BE THE PROBLEM. EVERY BUMP IS FELT. THE CAB MOVES AND ROTATES BACK AND FORTH AS IF SOMEONE IS SHAKING THE SEAT. THE TAIL BED IS VISIBLY BOUNCING UP AND DOWN THE INTERSTATE OR ANY SPEEDS OVER 40MPH. THE REAR END HAS TOO MUCH PLAY IN IT!!I BELIEVE THAT IT IS CAUSING THE FRAME TO BEND AND SUSPENSION PARTS TO GO BAD OVER TIME.
NHTSA ODI #10915004
20,000 miles · Jan 12, 2016
Electronic Stability Control (esc)SteeringWheels
WE HAVE A 2011 DIESEL FORD F250 SUPER DUTY PICKUP. IT IS LIKE NEW, BUT HAS DEVELOPED A SERIOUS MECHANICAL DEFECT. WHEN IT HAD LESS THAN 20,000 MILES IT BEGAN HAVING THE 'DEATH WOBBLE'. WE HAVE CONSISTENTLY TRIED TO GET THE LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP IN BEND, OREGON AND FORD MOTOR CORPORATION TO RESOLVE THIS DEATH THREATENING MECHANIC…
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WE HAVE A 2011 DIESEL FORD F250 SUPER DUTY PICKUP. IT IS LIKE NEW, BUT HAS DEVELOPED A SERIOUS MECHANICAL DEFECT. WHEN IT HAD LESS THAN 20,000 MILES IT BEGAN HAVING THE 'DEATH WOBBLE'. WE HAVE CONSISTENTLY TRIED TO GET THE LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP IN BEND, OREGON AND FORD MOTOR CORPORATION TO RESOLVE THIS DEATH THREATENING MECHANICAL PROBLEM WITH NO LUCK. THIS STARTED OCCURRING WHEN DRIVING OVER 40 MILES PER HOUR IF AT ANYTIME A BUMP, ROUGH ROAD, OR POTHOLE IN THE ROAD IS HIT. NOW IT CAN'T EVEN BE DRIVEN THAT FAST WITHOUT VIOLENTLY AND UNCONTROLLABLY GOING INTO THE DEATH WOBBLE. APPLYING THE BRAKES MAKES IT WORSE. IT HAS TO BE ALLOWED TO SLOW DOWN ON ITS OWN. THE VIBRATION IS SO VIOLENT IT TAKES ALL ONES STRENGTH TO KEEP IT ON THE ROAD. IT'S ONE OF THE MOST FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCES ONE WILL EVER ENCOUNTER BEHIND THE WHEEL. THE VEHICLE IS SHAKING SO BADLY YOU THINK IT'LL FALL APART AND THAT YOU'RE GOING TO DIE. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED WITH MY SON DRIVING, IT PULLED HIM INTO ON-COMING TRAFFIC TOWARDS A SEMI-TRUCK. HE BARELY PULLED IT BACK INTO HIS LANE BEFORE HAVING A 'HEAD ON' COLLISION. THE BEND OREGON DEALERSHIP CONFIRMED THIS PICKUP DEATH WOBBLE IS WORSE THAN THOSE DESCRIBED ON THE INTERNET. (SEE WEBSITE BELOW). SEE INTERNET SITE EXAMPLES: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=8EUQ6F8RGT4 HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=B_LMKNW9NHQ
NHTSA ODI #10819770
47,000 miles · Oct 4, 2015
SteeringSuspension
WHEN DRIVING ON A FREEWAY AT 65 MPH, THE TRUCK ENCOUNTERED A SLIGHT BUMP AND THE FRONT END STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY, INCLUDING THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKING BACK AND FORTH VIOLENTLY. THE TRUCK WANDERED OUT OF THE LANE DUE TO LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE STEERING. THE SHAKING ONLY STOPPED AFTER SLOWING TO ABOUT 35 MPH. THE FAILURE REP…
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WHEN DRIVING ON A FREEWAY AT 65 MPH, THE TRUCK ENCOUNTERED A SLIGHT BUMP AND THE FRONT END STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY, INCLUDING THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKING BACK AND FORTH VIOLENTLY. THE TRUCK WANDERED OUT OF THE LANE DUE TO LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE STEERING. THE SHAKING ONLY STOPPED AFTER SLOWING TO ABOUT 35 MPH. THE FAILURE REPEATED ITSELF A FEW MINUTES LATER BEFORE I COULD PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY. THIS OCCURRED PREVIOUSLY (6 MONTHS / 3000 MILES AGO). THE FORD DEALER SUGGESTED I TAKE THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION MECHANIC. HE INSPECTED THE TRUCK AND SAID ALL THE FRONT END COMPONENTS WERE FINE BUT HE NOTED THAT THE STEERING DAMPER HAD ABOUT A 1" DEAD ZONE. ON HIS RECOMMENDATION I REPLACED THE STEERING DAMPER AND THE FACTORY SHOCK ABSORBERS. THIS VIDEO ATTRIBUTED TO NHTSA DESCRIBES THE FAILURE PRETTY WELL: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=GT8CKIQSXJE
NHTSA ODI #10779608
86,000 miles · Aug 27, 2015
SteeringSuspension
PURCHASED 2011 F-250 86000 MILES ON IT. GOING HOME ON THE HIGHWAY RIGHT AFTER I BOUGHT THE TRUCK WE WENT OVER A ROUGH PATCH OF ROAD AND THE TRUCK VIBRATED AND SHOOK SO BAD WE NEARLY LOST CONTROL. HAD TO STOP ON A BUSY HIGHWAY SHOULDER AND LOOK TO SEE IF WE HAD A FLAT TIRE. NOTHING OBVIOUS BUT BROUGHT IT TO OUR MECHANIC ANYWAYS A…
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PURCHASED 2011 F-250 86000 MILES ON IT. GOING HOME ON THE HIGHWAY RIGHT AFTER I BOUGHT THE TRUCK WE WENT OVER A ROUGH PATCH OF ROAD AND THE TRUCK VIBRATED AND SHOOK SO BAD WE NEARLY LOST CONTROL. HAD TO STOP ON A BUSY HIGHWAY SHOULDER AND LOOK TO SEE IF WE HAD A FLAT TIRE. NOTHING OBVIOUS BUT BROUGHT IT TO OUR MECHANIC ANYWAYS A COUPLE DAYS LATER. EVERY BUMP ON THE ROAD WILL NOW CAUSE THIS REACTION AND AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS COULD BE DEVASTATING. OUR MECHANIC IS GOING TO TRY A NEW STEERING STABILIZER AND FRONT AXLE JOINTS BUT I FEAR THIS TRUCK HAS THE DREADED "DEATH WOBBLE". VERY DANGEROUS ISSUE THAT FORD WILL NOT ADDRESS.
NHTSA ODI #10759761
26,000 miles · Aug 12, 2015
SteeringSuspensionUnknown Or Other
WAS GETTING ON THE INTERSTATE AND WENT OVER A SEPARATION CRACK AT ABOUT 55 MPH WHEN THE TRUCK FRONT AXLE / SUSPENSION STARTED TO VIBRATE VIOLENTLY / SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY. I STARTED TO PUT A SECURE HOLD ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND AT THE SAME TIME APPLYING THE BRAKES. AFTER SLOWING DOWN TO ABOUT 35 MPH THE TRUCK STARTED TO SM…
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WAS GETTING ON THE INTERSTATE AND WENT OVER A SEPARATION CRACK AT ABOUT 55 MPH WHEN THE TRUCK FRONT AXLE / SUSPENSION STARTED TO VIBRATE VIOLENTLY / SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY. I STARTED TO PUT A SECURE HOLD ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND AT THE SAME TIME APPLYING THE BRAKES. AFTER SLOWING DOWN TO ABOUT 35 MPH THE TRUCK STARTED TO SMOOTH OUT, PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE EXPRESSWAY, CHECKED THE TRUCK OUT, DID NOT FIND ANY PROBLEM. I CONTINUED AT REDUCED SPEED TO HOME AND CHECKED IT OUT AGAIN, BUT DID NOT FIND ANYTHING. PRIOR TO THAT INCIDENT, I HAD COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER ABOUT WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A ROUGH RIDE, WENT WITH A MECHANIC FROM THE DEALERSHIP FOR A RIDE, AND HE SAID IT RIDES LIKE THE OTHER F250'S. AFTER THE VIBRATION INCIDENT, I DECIDED TO CHECK THE LEFT FRONT SHOCK, REMOVED IT AND THOUGHT THAT IT WAS NOT WORKING TO WELL. TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID IT WAS A LITTLE BAD, AND THEY WOULD REPLACE IT, I THEN ASK THEM ABOUT THE RIGHT SHOCK, AND THEY DID NOT THINK THAT THE RIGHT SIDE WAS BAD, I THEN STATED THAT I WAS TOLD THAT THEY ARE REPLACED IN PAIRS, AND THAT THE REARS SHOULD ALSO BE REPLACED. THEY SAID NO, BUT AFTER MORE DISCUSSION, THEY DID AGREE TO REPLACE THE RIGHT SHOCK {CUSTOMER SATISFACTION}.IT DID SEEM TO RIDE BETTER. HOW EVER ON THE EVENING OF FRIDAY 7 AUGUST, THE TRUCK HAD ANOTHER EPISODE ON A DIFFERENT ROAD, LIKE IT HAD OVER A MONTH AGO. SO I DON'T THINK THAT SHOCKS ARE THE TOTAL PROBLEM.. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT UNDER DIFFERENT WEATHER CONDITIONS, THIS PROBLEM COULD INJURE OR KILL MANY PEOPLE!!! SO WHO IS TO BLAME ???? NOT ME !!! . ,
NHTSA ODI #10748019
NHTSA investigations
1RQ14005 · Vehicle Commanded Engine Shutdown
Opened Jan 13, 2015 · Closed Mar 15, 2016
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:software; Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel; Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System; Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Additional source detail variants (5)
Electrical System:software
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
Engine
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V-535 were inadequate. Recall 13V-535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V-175) to address the 13V-535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V-175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V-175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and NHTSA will take further action if such action is warranted.
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