CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING "DEATH WOBBLE" AT VARIOUS SPEEDS WHILE ON BOTH CITY AND HIGHWAY ROADS. FRONT END BECOMES COMPLETELY UNSTABLE AND CONTROL IS NOT REGAINED UNIT SPEED IS REDUCED GREATLY. INCIDENTALLY, THE AIR BAG DASH LIGHT IS NOW ON.
2012 Ford F-350
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
Similar to other model years
Owner complaints for the 2012 Ford F-350 do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 93.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all F-350 years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
109 reports with mileage · 40 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Steering. Review the 66 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Suspension. Review the 65 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 25 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Suspension complaints
65 reportsI CAN BE DRIVING DOWN HIGHWAY NO PROBLEM, SUDDENLY HIT A SMALL BUMP AND GET DEATH WOBBLE, HAVING TO IMMEDIATELY TRY SLOWING DOWN BELOW 50 AND PULLING OVER TO SIDE OF ROAD. REPLACED ALMOST ALL FRONT END COMPONENTS AND CONTINUE TO HAVE ISSUE. *TR
4 MONTHS AGO I WAS TRAVELING AT 50 MPH. WHILE DRIVING MY FORD F350 SUPERDUTY AT THAT SPEED THE TRUCK HAD AN EXTREMELY BAD AND VIOLENT SHAKE IN THE STEERING WHEEL. DURING THIS TIME I HAD NO STEERING CONTROL, BRAKING WAS AT A VERY MINIMAL, AND PULLED THE TRUCK INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THIS HAS HAPPENED 6 OTHER TIMES IN THE PAST …
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4 MONTHS AGO I WAS TRAVELING AT 50 MPH. WHILE DRIVING MY FORD F350 SUPERDUTY AT THAT SPEED THE TRUCK HAD AN EXTREMELY BAD AND VIOLENT SHAKE IN THE STEERING WHEEL. DURING THIS TIME I HAD NO STEERING CONTROL, BRAKING WAS AT A VERY MINIMAL, AND PULLED THE TRUCK INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THIS HAS HAPPENED 6 OTHER TIMES IN THE PAST 4 MONTHS. DURING THIS TIME FORD MECHANICS HAVE TOLD ME THAT THIS DOESNT APPEAR TO BE A COMMON ISSUE SINCE IT DOESNT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME. I REPLACED SHOCKS, TIRES, AND EVEN HAD THE SUSPENSION LOOKED AT BY CERTIFIED MECHANICS AND NOBODY HAS AN ANSWER FOR THIS PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM IS A KNOWN ISSUE BY NHTSA AND FORD AND NOBODY SEEMS TO BE DOING ANYTHING TO FIX THIS ISSUE. IT'S GETTING TO THE POINT WHERE I CANNOT DRIVE MY ONLY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION FOR FEAR OF CAUSING A SERIOUS ACCIDENT INJURING OR KILLING MYSELF, MY FAMILY, OR SOMEONE ELSE IN THE ROAD. IF AN INVESTIGATION IS NOT DONE VERY SOON I WILL SEEK LEGAL ACTION AGAINST FORD AND AGAINST THE NHTSA FOR OVERLOOKING THE SEVERITY OF THIS PROBLEM. YOU CAN READ ALL THE OTHER REPORTS ON WHAT THE INTERNET IS CALLING THE DEATH WABBLE. THIS IS NOT AN ISOLATED SITUATION AND IF I NEED TO BRING THIS TO THE ATTENTION OF THE NEWS SO IT'S MORE PUBLIC I WILL DO THIS.
WHILE ACCELERATING UP TO A CRUISING SPEED ON A LOCAL INTERSTATE, THE STEERING WHEEL AND FRONT END BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY, SEVERELY LIMITING MY ABILITY TO SAFELY CONTROL THE VEHICLE (A/K/A A "DEATH WOBBLE") . I HAD TO TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR IN THE MIDDLE LANE OF AN INTERSTATE (WITH A SPEED LIMIT OF 70 MPH) AND MOVE …
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WHILE ACCELERATING UP TO A CRUISING SPEED ON A LOCAL INTERSTATE, THE STEERING WHEEL AND FRONT END BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY, SEVERELY LIMITING MY ABILITY TO SAFELY CONTROL THE VEHICLE (A/K/A A "DEATH WOBBLE") . I HAD TO TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR IN THE MIDDLE LANE OF AN INTERSTATE (WITH A SPEED LIMIT OF 70 MPH) AND MOVE CAREFULLY OVER TO THE RIGHT HAND SHOULDER TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A STOP. THE ISSUE HAS PERSISTED DESPITE HAVING MY TIRES BALANCED AND FRONT END ALIGNED. I TOOK MY TRUCK TO A LOCAL FORD DEALER FOR ANOTHER WARRANTY ITEM ON 2/3-4/2020 AND REQUESTED THAT THIS PROBLEM BE LOOKED INTO AS WELL. I WAS ADVISED BY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THE TRUCK NEEDED "AN ENTIRE NEW FRONT END" AT A COST OF OVER $1,800 AS IT WAS SOMETHING COVERED UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY WE HAVE ON THE TRUCK (UP TO 75,000 MILES).
'DEATH WOBBLE': WHILE DRIVING ON PAVED ROAD WAYS AT SPEEDS OF 60 MPH TO 80 MPH IT SUDDENLY GOES INTO A VIOLENT SHAKE. THE SHAKE IS SO VIOLENT THAT OBJECTS ON THE SEATS AND IN THE BOX ARE THROWN AROUND, EVEN HEAVY OBJECTS SUCH AS 30 POUND PROPANE TANKS. THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE VIOLENT SHAKE IS TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES AND REDUCE T…
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'DEATH WOBBLE': WHILE DRIVING ON PAVED ROAD WAYS AT SPEEDS OF 60 MPH TO 80 MPH IT SUDDENLY GOES INTO A VIOLENT SHAKE. THE SHAKE IS SO VIOLENT THAT OBJECTS ON THE SEATS AND IN THE BOX ARE THROWN AROUND, EVEN HEAVY OBJECTS SUCH AS 30 POUND PROPANE TANKS. THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE VIOLENT SHAKE IS TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES AND REDUCE THE SPEED TO UNDER 40 MPH. BUMPS IN THE ROAD CAN INDUCE THE SHAKE IF THE SPEED IS AROUND 60 MPH.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-350. WHILE SWITCHING LANES AT 65 MPH ON THE FREEWAY, THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND EXPERIENCED THE "DEATH WOBBLE". WHEN THE CONTACT RELEASED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE STOPPED SHAKING AND WAS DRIVEN TO ITS DESTINATION. THE CONTACT CALLED HOFFMAN FORD (5200 JONESTOWN RD, HARRISBURG, PA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-350. WHILE SWITCHING LANES AT 65 MPH ON THE FREEWAY, THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND EXPERIENCED THE "DEATH WOBBLE". WHEN THE CONTACT RELEASED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE STOPPED SHAKING AND WAS DRIVEN TO ITS DESTINATION. THE CONTACT CALLED HOFFMAN FORD (5200 JONESTOWN RD, HARRISBURG, PA 17112, (717) 657-1600) AND WAS INFORMED TO HAVE AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OBSERVE THE SUSPENSION FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AGGRESSIVELY FROM SIDE TO SIDE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE TRACK BAR ATTACHED TO THE BALL JOINT SHOULD TURN FROM SIDE TO SIDE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
WHILE DRIVING ON A STRAIGHT STRETCH OF ROAD AND NOT CHANGING SPEED, THE TRUCK WILL RANDOMLY START TO VIBRATE UNCONTROLLABLY. "DEATH WOBBLE". THE ONLY WAY TO GET IT TO STOP WOBBLING IS TO DRAMATICALLY SLOW DOWN . IT HAPPENS RANDOMLY AND AT VARYING SPEEDS. WHEN IT HAPPENS I HAVE VERY LITTLE CONTROL OVER THE VEHICLE IT'S EXTREMELY…
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WHILE DRIVING ON A STRAIGHT STRETCH OF ROAD AND NOT CHANGING SPEED, THE TRUCK WILL RANDOMLY START TO VIBRATE UNCONTROLLABLY. "DEATH WOBBLE". THE ONLY WAY TO GET IT TO STOP WOBBLING IS TO DRAMATICALLY SLOW DOWN . IT HAPPENS RANDOMLY AND AT VARYING SPEEDS. WHEN IT HAPPENS I HAVE VERY LITTLE CONTROL OVER THE VEHICLE IT'S EXTREMELY DANGEROUS
FORD DEATH WOBBLE, DEFECT IN FRONT STEERING DAMPING SHOCK CAUSES TRUCK TO SEVERELY START SHAKING WHEN 1 WHEEL HITS RIPPLE IN ROAD. YOU CANT STOP THE VIOLENT SHAKING OF TRUCK WITHOUT ALMOST STOPPING TRUCK. IT SHAKES ENTIRE TRUCK. HAPPENS ON HIGHWAYS WITH RIPPLES IN PAVEMENT OR UNEVEN PAVEMENT AT SPEEDS AROUND 60 MPH OR HIGHER. F…
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FORD DEATH WOBBLE, DEFECT IN FRONT STEERING DAMPING SHOCK CAUSES TRUCK TO SEVERELY START SHAKING WHEN 1 WHEEL HITS RIPPLE IN ROAD. YOU CANT STOP THE VIOLENT SHAKING OF TRUCK WITHOUT ALMOST STOPPING TRUCK. IT SHAKES ENTIRE TRUCK. HAPPENS ON HIGHWAYS WITH RIPPLES IN PAVEMENT OR UNEVEN PAVEMENT AT SPEEDS AROUND 60 MPH OR HIGHER. FORD WILL NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. DEALERSHIP PUTS AFTER MARKET DUAL STEERING STABILIZER KIT ON FRONT END AT PRICE OF $600.00
TRUCK HAS STARTED THE INFAMOUS "DEATH WOBBLE" ABOUT THREW ME OFF THE HIGHWAY GOING 75 MILES PER HOUR WITH A TRAILER. TRUCK FEELS LIKE A WHEEL IS GOING TO COME OFF AFTER HITTING A SMALL BUMP IN THE ROAD. IT HAPPENED 1 TIME AND I TALKED TO A MECHANIC ABOUT IT HE SAID TO GET A NEW STEERING STABILIZER SO I REPLACED IT WITH AN UPGRAD…
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TRUCK HAS STARTED THE INFAMOUS "DEATH WOBBLE" ABOUT THREW ME OFF THE HIGHWAY GOING 75 MILES PER HOUR WITH A TRAILER. TRUCK FEELS LIKE A WHEEL IS GOING TO COME OFF AFTER HITTING A SMALL BUMP IN THE ROAD. IT HAPPENED 1 TIME AND I TALKED TO A MECHANIC ABOUT IT HE SAID TO GET A NEW STEERING STABILIZER SO I REPLACED IT WITH AN UPGRADE AND IT IS DOING IT EVERY TIME I GET ON THE HIGHWAY AND GET OVER 60 MPH.
FRONT END DEATH WOBBLE. FIRST OCCURED NOV. 2018. FORD DEALER WORKED ON IT UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY. AGAIN JAN. 2019. FORD AGAIN WORKED ON IT UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY. OCCURRED AGAIN SEPT. 2019. THE TRUCK IS CURRENTLY IN A FRONT END SHOP FOR REPAIRS. THIS MULTI THOUSAND DOLLAR WILL BE PAID BY ME. THIS EXTREME WOBBLE OCCURS BETWEEN …
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FRONT END DEATH WOBBLE. FIRST OCCURED NOV. 2018. FORD DEALER WORKED ON IT UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY. AGAIN JAN. 2019. FORD AGAIN WORKED ON IT UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY. OCCURRED AGAIN SEPT. 2019. THE TRUCK IS CURRENTLY IN A FRONT END SHOP FOR REPAIRS. THIS MULTI THOUSAND DOLLAR WILL BE PAID BY ME. THIS EXTREME WOBBLE OCCURS BETWEEN 60-70 MPH WHEN YOU HIT A BUMP JUST RIGHT. EXTREME SHAKING HAS CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CHANGE LANES UNCONTROLLABLY.
Official recalls
414V498000 · Equipment
Aug 13, 2014
PJ's Truck Bodies & Equipment Co., (PJ's) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty chassis modified by PJ's and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Remedy: PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
13V535000 · Engine
Oct 30, 2013
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 F-350/450/550 Ambulance Package vehicles manufactured February 22, 2010, through October 19, 2012 and equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine. Due to an exhaust sensor problem, the vehicles may experience loss of power followed by an engine stall.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An unexpected engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, if this were to occur when the ambulance is transporting a patient, there is an increased risk of injury to the patient.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S10.
13V380000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe
Aug 23, 2013
Manning Equipment Inc. LLC (Manning) is recalling certain model year 2012 Ford F-350, F-450 and F-550 gasoline engined dual rear wheel chassis vehicles manufactured October 2011 through June 2012. The tailpipe on the exhaust system does not extend out beyond the edge of the body, allowing heat to build up in rear curbside storage compartment.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Excessive heat build up in rear compartment could result in fire.
Remedy: Manning Equipment has notified owners, and dealers will install tailpipe extensions free of charge. The recall has already begun. Owners may contact Manning Equipment at 1-502-426-5210.
11V582000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission
Dec 8, 2011
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 F-150 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 9, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22, 2011, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 F-250, F-350, F-450 AND F-550 HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 12, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22, 2011. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 114, THEFT PROTECTION. THE TRANSMISSION CAN BE SHIFTED OUT OF THE PARK POSITION WITHOUT PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL DUE TO BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK SWITCH PROBLEM.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS WILL ALLOW THE OPERATOR TO INADVERTENTLY SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR INJURY TO A NEARBY PEDESTRIAN.
Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK SWITCH FUNCTION AND REPLACE THE SWITCH IF NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
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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